Well Hello There, College Hill Coffee Co.

NEIGHBOR: Oh, you're looking for the classic coffee shop experience? You should check out College Hill Coffee Co.

ME: On it.Flash forward a few days, and boom! I was there with bells on. Here's a quick snapshot of what this neighborhood cornerstone is bringing to the table.
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Welcome to
COLLEGE HILL COFFEE CO. AND CASUAL GOURMET.


THE MAIN GIST

If you've been lookin' for that perfect spot to post up, grab something tasty, and finally take a crack at penning the next Great American Novel, this spot definitely needs to be on your radar. It's also a swell destination for nabbing some much-needed face time with a long-lost buddy or two.

Aside from the obvious assortment of caffeinated beverages, the shop is rockin' a pretty dang comprehensive menu -- soups, salads, sandwiches, pastries, pies, cakes the works. And yep, the overwhelming majority of everything is made in-house.

THE CLAIMS TO FAME

Crowd faves? The staff's unanimous response: "the quiche." (Check the chalkboard for the selections du jour.)

It should also be noted that the pies, all of which have been handmade by owner Tina Stoeberl's mom, have a large following as well. And while you're placating that oh-so-demanding sweet tooth of yours, you'll probably want to go ahead and grab a slice of the coffee cake. It has, after all, ended up on at least one "Best In The City" list. Take a bite and see what all the fuss is about.

THE "WHOA!" FACTOR

Never hath a slogan carried more truth than this shop's "So Much More Than Coffee" tagline. The amount of retail merchandise that has been snuggly (and quite adorably) arranged within the store's ample footprint is straight-up wow-worthy.

We're talkin' 'bout greeting cards, Charlie Harper wares, Rookwood Pottery, toys for the young'uns, and loads of stuff in between. From kitchen knickknacks to adorable bric-a-brac, this place has your gift list covered. They're even got wine.

Wine? Yes, wine. The store's recently acquired liquor license opens the door to a whole new level o' awesomeness. (& Yes, they've stocked plenty of locally crafted beer as well. Just in case ya wanna pair that coffee cake with a cold one.)

THE BIG SURPRISE

According to Stoeberl, College Hill Coffee Co. is the city's #1 retailer of Rookwood Pottery. "Even more than Rookwood's own shop," you ask? Apparently. (Who knew!)

THE THING THAT'LL TRANSFORM YOU INTO A REGULAR

The espresso shake. I mean, who doesn't like ice cream paired with a healthy dose of caffeine? (& If you just responded to that question with a "Me," I'm sorry, but I don't think we can be friends.)

THE TAKEAWAY

There truly is "so much more than coffee" going on at this north-side gem. Swing up to the top of the page, take a tour through the photo gallery, and see for yourself.

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If you'd like to learn more about College Hill Coffee Co., visit the store's website, check out the Facebook page, or swing by in person (6128 Hamilton Ave, 45224).