The Best Laptop-Friendly Cafes in Cincinnati, USA
Cincinnati might not always be the first place that comes to mind for digital nomads. But this city has way more to offer than people give it credit for.
Most people think of places like New York City or Austin, but Cincy stands out as one of the most affordable U.S. cities and one of the few cities in the country that’s actually walkable.
I grew up in the Cincinnati area, so I’ve had plenty of time to explore the local gems for my remote work sessions. And lucky for you, I’m not the gatekeeping type! If you ever find yourself in the Queen City, here’s my go-to list of laptop-friendly places you’ll definitely want to check out.
1. Iris Book Café
Iris Book café is a cozy little spot in Over-the-Rhine, where you can grab a locally roasted coffee, settle in with your laptop, and be surrounded by books, art, and good vibes. What makes it special is that it’s not just a café, but also a used bookstore and art gallery. So while you’re getting work done, you’re also kind of soaking in everything that makes Cincy cool.
They’ve got both indoor seating and a cute patio, fast Wi-Fi, and plenty of outlets at almost every table. When you need a break, just wander over to the shelves and flip through some old books; it’s the perfect excuse to pause without really stopping!
- Address: 1331 Main Street Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Hours: Mon & Thurs–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm, Closed Tues & Wed
- Noise Level: Low, sometimes moderate
- Prices: $6/$8 for food, $3 for coffee
- Food/Coffee Quality: FRESH sandwiches, and they are known for their vegan options. Coffee is a high-quality brew as it’s locally made
2. 1215 Wine Bar and Coffee Lab
There are two things I am passionate about as a drink girly: wine and coffee. 1215 Wine Bar & Coffee Lab does both beautifully. It’s got that indie, artsy vibe, and it’s just a few blocks from Iris Book Café, right in the heart of historic Over-the-Rhine.
Mornings here are super chill, with fresh pastries and just enough background noise to help you focus (I sometimes use my noise-cancelling headphones for deep work). But by the afternoon, it slowly morphs into more of a wine bar, with shelves full of gorgeous bottles and a lively open-concept bar setup. So yeah, the vibe definitely shifts later in the day!
They’ve got fast Wi-Fi and indoor/outdoor seating, but outlets are kind of scarce, unfortunately. I always make sure to bring my INIU B64 laptop power bank with me. If you're looking for a calm place to get stuff done in the morning (and maybe come back for a glass later), 1215 should be on your list.
- Address: 1215 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Hours: Mon–Thurs 7:30am–8pm, Fri 7:30am–10pm, Sat 8am–10pm, Sun closed
- Noise Level: Lower in the morning, but still moderate
- Prices: $3-$7 for coffee (I ordered a cortado for $3.75), $3-$6 for pastries & $20 for wine flights or 2.5oz/5oz $6-$14, bottles up to $56
- Food/Coffee/Wine Quality: Strong espresso for my fellow caffeine addicts, really great sparkling wine, and fresh pastries
3. Sitwell’s Act II
Sitwell’s Act II is what I’d call a triple threat: it’s a coffeehouse, restaurant, and bar, so you’re pretty much covered no matter what kind of day you’re having.
One thing I really appreciate is how much single seating they have. You never feel like you’re hogging a big table just to get some work done, but you also have enough space for your remote work setup. Their menu is solid too, offering salads, sandwiches, and even empanadas. I’m personally obsessed with the caprese sandwich. It never misses.
Wi-Fi is good, and there are a decent number of outlets available. If you’re looking for a lunch spot where you don’t have to take a “lunch break” from your work, this is definitely one to bookmark.
- Address: 324 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220
- Hours: Mon–Fri 8am–9pm, Sat 9am–9pm, Sun 9am–5pm
- Noise Level: Mid-range
- Prices: $8-$28 for food, $3-$6 for coffee
- Food/Coffee Quality: Good
4. Mom ‘n’ Em Coffee and Wine
The story behind this café seriously melts my heart every time. Mom 'n 'em Coffee is tucked inside an old house in Colerain, Ohio, and was opened by the locally loved Ferrari Brothers as a tribute to their mom. They wanted to give back to her for everything she did for them growing up.
The café itself is just as charming as the story. They serve up great coffee, tea, breakfast bites, wine, cocktails… and yes, even tinned fish. I know, I know, it’s a bold move. Personally, I haven’t been brave enough to try it, but hey, it definitely adds some character!
What I really love about this place as a work spot is the seating. You’ve got options: cozy couches, regular tables, even a hanging basket chair if you’re feeling loungey. It’s a vibe. Since it’s set in an old house, outlets can be a bit limited, so it’s smart to show up with your portable laptop power bank.
- Address: 3128 Colerain Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio 4522
- Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-3pm
- Noise Level: Low
- Prices: $8-$20 for food, $3-$8 for coffee and tea, $6-$12 for wine & cocktails
- Food/Coffee/Wine Quality: Not a fan of the tinned fish, but other than that, great simple breakfast foods & huge fan of anywhere offering a mimosa!
5. Rohs St. Café
Rohs Street Café is one of those spots that just gets the work vibe. With plenty of space both inside and out, it’s got that open, breathable feel that makes working from your laptop actually enjoyable. If you’re like me and you value your personal space, you’ll love how roomy it is. No awkward elbow-bumping or fighting for table space.
What makes it especially laptop-friendly is its location, right by the University of Cincinnati, so seeing a sea of open laptops is kind of the norm. Honestly, you’ll feel more out of place without one.
They serve up locally roasted coffee, and it shows. Plus, there’s something nice about knowing your daily caffeine fix is supporting local businesses. The whole place just feels welcoming, inclusive, and easy to settle into.
- Address: 2385 Rohs St, Cincinnati, OH 45219
- Hours: Mon–Fri 7am–9pm, Sat 8am–9pm, Sun 2pm–9pm
- Noise Level: Moderate
- Prices: $3-$6
- Food/Coffee quality: locally sourced, and you can tell!
Ready To Find Your Favorite Cafe in Cincinnati?
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