"Hidden gem", literally - hidden that is, and what a discovery! Collective Espresso in Northside was marked with a sidewalk sign, but the tiny shop is not on the street. It's down a narrow sidewalk between two buildings. Dare to walk back there and you discover Collective! My brother ordered a black coffee and I had an iced vanilla latte. The server was polite and friendly, the barista quiet and focused on her craft. Both drinks were delicious, with a robust coffee flavor. There are a few chairs inside the shop, but it was a sunny early spring day so we sat in the small courtyard and caught up with each other. There, I saw that there is an entrance from the side street -- regulars seemed to enter from that direction. But I like the secret entrance between buildings better! We parked on a side street but there is a little lot in the area. No photos; was too busy gabbing. After, we popped in a couple thrift shops on the same street and then headed over to a salvage lumber yard/ hardware store. A good day for exploring. read more

I really like the coffee and pastries here. The space is cute but feels crammed. I would go again during non busy times. I was squished in the corner waiting for my order on a Sunday morning. I also saw a few ants on the counter. I know it's that time of year but I don't want to see them when I'm ordering food and drinks. read more

This place is so cute. Yes, a bit hidden (you have to go through the alley) but it's tiny and adorable. Dog friendly. read more

Collective Espresso - Honey lavender latter (not pictured chocolate chip cookie ). - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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Not sure how I haven't given this place a brief review, but here we go. This is a local chain, and the one on Hamilton is my favourite. It's a bit like Roebling Coffee in that was. The espresso is one of the most well rounded in town. I prefer this place to Sidewinder. Get a cappuccino here or a cortado. The chai is pretty delicious, as well. read more

Collective Espresso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

A very cool, cozy, woodsy spot with friendly staff. My honey latte was fantastic! I cannot wait to go back and try their pastries. read more

Collective Espresso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

I was hurriedly trying to take a meeting on the go after a kid drop off and saw their sign in front of the tiny alley. I'm so glad I did. This was the cutest tiny community hub full of character and love - with coffee too! The matcha latte was delicious. I had great service and a cool little nook to work in for a hot second. read more

Collective Espresso - Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

I visited Collective Espresso (CE) at 8am on a Wednesday morning as I traveled through Cincinnati. I picked CE to stop at because it was well spoken of, I tried their coffee at another shop that serves their coffee and enjoyed it, and it's located outside of downtown and not too far off the expressway. If your traveling on 75 and want to stop for a great cup of coffee then CE is a good place to stop at. Google maps will show CE between two shops and if you're not paying close attention then you may drive right by it and think a Google maps sent you to the wrong location or the address is not updated. That's what I thought until I noticed an alleyway between two stores and above my head was a rustic sign that says CE. Just keep walking all the way to the back and you'll find CE. The shop has two wooden tables inside for seating. A bathroom is available accessible with a key provided by the barista. There is a courtyard outside that I imagine is beautiful when the leaves are on the tree and and coveted stop for reading and enjoying coffee outside in the warmer months. The bar set up is a three-group Synesso espresso machine, a pair of Mazzer Major espresso grinders, and a Mahlkönig EKK43. Their is also a Fetco coffee brewer. The menu that day was typical of third wave coffee shops. See my pics for a menu. The barista was friendly and welcoming. I ordered a drip brew and really enjoyed it. The quality was typical of other well known specialty coffee roasters in the US, like Onyx, Stumptown, or Madcap. read more

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I'm also here for Cincinnati coffee shops! Stopped here on the way up to Columbus. It's almost easy to miss since it's not off the street. It's actually off an alley. Anyway, it's COVID so only one customer at a time can go in. No big deal. The space in there is small anyway. It's cute though! A huge window at the front for lots of natural light. A huge tree is at the front and picnic tables outside. I got a honey latte with oat milk. Whoa! That honey was amazing!! My sister got a cortado. Pretty good as well! I hope to be back! read more

Collective Espresso - Outside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

A hard to find place, especially for those of us not from the area. It is down a narrow passage way from the street. The patio was nice, if the weather was great, but not the chilly morning we were there. The shop is busy, but most clientele got to go drinks. There was very little seating. Our coffee drinks were good, but nothing outstanding. read more

Any place serving North South Bakery pastries is a winner in my book. Couple that with yummy drinks, cute patio, and friendly staff - it's an excellent spot to grab a bev with a friend! read more

Collective Espresso - Friendly baristas! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

We got the matcha latte and do not recommend. It was terrible and too bitter. We threw it out after a couple of sips. Can't speak for their coffee/espresso drinks but their matcha latte was the worst I've ever had read more

Went to meet someone at this location for a quick meeting. I will share that you have to know exactly where to turn or you may miss the street. It's almost a street off of a street. I was able to park at a meter. There was outdoor seating so I put my things down and went in to order. When I got there, the staff person said they would be closing soon. I waited until the person I was meeting ordered their drink and watched our time. Overall the iced chai tea that I ordered was good. It had a nice taste and nice portion. I would go back again to try it. Staff was friendly. Nice little outdoor space to work or meet. Just have to be mindful of their hours. read more

Short of having an actual drive thru, Collective Espresso Northside seems like the perfect coffee shop to grab a fast drink before work. Yes, it's a bit daunting to find the first time (you either enter a nondescript entrance off of Hamilton or through the back gate off of Vandalia / Cluxton Alley) but the small, hidden feel of CE feels great. Inside, there are 4 bar seats and 2 tables with about 4 seats each. It's small, but that's the point. They have a signature Espresso Lemonade, which didn't end up being my kind of drink (not sure the tastes really go together) - but the ambiance was great for some early morning, secluded studying. read more

Collective Espresso - Small coffee shop (hidden) off Vandalia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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Delicious coffee and very pretty architecture and decor. I'm so obsessed with the skylights they have in the shop! read more

Collective Espresso - the outside of a coffee shop - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Good coffee and more importantly good people. Driving through Cinci and was brought here by a friend. The entrance is down an alley so I probably wouldn't have found it lol, but adds to the hideaway vibe. The shop itself is pretty small, maybe seats 6 or so but feels cramped quick. There is a space outside too, and while there was a consistent stream of people on a Friday afternoon, most didn't stay so it was fine. The smaller design lends itself to a more intimate arrangement between barista and customer. Our barista, Johannes is one of the chillest dudes. I haven't talked to a barista that much at a shop before and I'll say the relationship aspect takes the coffee shop experience to another level. I learned a bit more about espresso and the current beans they had on rotation. Cortado was smooth and chocolatey, but like I said- people make the difference. read more

Collective Espresso - Roaster begins the counter :o - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Love this place! We ordered iced latte and a matcha and both were delicious. The place is tiny but adorable! And plenty of outside seating. Love that it's hidden in an alley way- feels like a lucrative spot! Tons of signing on where to go if you're confused though! Coffee was the perfect amount of sweetness and the service was very welcoming and friendly! Will be coming back! read more

Best espresso in Cincinnati I've found and I've been searching. Definitely stop by over there

The man with curly hair behind the counter was very rude he excpected tips before we even got to the counter I've genuinely have never had such a weird and rude experience with anyone before he kept commenting about tips to us saying wow no tip from y'all idk would not ever recommend if I could give zero stars I would read more

Came in this morning and the bastrisa male curly hair with hoops made us leave tips and was being super rude for basic coffee would not go again. read more

Male with black curly hair with hoops attached to his ears MADE us leave tips. And the environment felt rude

An okay coffee shop but compared to others in the area, it just doesn't compare. For the positives, the actual shop is super atmospheric but it is very small so I wouldn't plan on sitting in here especially during the winter months where their patio might be closed off. There's lots of natural light and they have quite a bit of outdoor seating but even 10 people in here feels crowded. It is down a little alley way right next to Happy Chicks so keep your eyes peeled for the sign above the buildings!! That's really the only way to find it. I got an iced oat milk latte and an almond croissant and they were okay. The iced oat milk latte wasn't as strong as I would prefer and it had a peculiar flavor that I can't quite put my finger on. It almost seemed like they lightly sweetened it? They used Oatly which is what I use when I make it at home so I'm not sure if it the odd flavor came from the actual coffee beans or something like else. The almond croissant had quite a few burnt bits on it that I had to pull off which is definitely not what I am going for with an on-the-go pastry. I wonder if I came on an off day since this chain is pretty popular in Cincinnati, but I will probably just stick to my usual places instead of putting this in my coffee rotation. read more

Tucked away near an alleyway is the quaint coffee shop Collective Espresso. They have a couple different locations in the city, but this appears to be their most unique one. They have a pretty large area in the back of the shop for outdoor seating and a couple spots inside as well. The coffee itself is pretty good and the service is quick. Just be aware that there isn't that much space inside so seating may be limited. read more

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It was a cold morning & we desired hot coffee. This shop was very plain inside, with only a few seats, & definitely not accessible for disabled people in a wheelchair. The entry has a few steps to climb to get inside. The shop is in a cool section of town. Our lattes & cappuccinos were decent but small. The shop does not offer any flavorings, so think of this as a no frills coffee shop. read more

Collective Espresso - The inside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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I love coffee especially cold brews. Collective has one of the smoothest cold brews that I have ever tasted! I order it plain bc it's that good. The location in Northside is a little challenging to find, look out for the gate entry. Once you're there, you are on your way to coffee heaven! read more

Collective Espresso - Oat milk latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Confession: Before yesterday I had never been to Collective Espresso and that's a real shame. This place is freakin' adorable. The photos I took really don't do it justice. From the street, Collective Espresso is completely unassuming and the doorway leads you to an alley... just keep on walking down the alley! The entrance to the small coffee shop in the back reveals that the shop has lots of natural lighting with a small patio area. I managed to snag a table in the back patio area. My only real complaint about the coffee shop was the internet (Collective Espresso's wifi was inconsistent and gave me TONS of error messages on pages), maybe it doesn't reach that far to the patio tables? Or maybe technology was just failing on this particular day. Regardless, the patio area is super adorable and I really felt like I was somewhere else entirely. I can't wait to find a reason to come back and enjoy this space again. read more

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The design of the building is just wonderful, it's an excellent and airy space filled with green luscious plants, but it's a bit small. The Cappuccino I had was served with a genuine smile, and what I assume to be regular customers came to talk to the barista. She was polite and made our four drinks rather quickly for being the only one working. A space filled with wood grain, windows, plants, and character. The cappuccino was delectable, although the americano my friend got was quite mediocre. Overall, a good time for me! read more

One of my favorite spots in Cincy -- quaint neighborhood tuck-away off w/ cozy indoor and patio, friendly staff, solid pulls, nice drip, and good bean options. Recommend an Espressoda or Espresso lemonade when the weather's hot. read more

Collective is tried and true. Great coffee, great staff, good atmosphere. Like walking into your friends house and sitting down with a nice beverage and a chat. Intimate and welcoming. Espresso lemonade for the win read more

I have been to the north side location - the coffee is good- the location and aesthetics are fun

Just as the Collective downtown is, this space is very intimate. It is hidden in an alley near Happy Chicks Bakery off of Hamilton. They are always sure to set their sign out on the sidewalk to initiate where they are located, so just be aware of that and you're set for success. Talk about good coffee, though. The espresso served at Collective is great, but the quality of the baristas make it even better. They source with several different roaster's, mostly local. There are usually several baked goods and small things to snack on, but not a lot of food options. As I was saying before, the space is small and only holds about 15 people, but in the summer there is plenty of outdoor space! I do not recommend walking in with 8 coffee orders, because when there is only one or two baristas, it will take longer because of the quality. But for a nice cup in silence with a book and maybe a friend, sure, this is definitely the place in Northside. read more

Collective Espresso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

9.5/10 - LOVE Collective and their espresso is so good. I've had an array of drinks from there but always love a cup of their drip coffee. I last had an oat milk latte and the flavors of their coffee came out so well even in a latte. Cute little place that kind of makes you feel like you're in Europe instead of Cincinnati. Not a ton of room inside but it's worth it. read more

Collective Espresso - the outside of the building - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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Sometimes it's the best espresso/coffee in the city and other times it's mediocre. When it's good, it's so good! Rich and smooth tasting. The cortado is my go to! They have great milk and milk alternative options. I'm not sure why, but it's so inconsistent. This morning it was off. The americano was watery, luke warm, and nothing special. If they could figure out how to consistently produce drinks, this place would be amazing! read more

The male barista working here was so rude and disrespectful this morning. My husband went inside to order and was told they couldn't make the drink I wanted. So he called me to ask what else I would drink while there was no one else inside waiting to order. The barista told my husband how rude he was to take a personal phone call in the shop FIVE DIFFERENT TIMES. My husband kindly explained he was just trying to ask what else I would drink and the barista rudely answered "I've already told you". When my husband said he had no clue anyone else was waiting to order the barista responded "I think you did". It was a pretty disappointing start to our Easter morning and I'd avoid this place unless you want to be rudely waited on for average coffee. read more

Really nice inside, but hard to find. Their main entrance is not on Hamilton Ave (the street address) but there's an alley from Hamilton

This location is even more hidden down an alley than the OTR location. Pretty much will only find this place from Hamilton Ave when on foot, and even then you'll second guess your self. For me no grand entrance, just a glance at an almost illegible sidewalk sign at the edge of an alley. After finding the entrance, it is just as pictured a few low tables, a bar top stools, bright light colored wooden floors. Same classic menu, with a few locally roasted coffees. I was determined to locate this location in seek of a better cold brew. Well, cold brew isn't available here in the winter. Boo! I was accommodated and offered an iced americano or iced pour over. Decided on the iced pour over topped with whole milk. It was ok, still not what I was seeking in flavor. Will revisit again at some point, maybe on a weekend in the spring when the outdoor patio can be enjoyed. Also will try to enter from Vandalia Ava & Cluxton which may provide a more direct entrance and view of the glass greenhouse style seating area. read more

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Very cool vibe. Feels like the best kept secret. I base my rating off of the coffee itself. The Mocha is pretty good. Personal notes: Mocha - 6/10 Snickerdoodle - 7/10 read more

This is definitely a hidden gem, literally. you have to go down a small alley to find the place but the seclusion adds to the atmosphere. The place itself if relatively small but very well lit- it has the feel of a sun room. Their coffee was good and the table next to us had baked goods that looked so good. They also have a small patio with tables. It's very quaint and a pleasant break from the city/northside. read more

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All time favorite coffee place in all of Cincinnati. The absolute best iced lattes. They've got it figured out and are always a go to. read more

Collective Espresso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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One of the top coffee shops in the area. This location has a bit more seating that their shop in OTR which is nice. The coffee they serve is top notch. They meticulously source their coffee from around the country allowing you to get a sense of what roasters of all types are doing. So, you can go in each week and try something completely different. It can feel a bit pretentious but the quality of the coffee experience certainly makes up for it. read more

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Hidden gem with tasty bits and bobs, and an amazing atmosphere. I went here with a friend on our weekly tour of good writing places with coffee. We literally drove by this place and didn't know it was there. My bus goes by every day, and I never knew it was there. What a wonderful Northside hiding spot! When you do find it, you walk into the back patio-like area that feels something like a faerie garden. You can only just make out the glass walls that make up the little bit of indoor space available. Walk inside, and you'll find a simple but inviting bar and tables with so much natural light you'll think you're still outside. If you are looking for a space to write or read, this is the one, but space (both indoor and out) is very limited so be prepared. I hear that they have yet to be discovered by the after-work caffeine crowd, so this might be your time! It certainly worked for us. The beverages are carefully crafted by the wonderful employees, who might insist that you keep a tab open. I got a maple and pecan scone that was like buttery heaven. Served with a macchiato, this was plenty fuel I needed to get to writing! They also had delicious looking muffins, cookies, and croissants. read more

Collective Espresso - Maple and pecan scone like buttery heaven and a macchiato. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio