Ghostlight Coffee's Unique World

Tangerine Lavender Honey. Fig Vanilla Black Pepper. Cardamom Rosewater.

On a rainy day in January, those flavors turned my attention away from the gross weather and made me more intrigued about Ghostlight Coffee in Dayton. I tried a Balsamic Black Walnut latte—flavored lattes are a big step in my journey to liking coffee—and it was really good! It was the perfect balance of smooth coffee and sweet but not overbearing flavors. But I’m skipping ahead of myself.

This week Luke (my boyfriend) and I decided to venture out to Dayton and try a new coffee shop. I’ve heard Ghostlight talked about a lot around Cedarville (mostly from people who know about every coffee shop in the area), but I had no idea what it was actually like. Overall opinion: it was a uniquely positive experience.

Atmosphere

The slightly sketchy neighborhood surrounding Ghostlight Coffee threw me off at first, but as soon as we stepped through the door, we were transported into a new world. Rather than the cozy and trendy coffee shop I was expecting, Ghostlight has an edgy, urban vibe that is still comfortable to everyone.

This unique atmosphere is pulled off through the decorations—many of which look like they came from a garage sale. The space is like the living room of those unusual grandparents who traveled around the world and have really cool stories but aren’t necessarily “trendy.” Industrial (exposed brick, Edison bulb lighting, emphasized pipes and ducts) meets historic (textured walls, wood floors, and original window trim), characterizing Ghostlight’s attitude and feel.

More than a unique design, Ghostlight Coffee seeks to be a gathering place for the whole community. A wide variety of local people—students, business men, friends catching up—share in the welcoming ambiance.

Upbeat music somewhere along the lines of alternative and soft rock (don’t quote me on that, music genres aren’t my forte), adds to the happy noise level that comes with a busy coffee shop. If you’re looking for a break from the volume, there is a small, quieter study room in the back of the shop.

Last week visiting Courthouse Coffee, I mentioned that string lights are essential for any coffee shop. Ghostlight doesn’t have any strings of light, but chalkboard menus seem to be another trend for local coffee shops, completing the look of Ghostlight Coffee.

Drinks & Prices

Ghostlight has typical to slightly above average prices, $2 drip brew for example. Maybe I don’t have a realistic view on coffee prices, but why does it have to cost so much more to add a flavor or some milk?? That’s what Starbucks is for.

Having never been to Ghostlight, I was curious to hear more about what other people think of the coffee.

The barista walked us through the flavors and pour over options, and he gave us his recommendations for drinks and food (the vegan double chocolate muffin was definitely worth it). All of the unique flavors complement each other and the different roasts very well.

I also talked to a random lady enjoying her drink (the latte was giving me extra energy, and she looked nice). She raved about the delicious coffee and said that “they know how to make a real cappuccino!”

All in all, Ghostlight Coffee was worth the drive—and the prices—to experience a unique world of coffee and decor in the middle of an Ohio city.