New Cozy Favorite: Third Way Café

In three years of going to Cedarville I have never been to Columbus (crazy, right?). Last weekend I decided it was finally time to venture a little farther out to find a quality coffee shop.

So, my roommate Madeline and I made it a roomie date and began our journey to Third Way Café—a locally owned coffee shop and book store on the west side of Columbus.

Tim (Directing Manager) and I

Third Way was started by some old friends of mine (who I actually hadn’t seen since 8th grade) to revitalize the local area. Tim, the brains behind the coffee shop, is a social entrepreneur with a passion for community and ministering to people. He remembers his customers and intentionally connects with every person that comes through the doors. It was so great to catch up with him and learn more about Third Way.

The cafe’s mission of revitalizing community is carried over into their baristas. Third Way seeks to help prisoners re-entering society through a partnership with Coffee Crafters Academy.

“Coffee Crafters Academy exists to empower incarcerated individuals with the skills and resources to flourish upon release from prison.” - Third Way Café

The heart behind this shop is complemented with its cozy atmosphere, unique features, and great coffee.

Atmosphere

Even at first glance, it is obvious that Third Way Café has met its goal of being a community gathering spot. The place was bustling with friendly strangers enjoying their morning coffee fix together. As people began to go on their way, I was able to capture the bones of a shop that so many locals frequent.

Third Way doubles as a book store—one of the defining characteristics of its atmosphere. The backroom boasts tall wooden bookcases filled with every book imaginable. (Side note: the bookcases were used on the set of “Liberal Arts” and thus have been touched by Zac Efron. The bookcases alone are basically enough to make the shop famous).

The books do more than guide the vibe of the coffee shop; they further its mission too. For every two books you buy, one is donated to an Ohio prison in an effort to bring hope and learning to prisoners.

Coming out of the backroom, the rest of Third Way holds an eclectic collection of tables and antique couches. A well-loved upright piano surrounded by a collection of records and shelves bursting with board games serves as the entertainment hub of the room.

The soft, alternative, almost singer song writer music reminded me of my favorite Spotify playlist “Your Favorite Coffeehouse.”

Individual study nooks filled with old books, art work, and a small table and chair complete the warm, homey, and hipster nerd vibes.

Madeline described Third Way as “cool without trying to be cool”—a very accurate description of the authentic, cozy, vintage ambiance.

Drinks & Prices

Third Way is a multi-roaster, rotating through blends from various local roasteries such as Roosevelt Coffee Roasters, Luck Bros, One Line, etc.

Madeline tried the local drip of the day (Luck Bros Sumatra) and reported it was very good but different—a lighter roast but not acidic. It was a smooth blend that makes you want to keep drinking.

From my experience, I LOVED my vanilla latte. It was rich, creamy, and very pretty—possibly my new favorite drink, even over mochas. I’ll have to try another one to know for sure.

Along with coffee, Third Way serves sandwiches, salads, and pastries (and all for good prices).

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Third Way Café is a small business with a mission that is worth supporting—it’s for sure becoming my new coffee shop for long Saturday studying. I love the atmosphere, mission, and even the coffee (which we all know is a big step for me). I highly recommend it to anyone looking for some place new to visit—or even if you’re not, you should still check it out.