Java Central Café and Roaster

Mediocre coffee and open mic here has very bad vibes. I’ve been trying to sign up for this open mic for over a year, and the process is a nightmare. The Google Sheet sign-up fills instantly, and unless you’re sitting at your computer the moment the email goes out, you have no chance. On the rare occasion I get my name down in time, my spot has been overwritten by someone else — even after the host’s request not to delete other people’s names. This week, I signed up first, only to have my name replaced by someone who gets a spot regularly.

It’s the same handful of people week after week, while everyone else gets pushed out. The system is completely disrespectful toward musicians with jobs, families, and responsibilities. I’ve been to many open mics, and this is by far the most poorly run sign-up process I’ve seen.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Great place for food, friends and live music!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Everyone was so kind and the coffee and cinnamon roll was great. I do wish they would reiterate to others that there is more space in the back because it was a little confusing my first time going. Once I found the seating in the back, I fell in love though. Will return soon!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Amazing Snickerdoodle Latte - . Cozy café with plenty of seating, outdoor tables, and a welcoming vibe. Great spot to work, relax, or catch live music.
Very nice place. Must visit if passing through Westerville.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Cozy shop, welcoming staff, and friendly patrons. The food is well worth the price.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

THE coffee shop in Westerville. Great friendly service and excellent coffee. Beautiful outdoor patio.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

One of the best cups of coffee I've had in quite some time. Absolutely delicious!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Java Central Café and Roaster in Westerville, Ohio, is a gem of a coffee shop that truly elevates the local scene. Nestled in the heart of Uptown Westerville, this cozy spot exudes warmth and community spirit. The atmosphere is inviting, with plenty of seating options— from intimate nooks to a spacious back area—perfect for working, catching up with friends, or simply soaking in the vibe. The outdoor seating is a bonus when the weather’s nice!

What sets Java Central apart is its commitment to community. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely make you feel at home. The café doubles as a cultural hub, hosting live music on weekends and showcasing local art in their gallery—such a refreshing touch! Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a welcoming spot to unwind, Java Central is a must-visit. I’m already looking forward to my next trip!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

When I got a regular coffee here last time they skipped me and started giving orders to people behind. then I said something and still took them forever to get my coffee done

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 2

Service: 1

Such a cute coffee shop!! We had been over at Good Vibes & our bartender highly recommended Jave Central & her recommendation definitely did NOT disappoint. The girls working the barista were very nice & professional. The drinks they made us were Amazing!! The back of the coffee shop had plenty of seating & a band while we were there. Super Fun Place!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great live music from the Meek Quartet

Atmosphere: 5

Cute coffee shop with a great vibe. Coffee was delicious!

BEWARE of the ‘Build Your Own Breakfast Sammie’ pricing. Did not realize there is no pricing ON the menu as I was ordering. However, after ordering 2 ‘built’ Sammies (each with sourdough, pesto egg, guac, bacon and cheese), 2 cold brews, the total was $38 🤨🤨🤨

So upon examining my receipt, they charged for every single thing added, with starting price of $6 (which, what does this starting price even include, I want to say nothing? Because even the bread itself was $2). I didn’t get a photo cause I was unimpressed with the look at it, but honestly, with the amount of actual food on this sandwich, the cost should not have been more than $6 each.

Also, make sure to say ‘black’ if you want a plain cold brew coffee, because they automatically added creamer without asking, and bam, one cold brew was $6.50.

I will say, their Grogg Coldbrew WAS delicious though!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 2

Service: 5

Great cup of pour over coffee. This cute coffee shop has plenty of seating and several rooms. Perfect for the one off meeting of a friend, the remote work or just a cup of joe.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Lovely local coffee shop and gathering place with community events, live music, delicious coffee. They also have a pantry where you can leave/take food and cleaning product donations ❤️

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5