If you told me there was a coffee shop hiding inside a speakeasy that is hiding inside a music venue that also serves New York style pizza… I would have assumed you were describing a dream I had after eating too much late-night Skyline.
But no. This place is real. And it’s in Grandview.
Welcome to Royal Flamingo Coffee, the most hidden coffee shop in Columbus and one of the coolest independent coffee shops in the entire country. It was just recognized by USA Today for having some of the best specialty coffee in the U.S., which is absurdly impressive for a place you literally have to find inside a bar… behind another bar… inside a venue.
So how the &*#$ do you even get to this place?
Start at Natalie’s Grandview, the live music venue on King Avenue near Grandview known for great shows and even better New York style pizza.
Then walk into I Like It Like That, the speakeasy tucked inside Natalie’s. Yes… a speakeasy inside a music venue. Columbus is really out here doing nesting dolls now.
And once you’re inside the speakeasy, that is where Royal Flamingo Coffee House quietly lives its best life. It feels like you’ve unlocked a secret level in a video game.
Why Royal Flamingo Coffee House Is Worth Finding
Even though it’s tiny and tucked away, Royal Flamingo is big on personality. USA Today describes it as whimsical and fun, but also very serious about coffee. Their drinks are split into categories like Daily Greats and Super Fun, which might be the most accurate summary of my personality (at least, on my good days).
Their baristas roast their own beans, make seasonal drinks that actually taste seasonal (not just vaguely cinnamon-flavored), and deliver the kind of cozy, relaxed vibe you can’t get at a big chain.
It’s the kind of spot where you can sip a latte, hear muffled music from the venue, and feel like you’ve discovered a secret Columbus treasure. Because honestly, you have.
Why You Should Go
If you love:
- Hidden gems
- Creative coffee
- Music
- Speakeasies
- Pizza (because you can grab a slice at Natalie’s on your way out)
- USA Today 10Best Lists
- Ohio
- Life
…this is basically the perfect place.
Plus, supporting independent coffee shops actually matters. These places create community, bring personality to Columbus, and give us something chain stores never will.
If You Go
Royal Flamingo Coffee House
Inside I Like It Like That Bar, Inside Natalie’s Grandview
📍 945 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Hours vary, so check their Instagram before you show up like an overconfident explorer who thinks they know where they’re going. (Not speaking from experience… except I am)
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