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Welcome to Parable Cafe

"Parable Cafe" in Columbus, Ohio, stands out for its exceptional pastries and handcrafted coffee drinks. From pistachio croissants to matcha lattes, every item on their menu is crafted with precision and care. The cozy ambiance, filled with plants and natural light, provides a perfect setting for a relaxing hangout or a productive work session. The staff's friendly and accommodating nature adds to the overall welcoming atmosphere. While prices may be on the higher side, the quality of the food and drinks justifies the cost. A must-visit spot for those seeking a unique cafe experience in Ohio.

LOCATIONS
  • Parable Cafe
    149 S High St Columbus, OH 43215
    149 S High St Columbus, OH 43215 Hotline: (614) 972-6001

Nestled in the heart of Columbus, Ohio, Parable Cafe emerges as a delightful haven for coffee lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike. Located at 149 S High St, this charming establishment marries the essence of a wine bar, café, and cocktail bar into one inviting space. With a dedication to quality and flavor, Parable offers a diverse selection of beverages, including expertly crafted espresso drinks, luscious teas, and a rotating menu of seasonal concoctions that keep patrons coming back for more.

The café's menu highlights elegantly brewed coffees, featuring options like the Chemex single origin and delectable sweet lattes, offering familiar flavors such as mocha, vanilla bean, lavender, and hazelnut. The attention to detail is evident, and the delightfully smooth matcha latte stands out as a favorite among visitors. Complementing these beverages are exquisite pastries, including the much-praised pistachio croissant and unique selections like mango goat cheese, all crafted to tantalize the palate.

As you step into Parable Cafe, you'll be enveloped by a cozy and inviting ambiance that fosters a perfect setting for study sessions or catching up with friends. The warm, friendly staff enhance the experience, ensuring that each visit is not just about the food, but about the community. They readily accommodate special requests, like remaking a drink to ensure your satisfaction, as noted by many happy customers.

However, it’s worth mentioning that while the prices might reflect the location's premium status, Parable Cafe champions fair wages for its employees, removing the pressure of tipping. Many patrons appreciate this mindful approach, highlighting the café's commitment to ethical practices while savoring every bite and sip.

While some visitors have remarked on limited pastry selections on certain visits, the enduring quality of the offerings combined with the café's inviting atmosphere ensures that Parable Cafe remains a beloved spot within the Columbus community. With stellar pastries, flavorful drinks, and a cozy setting, this café is a testament to the beautiful blend of quality and community spirit, making it a noteworthy stop for anyone exploring the area.

START YOUR REVIEW OF Parable Cafe
Harshini P.
Harshini P.

Parable Cafe is phenomenal! I had the pistachio croissant, and it was honestly one of the best things I've ever tasted--perfectly sweet and so delicious. Their drinks are also 10/10--so flavorful and yummy. The staff went above and beyond, super friendly and accommodating. I ordered a matcha latte, and when it wasn't as hot as I wanted, they made me a whole new one without hesitation. The place itself is cozy and cute, perfect for studying or catching up with friends over coffee and treats. Highly recommend if you're looking for a great spot in Columbus!

Chaeso Y.
Chaeso Y.

Great ambience. Looks great for almost every reason visiting a cafe, hang out, studying, relaxing etc. Honestly their menu price does not seem reasonable but understandable for the location and they offer a parking validation. The parking garage location is available on their website. I ordered two pastries, cherry almond and mango goat cheese. Cherry one was too sweet and too plain for me. Mango was better with both tangy and savory flavor. I also like how they rotate seasonal drink menu. I will come back to try new drinks.

Gules R.
Gules R.

Love love Parable! Incredible pastries and coffee drinks. Highly recommend any of the crossaints, the orange scone, or the pull-apart bread. Service is always cheerful and friendly. Good place to sit and chat or do some work. Prices are expensive, but they do not ask for tips, instead ensuring that their employees are paid fairly -- which I love!

Felicity C.
Felicity C.

I visit Ohio each summer vacation, Parable croissants and State fair are my two favorite things in Ohio. But not gonna lie, this year, Parable is a bit disappointing. The drinks are still good, especially the cha cha cha latte. But the selections of pastries are very limited now, only 50% items are available now comparing to before. I think I won't be excited next year and run to Parable next summer.

Hurjane V.
Hurjane V.

Omg its been a while since we've been here, but my impression of Parable was fantastic. The drinks were SO delicious. Ambiance was beautiful. I would totally come here again if I was in Ohio!

Aja H.
Aja H.

What can I say about a coffee shop that has delicious pastries and turns into a jazz house at night? Nothing, it's my type of vibe! The plants and open air layout encourages connection. While the baristas are stylish and talented in their own right. Drinks will run from $6-15 if looking for the alcoholic persuasion and the pastries always run out by Noon so catch them while you can. A coffee shop after dark is the perfect alternative to those PBR filled nights that are typical in a college town, so I appreciate the opportunity to practice my 'adulting' in public. If you venture out, do so too. No loud talking through the jazz set - the music is vibe enough!

Danielle H.
Danielle H.

Cute little shop. Like that it doubles as a coffee shop and lounge bar. It is very cozy feeling even though it is right on High Street. Lots of natural light. It's a bit interesting how you order. You order at the desk when you walk into the place but I find the menu a bit confusing. So did the group on front of us who took forever to order. Example- there is just not coffee, there are 7 different coffees all a little different. I suppose that is good to have choices but it can be overwhelming. The pastries are absolutely delicious. Baked to perfection I would say. They look beautiful. They taste even better!! The only reason for a 4 star and not a 5 star is the price. Two pastries and two coffees came out to almost $40. That is a bit steep, even for downtown Columbus. As a special treat to yourself, totally worth a visit.

Brennan T.
Brennan T.

Love the vibes! Lots of plants everywhere. Very chill environment. Both indoor and outdoor seating. Nice service. Everyone was very nice! No issues! Good drinks and food. My friends got pour overs, which they said was good. And I got a white tea, which was delicious. I would've appreciated getting the tea bag so I could ask for more hot water, but I didn't ask, and we weren't there long. The rosemary scone was delicious. The texture and crumble were great. Parable doesn't ask for tips. Their prices are set so that workers don't need to rely on tips. I love that! I want all restaurants to move in that direction.

Carla F.
Carla F.

Parable Cafe is a must try if you're in the area! I was excited to see they have the croissants that have been on social media! It is on the pricier side for a coffee shop though - a pour over was $8! - it's worth it if you want to treat yourself. When we came, they had a line out the door! I had a strawberry croissant and it was worth the wait. The inside was a mix of customers - some were working (they have WiFi), some couples were on dates/outings, and others were enjoying a drink with their books.