If you have been to Columbia, Missouri you are aware of its uniqueness. It is after all, the home of M-I-Z Z-O-U! Great SEC Division 1 college football with some great rivalries. But there is more to Columbia; 9th Street.
It was pretty much just happenstance that lead me to The Original Coffee Zone on 9th Street. I was in town with my wife who was at a training meeting, so I was just passing the time. It was too gloomy to go to the gardens for pictures, so I decided I needed coffee. My GPS actually took me to a different coffee shop, but couldn’t find a parking spot, so I decided to check out the other shop near by.
When I got there, it was even more packed than the first shop. I knew this was probably the best coffee in town. I decided to use the curbside pick up so a quick call later and Issam, who is the manager, was waiting at the curb with my coffee. We chatted for a minute about the wonderful weather and the crowd that was getting coffee. Then he mentioned their lunch menu and invited me back. I LOVE Mediterranean food, so I made a plan to be back for lunch.
I came back for lunch and WOW it was as good as I had anticipated. The shop is an eclectic little Main Street feel with rows of chandeliers, old brick walls and antique coffee processing equipment. It has a great vibe mixed between relaxed and chill. It was busy, but not too crowded. Being third in line, I was expecting my order to take a little bit, but was actually ready before I could get my table set up to start on this blog.
After the lunch rush started to subside, I had a chance to talk with Nader Yanis. Nader is the son of the owner, Osama Yanis. He told me that his father started this shop over 25 years. Osama and Issam are originally from Jordan and learned to cook from their mother. They came to Columbia several years ago and decided to open this gem! I am glad they did. This is definitely a MUST when visiting or just passing through Columbia, Missouri! They have a great selection of coffees and teas. Their lunch food is wonderful!
Thanks, Nader & Issam for your hospitality! See you again!
