Urban Spirit Leads The Charge

In 2004, Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman kicked off an initiative to begin rebuilding the near east side known as the King-Lincoln District. A large part of the area’s renovation is the Lincoln Theatre refurbishment, which we profiled in May 2008. The revitalization plan is also geared towards bringing back the economic life of the area. And leading the charge is Charity Martin-Via and the Urban Spirit Cafe.


Urban Spirit opened in February 2008 at 893 E. Long Street. Housed in the renovated Alpha building, which once housed Columbus’ largest hospital for African American’s in the 1920’s. The cafe serves the traditional coffee and tea beverages, but with a style and flavor unique to its own. You can try the Method Mocha, named after the Alpha Hospital’s Dean of Physicians, Dr. William Method; or sample “The Duke” Latte, named after the famous Duke Ellington. Urban Spirit also serves up a number of additional items on their menu including deli sandwiches and cookies & deserts.

But the cafe is much more than just a place to get your caffeine fix. Nearly half of the shop is a dedicated art gallery. The owners have a rotating showcase of works from local and nationally known artists. Through June 30, Dr. Pheoris West will show case his Sangoma exhibit. Beginning in August, the Ohio Dominican’s The Charles School will be showcasing a student art exhibit. And recently, Urban Spirit has been hosting live jazz on Thursday evenings from 8 PM to 10 PM. Check out the Buckeye Soul calendar of events for more details.


The staff at BuckeyeSoul takes its hat off to yet another example of young entrepreneurs using their talent and skills to bring something back to the community. It definitely inspires us to keep on with our mission to bring out the best in Central Ohio’s Black community.


Check out more photos in our Gallery.