Main Ground Coffee Builds on Family Roots in Groveport
May 7, 2025 (Published: April 29, 2025)
Main Ground Coffee has opened at 619 Main Street in Groveport, Ohio, serving up handcrafted drinks in a space that blends nearly 60 years of family history with a bold new vision for community connection.
A Legacy Reimagined
Main Ground Coffee is more than a name. It’s a statement of origin, intention and heart. Owner Avery Ward opened the shop in the building that once housed his family’s restaurant, Little Italy, for over 45 years. Even earlier, it was home to his grandfather’s grocery store, founded in 1966.
“These truly are our main grounds — our stomping grounds,” Avery said. “We wanted to breathe new life into this space while honoring its legacy. Now, instead of groceries or pizza, we serve connection and community through coffee.”
As CEO of Little Italy Ristorante, Avery spent the last decade revitalizing his family’s restaurant business in a new space at 480 Main Street, across the street from the original location. In 2023, the Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance honored the family-owned eatery as the Best Restaurant in Central Ohio.
Now, he is pairing that culinary legacy with our award-winning coffee to create a new destination rooted in excellence, history and hospitality.
Main Ground Coffee continues Avery’s mission to serve people with passion and purpose — now one cup at a time.
What’s Brewing
From classic drip brews to nuanced espresso-based creations, Main Ground offers a beverage menu that combines precision and creativity.
Guests have already praised the shop’s smooth, flavorful coffee and its well-balanced handcrafted drinks in dozens of five-star reviews.
“Awesome vibe and very nostalgic to the old Little Italy’s that used to be here,” wrote one Google local guide. “I spent so much of my childhood here getting pizza and to see it transformed so beautifully was truly amazing. Service was great, and so was the food and coffee!”
Avery said the shop receives compliments on its seasonal drink flavors and the creativity behind the bar. “People really feel like they’re getting something special!”
Partnering for Success with Crimson Cup
Avery partnered with Crimson Cup to bring his vision to life. Our 7 Steps to Success consulting program has helped more than 300 independent coffee shops open and grow in 37 states.
“Crimson Cup doesn’t just hand you a manual and wish you luck — they roll up their sleeves and get in the trenches with you,” he said. “From buildout to training and education, they’ve been hands-on and invested in our success.”
He found Step 5 of the program — Training Your Team to Brew and Serve Coffee — especially valuable. “You can have a beautiful space and great beans, but if your team can’t execute consistently, it falls apart. Training is everything.”
Advice for Aspiring Owners
Ward’s advice to other entrepreneurs? “Treat it like a business from day one. Passion is great, but systems, leadership and financial discipline keep the doors open. Build a brand with purpose, hire for culture and get your numbers dialed in early.”
He also emphasizes the value of partnership. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help — you don’t have to go it alone.”
Visit Main Ground Coffee
Main Ground Coffee is open daily at 619 Main Street in Groveport. To learn more, visit maingroundcoffee.com or follow @MainGroundCoffee on Instagram and Facebook.