Java Joe's — Restaurant in Toronto

TL;DR

Java Joe's on Rathburn falls short in providing a conducive environment for studying or getting work done. The lack of outlets, poor seating arrangement, terrible service, and non-functional internet make it a disappointing choice. Save yourself the trouble and go to a Starbucks or the public library instead.

Hey everyone,

I've got quite a story to share in this review.

Let me start by recounting my recent experience at Java Joe's on Rathburn. My wife and I were looking for a new cafe to work outside of our home, something different from the usual Starbucks or Timmies. That's when we decided to give Java Joe's a try.

Finding parking was a bit tricky, as it's located on the corner of Rathburn and Islington, and space can be limited. Java Joe's shares a plaza with other establishments.

Instead of going through my usual rating criteria for businesses, I'll simply describe my visit to this particular establishment. The moment we walked in, my wife and I were greeted with death stares. We entered, hoping to find a seat first so we could set up our equipment and place our orders once we were settled. It felt like the management was overly eager to inform us that the bathrooms were for customers only. I understand that they might be tired of people misusing the facilities in the area, but not every person entering the establishment intends to use the restroom.

Here's where it gets interesting. Since Java Joe's is an older establishment that hasn't caught up with the 21st century, it took us a good 10 minutes to find a single seat with an outlet and enough space to comfortably work on our laptops. After setting up, we approached the counter, where we were met with two very miserable staff members. I felt like I was a nuisance to them as I asked for a coffee and muffin. When I inquired about the internet password, one of the staff members simply said it was "out."

After struggling for around 20 minutes, trying to tether the internet to my laptop, I couldn't bear it any longer and decided to leave for a much more productive work environment. I rarely wish for a business to close its doors, but I truly believe that Java Joe's needs a significant update to better serve its community. Honestly, I don't think I'll be returning.

If I could, I would give this place a 0 out of 5 rating. This is not how businesses should operate in 2023.

Until...

I went to Java Joe's to study and get some work done. A lot of other reviews mention the staff being unwelcoming and unfriendly, but I did not find that to be the case at all! They've always greeted me with a smile and genuinely seem like very good people. The customer service was lovely and welcoming. The atmosphere was cozy and warm, and the interior was well decorated. I bought a coffee and panini and both were very yummy. There's plenty of seating as well. In my experience, I find that it's quite hard to find cafe's to study in, so this place is definitely a gem in the rough! As a side note, a lot of cafe's and other places in Toronto have a tip-screen whenever you pay with card, something that always rubs me the wrong way, especially if you're just buying a coffee or something small. This shop doesn't have a tip screen and has a completely optional tip cash tip jar. Although this is something small, I find it to be very meaningful in a sea full of cafe's of 15-25% tips for a 4 dollar coffee.

I'll definitely be coming back in the future! Highly recommend Java Joe's for anyone who wants to study/get work done. Outlets weren't that hard to find for...

I visited this café and really enjoyed its cozy outdoor seating area. I ordered a coffee and sat outside, appreciating the pleasant atmosphere. Later, I decided to have a bagel. The staff served it nicely on a plate, and I brought it to the same outdoor table that clearly belongs to the café. A few minutes later, a young woman approached me and said that I was not allowed to take the plate outside — even though many other guests were sitting and eating at those same tables. I was surprised and disappointed by this situation. I would like to ask the management how they expect customers to eat their desserts or bagels without a plate. It felt upsetting and unfair — I even felt discriminated against. I hope the management can review this policy so that future guests can fully enjoy...