I recently visited the JR’s bar and was disappointed by the rude and seemingly racist behavior of the bartender named Dax. I think it is important for the owner to address this behavior; in the event that we were given the wrong name, this person had short dirty blonde hair, glasses and a natural stone pendant necklace- we later saw them exit the establishment on an electric skateboard (as we left JR’s to visit a friendlier establishment).
I find it notable to mention that I have been to many bars and have never had such an overtly negative experience . I was embarrassed that I took my friends here (I thought we would have fun, as I had at JR’s many times before). My friends, who were people of color, were not intoxicated; I, myself, was celebrating a medical milestone that limits my alcohol intake. Despite our intentions to tip generously and support service workers, Dax's attitude drove us away.
After making comments regarding my medical condition and the language my friends were speaking in, “Dax” didn’t ask us to leave, but instead insisted we get a drink from a different bartender. At this point, my friend didn’t feel like supporting the establishment , so we left. As a business owner and someone associated with a non-profit that supports trans individuals, I found this experience particularly disheartening. It's important for the owner to address such behavior to ensure all customers feel welcome and valued. JR’s is an otherwise fantastic place; I hope the owner can address the situation. If this employee isn’t dealt with , JR’s will either lose business at best , or find themselves in a...
Read moreUpdate; April, 2022: Do your best not to get assaulted in front of JR’s. I came across an individual on the sidewalk in front of JR’s who had been punched in the mouth with an open, bleeding wound on his lip. I called 911 and tried to help him and his distraught friend. The bartender at JR’s only didn’t help, he openly mocked the injured individual. Apparently there were conflicting accounts as to what happened, but even so, the bartender’s unprofessionalism was amazing. The owner came, and similarly showed no concern for the injured individual and tried to diffuse the situation with reserved indifference. It was truly disheartening to see, especially when violence against the LGBT community is an ongoing issue.
(Previous review) With low-priced drinks on an early evening, the bar attracts a regular crowd with a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Yet my experience with my bartender was detached and bored. After striking up a conversation with a fellow bar customer, we asked him twice for some simple advice on shopping in the area. Each time he said “I really don’t know” while staring into his phone. (It wasn’t very busy). Overall an underwhelming customer...
Read moreI visited Jr’s on a Sunday afternoon with a couple of friends. This is a typical gay bar and one of the busiest and biggest on Cedar Springs. I’ve been here a few times because my gay friends enjoy it. We decided to hang out upstairs on the terrace.
I have a couple of critiques about the place. First, the music was very loud, making it difficult to have a conversation with friends. If you’re planning to catch up or chat, it can be quite challenging due to the noise level. Second, I found the drinks to be a little overpriced compared to the decor and service. While the atmosphere is lively and the terrace offers a nice view, the pricing doesn’t quite match the overall experience in terms of value.
Despite these points, I had a great experience overall. The bar has a vibrant and energetic ambiance that makes it a fun spot to hang out. The terrace was a nice place to relax and enjoy the company of friends. If you’re looking for a lively gay bar with a bustling crowd, Jr’s is definitely worth a visit, even if it comes with a few...
Read more