Joy Café — Restaurant in Solvang

I arrived at around 5pm and ordered a Lavendar latte with oat milk. I love coffee and espresso drinks of the like and am in no way a coffee snob, but when I tell you this is the worst latte I’ve ever had in my life. Like worse than the one you made when you first receive your Breville machine and don’t know how to operate it.

When the barista set the drink on the counter, I was greeted with an abomination. The milk was steamed to oblivion and not textured at all, just a foamy mess sitting on top. I took my drink, thanked the barista and walked outside to try it. Holding out hope that it would taste better than it looked, I put my lips to the mere wisp that was the top of the latte and took a sip. There was not a hint of Lavendar, no semblance of Lavendar ever made contact with a singular taste bud on my tongue, just a bitter blasphemy to the name of Lavendar lattes.

Looking at some of the other reviews, people have received very nice looking lattes that are properly made, so I believe there is still hope when it comes to this place. But Cafe Joy…if you are listening, train the barista woman that was working July 26th...

Joy Café in Solvang isn’t just a café—it’s a living work of art. Owner Georgina is a luminous soul whose warmth and vision infuse every inch of this space. Step inside and you’re wrapped in an atmosphere that feels both inspiring and comforting, where conversations flow easily, creativity is celebrated, and strangers quickly feel like friends.

The menu is her love letter to the Santa Ynez Valley. Every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced from local farms, and each dish carries the unmistakable freshness of food prepared with care and intention. Between sips of perfectly crafted artisan coffee, you’ll find your eyes wandering to the art on the walls—masterpieces from local talent, including Georgina herself, whose work radiates the same beauty and spirit as the café.

Having traveled the world and experienced remarkable cafés, I can say without hesitation: Joy Café stands among the very best. It’s a place where time slows, senses awaken, and you leave carrying something intangible—an imprint of its light and soul.

If you...

Coffee. Smile. Review. Repeat. Let’s begin this hip review.

Cafe JOY is a small coffee shop located in PARc place plaza. It’s nestled in the charming town of Solvang. This adorable cafe offers a delightful blend of art, cozy vibe and pricey items. Female staff was cordial, attentive and competent. I came on a late afternoon for a coffee break. I had a Chocolate croissant x Cold Brew. Both were modest. They have indoor and outdoor seats. I like that their store is interconnected to an Art store.

Overall, I had a...