Jewel Box Cafe — Restaurant in Tacoma

Short review: Get Coffee, not food cause it will either take too long, or the order will be wrong (sometimes both).

I went there to grab a coffee and a deli sandwich. It seemed pretty crowded, but the barista was throwing out coffee orders every 30 seconds, so I felt confident that they could manage the crowd. On the coffee side they took like 10-15 min to get my , but it was a single barista and a crowd of like 20-30 people with coffee orders. But, my god, the kitchen was so slow. I had a takeout order of a deli sandwich and it took them 45min to give me the wrong sandwich. I was able to watch the kitchen while I waited, and from what I could tell via their order tracking software (which I could see while waiting for my takeout order), not a single order got out past 40+ min. To be fair, it was during lunch time. That being said, I think the issue was more than just being the lunch rush.

First, the kitchen staff not only makes the food, but delivers the food (and because of their ordering system, they don't exactly know where to take the food, so they have to play a game of Marco Polo to deliver the food), bus tables, empty garbage cans, boxing takeout orders, etc.. Especially, the woman at the crepe station. I saw her constantly running her butt off.

Second, the kitchen has some serious pipeline/multitasking issues when it comes to getting out food orders. It really seemed like when there was some wait time on an order (grilling a panini, waiting for a crepe), they would do other things (like I listed before), rather than setting up or prepping the next order. Basically, they would sit on an order to completion, rather than getting ready with the next ones.

Third, I didn't see a food expeditor (ie. the person who manages the timing and the final check on orders). I've walked by this place a number of times. It draws huge crowds that seem to get food there. It is not a simple coffee shop, it is a restaurant and it needs to have a food expeditor. The timing and order issues would be fixed with a single hire.

Lastly, the cashier was just managing the cashier's station and nothing else. From what I could tell, their focus was taking people's orders and filling the bakery display. There were some breaks or like 3-5min and the cashier seemed like they were looking for things to do, but we're limited by their position or something.

Now I don't blame any of the workers. They were all extremely nice and very apologetic for the inconveniences involving my order. They all seem like very hard working employees, who enjoyed their work. I think the issues are more about the processes that have been set up by management. I know there have been some hiring issues, particularly around the food industry, but I believe the management at this establishment needs to take a step back and focus on its processes to help its employees...

You know those days when everything just clicks? Well, that was my experience at Jewel Box Café in Point Ruston, Tacoma. I decided to treat myself to a leisurely day, starting with a visit to my new favorite spot for coffee—and let me tell you, it was worth every sip!

From the moment I walked in, I was charmed by the cozy, vintage vibe of the place. The décor, the warm lighting, the smell of freshly brewed coffee—everything was inviting. I ordered a vanilla latte, extra foam (because life is too short for flat coffee), and the barista nailed it. The balance of vanilla and espresso was so perfect that I actually paused after my first sip, savoring the moment like it was the first warm day of spring.

As I found a seat by the window, I couldn't help but appreciate the view of Commencement Bay—nothing like sipping great coffee while watching the world go by. The café was buzzing with energy, but in a way that made you feel part of something special, not rushed or crowded.

After finishing my latte (and maybe a slice of their decadent cheesecake… okay, definitely a slice), I felt completely satisfied, both in body and spirit. But my perfect day didn’t stop there. I had booked an appointment at Imperial Massage Spa Tacoma, just a short drive away, to really make the most of my relaxation day.

Let me tell you, if you’re ever in need of a massage that will melt away all your stress, this is the place. The staff at Imperial Massage Spa are not only professional but also incredibly intuitive to what your body needs. After an hour of absolute bliss, I left feeling like a whole new person—refreshed, recharged, and ready to take on the world.

Jewel Box Café gave me the perfect start to my day, and Imperial Massage Spa Tacoma completed it. Five stars for both, because when you’re in Point Ruston, there’s no better way to spend your time. I’ll definitely be...

This is the first time in 2 years I wrote a bad review. Its necessary this time. Makayla was the manager on duty. Its a beautiful sunny day, I bought some awesome jeans at Purpose. Thirsty, thought mmmm ice tea sounds delicious. Im used to the overpriced, snotty service at Jewel box. Ive grown accustomed to it and just take it for the trendy place by the water. I drink ice tea. If you do, you will undersrand that sip of bitter over brewed tea that makes your whole face twinge. Im not super picky, I drink Lipton... enough said. I tried. I took 3 sips. Each time.. I cringed. So I asked politely and embarrassingly, can I please change this to an iced black tea, I think the green is over brewed.... she goes to ask... fingers point, eyes roll... there is a long conversation, 2 more people are included, they look at me in disgust, come to me and say sorry we can only add flavor. Umm... I dont want sugar I just like my ice tea plain. Can you rebrew then? "No" Me: ok can I talk to the manager? Girl: I just did Me: ok well can I? Manager comes out. I explain. She says the owner says we cant change orders. Im like this isnt a change, I cant drink it. Why is this so difficult. Makayla was so rude and by now 4 employees are all gathered to look at me like. She said we only fix drinks if its our error not if you change your mind. I said I didnt change my mind. I like green tea. Can you try it? They said No. Cool. This place...

I threw away my drink. Drove to Anthem on N 30th. Good service. Friendly girls. Delicious ice tea.

I hope one day management steps up their customer service. Im sure this place will stay busy for location, im just sad how many are mistreated for overpriced humiliating service. Its not the first time and looking at the reviews it sounds common. You dont represent the Tacoma I love...