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Last week I turned my conveniently located Wi-Fi, writing and coffee hub into a spot for a dinner and a date. Java Joe’s iced coffee and tea served me well enough in the past, so I thought, surely, its food menu would not disappoint.
The first five minutes in the antique-clad coffeehouse passed pleasantly while waiting for my date to arrive. I slowly worked my way to the back of the dining area, examining the classic paraphernalia lining the exposed-brick walls.
A number of old-school arcade games, such as Galactica and Hydro Thunder, occupied a back room, where I found an impressive antique collection of Encyclopedia Americana on an old bookshelf near the restrooms.
The vintage vibe and charm set quality expectations for my meal. The menu, which I requested at the counter, kept expectations high with a good range of options including hummus and vegetarian plates, build-your-own sandwiches, soups and even some Indian dishes.
I was particularly excited to order the Ginger Curry Pita, which featured veggies, sprouts and an avocado spread for $7.25. My guest decided to try the grilled chicken salad.
We reached the counter to order, and things quickly went downhill. They did not have the Ginger Curry Pita. Hummus was also out. Buying some time to revisit the menu, I requested a drink for the barista to prepare. I was intrigued by the China Cola and Ginger Brew scribbled on the large chalkboard overhead. Turned out they have not sold those since the barista, who had “no idea what they even are,” started working there.
I settled on an almond-raspberry Italian soda, which turned out to be the highlight of the meal, and a Reuben sandwich.
The small Reuben, served with barbecue chips and a pickle spear, tasted quite average for $6.75. The grilled chicken salad featured a handful of romaine lettuce leaves in a glass cereal bowl, topped with tomatoes, red, yellow and orange peppers and cheddar cheese squares. The single packet of Kraft raspberry vinaigrette, one of three dressing options, was more than enough to douse the small salad.
Nevertheless, we enjoyed chatting about the dated accessories and decor in the room and savored each drop and ice cube of the delicious Italian soda, while munching on our snacks.
If it were a little warmer, I would have tasted the hand-dipped ice cream for dessert, and I’m curious about the tantalizing breakfast options and pastries. I’m also certain I’ll return for the Wi-Fi and another tasty beverage.
But I left feeling like my salad and a sandwich money would have gone much further elsewhere.
Our Receipt
Reuben sandwich … $6.75
Grilled chicken salad … $6.75
Italian soda … $2.25
Total plus tax and tip: $20
Java Joe’s Coffeehouse
Find it: 214 Fourth St.
Hours: 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 6:30 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday; 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
Info: 288-5282; javajoescoffeehouse.com
