I hate Starbucks. I hate all coffee chains, actually. Cafes, in my opinion, should never be commercialized. There’s a community building aspect to cafes and anti cafes that is lost once they’re expanded beyond their local charm. Charlottesville, luckily, has plenty of spectacular local coffee houses. Whether it be Mudhouse, Grit, or Greenberry’s, there are plenty of spots for caffeine and good company. Of all the cafes in the area, there was one that stood out to me, one that emphasized community in its operations: Shenandoah Joe Ivy location.
What first struck me when I walked into Shenandoah Joe was the cozy, inviting atmosphere. Much more intimate than the Preston Avenue location, there was a familiar element when you stepped into the room. The hardwood flooring and the dimly lit booths add a sort of calming and cozy ambience to your visit. There’s a certain quiet, welcoming environment that’s facilitated by the decor and people. Even if you isolate yourself in your studying, you still feel some sense that everyone in the cafe is bound together to enjoy the same shared experience. If you need a new study spot, Shenandoah Joe is the place. Some of my best papers were written while enjoying a steaming mug of coffee at their classic wooden tables.
The friendly staff added to the experience, as well. Greeted by a friendly smile the moment I walked in the door, the barista was sure to explain and recommend the different roasts for the perfect coffee. Customer service always leaves the lasting impression of your visit, and Shenandoah Joe’s excellent service definitely will leave you with a positive experience, yearning for your next visit. Beyond the staff itself, Shenandoah Joe also offers plenty of incentives for returning customers. Their loyalty card system fuels the caffeine addiction as every tenth coffee order is free.
As for the coffee, it was nothing short of delicious. Having developed a hankering for Spanish lattes, I ordered their cortado and was pleasantly surprised. The coffee was smooth and refreshing. The caffeine hit me instantly, the perfect motivator for a good study day. Food options are fairly limited at Shenandoah Joe’s in comparison to the Preston Avenue location. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to tide you over though, their cookie selection pairs well with the coffee. You can’t go wrong ordering any of their beverages; nothing will leave you disappointed. Any traditional coffee will leave you satisfied, but if you are in the mood for a rich taste, the French press coffee is most delectable.
Overall, Shenandoah Joe is a spectacular staple to the Charlottesville cafe goer community. The vibe: on point. The coffee: delicious. But most of all, Shenandoah Joe is the perfect escape from a world filled with subpar coffee chains.
