I've been to Java Nation three times--twice to the restaurant and once to their coffee shop next door. I enjoy the restaurant, but the experience is inconsistent. And their cafe is forgettable.
The cafe looks nice. It's small, with some pantry items and to-go options, plus you can order breakfast and coffee. However, we found the breakfast and coffee not great. My boyfriend's omelet and home fries were just OK, according to him. My breakfast sandwich was bland and tiny; plus, I had asked for no egg, and they had to remake it. My iced caramel latte was awful, so I tossed it. No seating inside but there is a table or two outside for the cafe. I was saddened by this experience, as the restaurant is a different experience. I cannot imagine how these two places are sisters.
The restaurant is good, but inconsistent. Service has always been friendly, but one time it was prompt and the other time we barely saw our server. I think Java Nation has really great cocktails. However, I ordered the Nib Negroni one week, and it was so rich and nuanced. I loved it. I ordered it again the next week and there was no way it was the same drink. A friend was told they couldn't modify the shawarma because it was premade, but we'd ordered the shawarma before, and it didn't seem premade. So instances like this are confusing. But, my cheeseburger was great. The fries are addictive. The mini empanadas are super flavorful and my arepas were tasty and filling.
This all noted, the restaurant is really cute and lively. We enjoy the live music, because it is at a comfortable level, where you can still converse with your party. I really want to return for brunch. I hope Java Nation makes improvements and I hope their cafe can become on par with the restaurant. read more