JJ Bean (Vancouver) + bonus

 This is the first and probably only chain to make the list. JJ Bean has a dozen or so locations around Vancouver, all very differently decorated. The coffee is reliably good (although an actual coffee connoisseur I know gave it a 5/10, which I can’t understand how that is fair). As it happens I got a decaf chai latte this time around, which should probably be sacrilegious for this blog — but I’ve gotten coffee here so many times here I feel entitled to speak on it (and it’s 6pm). (Also the Chai was quite smooth and spicy).

The Good:

Where JJs really excels is in the décor. The location I chose on Commercial Drive is probably my favorite. I like the rustic horseshoe bar with the old school roasters, the unfinished ceilings and walls. The blue Legion building across the street gives a nice color contrast, there’s also a sunny back patio. The location on lower Main also has a fireplace which is great for rainy days, and big glass walls for sunny days. I also love the hole-in-the-wall location in the industrial strip of the downtown Eastside. Their other strength is their baked goods, particularly the vegan chocolate zucchini muffin. The chocolate chip cookie wasn’t bad either.

The Not-so-good:

They always sell out of the chocolate zucchini muffin before I get there! (even in the early afternoon, not just 6pm). They also got rid of their excellent vegan bulgogi beef wrap and replaced it with something less excellent. Another negative is there’s no wifi. Here’s the thing: people go to cafes to work, many of them. Just give them wifi. I know of zero evidence that depriving people of wifi at cafes actually forces them to socialize more. It makes them go on their phone and use data, or go to other cafes. Also, the location in Coquitlam got rid of their living wall, which was a huge bummer.

Overall:

JJ Bean is a reliable, very good café. Each location has something unique to offer. The service today was quite friendly, and I’d say in general the service experience is average-good. They also roast their own beans. JJs is always a safe and tasty bet. Let's hope the chain stays short.

4.3 / 5

Honorable July Mention: Argonauts Coffee & Biscuits, Leavenworth WA

This really should have been my café of the month, but it was so busy in there and we were eager to get on the trail to the Enchantments (incredible) that I couldn’t do a proper entry, and probably won’t be back to Leavenworth for some time. I loved the art in this place and plan to try and buy some if I can figure out who the artist was. Also, the chocolate chip cookie was immaculate. Of course, the location just makes it all the better. Leavenworth is a little German town in the Cascades near world class hiking and climbing. What more could you ask for?

Credit to Kenzie for the referral, and Gabby for buying the drinks when myself (and her brother both) forgot our cards.

Rough guess without really taking it in: 4.9 / 5