The Java Shack
| Address: | 2507 Franklin Rd, Arlington, VA 22201, USA |
| Phone: | +1 703-527-9556 |
| Site: | javashack.com |
| Rating: | 4.7 |
| Working: | 7AM–5PM 7AM–5PM 7AM–5PM 7AM–5PM 7AM–5PM 7AM–5PM 8AM–5PM |
Location
Photos 100
Reviews 21
ME
Melissa Pocek
"Triple - quad macchiato" the thermal wearing barista calls out at this hip little hole-in-the-wall cafe. Can cafes be divey? Well, yes maybe. Especially if it is covered in unframed photos from local artists, pinned up pet adoption brochures, and Java paraphernalia from all over the world. So whats important? The coffee. This place is priced reasonably with average coffees around $3-4 depending how many extra shots of vanilla youre in to. If you are not looking for your reg. cup of coffee, the specials are the way to go. Theres many flavored lattes to choose from -- my fav was the hazelnut with four shots of espresso over ice and drizzled with vanilla and caramel. This place has charm because of the love of its local residents from college grads to retirees. Friendly and reliable - the Java Shack is just like an old friend.
DA
david oremland
Ive been a customer of the java shack for probably about a decade. Several days ago, as the ownership changed and Dale Roberts sold the store to a group that has been supplying the shop with coffee for some time, the most amazing thing was to see the outpouring of community love. I suppose hundreds of local folks and fans came out to bid Dale goodbye, commend him, purchase some coffee, and meet and greet in a true community node. Kudos to Dale and the staff for creating that environment. In the days since, the coffee remains the same high quality, the environment remains the same and the new owners have an opportunity to expand upon Dales great effort. Excellent local coffee shop.
A
A Private User
Nice little place, has that "comfy" indie coffee shop feel. The coffee is tasty and they have done a good job with it. It will probably disappoint those who like the "burnt" taste of starbucks. Personally I like variety. To the reviewer who complained in March, 2010 about smoking: smoking has been banned on the patio, so that wouldnt be a problem any more (though Im disappointed because I enjoy the occasional cigar with my coffee -- cant please everyone, I guess!) The big downside for me is theres not much space inside -- it is mostly an outside place. That is a bummer in bad weather.
NA
Naomi Dennis
Today was my second trip to the Java Shack. I know now that I can NEVER go back. Today I order a piece of pie only to watch the server put his BARE HAND on the crust of the pie as he scooped it up. Needless to say I couldnt eat the pie. I wanted to throw up. I then questioned everything. The food wrapped in plastic wrap- did he pick up the food item with his bare hand and wrap it? As I write this I want to throw up. It is sad because I went today because I liked the place. But unsanitary places have no place in my world.
DA
David Geller
This is my favorite place in Arlington, hands down. I dont want too many people to find out about it for selfish reasons, but I feel compelled to write a review to support it because its that great. The only recommendation for improvement is to offer a better food selection or to allow outside food. The food they offer is very good, but its a small selection. Though thats not the focus of the business, so I get it. Other than that, every other characteristic of it is spot on.
A
A Private User
I agree with the first review. This is a great local business and Iove the ambiance. Unfortunately they have a closed-in patio which on the day I visited was full of non-stop smokers. Even the barista went outside for a few. Im not a fussy complainer about smoking but since its a small place and the door to the enclosed patio is open (with fan), its strong enough to make my eyes water. I probably wont come back. Otherwise Id still recommend it.
A
A Private User
Small, friendly place just off Wilson, 1/2 block up Barton, a quiet residential street. Not much room inside (4-5 tables as I recall), but a nice outdoor patio for reading. Very nice folks behind the counter. Good fru-fru coffee drinks, and excellent coffee beans to go--I stocked up on a few pounds for my last deployment! Its good to have a local alternative to Starbucks, etc.,chain coffeeshops in the heart of Clarendon/Courthouse.
IS
Isotope Blue
Solid neighborhood coffee shop. Im typing in notes I took a couple of weeks ago on a nice, late winter afternoon. 6-7 tables inside in various nooks and crannies, about a dozen outside. Several outlets. Wi-fi with password. Rock at low volume on audio. Small selection of good bagged teas. Chai from a local concentrate – too sweet. Very small selection of pastries. Easy residential area parking outside.
JO
John Schultz
One of the few coffee shops within a few blocks open at 7am. Outdoor seating, cute interior and helpful staff. I ordered a "speciality" house drink. Its amazing and unique. The Cascarra drink is brewed from the coffee fruit. It tastes like you might imagine root beer would if you did not know better. Earthy, fizzy, slightly sweet.
A
A Private User
One of the few coffee houses in the Virginia/DC/Maryland area that is actually really good. The baristas know their craft. I only wish I lived closer to this quaint little cafe, then I could give a review of their consistency. Ive been here only twice, but the experience (in coffee) is lasting.
AN
Andrew Woizesko
This place is the best! They really are passionate about coffee and make a delicious cup. I really enjoy their nitro cold brew, pour-overs and drip coffee. I highly recommend this place because they are very friendly and generally do an excellent job.
CA
Cameron Eshgh
You kind of have to want to find the place, but once youre there, youll not regret the decision. The coffee is great, the staff are awesome, and theres enough room inside to sit down and have a conversation, not to be taken for granted in this area.
DA
Darby Robinson
The single best espresso I have found since moving out to the Virginia/DC area. My standards are incredibly high (and quite pompously so) coming from coffee heaven in the Pacific Northwest, but Java Shack absolutely rules.
A
A Private User
I love this place. Only the cool can handle it. It has amazing staff, coffee, and food. Yesterday I had a blended protein shake w a banana added and today the most yummy chicken pie ever. I highly recommend java shack.
ST
Stephen Levin
Love coffee from the Commonwealth Joe guys! I was drinking their coffee before they took over the shop (they came to our office once a week), and Im excited for their new everyday location!
JU
Justin dilorenzo
So much more personal than any Starbucks. The coffee is leaps and bounds better with real baristas that take pride in each cup of creation. Lucky to have them in our community!
SH
Shawn Weisser
We all really liked our coffees and espresso. Great flavor and body. Hubby loved the French roast, I had the house blend (very rich), and daughter Instagram-ed her cappuccino.
CH
Chelsea Wilkins
Best iced coffee Ive had in Arlington. $3 for a small without tax which is a bit high, but its good coffee for sure. Awesome patio but the inside could be a little cleaner.
PA
Paul Galloway
Good coffee and I like the way they are very supportive of community events. Sometimes a bit crowded but on a warm day their patio is a great place to have a morning coffee.
A
A Private User
The best independent coffee shop Ive found so fare in Arlington. And one thats not completely taken over by screaming babies and over-protective parents on the weekends.
E.
E.M. Dyer II
Very low-key neighborhood feel. Dog-friendly, token solar installation (2, 80 watt panels, 110 amp batteries). Cold coffee delivered with nitrogen, a la Guinness.
