This shop is right in my neighborhood and I am so grateful. The owner is always so positive and friendly. The vibe is very cozy--I fondly remember walking here in knee-high snow after the thunder snow storm. Even then, the shop was up and running, ready to welcome us after a long morning of shoveling. I love coming here for a quick cozy lunch or a weekend morning coffee. I recommend the soup or the cafe mocha (which they can make less sweet). read more

This is an adorable cafe, very quaint but very small. There are only 3 tables that seat 4 people, so my family and I had a fairly difficult time finding a spot since many pairs had taken the four-seaters. We were, however, very fortunate as one party of four was just leaving! Since we went in January, the cute Christmas decorations were all still up. The chalkboard is a lovely touch, filled with many scribbles and comments from visitors. Upon sitting down, we ordered four portions of their very famous roasted red pepper tomato soup. My order came with a side of chickpea artichoke salad (cost $8.38) - the waiter/cashier emphasized how it's a popular choice, so I decided to give it a try. It was a generous portion of both chickpeas and artichokes, but I found it overly sour (the balsamic vinegar) and there was just a bit too much oil. That being said, it was extremely filling! My dad's order came with the savoury scone/tea biscuit ($6.00). He enjoyed it very much, and wolfed it down. Meanwhile, my mom ordered a panini side ($8.38) - she got the chicken, bacon, cheddar, but we couldn't taste any bacon whatsoever. There were massive chunks of chicken, and the cheddar was deliciously stringy. The exterior was also perfectly crispy! The soup was very good ($5-6)! I loved it a lot, but my family's comments were that it became increasingly sour near the end. Indeed, it definitely needs to be served with some crackers to even out its tangy and tomato-y flavour. It was rich in ingredients, as I could feel the rough texture of ground-up celery, tomatoes, onions, etc. The service is impeccable - very kind, though slow. When we arrived, there was only one person on shift. Our waiter was very kind and patient, willing to explain each order and walk us through what's famous. When we asked about the soup, he gave us a small ramekin to sample and share. Moreover, halfway through the meal, he approached our table, apologized for not serving us water, and immediately brought some over. Because of the single-person shift, they also tended to be slow in clearing tables and in bringing our food over. read more

See all

How have I gone three years without the Java Garden's famous red pepper soup! The cafe which used to be in St Jacobs moved to Waterloo around a year ago and I only recently found out about their new location when I drove by the area. I came here twice within the past week and brought along two first time Java Garden soup tasters, they were very impressed! Not only does Java Garden have amazing soup, their sandwiches, scones, baked goods are also delicious! Now that they've moved closer to where I live, I will not be letting their soup go out of my sight again! read more

The Java Garden - Cheddar bacon chive scone and the famous red pepper roasted tomato soup! - Cafes Near Me - Waterloo, Ontario

Food: 4 stars Came by just before closing so our choices were limited. The girl at the counter was cleaning up and getting ready to close shop so we thought we would make it quick and just grab a turkey, bacon, brie, and pear wrap. They had quite a few wraps/sandwiches to choose from, but it also makes me question how long have those wraps been sitting there before they're thrown out and a new batch is made? I mean they were about to close and it looked like those wraps/sandwiches were here to stay. The wrap came up to about $8 with tax and that's a little steep for the size and the filling...which was mostly greens. Thin slices (2) of turkey and my boyfriend didn't even realize there was bacon in the wrap until I mentioned how little bacon there was. Anyhow, it was delicious once she warmed it up for us. I looooove brie and it goes nicely with the pear. Ambiance: 4.5 stars Beautiful flower-like light fixtures! Place looks a little cramped but I love the decor. Has a slight hipster/classic jazzy feel to it. Adorable place to sit, relax, and enjoy a coffee. Too bad it was closing when we got there. =( Service: 3.5 stars The girl at the counter was nice enough to serve us even though we came in 10 minutes to closing. She was friendly enough. =) read more

See all

We visited the Java Garden today. The selection was great. Several steps above a coffee shop. All five of us enjoyed our food. The patio was nice. Service very friendly. Guy even came out with offering glasses and ice water To make sure we were hydrated. we'll be back. read more

Cosy joint hidden in the middle of St Jacob Country/Main Street. The store owner seems to be from Denmark, and his soups are to died for. Best tuna melt I have had for a long time. All make with fresh ingredient. The store owner even come out to ask us how the food (and coffee) was, something you only get at a high $$$ Resturant setup. Highly recommend if u need a quick bite of great food, super cold air conditioning and wifi. read more

The Java Garden - Cafes Near Me - Waterloo, Ontario

There were 5 of us for lunch, cafe was small but comfortable, service was very nice and because we had ordered quite a bit, it was to the table. Chicken mango panini, Cajun chicken wrap and steak wrap were all good, my Americano was super as was the roasted red pepper tomato soup which was ordered by two people. Everyone really enjoyed the food and service because of which a 5 star was warranted. Definitely worth a stop and I would highly recommend. read more

The Java Garden - Modern look and feel, friendly host - Cafes Near Me - Waterloo, Ontario

Love the Java Garden, owner and staff are amazing. It has become my favorite now! you can usually find us here for our 9am coffee, corner table. Love it! read more

The owner is very nice. It has a comfortable atmosphere and is busy but not noisy like so many other Cafe style places.

We were a group of 14 people. Ordered ahead so food would be ready upon arrival. Everyone was greatly pleased with the food. The roasted red pepper soup is as good as everyone says. There is such a perfect blend of herbs and spices that it is just one delicious flavour without anything standing out inappropriately. The service was good. The owners are very hospitable. You can get some Scandinavian confections there as well. The business and food climate in St. Jacobs has changed over the years as it has become more tourist oriented. Although they owners are Danes there is a good feel of family owned business and not touristy money grab. My #1 choice for St. Jacobs. read more

I love coming into this cafe on my lunch break for a wrap or sandwich and THAT SOUP! Great staff as well. The last time I was there Dan and Lauren made my day with their welcoming and hospitable attitudes! read more