Jeremy S.
Stopped in for a quick caffeine fix on a road trip, and I’ll start with the positives: This place has a great community vibe! It seems to have filled the void left by Denny’s as the local “sit and chill” spot. The breakfast crowd looked genuinely happy, and the food service seems to be their true strength.
However, the coffee was a bit of a struggle. It’s always a bit of a letdown when a place names itself after the bean but treats the actual coffee like an afterthought.
A few notes for the shop to grow into their name:
The Gear: Using a home-consumer Breville machine for a commercial shop makes for a very slow process. It’s hard to keep up with orders when you can’t pull a shot and steam milk at the same time.
Consistency: We ordered two identical mochas, but they tasted like two different drinks—one was overly sweet with a bit of a “fake sugar” aftertaste, and both lacked a real coffee punch.
The Milk: If the steamer is “screaming,” the milk is likely being scalded rather than textured.
The Java Shop has clearly mastered the “Shop” part—it’s a cozy, bustling neighborhood hub. I’d love to see them eventually embrace the “Java” side with some commercial equipment and a bit of barista training. If they do, this place will be unstoppable!
… moreLoren
It was my first time here and I ordered to go online, which I love as an option. I can’t wait to go back here, would love to make it a weekly stop when I am out shopping in Herkimer. Tried Dalgona coffee for the first time and it was beyond delicious!! Food was great, well seasoned and good portion! Lucky to have a nice business like that out here.
… moreJoslyn Macri
The BEST coffee in Herkimer! I’m a postal clerk who travels to various local offices. I happened to find this shop on the recommendation of several customers and co-workers. It’s a great spot to relax, or to meet with friends! Super friendly staff! Great coffee selection! They even offer sugar free flavors and, for food, a low carb wrap. There are gluten free and vegetarian friendly options as well! What a wonderful local spot!
… moreJessica Faith
The new location is a little roomier, with a bright and comfortable atmosphere. I haven’t tried the food yet, but the coffee is superb! Fast and friendly service. I will definitely be back to try the chicken and waffles!
… moreJordan Palmer
THE nicest people!!! What a blessing to have this in Herkimer. I got 3 large speciality coffees (2 sugar cookie 1 peppermint mocha) and 2 muffins all for $21 before tip.. you can’t get that anywhere!!!! and it was all delicious!!!!! And only $21!!!! Support small!!!! It’s worth it!!
… moreZabO Hot
Used to come here a lot , orders never made on time
If you order 30-40 mins prior expect to wait 10-20 minutes for him to make your order while you are there or whatever they do.
So if your in a rush avoid it , if you got some time I’d say try it.
Foods good but nothing fancy definitely good just hate when I order and it’s never ready, I don’t think it’s been ready on time once and that’s gets old quick.
The app literally will say it’s ready or ready by “ 00:00” and it’s just never ready .
… moreLori Mackey
The staff was very personable. The place is very nice, huge plants in the front room. Affordable, and the food was great! Will definitely visit again!
… moreRobert Maida
The Java Shop is a warm, clean, and welcoming spot with smooth coffee, friendly staff, and fresh pastries. A perfect place to relax or grab a quality cup on the go. Always a great experience.
… moreTerri Ann Smith
No real barista. Couldn’t make a cappuccino correctly. Literally just set the milk under the steamer and left it there for 5 minutes. Duh, wasn’t foamy. To be fair, this seemed like a management issue rather than the server. She didn’t seem to know how to make a cappuccino. Espresso tasted burnt as well.
… moreAnastasiia Grishanina
If you are looking for good coffee (really good), this is the place. This place is full of air, peace, and love. It is so unusual nowadays ! You must visit them. Take a break, sit calm, and just be there. You will feel better! Thank you, guys, for this island of peace and joy.
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