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Jo Jo’s Cafe
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Jo Jo’s Cafe
8.1
Old-school cafe with a sprawling menu covering American breakfast, omelets, and Asian comfort plates. Friendly service and generous portions make it a dependable Ocean Avenue morning choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Build-Your-Own Omelet, Breakfast Special (eggs, meat, hashbrowns, toast), Congee with Side Youtiao
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Wide-ranging breakfast menu that satisfies mixed cravings.
Who should go: Groups with varied tastes
When to visit: 8–10am for easiest parking
What to order: Omelet combo, congee set, HK milk tea
Insider tip: Combo plates run large—split a side of pancakes to share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Ocean Avenue and nearby side streets; metered spots fill after 9am but turnover is steady.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, jeans, and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate—morning chatter and clinking dishes, but still easy for table conversation.
Weekend wait: N/A—closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; typically seated immediately before noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, pancakes, and veggie congee options available.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides and toast, but most plates use eggs or dairy.
Gluten-free options: Partial accommodation—staff can adjust certain dishes, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for relaxed brunches than romantic settings—expect a cozy, diner-style vibe ideal for casual conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only; short waits during weekend brunch hours, but weekday mornings are easy.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs available, staff are accommodating, and menu options suit both kids and adults.
Best For
Better for: Jo Jo’s excels in portion size, variety, and warm service—great when you want both congee and pancakes in one place.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet, upscale brunch or plant-based specialty café—this is more hearty and old-school.
Jo Jo’s Cafe
8.1
Old-school Ocean Avenue café blending American breakfast with congee, noodle soups, and HK milk tea. Friendly service and large portions make it easy for groups with varied tastes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omelet combo with toast, Congee set with youtiao, Hong Kong milk tea
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Sprawling menu covers classic American breakfast and HK café hits.
Who should go: Groups with mixed cravings
When to visit: 8–10am for easiest parking and seating
What to order: Omelet combo; congee set; HK milk tea
Insider tip: Combo plates run large—split a side of pancakes.
Jo Jo’s Cafe
7.6
Ingleside Chinese-American cafe that stays open to about 9:30pm, handy for casual late dinners near City College. Mix-and-match rice plates and noodles make it a practical grab-and-go option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tomato Beef Rice, Chicken Chow Mein, BBQ Pork Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Late-running cafe staples near MUNI and City College.
Who should go: Students and commuters needing fast plates
When to visit: 8–9:30pm for shortest waits
What to order: Tomato beef rice; chow mein; BBQ pork fried rice
Insider tip: Call in a combo plate to skip the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Ocean Avenue and nearby side streets is generally available, though spots can be scarce after 8pm near the MUNI stop.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, jeans, and campus wear all fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout and solo diners, so easy to hold a quick conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes for takeout; dine-in tables usually open.
Weekday lunch: No wait—quick service before the lunch crowd disperses.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable stir-fries and tofu rice plates available.
Vegan options: Limited—some tofu dishes can be made vegan upon request; verify sauce ingredients.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free prep area, but rice-based dishes minimize cross-contact risk.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date—it’s a functional late-night cafe more than an atmosphere play, better suited for casual hangs or post-class meals.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed; tables turn quickly even on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple dishes, quick service, and booth seating make it fine for kids, though high chairs are limited.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and cheaper prices than nearby full-service spots; ideal for quick comfort food before close.
Skip if: You’re looking for ambiance, drinks, or a lingering dinner—go elsewhere for that.