Warm & welcoming as you walk through the door complete with everybody’s favorite morning aroma: coffee. I don’t know what it is about it, but I love the smell of coffee.
Although, I do not drink much coffee the aroma is comfort to my soul. It takes me back to the early mornings of my youth and the feelings of love, safety and comfort. It is the positive outlook on a brand-new day, regardless of how yesterday ended.
The anticipation of a family breakfast as I was getting ready for school, or memories of big holidays and get-togethers. The fragrance encapsulates the anticipation, hope and innocence of the initial quiet start of a new day.
Judy’s Java Joint at 3400 South Park Road in Bethel Park nails that feeling.
This joint is the dream & vision of Judy Gramm. Yes, she is ‘Stressed, Blessed & Coffee Obsessed’ as the T-Shirt indicates. JJJ is wedged between Miller’s Hardware and Ruthfred Market and features delightful morning fuel.
A customer favorite is the ‘Blackberry Lavender White Mocha.’ After hearing so much about it for decades, I finally tried a Caramel Macchiato. Why did I wait so long? Aren’t I the one who preaches about ‘one lap in life’ and ‘making the most of life?’ Sheesh.
Coffee truly is ‘a hug in a mug.’ Personally, I like espresso with a spoonful of sambuca following a good meal with special friends. It really relaxes you. Today, I learned that a ‘depresso’ is when one runs out of coffee. By the way, Judy’s has the best ‘take out’ cups I’ve ever seen.
Like many businesses in our region, Judy’s Java Joint is a family affair. Try to support as many as you can. Judy runs the show with the help of great employees like Jasmine. Judy’s husband, Jeff, drew up the plans for the popular shop.
Yes, he is a barista behind the counter from time-to-time, as well. However, his ‘real’ job is that of a steamfitter. Daughter Kayla is working on a business degree and will eventually take over the books.
The flow of customers was constant. They came in all shapes, sizes, ages and experiences. The Church Ladies, who arrive every day after Mass, were delightful. It was a pleasure speaking with so many others as they began their morning.
However, I was truly inspired and refreshed by 13-year old Santino. The young man is an avid listener to the KDKA Radio Morning Show and wakes up at 5am or so each morning just to listen. He left promptly at 7:30 to go do tree work with his father.
The future is bright with such polite, well-mannered, ambitious young folks in our midst.
With such a friendly, neighborly atmosphere it is no wonder so many stop in to Judy’s Java Joint for their morning bump.