Original Joe's in Nanaimo

3280 North Island Highway, Nanaimo, BC V9T 1W1, Canada

★★★★☆
(1071 reviews)
Categories: Restaurant

About

Original Joe’s is a place that welcomes everyone. We have craveable classics, down-to-earth vibes and a friendly team looking to brighten your day! Our location is situated in Country Club Mall with multiple shops and services. Stop in for a drink on our patio if you’re on your way to the BC Ferries or have worked up an appetite at the Nanaimo Golf Club. Fans of skating can visit Frank Crane Arena for a fun afternoon, or walk around the trails of Long Lake. Whatever you do with your days in Nanaimo, our team at OJ’s is here to satisfy your cravings! If you’re looking for a meal with two sides, delicious dill dip or craft beer, you know where to find us.

Website
originaljoes.ca
Address
3280 North Island Highway, Nanaimo, BC V9T 1W1, Canada
Plus Code
6X4R+6X Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
Time Zone
America/Vancouver

Business Hours

Monday
11 AM–12 AM
Tuesday
11 AM–7 PM
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
11 AM–12 AM
Friday
11 AM–12 AM
Saturday
11 AM–12 AM
Sunday
11 AM–12 AM

Services

Service options
Outdoor seating No-contact delivery Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Great cocktails Sport
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Happy-hour food Healthy options Late-night food Small plates Spirits Vegan options Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating
Amenities
Bar on site Toilets
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Photos

Reviews

4.0
★★★★☆
1071 reviews

Most Mentioned

dip (20) patio (18) wings (17) poutine (16) happy hour (9) fish and chips (8) quesadilla (7) lettuce wraps (6) steak sandwich (6) OJ (5)
5 stars
491
4 stars
323
3 stars
121
2 stars
56
1 stars
80
★★★★
December 2, 2024

We went there for our anniversary and was served by an amazing person named Darby (hope we got your name correct). They were very attentive and carefully humorous, added to our evening and also very real, which we love! Thanks a ton for the outstanding service!

★★★★
November 4, 2024

It’s a really nice restraunt and sports bar but it’s loud and feels almost a bit club like. Not a relaxing sit down spot for sure but I did go on a Saturday so who knows. The food was good tasting I got the nachos but it was really hard to eat and the paper stuck to everything so I would t order it again just because of that

★★★★★
October 31, 2024

I usually drive by OJs and go to my regular favourite place, but tonight I decided to go in just to try a different place. It’s my birthday but I was feeling a bit down. Going to OJs turned out to be an excellent idea, not only was the food incredibly yummy, I received the type of service I provide when I work as a server. Darby was outstanding - absolutely delightful!!! So attentive and knowledgeable in helping me pick the best dishes out according to my likes and dislikes. It’s rare that I go to a place for their service, but I will definitely be back because of how special Darby made me feel and how my entire mood uplifted after I talked to her. Thank you Darby! You are a gem and an asset to your employer, my birthday ended on a sweet note thanks to you! 🙏🏼😊🎉

★★★
April 27, 2024

The vibes were immaculate. The service was outstanding. Wish I could say the same about the food. It wasn’t anything above average, especially the fires. i’m not sure if the fries were from that morning or they actually look and taste like that but it was way below average. My friends and I got, fish and chips, steak Sandwich and spicy chicken burger.

★★★★★
April 7, 2024

We came here with a group of 38! They were very accommodating and had many servers bringing out the food. Our head waitress was on it, very Assertive and organized. My wife ordered the beef dip and I ordered the fish and chips. The fish and chips were big and very good!

★★★
March 19, 2024

With the amount of reviews this place has, I expected better ! Quite an average affair The place is nice, ambience is inviting, the servers are polite but the food lacks flavour and feels a bit on the pricier side. The dips on the other side are quite nice ( I never thought I’ll say this but they taste better than the food that came with it ) Their menu itself is quite limited ! We tried the chicken wings, dry ribs and the impossible burger!! ( let’s just say none of them felt like they were value for money ) 😅 I feel sad saying this because the place otherwise is nice and vibrant but it’s a pass for me ! Hopefully future visits are better and I’ll be able to update this !

★★★★★
November 23, 2022

Went there recently and was pretty amazed by the service being provided at Joe’s. First time coming here and we celebrated our dinner spontaneously. Apparently this place is very gorgeous for hangout with friends, in groups or with the family and definitely their servings are extreme for fun goers. Probably it was weekend so we kinda felt like the service was bit slow may be for no particular reason but as the food arrived we just literally made up our mind on it. Excellent location, delicious food and great service all the way. I will surely be back someday when in Nanaimo!

★★★★★
June 14, 2021

Really liked the food. The outdoor area looks great, and is quiet being outside. Great menu selection, and not too expensive really. Our server forgot a spoon with the meal. And decided to shout a dessert to apologies. A great gesture something we didn't really mind. The cinnamon bun cheesecake was delicious by the way... In a similar vein to Cactus and Browns I'd say. EDIT: Our second visit was just as great. The desserts are killer. Service is pretty good for a busy place.

★★★★★
December 8, 2024

Parking: Convenient Food

★★★★★
December 1, 2024

Had an incredible experience, Jaya was our server and did an amazing job, food and drinks arrived in a timely manner, friendly energy and tasty food would recommend!

★★★★★
November 24, 2024

Darby the server was great, 10/10 experience

★★★★★
November 24, 2024

Darby was very helpful and a great server!!!

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Ive become a regular , foods great and you dont have to yell when talking to someone. Wheelchair accessibility: Very level doorway .it appears fairly easy to enter.

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Consistent, quality and good value. Those are three things to look for in a night out. The daily specials are great but the staff really make the for a fantastic experience! Parking: Lots in a free, adjacent lot.

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Timely, personable and excellent service.

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Great spot my server was super nice:)

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Had great family dinner with best food and ambience

★★★
October 22, 2024

Hubby and I came in on a Sunday night around 8:30pm. He ordered the quesadilla with no jalapeños and a side of fries. I had an Original burger with no bun (lettuce wrap) and coleslaw. Im allergic to wheat, so while my opinions are very limited, the server was absolutely amazing and knowledgeable about the menu and allergens. Hubby enjoyed his quesadilla, but the fries were not what we were expecting. OJs is known for their in house cut and fried Kennebec French Fries. This is not what we got. We do appreciate that they sourced local potatoes to make their fries, but these just didnt live up to our expectations. I appreciate the lengths that they went through for me with my allergy. Sadly the burger patty had no flavor. It was very bland. The best part of the experience was our server. She was fun, friendly, and knowledgeable. We might return for a few happy hour beverages, but sadly will not return for the food.

★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

We were there for date night and had appies and wine. Wings were awesome!

★★★★
October 22, 2024

We were served by Rainee she was amazing even though they were swamped and short staffed she did a great job

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Darla was awesome!

★★★★★
October 22, 2024

Chicken wrap was delicious, with coleslaw & yummy fries. Partner had very tasty noodle soup with shrimp, veggies etc. Highly recommend Original Joes.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Parking: Tesla chargers right beside it which is super convenient Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

The beef dip was excellent.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Around 2008, Yes, it is definitely this building, but there may have been a different restaurant there. I dont know why they brought me here, but I was in a huge panic. Thats right, Kimoji Old Man and Grandma brought him here. I opened the plastic package while I was eating it, but it was punctured and the marjarine flew into the air. I didnt know where I was going, so someone around me found me. Ah! It was attached to Bozozokus vest next door! ! Oh no! ! ! Its serious! ! Its expensive and huge. My creepy old man was always being harsh on me, so even if I didnt like it, Bozozoku asked me about it instead of me. Hey, this kid was wearing that oily jacket. This old man is so disgusting! ! However, Bozozoku was really kind and told me it was okay and that it wasnt a problem. good! ! ! Bozozoku Hodojiji is not good. canon @thecanonalberic Vegetarian options: The waitress is so cute and kind, so if you ask her, shell answer! ! Dietary restrictions: In other words, Parking: There are many cars nearby, and it is extremely safe. Kid-friendliness: Im sure theres something dangerous, so please call Sekirati. Wheelchair accessibility: be,

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Always great food and drinks. Reasonably priced

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

I have visited this restaurant several times over the course of this summer, 2024, with a friend. The food has always been very good, and the service excellent. Original Joe s has become our go to in Nanaimo. It is located in a convenient place, lots of easy parking, and open late. We will be back, lots :)

★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Fast food dishes but ok

September 22, 2024

Nachos are poor quality for the price you pay. Disappointing. Follow up. Check out The Rocking Horse for Nachos. The put Original Joe s to shame. Food : 1/5

★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Super loud and echoes. Good service food is okay

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Good food, good service. Im really enjoying the renovations its way more open and inviting. The only place open late worth going to.

★★★★★
August 22, 2024

Hannah was my server and she did a fantastic job. She checked in on us often, making sure we got our drinks refilled! She even recommended a few delicious items off of the menu that I ended up loving. 10/10 service.

★★★★★
August 22, 2024

5 stars for Madison T!! She was fun, attentive, and made sure we were happy with everything we were served. Best service we ve ever had at OJ s

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

They have a really nice patio.

★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Service was decent ....they need to work on the fries theyre soft and overcooked

★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Loud, food is okay

★★
August 22, 2024

I had the Buffalo chicken wrap and paid extra for yam fries . 2.75$ both the wrap and fries came out ice cold. Waiter never checked in after getting the food as they normally do. Disappointed cause I really wanted some hot food. Instead I got a 44$ plate that was cold . The beer was cold atleast so that was a bonus .

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Found the music loud inside and out but the food has been consistently great. Girls are friendly and efficient. I like that you get two sides with most meals cuz I often cant decide from their many options. Im on a carb-free diet and they did lettuce instead of tortilla for my AMAZING chicken club wrap. With a salad and veggies and dip, I was so happy with my dinner!

★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

We had a generally average meal at this restaurant. The server was pleasant and didnt hover. The steak sandwich was well cooked but served on a rancid tasting piece of garlic bread. Our cheesecake desert arrived so frozen that we couldnt eat it with our spoons. Had to ask for a knife and fork to cut it. On the bright side it did make us have a laugh over needing a steak knife to cut our dessert.

★★★★
July 22, 2024

Owner was able to correct the issue promptly. thank you. Food

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

A local recommended OJ s for the game, and it delivered! Great service, atmosphere and food. Great spot for a night out or family hang. Diverse menu, excellent cocktails and desserts, fair prices - everything we hoped for and more. Kid-friendliness: Very kid friendly place, but maintained fun vibe and atmosphere for all

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Excellent service. Servers were very polite and friendly. Food was delicious and served hot. Prices were reasonable and fair. Facility was clean and neat. Would highly recommend for any type of dinner out.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Definitely one of our favourite places to eat. Very very attentive to food restrictions and needs!

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Never a bad experience when I visit Original Joe s! The food, drinks and service are always top notch. I had a special family lunch and had the best service from a young lady named Darby. 10/10 will go again. Thanks OJ s!

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Cheers.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

We did wing night & man the flavors we chose were outstanding. Jd, yes, a whole batch please! The salt & vinegar, mmmm. Greek is outstanding.. I must days favorite is the fries and dill dip a but ask for double the dip, cause it is soo good. Great service, very attentive. This was a very busy Tuesday after 10 pm. I love this location. Tons of parking. Go get those wings, dont forget dill dip

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Emily was fantastic! Very personable and attentive to our needs. Had a great visit watching the game!

★★★
May 22, 2024

We are regulars to this restaurant and generally enjoy good service and good unfortunately our latest experience was a disappointment due to the inability of reducing the music volume. We like the music but found it extremely difficult to have a conversation with our guests! We were informed when we requested the volume be turned down just a little, that it was an automated function from head office and could not oblige. So sorry to see a nice restaurant turning away patrons!

★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Nice place for a beer and conversation. Went during happy hour 5$ beer is pretty nice

★★★
May 22, 2024

I met a friend for lunch whom I had not seen for quite some time. I feel embarassed that I suggested dining there. I ordered the Ace burger and would have been far more satisfied with a Wendys burger. Not to mention my multiple times cooked fries that came with it. I did not want to ruin my visit with my friend by complaining and sending my meal back but come to find out that her quesadilla was just as lousy and she was just as disappointed with her meal. Neither of us finished our meals and neither of us will ever go back.

May 22, 2024

Very disappointing! The food here has gone downhill and fast! Will take our business elsewhere next time

★★
May 22, 2024

for the love of god dont get the dynamite shrimp split an order with the boys and we got food poisoning kinda worth it though it was good shrimp Food : 1/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Super service and grest food. Rebecca runs a great team

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Petty quick service, and food was great. Good atmosphere as well, and fairly reasonable pricing

★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Food was great (ribs, steak sandwich, mocktails). Atmosphere awesome. Not sure if there was confusion as to who was our server but we had uncoordinated service for how slow it was and a lot of staff. Wasnt a shift change so not sure what happened. I am happy to say it was an off day and go back again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Good food, great service. Nice renovation, especially the entrance...so much more open. Love the enclosed patio. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Love the option of dining outside in the covered patio area, great little intimate eating escape from the people ;)

★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Went on a Friday night, was a little bit loud. Friendly service and good food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Great place. I love the atmosphere. Food tasted great and portions were large. Servers are fantastic.

★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

I am beer lover. I love to have their wings but their beer.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Dietary restrictions: Gluten menu Food

★★★★★
March 22, 2024

been here lots. Always amazing food.

★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Great food

March 22, 2024

1hr and 20 min wait to get our food at lunch. Disappointed and embarrassed that I took my staff there Food

★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Happy hour here is the best time to visit!

March 22, 2024

We thought we would give OJs another try , after eating there almost every weekend , we were very disappointed again ! The breakfast this morning was ice cold , the plate was freezing. It wasn t busy when we went in and still the breakfast was horrible. The coffee tasted bad too , the phone was ringing off the wall , yet nobody would answer it . Most waitresses were standing around talking or sitting with what appeared to be other staff members . Our eggs benny were not what we asked for at all , one yolk was runny and the other was hard as a rock . Yeah , that s it for us . We will not be spending our money here anymore . Cher & Jason

March 22, 2024

Ordered a buffalo chicken wrap that was the soppiest wet mess I ve ever tried to eat. I ve never had a wrap that had absolutely zero texture. I threw 3/4 in the trash.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Loved their soup. The staff is so nice. I ordered the chicken and veg soup, but somehow they put the shrimp into that which I dont eat. But they replaced the soup for me. And their drinks are always my fav.

★★★★
March 22, 2024

Excellent overall. Food quantity was good, veggies were crisp and fresh, taste was great. The brownie was especially excellent and the cinnamon cheesecake was also great. The online order takeout came in nice reusable bags. Only lost a star from not including a lemon and/or tartar sauce for the fish and chips, which is pretty normal to do.

Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Noisey to the point if uncomfortable. Our server very unattentive. Expensive food

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

Hannah was very attentive and a great server. Definitely well be back for the great service

★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Not the Original Joe s I was used to in other places of BC. Visited and the food was terrible. Literally couldn t tell if It was McDonald s or actually from Joe s. Cold food with no cutleries and napkins. Salad without dressing too. Just disappointed!

★★
February 22, 2024

I have always liked going here but unfortunately this time I was very disappointed - our server was OK and only checked on us 3 times - I ordered a 1 piece fish and crinkle cut fries and a caesar side salad - there was literally a handful of fries on my plate and a very small piece of fish - I counted the fries and it was only 9 fries - the portion size has been cut down to about 1/4 of what it used to be - I remember ordering a 2 piece fish and chips and the pieces being so large that i was shocked and could not finish it so from then on i only ordered single pieces - I looked around and many other diners including my lunch partner (who had the same meal only regular fries) had a good stack of fries but I had barely any - is there a reason why people who order crinkle cut fries get so few - are fries so ridiculously expensive now - I understand times are tough but you cant tell me fries are unaffordable - I am extremely disappointed and walked away still feeling hungry

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

This is my favourite place to eat, and for just grabbing a drink after work. Great food and and even better staff.

★★★★★
January 22, 2024

Their gyoza is probably the best Ive tasted yet from anywhere! Nice relaxed atmosphere as well. No complaints or criticisms

★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

Really great service, lots of good drinks and always amazing service never leave you with an empty drink or plate!

January 22, 2024

I ordered take out from the Nanaimo location I got an impossible burger with fries/dill dip and sesame brown rice. There was no sesame sauce on the rice, so it was plain brown rice, and instead of dill dip I received ranch. Pretty unsatisfactory, when I order take out from other restaurants around Nanaimo my orders are always accurate to how I requested. In this case I did not even make any special requests, just ordered off the menu and was still disappointed. I like Ojs food and I like going into the restaurant to eat, but it s not worth ordering take out from here just to get home and realize 1/2 your order is incorrect. Your attention to detail was abysmal today Ojs. Although I do realize it is a holiday so I empathize with staff working but still, I feel it s pretty easy to make sure the dishes get correct dips/sauces.

Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Got charged 10% LST! What is LST?

Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Charged an LST tax on a bill that includes 0 alcohol which somehow was 10% of my entire food only bill. Also was charged 12% HST which is incorrect. They should only be charging a 5% GST tax. This restaurant is committing tax fraud against its clients. Unacceptable.

December 22, 2023

Someone posted a receipt from this place on Reddit showing they are still charging HST. This place bout to get audited REAL QUICK!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Always a great atmosphere! Service is above average. Food is above average as well. Its definitely a go to restaurant for our family.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Originally i was not sure, but it turned out ok

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great atmosphere and friendly staff. Nice beer on tap selection too.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

always a great stop for a drink and a meal at original Joes with great service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Teya has a very welcoming attitude. She didnt come by too much or not enough. Kinda like a Goldie Locks waitress, just right.

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Theres nothing special about this place. The interior could use some updating and the food was just ok. 1 of our meals came out hot, the other was cold. We sent it back & they remade it, but when we got our bill they had tried to charge us for that remake as well. Thankfully my bf caught it or we would have been overcharged by about $23. They did remove the remake after we brought it to their attention but the server should have caught that before we did. We had 2 of their signature dishes, and were quite disappointed. Ordering a signature dish usually means theres great flavor & presentation (among other things), and they both lacked that. Not sure we will be back.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Always a good experience here. Friendly service, great atmosphere, and good food value. Vegetarian options: Lots of Veggie options for my husband that he enjoys. Kid-friendliness: Great kids meals.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Fun place to take the family. The kids love the burger in the kids meal and the lemonade! I had the beef dip which was really good as well.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Amazing service, and we had fantastic meals!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Good food and great service. The quantity of the food is huge. The only problem faced was the mosquitoes when sitting outside using the patio.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Loved the food and the service was great staff were excellent Parking: In a mall parking lot Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Great service, all staff friendly and the food was superb.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Wonderful service, great food.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I can understand that they are very busy and maybe thats why we had a few minor issues in the service but I plan to return to give them another chance. Very good atmosphere

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Service was good. French fries overcooked and burger was bland. Caesar salad was really good with real parmesan and bacon bits!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Awesome food, great service. Never disappointed.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Gonna change my review after a while of going and I have definitely become fond of the food and atmosphere

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Good food, best service and prices right. And amazing spicy chicken sandwich -

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great place to grab a bite and a drink. Daily specials, lots on tap and friendly service.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Allen Bubic was amazing tell the general manager he should run the place

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

What an amazing atmosphere and vibe. Great staff Great drinks Great food And the owner sat with us and we had a great chat about the success of her business. I ve always loved OJ s but the new layout has really brought them up a notch in my opinion.

★★★★
December 22, 2023

Same reliable food, really good service. Been coming here pretty much religiously since opening as we live next to it and Im from Edmonton where theyve been for decades now. But I have to say....I absolutely hate the new vibe with the Renos. The layout looks much better for the staff, but as a patron, the lighting and layout were really bad. We were shocked upon arrival. Its a shame.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Generally sit at the bar, excellent bar tenders and attention to detail. Good food and atmosphere for a chain sports bar. Newly renovated, much more bright and lots of natural light.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Total revamp, seats much more people now, has included patio enclosed as part of the dining space. Only downside is it attracts a lot more people so it tends to be noisier then I like

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Food is great. The music is so loud though its like eating in a sports bar but I think thats the vibe they are going for. You can sit on the patio though if the inside is too loud.

December 22, 2023

40 mins to get lunch and everything was cold. Like it had been sitting for 20 mins of the 40 min wait Waitress never checked on us to see if we wanted another drink while waiting. Waited 5 years since my last bad experience there to go back and I will wait another 5. Parking: Good parking Kid-friendliness: $12 kids meals

December 22, 2023

Food was excellent and so was service,6 of us went at 5:30 for dinner last night, the music was so loud we couldnt have a conversation. we asked Twice to have it turned down but were told the manager said no! We wanted a dining experience not a nightclub at 5:30 pm! Will not be back!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great service! (Maddy) great food!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Stopped in here for a drink and dessert. Great tasting mocktails for those who want a drink without alcohol. Highly recommend their Westside Story mocktail. If you havent tried their Dirt Pie dessert, its a must if you like chocolate and coffee icecream. The music was a little loud but not unbearable... it was just a little hard to hear the person I was with and to have a conversation. Decent experience overall.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

This dish was mediocre but the chicken wrap was 5 star. Emery gave us 5 star service and Ill be happy to come back and have her serve us again. Thank you Emery

★★
December 22, 2023

Friendly and respectful staff. Loud environment on Sunday at 5pm. Food is 1 step above fast food. Chose not to finish the burger.. Fries were bitter.. shows me the oil needs changing or being shocked regularly. Unfortunately with restaurant food this place is on par with its peers .. (read .. Average Joes). Next time will find something with better quality at a higher price.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Friendly environment, service was fast and great. Amazing place for dine-in

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Staff are always so kind and the food is great!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Drove by it, but looks nice.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Jayden(?) and Navin(?) were exceptional at dealing with a small kitchen mishap. The Au Jus was really watery or something, and they immediately corrected the issue perfectly, and fairly. 18:00 06/26

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Very friendly and warm atmosphere food was great

★★★
December 22, 2023

service is good, food is not that good

★★
December 22, 2023

I have never not had a great experience at that Joe s when on the island, my wife and I each ordered a Kona burger and while I can tolerate mozzarella, I hate most other cheeses, ours came with a totally different kind of cheese which my wife described as a very strong cheese as well. I bit into mine and the taste of that cheese was similar to how my teenage sons feet smelled. I spit it out it was that bad. The good news was that our server was amazing and brought me another burger. Not sure what happened was it a mistake or did a chef try to elevate with his or her own touch not sure but it was horrid and I don t think I will be ordering a Kona again .

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

My wife and I walked in and we were greeted almost immediately. We were seated on the outdoor Patio which has a really nice atmosphere and feel to it. Our server was fantastic and extremely on the ball. The fish Tacos are excellent and I would strongly recommend them. The Jalapeño Caesar is absolutely fantastic and I would strongly suggest trying it as well! The food came unbelievably fast tonight too. Was all around a great evening out!

December 22, 2023

The service at the Nanaimo restaurant was ignorant. Came in for a table for 2. The hostess, very nice young girl, asked us to wait while she cleared a table. We did. Another girl, tall blond in black leather pants comes prancing by just as 2 people walk in door. She stops and says have you been helped (pretty obviously not they were just walking in) anyway they said no needed a table for 2 so she grabs 2 menu and takes them over to the table the hostess is clearing for us. Totally ignored us, didn t ask were we being helped or anything just marched them over to what was suppose to be our table!! We go to Original Joes probably once every 2 weeks for lunch or supper but her ignorance will stop that practise for sure. So much for their customer service & satisfaction!!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Not impressed with the new indoor decor. Music a little too loud. Staff, service and food is great.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Love it; great craft beer, decent prices, nice staff. Dietary restrictions: Gluten free options Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Always friendly and prompt service, with the consistency of a bigger venue that brings me to them. I LOVE their VEGAN options. Thank you thank you thank you for having some great vegan options from baked brussel sprouts, to the amazing impossible burger to one of my favourites, the vegan chkn caesar wrap. Ive been to this location about 15 times as I live very close, and every time, the server has been exceptionally friendly and efficient, and that is the most important aspect of dining, to me. Vegetarian options: Great!

Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The atmosphere was amazing and food was great had I not found a long blonde piece of hair in the mashed potatoes of my steak sandwich platter. Product quality assurance policies need to be revised and improved. It grossed me out and it was very upsetting as I was on a long trip from Edmonton.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great tasty butter chicken and spicy Ceasar cocktails. What else does one need.

★★★★
December 22, 2023

Is really good for meat!! Special for burgers!! I m really full now!! Is a really good place where eat

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Our experience was sadly under par. Quesadillas was waffer thin and totally empty no food near the outside edge. Im sure the fries were the end of the bag as they were little tid bits. I am surprised the cook would think it is ok to serve fries like that. On the other hand my mom had fish tacos and they were good, but again tid bits for fries. I do recommend the brussel sprouts.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Food and service 5 stars!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Excellent

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

A little loud when busy

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Awesome service! Food was great! Drinks were delish! And the new layout was definitely an improvement! Highly recommend checking out the new OJs!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Food prices have certainly gone up a lot.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Good service, good variety

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Its a good place with good food, and a very chill atmosphere. Good spot to go to hang out, and have a few, while also being a nice place.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Issac just wow! Drinks were so yummy and service was out of this world. Definitely coming back :)

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

My server Isaac was phenomenal. Drinks were always full and I felt like I was a really cared for as a customer. If you ever feel the need to feel loved, come to original Joe s. Food, atmosphere, drinks .. everything is amazing. I would live here if I could. Call me an original joes lover girl because I am. Also, if you re curious, Isaac owns Spider-Man crocks. Good thing I didn t go see the marvel movie because the main character is here. Live love laugh Spider-Man. Parking: Amazing parking Kid-friendliness: Amazing kid friendliness Wheelchair accessibility: If you are in a wheelchair, you will be accessible

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

my experience here at original joes nanaimo was out of this world. i can t get enough of it. my drinks were always full and isaac made sure i had extra sweet chilli sauce. the way isaac held himself was professional and he should get a raise with those good looks! the food tasted just like hells kitchens in las vegas. to top it all off, isaac had the best dad jokes that made me chuckle. way to go isaac and team!

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The service was good. Burgers were dry. Sides were tasty. They did not gave me bcaa discount of 10% as I was showing the card by logging in to the app. Unfortunately they need the physical card for swiping. A heads up for bcaa user to carry physical card.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Decent food, pretty good service even for a busy Friday night. All requests completed accurately. Whiskey Burger was the best at the table. Fries are weirdly small, but tasty. Bottom of the bag? Touch loud and bright at our seats but they didnt have options at the time.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great food, drinks and service. I had this twist on chicken fettuccine alfredo and it was great. She had the quesadillas which were also great. Lager on special was fantastic. Will return

Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Wife and I were here several months ago, and the food was terrible. It was also with the older interior. Since, the interior has upgraded, but the food is still tasteless. Last time we actually said something and was offered a refund. We declined the refund. This time we tried the same thing, and it wasnt even the same as last time, and still tasted poor. No consistency. It was good the one time, 1 year ago, and ordered the same thing. My wife asked if the dish she ordered could be made vegan, we were told yes. It was half vegan. No effort made to accommodate. This is officially our last visit. We will spread the word. Thanks anyways.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Very good service!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Had an amazing birthday gathering and dinner. Staff was fast and amazing.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The service was great and the food was good except that my steak came very under cooked and we ordered our food to go so I couldnt just send it back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

My wife and I have been going here once every 4 weeks on our way through Nanaimo . The food and service have been great. I highly recommend it. Food

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Food and service was fantastic

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Love the food and the service is consistently good! However, I cannot stand this new layout. It feels like a cafeteria and lacks any intimacy that it used to have. This used to be my go to date night spot but now I feel like Im having dinner with the table beside me.

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The food was pretty good as it usually is. Drinks were good, again as they usually are. As was the service. However the new renovation is quite terrible in my opinion. Much less intimate than it used to be. The overall feeling is that of eating in a dimly lit cafeteria. A sad downgrade but not a deal breaker. What was a deal breaker was just how absolutely disgusting the men s washroom was. There seems to have been zero effort made to keep the washroom clean since reopening from the renovation. I have not seen a public washroom that dirty, ever. I still recommend Original Joes. It s a safe go to. I just hope they improve their cleanliness standards.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Food was good. Chicken wings were kind of small. Service was good and prices were not too bad

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The service was excellent, Hailey got everything right and we had a great time.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Went for Sunday lunch. Wasnt super busy when we got there at 1145am. The service was friendly and excellent, and the food was delicious. We had the pulled pork sandwich and the chili lime chicken appy. Prices were decent. Overall excellent!

★★
December 22, 2023

Since I discovered the restaurant I loved it, the atmosphere, the food!... but definitely what I didnt like at all was the service. 5th time we have been going with my friends around 9pm and we are always served by the same waitress with red hair, in a very rude manner, she throws the plates to the table, doesnt ask if you want other drinks and is always in a bad mood. I work in the restaurant industry and I dislike this type of attitude.

★★★
December 22, 2023

Original Joes used to be our go to restaurant for a nice meal in Duncan. Not anymore! The last three visits has shown a decline in food quality and overall atmosphere. Used to be able to rely on great service and great food. Being a none alcohol drinker I used to enjoy a nice non alcoholic European beer that has been sold there for years. The only choice now is a cheap Corona non alcoholic brew. The last meal we had was calamari appy followed by a impossible burger and chicken quesadillas. The fries were not very good and the quesadillas had very little filling in them. We were not served water and I had to ask for a glass for my beer. Portion sizes have been reduced which is okay but that combined with a decrease in quality is a non starter for us. I dont know that you are heading in the right direction. Your place used to be busy when we went. It was very quiet last night. Maybe that should be an indication. Sorry for the bad review but we eat out a lot and your restaurant is on the decline in our opinion.

December 22, 2023

The service is great but I think the problems with this place come down to management, there must be some really bad apples there for sure, maybe time to get some decent people in!

December 22, 2023

I m giving them a one because of the staff the food is incredible congrats to the chef he clearly knows how to cook but the staff are a little different. I called four weeks prior to my birthday and they told me to call a day prior I thought that was weird as my birthday is in December, so I didn t listen to her and I called the week prior and I got a different lady on the phone and she was in shock that someone told me to call a day prior and she said there was no tables and I ve already told 20 people that this is where my birthday is so I asked her to accommodate me as I ve already told 20 people that s where my birthday is. She goes sure we can try and make that work, and then I got tables that are separated, not super separated, but they were separated. I was like there s no way you can accommodate me as your staff clearly messed up. This is not fair to me and she goes sorry this is all I can do Honestly really pissed me off so I told half the crowd not to come and to come to my house after instead as I didn t want to be at separate tables from my friends on my birthday first time I ever spent a birthday in there and probably last time I ever will it took 10 hours for me to get a corona. I mentioned it to the redhead and she goes oh I didn t forget it s like OK how long does it take to pop a cap off a bottle and hand it to me whatever this is why I always pick browns for my birthday! Oh well lesson learned The table we sat At literally felt like I was at an A&W. I wanted a nice scene it s my birthday like hello if you couldn t accommodate a really nice scene with candles and stuff For me then let me know so I m not going there and wasting my time and money

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

I ate The West Coast Chop salad with prawns added & the Cinnamon Bun cheese cake and washed it all down with a glass of lemonade yesterday evening

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Perfect if you enjoy the generic chain bar experience with mediocre food and mediocre service. Granted I ve only been once but kitchen managed to forget both sauce on the burger and salad dressing. Blandest meal I ve had in a long long time. Service practically non-existent until it was time for the bill, then all smiles in expectation of at least the default 18% tip. I tipped 10% out of pity and even that left a bad taste in my mouth. I won t be back.

Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Went for date night on Friday. Our waitress was too occupied with the staff or Christmas party that was going on by the kitchen. Didnt check on us, waited forever to order drinks or food, didnt ask if we wanted more drinks, took a plate of food that we were still eating from. Never had bad service from here before. My husband told the waitress why she wasnt getting a tip and she apologized for her behavior.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The service was fabulous and food was great! Vegetarian options: The dragon boat wrap had a meat alternative substituted for my vegetarian friend. Food : 5/5 |