Original Joe’s is a place that welcomes everyone. We have craveable classics for lunch or dinner, 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.
Many customers praised the exceptional service from various staff members, particularly highlighting servers like Breanne, Darby, and Isabelle for their attentiveness and friendliness.
Food Quality
The food received mixed reviews; while many enjoyed the dishes, some reported issues with overcooked items and inconsistent quality.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere was generally described as warm and inviting, though some customers noted that the noise level could be overwhelming at times.
Customer Experience
Several reviews mentioned positive experiences, including thoughtful gestures from staff, but there were also complaints about slow service and order mix-ups.
Value for Money
Customers appreciated the reasonable prices and happy hour specials, although some felt certain items were overpriced for the quality received.
KO
Karalin Olson
6 days ago
5.0
The service we received from Jaya and Jaid was exceptional. They were both extremely friendly and knowledgeable when asked questions about the menu. The food was delicious, we will be back.
ML
Mindy Lou
Nov 15, 2025
5.0
Ordered Quesadillas with a side of coleslaw. The coleslaw was creamy, tasty, and generous in size. The quesadilla arrived piping hot! This might be the only delivery order I have ever received this hot. We were shocked and impressed. The sides of guac, salsa and sour cream were appreciated. The chipotle was definitely spicy but not too much for us. Pleasantly surprised!
DJ
Dani Jules
Nov 6, 2025
5.0
Fabulous staff, Darby and Gabe make you feel like family every time you come in. They always give extremely great, quick, friendly service. I honestly give them all the kudos. They always put customers and staff first, they are above reproach and honestly the greatest ever, and should be added to the customer service hall of fame.
AR
Alex Robinson
Nov 4, 2025
5.0
My wife, daughter and I were in on Wednesday morning last week and I thought it would be rude to not leave a review for our server Jaden and manager Isaac! Jaden was friendly and accommodating and the manager Isaac sparked up a conversation with our little one about her toys, he really made an effort which we love, Will be back again
EB
Erica Burckett
Oct 30, 2025
5.0
My sister & I ate here a few weeks ago and again just recently. The first time wasn’t bad, but we had a server who seemed new due to how shy she came across. She was overall okay. The food was the highlight of that night.
We actually decided because the food and atmosphere was wonderful despite the first server, to give it another shot and this time we had Breanne. To say the least, Breanne was fantastic and very sweet. She’s the best server by far - my sister and I can attest to this. We will back soon!
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Where can I view the Original Joe's Nanaimo menus?
Glad you’re planning a visit! Take a look at everything we’re serving, pricing included: <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food/store-8253/bc/nanaimo/3280-north-island-highway.html">Food Menu</a>, <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/bar/store-8253/bc/nanaimo/3280-north-island-highway.html">Bar Menu</a>, <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/happy-hour/store-8253/bc/nanaimo/3280-north-island-highway.html">Happy Hour Menu</a>, <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/brunch/store-8253/bc/nanaimo/3280-north-island-highway.html">Brunch Menu</a> and <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/specials/store-8253/bc/nanaimo/3280-north-island-highway.html">Daily Deals</a>.
Does Original Joe’s Nanaimo offer any Vegetarian menu options?
We have plenty of amazing lacto-ovo vegetarian dishes to choose from! That said, our two most popular vegetarian options will probably always be wine and beer. Any item with vegetarian icon beside is or can be modified to be a vegetarian item. If you’re cruising our website, you can filter <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food.html?s=8253">our menu</a> by selecting the Vegetarian dietary preference to see all your options or just ask your server!
Are there Gluten-Free options at OJ's?
While we are not a gluten-free environment and products containing gluten are prepared in our kitchens, we do offer menu items that can be modified to accommodate a gluten sensitivity. On our menu, look for items with the gluten friendly icon to see which items are Gluten Friendly or can become Gluten Friendly with some modifications. If you’re checking out our website, you can filter <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food.html?s=8253">the menu</a> by this dietary preference to see all your options. Or just ask your server the next time you’re at OJ’s!
Does Original Joe’s offer any Vegan menu options?
We do. Look for the vegan icon beside a <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food.html?s=8253">menu item</a> or use the filtering option on our website. We’ve got a few Vegan items at Original Joe’s Nanaimo and many modifications to make an item Vegan. It’s all about choice at OJ’s.
What is Original Joe’s reservation policy?
On this page look under the heading, Restaurant Details, you will see if Nanaimo takes reservations through OpenTable or is more old-school where you may have to call ahead to inquire about a reservation.
Does Original Joe's Nanaimo have a patio?
Yes, Nanaimo does have a patio for dining, open based on weather conditions.
Does my local OJ’s Restaurant & Bar offer brunch?
Yes! Original Joe’s Nanaimo offers brunch on Saturdays, Sundays and Statutory Holidays till 3:00 PM. Brunch is available for dine-in only.
Is OJ’s Nanaimo Canadian owned?
You bet we are. This Original Joe's restaurant located at 3280 North Island Highway in Nanaimo is Canadian owned and locally operated! We are 100% Canadian-owned under Canadian company Recipe Unlimited, and our head office is still in Calgary to this day.
How can I find out about employment opportunities at Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
To apply for a job in Nanaimo, please visit the <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/join-our-team.html">Join Our Team</a> page to read more about the employment opportunities we offer and how to apply.
Does Original Joe’s Nanaimo accept reservations?
Yes, Original Joe's Nanaimo accepts reservations. You can make one through their website.
What are the operating hours of Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
Original Joe's Nanaimo is open daily from 11:00 AM to midnight.
Does Original Joe’s Nanaimo offer brunch?
Yes, brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and also on statutory holidays for dine-in only.
What are the happy hour timings at Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
Happy hour runs daily from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and again from 9:00 PM to midnight.
Can I get takeout or delivery from Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
Yes, Original Joe's Nanaimo offers in-store pickup and delivery services.
Are there vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options at Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
Yes, they offer lacto-ovo vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-friendly menu items, many of which can be modified to meet dietary preferences.
Is there outdoor seating available at Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
Yes, Original Joe’s Nanaimo has a patio available for dining, open based on weather conditions.
What nearby attractions can I visit when dining at Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
You can visit Nanaimo Golf Club, Frank Crane Arena for skating, or enjoy a walk around the trails of Long Lake before or after dining at Original Joe’s.
Are there other restaurants near Original Joe’s Nanaimo?
Yes, nearby restaurants include Swiss Chalet Rotisserie & Grill, Edo Japan, Triple O's, freshii, MOD Pizza, Pita Pit, and Quiznos, providing diverse dining options in the Country Club Mall area.
What nearby services can be found near Original Joe’s Nanaimo for convenience?
Nearby services include Lucky's Liquor Store for beverages, Save-On-Foods Pharmacy for groceries and pharmacy needs, as well as automotive services like Nissan of Nanaimo and CARSTAR Quality Assured - Trojan.