Jeremy Edmunds
Google
In Boston's increasingly crowded craft beverage scene, Jaho Coffee Roaster & Wine Bar attempts an ambitious fusion that simultaneously hits and misses the mark, rather like its automatically over sweetened matcha lattes.
This establishment's identity crisis is both its charm and its challenge. By day, it's a spacious coffee shop with artisanal brews served in Instagram-worthy pink cups adorned with whimsical designs. By night, it transforms into a wine bar complete with craft cocktails and an impressive spirits collection that would make a dedicated mixologist nod in approval. The "Matchatini" – their signature marriage of matcha and martini, epitomizes this dual/multiple personality.
The space itself is a study in modern industrial-meets-cozy, with soaring ceilings, wooden architectural elements, and pendant lighting that grows more flattering as the sun sets. The refrigerated display case offers an extensive selection ranging from tiramisu to quinoa salads, though one wonders if perhaps a more focused menu might serve better than trying to be all things to all people.
The coffee program shows promise, with house-roasted beans and skilled baristas, but stumbles on details: that pre-sweetened matcha latte feels like a decision made for operational efficiency rather than customer preference. The wine and spirits selection, however, is thoughtfully curated, suggesting someone behind the scenes really knows their Burgundies from their Bordeaux.
Suggested improvements:
- Offer unsweetened matcha as the default, with sweetener optional
- Streamline the food menu to focus on what works best
- Consider separate day/night ambiance adjustments (lighting, music) to better distinguish the coffee shop from wine bar experience
- Add table service after 5 PM to match the evening concept
For now, Jaho remains an intriguing experiment in beverage fusion that's worth watching, particularly after dark, when the club-like atmosphere finally aligns with its ambitious concept. Just remember to specify "unsweetened" when ordering that matcha.