Generally speaking Original Joe's doesn't really offer anything different in its genre of restaurant, a mid to high end chain restaurant trying to be unique and different from the rest and in most cases failing. When travelling, a place like this is one I generally avoid. Why go some place I can visit back at home? One evening while visiting Calgary my wife and I found ourselves stopping in for a couple drinks and some appetizers. I did not have my hopes up but they were open and it seemed right at the moment. For various chain type restaurants reviews are always difficult, as these places try for some level of standardization while trying to feel unique. Do you review the restaurant as a chain or an individual place. I think there is sometimes room for both, but in this case I honestly felt this location (Stephen Ave) attempted to be different. A credit to management to really create a nice spot with quality drinks, a nice atmosphere and service. The food fits in with their average fair, not amazing but satisfying. Not horrible but you never know you may just crave that favourite dish of theirs from time to time.
The food and drinks were good, I encourage you to decide for yourself. The real treat from this location was indeed the atmosphere and service. It in no way felt like a chain restaurant and really felt like it belonged on Stephen Ave with the other great niche and unique restaurants. Take a visit and decide for yourself but I think you will be pleasantly surprised.