Manila Joe’s

- 61-08 Myrtle Ave, Glendale, NY 11385

In the dynamic landscape of Queens, New York, finding a genuine neighborhood hub—a true 'third space' outside of work and home—is a cherished discovery. Manila Joe’s is precisely that kind of venue. Situated conveniently on Myrtle Avenue, this establishment transcends the traditional definition of a simple Cafe or Lounge. It is an active community cornerstone, an art gallery, a maker space, and a cozy retreat all rolled into one highly inviting location.

For New Yorkers in the Glendale and Ridgewood area, Manila Joe’s offers a refreshingly low-key, warm, and highly engaging atmosphere. By day, it functions as a relaxed cafe where the quality of the brew is paramount. Patrons rave about the coffee, with one local noting that their iced latte stands apart from other local cafes—high praise in a city fueled by caffeine. Beyond excellent coffee, the venue curates an appealing selection of Alcohol, transitioning seamlessly into a comfortable lounge as the day progresses.

What truly sets Manila Joe’s apart is its dedication to community and the arts. Described as an Art gallery and maker space/lounge, the walls are adorned with unique memorabilia and feature rotating exhibitions from both emerging and established artists. This commitment transforms a simple coffee run or evening drink into a cultural experience, fostering conversation and community engagement that feels authentically New York. It is a place where you can grab a world-class coffee, engage in a conversation with the staff and other guests, and genuinely feel like you've found a friendly, calm, and inspiring retreat in the middle of a bustling city.

Location and Accessibility

Manila Joe’s is centrally located on a key commercial artery, making it a highly accessible destination for residents across Glendale and neighboring Ridgewood, Queens. The location ensures easy access for both local foot traffic and those traveling from further afield in New York City.

The primary address is: 61-08 Myrtle Ave, Glendale, NY 11385, USA

This part of Myrtle Avenue is known for its local flavor and community focus. While specific transit information should always be verified by individual New Yorkers, the area benefits from being positioned near various bus routes and is within reach of Queens and Brooklyn subway lines, providing a convenient meeting point. Its neighborhood setting in Queens gives it a distinct local advantage, offering an authentic, calm alternative to the busier, more commercialized spots closer to Manhattan. The ability to access this spot easily makes it a preferred local rendezvous point for individuals and Groups alike.

Services Offered

Manila Joe’s provides a focused yet versatile range of services, built around creating a high-quality, comfortable experience for its patrons. The offerings are designed to cater to various times of the day and different social needs:

• Dine-in Experience: The primary service option, encouraging guests to settle in and enjoy the unique atmosphere and amenities of the lounge and cafe.
• Specialty Coffee: Highlighting top-tier brews, including lattes and other coffee drinks, which are considered exceptional by local patrons and a strong competitor in the local cafe scene.
• Curated Alcohol Selection: Offering a focused selection of Alcohol, allowing the venue to operate as a lounge and relaxed bar in the evenings.
• Arts and Culture Programming: Regularly hosting Art gallery exhibitions that rotate monthly, providing a continuous fresh visual experience for returning guests.
• Community Events and Workshops: The space is an active host for diverse events such as 'Wake & bake' sessions, 'Sunset Sesh' gatherings, 'Growing Club' workshops, live podcast tapings, and other community-driven activities and shows.
• Lounge and Social Seating: Providing a relaxed and comfortable environment that encourages conversation and social interaction, with specific mention of a large backyard area for outdoor enjoyment.
• Basic Amenities: Ensuring comfort with readily available Restroom facilities for all guests.

Features / Highlights

Manila Joe’s is memorable not just for its products, but for the distinctive culture and environment it has fostered. Key highlights make it a beloved destination in the Queens community:

• Authentic Community Atmosphere: The mood is noted as Casual and Cozy, fostering a friendly environment where staff and non-staff are described as "great." This genuine, calm energy is a refreshing find in the city.
• Exceptional Outdoor Space: A significant feature is the backyard, praised by customers as a "great place to hang out in the warmer months," offering a much-needed green retreat in urban Queens.
• The Third Space / Maker Lounge: The venue’s identity as an art gallery and maker space provides a cultural dimension beyond standard cafe fare. The rotating exhibitions and unique memorabilia on the walls offer constant visual stimulation and conversation starters.
• High-Quality Coffee Program: The focus on coffee excellence is a strong highlight, particularly the dedication to drinks like the iced latte, cementing its status as a serious contender in the specialty cafe market.
• Event Versatility: The space’s ability to host a wide range of events—from drag shows and live podcasts to Dungeons and Dragons sessions and gardening clubs—demonstrates its role as a flexible, dynamic center for community activity and diverse interests.
• Fast and Friendly Service: Despite the laid-back atmosphere, Fast service is specifically highlighted, ensuring that patrons looking for a quick coffee break or a rapid drink refill are promptly served by the "world class" owner and attentive staff.

Contact Information

While Manila Joe's operates primarily on a dine-in and community-engagement model, here is the necessary information for New Yorkers seeking directions or looking to learn more about the venue and its programming:

Address (Glendale/Ridgewood, Queens): 61-08 Myrtle Ave, Glendale, NY 11385, USA

Please note: No public phone number was provided. For inquiries, it is recommended that New Yorkers visit the establishment's website or social media channels for the latest information on events, exhibition schedules, and operating hours.

What is Worth Choosing

Manila Joe’s is an essential choice for any New Yorker, particularly those in Queens, who value a space that offers more than just commerce. It's worth choosing for the holistic experience—the combination of art, community, and quality beverages—that sets it apart from typical cafes or bars.

For Coffee Lovers: The highly-rated coffee is the initial draw. Choosing Manila Joe’s means you are opting for a superior caffeine experience, with lattes that local customers proudly rank above the competition. It’s a guaranteed high-quality morning or afternoon pick-me-up.

For Social Engagement and Comfort: The atmosphere is the second compelling reason. The Cozy interior, adorned with interesting memorabilia, immediately invites conversation and relaxation. Furthermore, the existence of a beautiful, warm backyard makes this venue a standout for those seeking a pleasant, low-key spot to relax with friends or a book during the warmer months, avoiding the chaos of the city streets.

For the Culturally Curious: Perhaps most importantly, Manila Joe’s functions as a legitimate Third Space and Art gallery. By choosing to visit, you are supporting a local cultural hub that constantly renews itself with new exhibitions and unique events, from creative workshops to live shows. It is a place to connect with the authentic, artistic spirit of the Queens community, making every visit a discovery. In short, it is the perfect spot for the Native New Yorker—or anyone aspiring to that genuine local experience—who wants a friendly, calm, and intellectually stimulating environment alongside their excellent cup of coffee or evening drink.

Manila Joe’s

61-08 Myrtle Ave, Glendale, NY 11385, USA