Address: 595 Richmond St, London, ON N6A 3G2, Canada

Phone: +1 519 663 5665

Price Range: $$$$

Website: https://joekools.ca/

Joe Kool's

Joe Kool's in London, Ontario is a lively bar and grill that has been a staple in the community for over three decades. This Canadian pub is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite meet-up spot for locals and students alike. Whether you're reminiscing about old times or creating new memories, Joe Kool's has you covered with its spirited vibe and hearty food offerings.

The menu at Joe Kool's reads like a checklist of classic pub grub, executed in a way that sets it apart from other local bars. Highlights include their famous Nachos, which come in several varieties. Specifically, the Kitchen Sink Nachos are a crowd favorite, loaded with toppings like diced tomatoes, green onions, olives, jalapeños, and plenty of gooey cheese. Another standout is the Deep Fried Spring Rolls, crunchy on the outside and warmly savory on the inside.

Pizzas here are epic. The Kitchen Sink Pizza, boasting a plethora of meats, vegetables, and cheeses, is a delightful mess that you won’t want to miss. If you’ve got a lighter palate, the Santa Fe Salad is a refreshing option, packed full of ingredients that make you forget it's a salad. They also offer a Cilantro Lime Chicken Nachos, though reviews have been mixed regarding portion size and flavor consistency.

For mains, the Cajun Chicken Sandwich and the Clubhouse Sandwich earn solid marks. The Cajun Chicken Sandwich, with its spicy kick, is perfectly balanced by the fresh veggies and melty cheese. The Clubhouse is a hearty triple-decker that’s practically a meal and a half. Their Buffalo Chicken Wrap is straightforward but tasty, although some think it's a bit pricey without sides.

Joe Kool's doesn’t skimp on the drinks either. With over 20 big screen TVs, it is an optimal place to catch a game while enjoying a cold draft beer or one of their well-liked cocktails. Despite its reputation as a college town bar, the place has an enduring charm due to the friendly and experienced staff. However, note that Joe Kool's can get particularly crowded, especially on weekends and game days, so book ahead if you plan to visit during peak hours.

Reservations are encouraged to avoid the infamous wait times, especially during busy nights. Be aware that while the busy energy adds to the experience for many, it can be off-putting for those seeking a quieter, more intimate evening.

At the heart of its story is the owner, Mike Smith, whose long-standing presence at Joe Kool's contributes to its community spirit. Historically significant moments, like reunions with old friends and mentors, add a nostalgic value to the venue that's hard to replicate. This, combined with the solid bar food and variety of drinks, shapes Joe Kool's into much more than just another watering hole.