Rock n' Joe's Cofeehouse and Bistro, SODO, Orlando, FL

Located in a multiplex for retail shops, offices, and residential apartments and lofts, called Sodo right outside of Downtown Orlando, there's a cafe called Rock n' Joe's Coffeehouse and Bistro. I felt like I was not in Orlando anymore, but somewhere that reminds me of Seattle Metro.

I found the ambience rather soothing with their collection of rock music playing in the background. Dark wooded furniture and shelving decorates the place with a living room styled seating area sporting a vintage styled love seat and matching chair. It feels homey. The walls are donned with framed vinyl disks from various rock groups and some are actually for sale at an inexpensive price as collectibles. It’s quite contemporary actually.

They also have weekly events such as Open Mic Nites and Guitar Hero Tourneys, along with classic board games to play with friends. It's also the perfect place to relax, bury your head in a text book or two, surf the net since they have free Wi-Fi, or chit chat among friends. The staff is friendly with their own flair of what rock style fashion looks like.

Although their menu is quite limited, they have a little something for everyone and their pocket books too. Drinks for almost every kind of taste bud, from espresso to brew to ordered tea to their spin on smoothies and frozen coffee. They also serve beer and wine, as well as decadent pastries. Breakfast all day, sandwiches that are quite delicious, and many other delicious items to be choose from. Best of all, if you're vegetarian or vegan, they can whip something up for you too.

The place certainly has their own flavor to them despite it being a franchised company, which I wouldn't have guessed in a million years. I bet, if anything, should this Northeastern based franchised cafe be opened in Seattle, WA, it would certainly give Starbucks a possible run for its money. The place is unique with its laid back atmosphere and I know I will be back since I found my little hang out spot just as unique as myself. They’re also open late too.

Feel free to visit their website: www.rocknjoe.net