A new modern, fast-casual cafe is serving up Taiwanese cuisine in Highland Park. Located at 5100 York Blvd., Joy is the sister restaurant of the popular Pine & Crane in Silver Lake.
Order at the counter from the menu boards and then pick a seat in the bright, airy dining area, which features an exposed brick wall, minimalist decor and wicker pendant lights. There's banquette and counter seating, as well as four-top tables with saddle-seat stools.
Start off with the cold appetizers of the day, spicy shrimp wontons, sesame scallion bread or soup. Standout menu items include the minced pork with rice, dan dan noodles (a Sichuan-style street food) and the five-spice beef sandwich with pickled veggies, cilantro and peanuts.
For dessert, try the mochi, rice pudding or Taiwanese shaved ice. Several hot and cold teas are also available. (Check out the full menu here.)
With a 4.5-star rating out of 81 reviews on Yelp so far, Joy seems to be a welcome addition to the neighborhood.
Ane S., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on April 26, said, "Amazing. I'm blown away by the quality of food, the variety of dishes, the consistency of flavors and the friendly staff. The food ingredients are top-notch and fresh."
And Adam W. said, "If you're a fan of Pine & Crane you will love this place. Even if you aren't, and you like authentic regional Chinese food, you will love this place. I will come back for sure, as there are many vegan and plant-based options in the cold case, including lotus root mushroom and other dishes."
Head on over to check it out: Joy is open from noon–10 p.m. daily.
