There are numerous cafés to choose from in Berkhamsted, but I am drawn to this one. I’m hesitant in recommending it because I’d love to keep the secret to myself. ‘Joan’ is conveniently located between the railway station and the town centre – you might walk past if not for the distinctive yellow livery. The interior is not extensive, yet cool and comfortable. The coffee is excellent, served in the Italian style: not Anglicized for the masses – unadorned, not a hint of cocoa powder on your cappuccino. The hot and cold savoury food is delicious, and the pastries subtly sweet. But it goes beyond coffee and cakes. ‘Joan’ is an oasis in which to escape the braying Chelsea-tractor hordes which now infest Berkhamsted. Customers are welcomed as friends and treated as guests rather than merely sources of revenue. There is a pervasive calm - an unhurried culture of welcoming escape. The staff emit an intellectual vigour – they can read, and they are interested in what you are reading. ‘Joan’ is a welcome newcomer to Berkhamsted – it deserves great success.

Finally a decent coffee shop open early enough for run to the train station! Great coffee, great menu options, wonderful friendly owner/staff, love the calm atmosphere and plenty of seating!

Friendly staff (not always a given in coffee shops), very nice coffee, lovely looking pastries - although I didn't try any. And just as importantly for me, dog friendly! A very nice, independent addition to Berkhamsted.

Joan's is our favourite coffee shop in Berkhamsted. Great coffee, great staff who provide a great service, a small choice of fresh and delicious food offerings. We will keep returning!!!

This place is great! There are loads of good choices of coffee shops in Berkhamsted but this new addition - Joan - really stands out. The heart of the place is great coffee, and that should be enough to make you want to come back time and again. But once you are here you will stay for the sandwiches, baked goods, and friendly service. I tried the three cheese sandwich with jalapeños, and my partner tried the banana bread with (extra crunchy) peanut butter and jam. Both were really lovely.