Though one might think the main drag of Jamaica Plain has enough culinary options to satisfy everyone, JP’s a big place. The southernmost tip, near the Forest Hills T station, for instance, had only one restaurant and a few pizza parlors to call its own — until recently. Java Jo’s moved into a space formerly filled by a lawyer’s office, and suddenly those on their way to or from the Orange Line have a place to pick up breakfast items like egg and cheese on a bagel ($2.79), or sandwiches like the imaginative grilled-chicken-and-walnut roll-up ($6.49). The egg-and-cheese bagel sandwich lives up to the standards of this former New Yorker, who’s accustomed to getting one of high quality on just about every block. The bagel stays crisp under the weight of the ingredients, the egg is neither runny nor rubbery, and there’s just enough cheese. The chicken-walnut roll-up likewise doesn’t disappoint. The walnuts, lettuce, and cucumbers offer a complementary crunch to the comforting softness of the chicken and feta cheese.

As the name implies, Java Jo’s also serves a variety of coffee and tea drinks. Best of all, this café isn’t just for those running to catch trains: it has 10 or so tables for two, and another 10 seats at a bar that faces out onto Washington Street — not exactly the most scenic view, but one that affords some good people-watching. Java Jo’s, which opened last month, is still experiencing "growing pains" — the counter help wasn’t sure what to put on the fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil sandwich special recently, and the kitchen was out of Italian dressing. But these minor kinks don’t detract from the fact that Java Jo’s is a welcome addition to this side of town.

Java Jo’s, located at 3710 Washington Street, in Jamaica Plain, is open Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; on Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and on Sunday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (617) 991-9300.