Java Blue Cafe Review - Some people take their coffee very seriously, maybe a little too seriously; but hey, it makes for a committed barista and, um, seriously good coffee. Perhaps that’s why Java is packed every morning. Or maybe it’s the beautiful waitresses? No, that’s right, it’s the ever glamorous Jeanie, mother of the resident coffee nazi and all round style queen.

If you’re ever in Port during the wet you’ll notice that the main street is pretty slow. However, if you persist you’ll find your way to Java Blue and no doubt discover it crammed with locals doing brekky and ‘bush telegraphy’. (Some folks call this gossip, but we know better.) The reason they are there of course is that Java is the one of the best cafés in town, even when it isn’t raining.

Head barista and all round coffee nerd, Kim, sets the standard behind the machine. The fact that Java also do wickedly healthy juices and fabulously frothy shakes only adds to the caffeine buzz. What’s more, they care about vegetarians, meaning that vegos get choice for once.

Elsewhere, it’s classic café fare. Personally, it’s the great sandwiches that do it for me. Big and bursting and enough to keep you going for hours. Getting a choice of bread is a real bonus too, especially when it comes to the sourdough, which is a real luxury in the tropics. Sure, most people come to Port to escape the big city, but do you really need to get away from good city food?

It’s probably a good idea to check the daily specials board too because the kitchen crew are much loved by locals for their salad, muffin and ‘wrap’ wizardry, and their soups are just fabulous. Their chalk skills aren’t bad either.

The real joy of Java though is the people. Sure, it sounds corny, but in this case it’s true. Visitors can enjoy some quality eavesdropping opportunities anytime between about 8:00-10:30am, as the regulars gather to swap hangover cures, conspiracy theories and skin care tips. Then, if the goss goes flat, there’s always the proudly displayed Bill Clinton photo in the window to admire or the collection of celebrity signatures on the wall to check out.

Then again, if your daily coffee needs require ripping good Italian espresso then you need to chalk Java into your Port routine.

Java Blue Cafe - Port Douglas Australia