Java Junction — Restaurant in Santa Cruz

This convenient little coffeehouse is just a few steps from the sand at Twin Lakes State Beach on E. Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz.

They offer everything from coffee and baked goods to sandwiches and smoothies. There are 4-5 tables on the concrete patio facing the beach where you can sit and enjoy the view of the ocean, the Walton Lighthouse, maybe a sailboat or two, and an occasional volleyball game. Umbrellas are scarce (there were only two the last time I was there) so it’s tough to find a place to sit in the shade. There are a couple of indoor seats at the window if it’s really chilly outside or if you need WiFi access.

According to the chalkboard menu, Java Junction is a small batch coffee roaster and they roast their beans daily. From the barista, I learned that this is one of three locations in Santa Cruz and that they’re celebrating their 30th anniversary this year. I enjoy black coffee, especially on a foggy morning at the beach, and have always found their dark roast to be brewed perfectly. A light-medium roast is usually available too, and they occasionally have decaf as well. My wife likes strong black tea (Earl Grey, English Breakfast, etc.) which they brew by the cup from loose tea leaves. You can also choose from a large selection of herbal teas.

Baristas have always been friendly and efficient which makes for an enjoyable overall experience. It’s tough to rate a business based solely on their coffee and tea, so I’ll update my review when I try something else...

This is the twin lakes edition of the local java junction chain (three locations) which while having some small flaws, has one perfect location. This is literally next to the beach, so the ambiance and views could not be better. Bonus points awarded for superb outside seating. The menu is slightly more expansive then your typical coffee shop-they do a fair trade in custom deli style sandwiches, and the pastries come from the elite restaurant (the crow's nest) next door. The bad news is that the inside seating will seem cramped if there are four or more folks inside, and the overall quality can be inconsistent. Don't get me wrong-the baristas who have worked there a while-and they do have baristas who have been there for years can put out a divine cuppa or a supremo sammich, but the barista whose first job this is having worked two whole days may not put in so much effort. Times four for the occasional employee who could simply not care less, whom you'll get from time to time. So come for the beach awesomeness, and sometimes...

My daughter and I stopped by for a late breakfast on Sunday morning. I had a tradition latte which was okay and Alex had a lavender latte which she enjoyed. We went with the breakfast bagel with egg, cheese and ham which was not as good as it was in the past. I will come back again and try a different beverage the next time and probably go with the yogurt, granola and fruit. This is a nice place with nice people running it in a great location. Hopefully it was just an off day. That said, I will still come here before I go to a Starbucks! We always support...