Tiki Java Jax- Jacksonville’s Newest Coffee Shop

Tiki Java Jax officially opened its doors on Sunday, January 21. I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening. I brought my husband along so we could share items and try as many as possible, because there is no way I could have more than two coffees and one pastry.

First Impressions

Upon entering Tiki Java Jax, you feel like you are at the beach, yet in a cozy living room. I came on a very cold day, so it was a nice little escape from the freezing weather and made me feel like I was at a beach bar in the summer.

The staff was extremely friendly and clearly excited about the grand opening. I asked for pastry suggestions, and the barista excitedly told me her favorites, but also said there are no wrong options, because everything on the menu is delicious.

In total, this place offers coffee, non caffeinated drinks, alcoholic drinks, sweet pastries, and savory pastries.

Coffee Review

Cafe Cubano (back left), Coconut Cream Latte (back right), Island Spice Latte (front)

The menu is categorized between espressos and lattes. Between my husband and I, we tried five coffees. We tried the following:

• Cafe Cubano

• Island Spice Latte

• Mango Tango Latte

• Coconut Cream Latte

• Cafe Bombon

My absolute favorite was the Island Spice Latte. The coffee flavor was strong and had almond milk (no other syrups or sweeteners to my knowledge). Spices were sprinkled on top, and some of them had heat. I love spicy food and never imagined mixing this flavor with coffee, but it was so good! It was enough of a kick to give the coffee extra flavor without being overpowering.

The Cafe Cubano was also very coffee forward with a bold flavor. This is served in an espresso cup and great for getting your caffeine dose in a pinch.

The Cafe Bombon was the most aesthetically pleasing drink. It came in an adorable glass and consists of espresso layered with sweetened condensed milk. As you drink it, the espresso mixes with the milk, giving the perfect ratio for bitter and sweet.

Both the Coconut Dream and Mango Tango coffees were on the sweeter side. The Coconut Dream was full of coconut flavor, which I loved. I’ve had coconut lattes at other coffee shops, but the coconut always tasted like an afterthought. Tiki Java Jax hands down has the best Coconut Latte I’ve ever had.

The Mango Tango also had a strong, fruity flavor. This was my least favorite drink, because there was a lot of syrup in it, making it very sweet. Regardless, I highly recommend this drink for those who like sweet coffees. I prefer my coffee to taste bitter; I usually either drink it black or with almond milk and no sweetener. So please do not let my opinion stop you from ordering this drink. I do think it is a very flavorful coffee it is just not in line with my preferences.

Pasteries

Paris Brest Pistachio (top) and Pastelito de Carne (bottom)

We decided to try a sweet and savory pastry (for science, of course). Per the barista’s recommendation, we ordered the Pastelito de Carne (meat pie) and Paris Brest Pistachio.

The meat pie was very flavorful, and I loved the texture (flaky pastry puff).

I did not even look at the other dessert options before ordering the Paris Brest Pistachio, as pistachio is one of my favorite flavors. This pastry is quite large and perfect for sharing. The pastry part of this dessert also has a light, crispy texture. The pistachio filling is very fluffy and creamy. I highly recommend giving both of these menu items a try.

The staff asked my husband and I if we wanted cheesecake samples, and we unfortunately had to turn the offer down, because we would have exploded if we tried anything else.

We left completely stuffed and quite energetic from the caffeine. I’m so glad I had the chance to give this place a try and cannot wait to return and try more menu items! I highly recommend stopping by and giving Tiki Java Jax a try.

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