Java Independent Coffee House

4.8 ( 403 reviews )
Checking... 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM See Hours
£10–20
Tilly Mead, Unit 3 Commercial Rd, Swanage BH19 1DF, United Kingdom
Java Independent Coffee House, tucked away in Swanage on Commercial Road, is a quaint gem celebrated by locals and visitors alike. This coffee shop stands out with its cozy ambiance and eclectic decor, creating a welcoming environment for all. The extensive drinks menu features everything from classic Americanos (£3.00) to refreshing lemon grass and ginger tea (£2.00), alongside delightful homemade treats. Customer reviews universally praise the outstanding quality of coffee and the exceptional cakes, often homemade and noted for their vegan and gluten-free options. Stella Goddard fondly recalls the satisfying brunch—filled with hearty choices like avocado toast and charmingly presented salads—making it a perfect start to a day of exploration. Mark Morris highlights the “buzzing” atmosphere, while Ben Jefferson appreciates the generosity of the portions and the creativity behind every dish, particularly the thoughtful salads. The welcoming staff and warm service play a significant role in enhancing the experience, further solidifying Java as a beloved establishment in Swanage. Whether it’s stopping for a quick coffee or indulging in a leisurely brunch, Java Independent Coffee House is sure to provide not just a meal, but a delightful experience to remember.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • No wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • On-site services available
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Serves great coffee
    • Serves great dessert
    • Has great tea selection
  • Popular for
    • Popular for breakfast
    • Popular for lunch
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves healthy options
    • Quick bite
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves vegan dishes
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
  • Dining options
    • Serves breakfast
    • Serves brunch
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Popular with tourists
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed

Reviews For Java Independent Coffee House

Stella Goddard
May 27,2025
Whilst visiting the area we had the opportunity to pay a visit to this little gem of a place, and enjoyed it so much we went twice. Great to see plenty of vegan options. Breakfast was tasty & filling, and set us up for a day out, then lunch a couple of days later was excellent. We both opted for the croustade and salad, all of which was delicious and fresh. Excellent coffee too.
Mark Morris
May 21,2025
Recently discovered Java which was recommended to me. It’s fantastic, just off the main high street if you don’t know Swanage it can be difficult to find ( it was for me originally) the place has a real buzz out it and gets very busy The cakes are the best around ( I’ve only tried the cakes) they are just way better than the mass brought offer in most coffee shops I believe most are vegan and GF not something that bothers me, but is a big plus for many. Service is always warm and friendly. Coffee is excellent served in an array of decorative China! Without doubt the best in Swanage by far
Ben Jefferson
May 6,2025
Friendly staff and lovely food. My coffee was also great. Have already returned already and suspect we will go again before our Dorset holiday is over. The portion size is good which helps if you've done a morning walking. I was particularly impressed by the salad that came with each dish - it wasn't just a few leaves added as an afterthought, but really complemented the plate. Hopefully my photos do it justice. Just updating my review on my return this year to Swanage. Java is still the best cafe in Swanage and possibly the best I've been in anywhere. Food is great, fresh and creative. Staff still super friendly.
Slim Jim
May 6,2025
We walked past this place, taking a shortcut back to our car, just as it was closing, one Friday evening, and thought it looked worth a visit, so we called in the following morning, before leaving Swanage for home. It's decorated in a really nice, quirky style, and the coffee and cakes are next level. On a recommendation from the girl behind the counter, we shared a sweet potato, rhubarb and almond cake with a creamy topping. It looked good, but we expected it to be a bit full on, with sweet butter cream icing on top. It was better than that. The creamy topping was more like mascarpone - perfect with the rhubarb, and with a couple of fresh, juicy blackberries pressed into it that were a lovely finishing touch. We'll definitely be back!
Paul Harhen
Apr 18,2025
I was there for breakfast on a Saturday morning. It had a separate vegan breakfast menu which was great. I chose the grilled mushrooms, tomatoes, spicy beans and avocado on toast. It was delicious. I also had two flat white coffees and a slice of chocolate cake with orange peel. The place itself was beginning to get busy. The staff were very pleasant too. Nice ambience. A bit difficult to find. A little expensive but worth it.
Kate Bryan
Mar 19,2025
Such a lovely place! Really friendly staff. Cute decor inside and a great seating area outside - dogs are allowed in both. The coffee is a delicious, I think it might just be the best in Swanage (and comes in lovely crockery). Ordered a vegan sausage roll with chutney that was out of this world. Will definitely be coming back here.
Rob T
Mar 19,2025
A great tucked away cafe in a lovely courtyard setting. Lots of healthy homemade vegetarian and vegan options, good sized portions and friendly attentive staff. I had the delicious vegan chilli which came with rice, nachos and guacamole. We'll return to try the cakes another time!
Alex Cruickshank
Mar 3,2025
A ‘hidden gem’ in Swanage. Tucked away in a back street but worth seeking out. A vibrant and interesting interior, friendly staff and really tasty food. We had their biggest breakfast of sourdough toast, spicy beans with tomato sauce, mushrooms, avocado and grilled tomatoes. With a nice coffee and pot of tea. Lovely!

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