Coffee Stop Spotlight: Java House
Most PBC cyclists crossing the I-5 bridge into Washington looking for a coffee break would probably find their way to Java House and its friendly owners Cora and Lonnie. From their cafe at the corner of West Evergreen Blvd and Columbia Street in downtown Vancouver, Washington, they have been serving coffee and pastries since 1990. They are quick to remember your regular order and get your coffee ready in a flash! They openly welcome cyclists to crowd the sidewalk in front and fill the seats inside. 
They are non-discriminatory between Portland Bicycling Club riders and Vancouver Bicycle Club riders who converge on their cafe every Thursday after riding out to Frenchman’s Bar. A regular tussle over outdoor or indoor seating resulted in a competition with VBC, who moved their start time to get to Java House first. LOL! ✎
More cafe seating is available inside during the rest of the year’s weather. At the serving counter, you have your choice of fresh pastries (happily heated upon request) and breakfast sandwiches. Your coffee and tea options are endless. On the wall at the end of the serving counter is the “Java House World Tour” map with push pins and pictures from around the world. Customers are encouraged to add their pins and photos (rocking their Java House T-shirts) on the world map. It’s amazing how many places their community of customers has traveled. 
The streetside walls afford clear views of the sidewalk through 
architecturally significant steel frames and glass. It’s easy to keep your eyes on your bicycle. Beyond the cafe is a central atrium-like area with lots of seating and restrooms. The inside area is like a mini mall of local retailers (e.g., florist, art galleries, phone repair, and the back of a commercial bakery). This is a must-see cyclist coffee stop! You never know who’s there sipping coffee and waiting for another cyclist to join them.
Richard Higgins, Member at Large