Java Jungle, Browns Bay

One of the weirdest things about the North Shore is that most of the town centres have been built with their backs to the beautiful beaches which give them their very character. Browns Bay has been rectifying that terrible town planning decision over the last few years by starting to open cafes that actually face the beach. One of the newest is Java Jungle, situated just across the road from the playground. With floor to ceiling glass, a good indoor-outdoor flow and outdoor seating they're definitely taking better advantage of the amazing view than some of their neighbors.

This is not merely a kid-friendly cafe but a cafe that has been quite obviously created with the coffee group target market firmly in mind. There is a sectioned off play area in one corner, a TV that was playing Bob The Builder (sigh) when we were there, an extensive kid's menu, mini scones and muffins and that pretty fancy marshmallow kebab Haeata is holding in one of those pictures. There's also three toilets and lots of space for over-sized pushchairs.

They didn't have loose leaf tea so I had the hot chocolate (I refuse to pay cafe prices for a tea bag and hot water), Mum had what she said was a really good flat white (and she's fussy about her coffee) and Haeata had two fluffies ($1 each). We had the mini cheese scones and the mini strawberry muffins and both were lovely and light.

So many stars aligned but my problem with the place was that it was a little too sterile and lacking in any kind of ambiance. It has more the feeling of an office cafeteria than a relaxing living room and seemed maybe just too carefully planned. A lot of parents clearly don't mind that as the place was packed while we were there and I counted at least 6 pushchairs at one stage.

I guess I just prefer a cafe that has simply been created as a good cafe and has then made thoughtful allowances for the smaller patrons; cafes like Jungle Patrol in Christchurch and One to One in Ponsonby. The last two cafes I would happily take a date to or meet kid-less friends at. Java Jungle, not so much.

Of course, I'm sure we'll be back. The view really is amazing and the food was delicious. Perhaps better in summer when you can sit outside and soak up the natural ambiance.