Coffee means something different to everyone.
For some, it’s the warm hug of a velvety latte.
For others, it’s the earthy comfort of a matcha latte, the frothy indulgence of a cappuccino, or the bold simplicity of an americano.

At Johns, coffee is more than just a drink — it’s a ritual, an experience, and a craft we take seriously. Whether you’re joining us at our cosy Appledore café or at our bustling beachside spot in Instow, we believe every cup should feel special.

In this blog, we explore the drinks themselves, the benefits of coffee in moderation, the craftsmanship behind every cup, and the many ways you can enjoy coffee with us — from peaceful al fresco moments to golden-sand strolls.

Lattes: Creamy Comfort in a Cup

There’s something universally soothing about a latte. Smooth, mellow, and endlessly customisable, it’s the drink many people turn to when they want a gentler coffee experience. The steamed milk softens the espresso’s intensity, making it the perfect starting point for those newer to coffee or for anyone craving a creamy morning ritual.

A latte offers a balance of flavour and comfort, and when made well, it brings out the natural sweetness of the coffee beans. That’s why, at Johns, we ensure every latte is crafted with beans roasted by Roastworks, they can be purchased in our stores plus online too Truth Beans . Their artisan expertise paired with our barista training ensures each cup is smooth, consistent, and delicious.

Matcha Lattes: Green, Grounded, and Nourishing

Though not technically coffee, the matcha latte has earned its rightful place on the menu. Made from finely ground green tea leaves, matcha is vibrant, earthy, and packed with antioxidants. It provides a calmer, more sustained energy compared to coffee, thanks to its natural blend of caffeine and L-theanine.

For those seeking a soothing yet uplifting drink, matcha lattes offer an ideal alternative — a cup that wakes you gently while bringing a moment of mindfulness to your day.

Cappuccinos: Frothy, Classy, and Timeless

The cappuccino is a testament to coffee craftsmanship. With equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, it’s all about texture and balance. A well-made cappuccino has a rich espresso punch beneath a cloud-like layer of creamy foam.

At Johns, our team members undergo barista training to master this balance. We take pride in not just serving coffee, but understanding it — the grind size, the extraction time, the milk steaming technique, and the little details that turn a cappuccino from “good” to “exceptional.”

Americanos: Bold, Bright, and Straight to the Point

For those who love the pure flavour of espresso without the intensity of a straight shot, the americano is a beautiful choice. Hot water elongates the espresso, allowing the depth of the beans to shine through while offering a more easy-going drink.

It’s a favourite among people who appreciate simplicity — and with beans as high-quality as those from Roastworks, simplicity becomes a strength. You can detect the subtle notes of the roast profile, the richness of the blend, and the character of the bean.

The Benefits of Coffee in Moderation

Coffee has gained a reputation as a pick-me-up, but research continues to show that in moderation, it can support overall wellbeing. Here are some science-backed benefits:

1. Cognitive Boost

Caffeine enhances alertness, focus, and reaction times, making it a great support for busy mornings or mid-afternoon slumps.

2. Antioxidant Rich

Coffee is one of the richest antioxidant sources in many people’s diets. These compounds help protect cells from oxidative stress.

3. Mood Support

Caffeine stimulates the release of dopamine — the “feel-good” neurotransmitter — which is why that first sip can be such a delight.

4. Metabolism Support

Moderate coffee intake can gently boost metabolic rate, assisting with energy expenditure throughout the day.

5. Heart Health (in moderation!)

Studies suggest that 1–3 cups of coffee per day may support cardiovascular health thanks to beneficial bioactive compounds.

As with everything, balance is key. Too much caffeine can cause jitteriness or affect sleep — but enjoyed thoughtfully, coffee can be both pleasurable and beneficial.

Coffee at Johns: A Craft We Take Seriously

We believe that great coffee is built on great foundations. That’s why our beans come from the skilled roasters at Roastworks in Cullompton. Their dedication to ethical sourcing, careful roasting, and flavour precision aligns perfectly with our own values.

But beans alone don’t make a great cup — people do.
Every member of the Johns team undergoes barista training because we don’t just serve coffee; we honour it. From dialling in espresso each morning to perfecting milk texture and understanding flavour notes, we put care into every step.

We want every cup — whether it’s your daily latte or a leisurely afternoon cappuccino — to be made with pride.

Enjoying Coffee at Our Appledore Café

Our café in Appledore is warm and cosy — the kind of place where you can settle in with a book, enjoy a catch-up with a friend, or simply savour a quiet moment. The village’s artistic charm, colourful houses, and gentle coastal atmosphere pair wonderfully with a cup of something delicious.

There’s something particularly special about stepping outside with your drink and wandering through the small, winding streets of Appledore. With independent shops to explore and the quay opening up to beautiful estuary views, it’s a coffee experience infused with local magic.

Add a latte or americano to that scene, and suddenly your walk becomes a little ritual — a moment to breathe, savour, and enjoy.

The Buzz and Beauty of Our Instow Café

If Appledore is calming and quaint, Instow brings energy and motion. Our Instow café is busier, livelier, and just a stone’s throw from the shoreline. There’s a joyful bustle in the air — walkers, families, cyclists, and beach-lovers all moving through the day with seaside ease.

A cappuccino here feels invigorating. An americano pairs beautifully with the salty breeze. A matcha latte becomes the refreshing companion to a sandy stroll.

With the golden sweep of Instow Beach stretching out beside you, your cup becomes part of a larger experience — one filled with sea air, open sky, and the gentle soundtrack of waves.

The Best Way to Enjoy Coffee? Al Fresco, of Course.

As lovely as our cafés are, North Devon has a way of inviting you outdoors. Coffee in hand, you can’t help but wander.

In Appledore, that means exploring the shops, admiring the boats along the quay, and maybe discovering a hidden side street you’ve never walked down before.

In Instow, it means strolling along the golden sands, letting the tide guide your pace, and enjoying the open horizon.

Coffee tastes different when you drink it outside — somehow warmer, richer, even more meaningful. Perhaps it’s the blend of simple pleasure and natural beauty. Perhaps it’s just the joy of slowing down.

Either way, we believe al fresco coffee is one of life’s underrated luxuries.

A Cup for Every Occasion

From creamy lattes to bold Americanos, from cosy corners in Appledore to lively beachside mornings in Instow, Johns offers coffee experiences for every mood.

Whether you’re a cappuccino loyalist or someone who can’t resist the matcha latte trend…
Whether you stay in, take out, or wander with the sea breeze…
Whether you prefer peaceful streets or sandy toes…

There’s a perfect cup waiting for you — and we can’t wait to make it.