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Guests talking over coffee at long tables under the Java Nation sign on the brick wall in Kensington

Our StoryAbout Us

More than a café

A vibrant social space where neighbors gather to enjoy exceptional coffee, globally influenced food and warm hospitality.

Read our story

Our HistoryA quality coffee shop in Kensington

Whether you are looking for a quick morning coffee, a lunch with colleagues or a lively evening with family & friends, Java Nation has something for everyone. Since opening the doors of our first location in 2012, we have dedicated ourselves to building spaces that are comfortable and inviting and that reflect the rich diversity of our community's cultures.

In 2012, Java Nation's founder, Henry Cabana, realized the need to create a quality coffee shop in Kensington. Together with his wife, Simona, the two envisioned creating a space where the traditional European charm of coffee would be paired with the rich coffee culture of South America.

In 2014, this vision came to life in our first location on Connecticut Avenue, laying the foundation for what Java Nation is today.

How we grew
A cup of coffee on a wooden table in front of the Java Nation sign
Where neighbors gather

Our PhilosophyFood & coffee, together

At Java Nation we believe in the ability of food and coffee to bring people together. Our menu reflects the diversity of cultures and traditions that surround us, offering both classic cuisine and original culinary creations.

  • Freshly Roasted Coffee

    Sourced worldwide and roasted in-house to ensure the highest quality in every cup we serve.

  • Highlighting Local

    Using the freshest ingredients our region has to offer and working with local vendors and local artists.

  • Inclusive Space

    Everyone is welcome. Whether to get some work done on your laptop, enjoy Happy Hour with friends, or a quiet family dinner.

Coffee Roastery, where our coffee is roasted
Friends sharing plates of pasta, steak, salads and drinks around one table at Java Nation
globally influenced food & warm hospitality

Our GrowthOver the years

Java Nation has expanded to serve more and more communities.

  1. 2012: Java Nation Established

    Java Nation established as company and the Cabanas began to create vision for its first location.

  2. 2014: Kensington

    Our first café opens in Kensington in April, offering the neighborhood a specialty coffee experience and freshly made food.

    Visit Kensington

  3. 2018: Roastery

    We begin roasting specialty green coffee in Kensington, moving to a larger facility in Urbana years later to meet the growing demand.

    Coffee Roastery

  4. 2020: North Bethesda

    A new cafe opens offering a full range of dishes and a bar menu, becoming a local favorite for casual gatherings and live music nights on our outdoor patio.

    Visit North Bethesda

  5. 2022: Kentlands, Gaithersburg

    The third location of Java Nation opens, serving all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner with Happy Hour and cocktails.

    Visit Kentlands

  6. 2024: Silver Spring

    Our first dual concept opens with Java Market for grab-and-go options, and Restobar for a full table service experience.

    Visit Silver Spring

Join UsYour home away from home

Whether you're stopping by for your morning coffee, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or attending one of our live events, we invite you to be part of our story and experience the warmth, flavor, and community that define us.

Visit usLive Events
  • Kensington
  • North Bethesda
  • Kentlands
  • Silver Spring