Jamaica Blue opens first NI cafe at Forestside

Jamaica Blue has opened its first cafe in Ireland at Belfast’s Forestside shopping centre.

The chain, which boasts more than 170 stores, takes its name from the Blue Mountains of Jamaica from where it sources the beans for their famous Blue Mountain and award-winning Jamaica Blue signature blends.

As well as the Forestside store, the company has plans to open five more cafes in Northern Ireland in the coming year, with expansion to the Republic in 2023.

The Belfast venue, which cost £350,000 to fit out, will employ up to 15 people.

Josh Nixon, head of estates for Jamaica Blue UK (www.jamaicablue.co.uk), said: “Our foundations are built on two simple beliefs that guide us in everything that we do – firstly, a belief in sourcing the very best coffee, and secondly, only using fresh, premium ingredients to deliver contemporary café dishes with a fresh edge.

“We’re thrilled to be opening at Forestside and excited to share our high-quality coffee and delicious menu with foodies and shoppers visiting the centre.”

Darren Best, director at Savills, who represented Forestside on the transaction, said: “We’re excited to welcome Jamaica Blue to their first opening in Northern Ireland. We’re confident it will be a popular choice for diners.”