Thirty years ago, Port City Java started as a small coffeehouse in Wilmington, NC, with a mission to serve great coffee and create welcoming spaces for the community.
Since then, we’ve grown to over 25 locations, built a strong team, and, most importantly, cultivated lasting relationships with our guests.
As part of our 30th-anniversary celebration, we chatted with three dedicated team members—Tom O’Brien, Samantha Stroupe, and Amber Bathon—who collectively have over 30 years of experience with PCJ. They shared their favorite memories, menu picks, and even some creative new drink ideas!
Meet the Team
Tom O’Brien, District Manager – Tom has been with PCJ for three years and loves how the company fosters a sense of community.
Samantha Stroupe, Director of Training – A 15-year veteran, Samantha is passionate about mentoring new team members and, fun fact, even met her husband at PCJ!
Amber Bathon, Operations and Training Specialist – With almost 15 years at PCJ, Amber has built strong friendships and helped shape the training programs that make our cafes run smoothly.
What Has Your Favorite Drink Been Over the Years?
One of the best parts of working at PCJ? Easy access to amazing coffee and smoothies! Our team has tried them all, and here are their all-time favorites:
Tom: “My favorite drink is the Green Wave Smoothie . I love a good well-balanced smoothie to start the day or cool down mid-day!”
Samantha: “I have a go-to everyday drink and a favorite sweet treat. My daily staple is a
24oz iced redeye with cream
, sometimes with coconut syrup for a little razzle dazzle. For a treat, it’s the
White Chocolate Mochaccino
—yes, with whipped cream. She bussin.”
Amber: “My everyday staple is an
iced red eye
with honey, cinnamon powder, and oat milk. But sometimes, I treat myself to a
hot Mochaccino
with oat milk and an extra shot (of course).”
Favorite Menu Items, Past and Present
Great coffee deserves great food! Our team members shared their most-loved menu items:
Tom: “The Mediterranean Chicken Breakfast Wrap—it was a great wrap meant for breakfast, but honestly, I loved having it for lunch too!”
Samantha: “Anything on the Jalapeño Cheddar Bagel . Put some sausage, egg, and pepper jack on it, or just have it toasted with cream cheese—it doesn’t matter. It’s always good.”
Amber: “The
Jalapeño Cheddar Bagel
is a favorite of mine too! But I also love the
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pretze
l—it’s a newer addition to the menu and a great savory option.”
Most Cherished PCJ Memories
Port City Java isn’t just a place to grab a cup of coffee—it’s where friendships are formed, careers are built, and memories are made.
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Tom: “One of my favorite memories will always be the Living the Mission Awards. It’s a great time to have fun and celebrate our amazing team outside of the café!”
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Samantha: “The day I met my husband. It was my first day in management training, and he was a barista at the café. I knew he was special when he walked in for his 7 a.m. shift and every guest and employee lit up seeing him. And the first thing he said? ‘Ughhhhhhhhh!’”
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Amber: “Through PCJ, I’ve met some of my closest friends—and my husband! The people I’ve worked with and the relationships I’ve built over the years are what make PCJ so special.”
Bringing Back Old Favorites
While we love trying new flavors, some discontinued items hold a special place in our hearts. Here’s what our team would bring back:
Tom: “The Red Velvet Muffin. People loved them, and they were a hit!”
Samantha: “The Coconut Pecan Cookie from 2014. I know coconut is a polarizing flavor, but that cookie could have convinced even the biggest anti-coconut skeptic.”
Amber: “I have to agree with Samantha—the Coconut Pecan Cookie was amazing! My best friend Caroline and I shared one every time we worked together at Barclay Commons.”
Dreaming Up New PCJ Menu Items
If they could design a brand-new item for Port City Java, here’s what they’d add to the menu:
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Tom: “Frozen Lemonades in different flavors! Perfect for a hot summer day.”
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Samantha: “Extra espresso shots with fun flavors. Think honey, chocolate, and cinnamon powder stirred into a shot of espresso with a little oat milk foam on top. Or a con panna with caramel sauce—yes, please!”
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Amber: “A Shaken Espresso or Cold Brew option! Simple, satisfying, and delicious.”
Here’s to 30 More Years!
As we celebrate 30 years of Port City Java , we’re reminded that it’s the people—our incredible team and loyal guests—who make this journey so special.
Whether you’ve been sipping our coffee since day one or just recently discovered us, we’re grateful for you! Here’s to many more years of great coffee, delicious food, and lasting memories.
Do you have a favorite PCJ memory? Share it with us on social media or stop by your local café to celebrate with us!