Here at The Library, we are always looking for places on the Isle of Man that are great for people to meet, sup and break bread. 

In our “The Library Reviews” series, we give an informed and positive account of our experience at some of the Isle of Man’s best places to eat, drink and socialise.

We like to keep things kind and simple, so if we don’t like it, we won’t write about it.

This week, The Library Reviews… The Windsor Coffee Co.

Found about a third of the way along the promenade in Douglas, and residing in what used to be a cavernous waiting room for the ever popular Paparazzi below, the Windsor Coffee Co goes about its business in a calm, polite and efficient manner. 

The feel inside is almost European, as though you have stepped out of the breezy, seaweed-infused air of the Irish Sea and slipped into the muted Baroque style of an unassuming cafe in Vienna or Hamburg. Think high ceilings, dark wood and plush seats. The wonderfully patterned take-out cups are also a great touch, showing an attention to detail that whispers to you that you are in good hands.

The cosmopolitan atmosphere is enhanced by some great coffee, signature pastries (baked goods that you will be hard-pushed to find anywhere else on the Isle of Man such as Cannoli and Lobster Tails), and the 10pm closing time. 

Indeed, it is the liberal opening hours that help to make the Windsor Coffee Co a great place to meet up with a (potential) friend, allowing you to make evening plans that do not have the pressure or expense of a 3 course meal or a night of cocktails. On top of that, the spacious surroundings and decent acoustics mean that you can enjoy some privacy and chat without getting drowned out by annoyingly intrusive music. However, if a little bit of peace and reflection is what you are after, then the elegantly expansive windows provide a comforting viewpoint from which to watch the waves caressing or pummeling the Manx coastline.