Words cannot espresso how much we love coffee and October 1st is International Coffee Day 2022. A whole day dedicated to the rich black gold that runs through our veins to keep us warm as we delve into the autumn/winter season.
Many of us cannot start the day without a cup of coffee… I mean who can? Whether you are a full leaded drinker or a light decaf cuppa, the comforting, heady aromas of a freshly brewed coffee warm the soul. Here on the Isle of Wight we have a plethora of coffee shops to choose from and many are locally owned, independent ones too. We also have two… yes two businesses who brew their very own coffee beans. Island Roasted and The Island Tea & Coffee Co.
Showing appreciation of this glorious drink we are letting you know where you can pick up a cuppa on our beautiful Island home.
Island Roasted/Caffé Isola
Nestled in the County town of Newport the sunshine yellow building of Caffé Isola is like a beacon to coffee drinkers. Roasting freshly brewed coffee, the scent wafts through the doors calling you in. Whether you want to while away half an hour or so, catch up with friends on the comfy window seat sofas or get your morning coffee to go Caffé Isola is always a popular stop. Serving up the most delicious homemade cakes and of course biscote (made by Viviana – the shop’s owner, with her husband Dan.)
They also serve up breakfast and lunch and much of the menu is inspired by Viviana’s Sicilian roots. If you want to experience the taste of Island Roasted coffee at home they also sell bags of ground coffee and coffee beans in store and also at many local and farm shops across the Island.
Sails of Cowes
Even during the autumn/winter months, Cowes is still a wonderful place to explore. Gone is the hustle and bustle of Cowes Week and the return of taking time to explore the high street lined with a mix of national brands and independent boutiques. Once you’ve shopped til you drop, wander toward Sails of Cowes. A family owned coffee shop which is small in stature but great in its welcome. There are a few seats inside and again a few more on the street outside (which is great to soak up the autumn sunshine). If you want to carry on exploring, get yourself a takeaway and enjoy a good old sip ‘n’ see.
The Freshwater Coffee House
An award-winning coffee shop serving top quality coffee in the west wight. The Freshwater Coffee House takes their coffee (and tea) very seriously and they serve up Island Roasted and Suki Tea (so you’re guaranteed a cracking cuppa). When making coffee it’s not just a bit of boiling water or steamed milk and you’re done, there’s an art to getting the coffee to bloom to extract the best possible flavours.
Whether you’re after a steaming cup of Joe or an iced latte (with dairy or non-dairy options) you’re guaranteed quality! The food served is simple, uncomplicated but with flavours that pack a punch and it’s all inspired by their friends and their own travels.
French Franks
With four shops located in Ryde, Cowes (by the Red Jet Terminal) and two in Newport, Newport Town Centre and St Cross Business Park, you’re never far from a French Franks. Serving up Illy Coffee, your brew is going to be full of flavour and smooth as silk. If you want a hot coffee or one over ice, they have covered. Go all out and have a Coffee Fro Yo… you will not be disappointed!
The lunch menu is vast and even if ‘your’ sandwich isn’t on the board, talk to the team and if they have the ingredients they’ll make the sandwich or panini of your dreams. Save yourself some time and the busy queue and down the app, opt for click n’ collect so you can breeze in and out on your lunch break.
ComiCoffee
A coffee house experience with a twist. The mix of doughnuts, bubble waffles and a cup of caffeine will make you feel like a superhero in more ways than one. Serving up an Island favourite, Island Roasted, alongside a milkshake (a coffee one too if you like) it’s caffeinated heaven. Cool and quirky, they are also really into pop culture with a focus on superheroes. You can read comics while you’re there as well as indulge in some classic, original Batman (the TV series) playing on loop throughout the day. ​
Located in both Newport and Cowes, ComiCoffee is a great addition to the Island.
