Windermere
This is a fairly new place, as far as cafes go in Windermere (making a clear distinction from Bowness-on-Windermere here). I remember when I discovered it the first time a few years back, tucked away from the main points of interest: the bank, the post-office, Co-op…; hiding on the side of a one-way road leading out of the village. That time I got a mocha although it didn’t appear on the menu and I felt I under-paid for it, as it was even cheaper than a cappucino. Maybe that’s why I remembered it positively.
This time there was no question about getting the right drink, as the Mochaccino figured plainly on the menu, alongside many other drinks and also hot food offers; there was also an ample selection of cakes, all portioned generously. Generous was also staffing, as the six or seven tables in this tiny place were being attended by four waiters and waitresses – all cramped in a small kitchen at the back of the open-plan venue, chatting away cheerfully. Despite that, there was a head-waitress (maybe the owner?) who greeted all the new customers loudly and warmly, inviting them to take a seat and take their time.
I was encouraged by their use of Farrer’s coffee (quite common in this part of the Lakes it turns out) and was quite pleased by the look of the mocha that was served to my table. It looked just the part: lovely, thick texture with the perfect, smooth foam on top, finished with some chocolate shavings. It would have been brilliant, if not for the temperature – it was just too hot; and maybe a little bit too sweet, but that might be due to my recent cut down on sugar intake.
All in all, it is a pleasant little cafe, decently priced and with some very attentive yet natural staff. Good for a weekday lunch break, I guess – although not the best destination if you’re in need of a bit of privacy… unless you’re lucky enough to get a sunny day to sip your coffee outside.
Mocha: £2.60
Verdict justification: A really enjoyable cup of coffee. Just cool it down a little!
A Black Spot 