A true local favourite in the heart of St John’s, Greens Café has been a cherished part of the Isle of Man’s food scene for over 30 years. Nestled beside the historic Tynwald Hill, Greens is known for its homemade meals, freshly baked treats, and top-quality coffee, served in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. Loved by locals and visitors alike, it’s a café with heart — and a menu full of comforting favourites.
Originally opened by the Kermode family, Greens built its reputation on traditional, home-style cooking made using time-honoured recipes. Since 2023, the café has been under the care of Woodbourne Kitchen, who’ve respectfully carried on the Greens legacy while adding fresh energy and keeping the much-loved classics alive.
Each day at Greens brings something new. The team puts out up to eight seasonal hot specials daily, which rotate based on local produce, the time of year, and customer favourites. These might include dishes like a hearty beef and ale stew, chicken leek pie, or a colourful Mediterranean vegetable bake — all hand-prepared in-house. The specials board is a must-check when you walk in.
Beyond the daily dishes, the core café menu offers something for everyone. You’ll find soup and sandwich combos, toasties, quiches, salads, and warming mains like lasagne, jacket potatoes, and fish pie. Many meals can be made gluten-free or vegetarian, and the staff are happy to help with dietary needs.
Greens is especially well known for its home baking — think Victoria sponge, carrot cake, tiffin, millionaire’s shortbread, and a tempting array of traybakes, all made on-site. Whether paired with one of their locally roasted coffees or a pot of loose-leaf tea, it’s easy to see why the café has such a loyal following.
Afternoon tea is another Greens tradition — served with style and packed with flavour. Perfect for birthdays, catch-ups, or just a well-earned treat, the tiered stands are filled with finger sandwiches, scones, cakes, and mini desserts. It’s a lovely way to indulge while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
The café space itself is cosy and relaxed, with views out to Tynwald Hill and nearby greenery. There’s indoor and outdoor seating, and it’s a favourite stop for walkers, cyclists, and families passing through.
With its focus on fresh ingredients, nostalgic recipes, and warm service, Greens Café continues to be one of the island’s most treasured cafés. Whether you’re a regular or stopping by for the first time, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to — again and again.
