Up a flight of stairs in the middle of Douglas is Java Lounge, a popular coffee shop.
There is no Starbucks or Caffe Nero on the Isle of Man, presumably for lack of demand amongst the 80,000 or so inhabitants. It’s left to the indie coffee shops such as Spill the Beans and Java Lounge to provide the locals’ caffeine (oh, and a Costa, apparently).
There are plenty of shiny red sofas and a few cosy corners, making for a comfy spot to slouch with friends or attempt a crossword. It’s light and airy and benefits from being slightly hidden (it’s up a flight of stairs and easy to miss).
The window seats are handy for watching Douglas shoppers amble about their business. Books and art add a splash of colour.
All the usual drinks options are available, plus light bites. I didn’t especially enjoy my coffee (from the familiar name of Illy).
It’s not particularly full of charm and cheerfulness, but it’s a nice place. An alternative is the excellent Spill The Beans.
[...] more, little Douglas scarcely deserves three entries. One of the others, Java Lounge, Alan used to own, if my memory [...]