Penelope’s Cafe in Manningtree – Cozy Spot for Coffee & Chats

Inside Penelope’s

Penelope’s is a cozy cafe nestled in the heart of Manningtree, offering a welcoming spot for locals and visitors looking to pause for a comforting bite or a well-made coffee. The atmosphere strikes a balance between homely and fresh, with a friendly vibe that feels like catching up with familiar faces rather than just a quick stop in town.

This cafe works well for a range of casual occasions—from a light lunch to a laid-back afternoon tea. The menu leans into familiar, well-executed classics that prioritize local ingredients and seasonal touches. You can expect freshly baked scones served warm with jam and clotted cream, perfectly cooked eggs with smashed avocado on hearty, locally baked bread, or a bowl of carrot and ginger soup accompanied by sourdough that’s just the right side of crusty.

The offering of cakes, flapjacks, and other homemade baked goods adds another layer of appeal, especially paired with a good coffee or one of their more distinctive drinks like the chai-spiced hot chocolate, which clearly finds fans among those who pass through.

Penelope and Jamie, who run the place, create a relaxed and personal welcome that makes a difference to how you experience your visit. Whether you’re dropping by for a morning caffeine fix, a casual brunch, or a friendly afternoon tea spread, this cafe feels like an easygoing local spot to unwind.

Best time to visit: Mornings and early afternoons, when the cafe buzzes quietly with regulars and visitors enjoying fresh, light meals.
Who will enjoy it: Anyone appreciative of simple, well-made food in a calm yet inviting environment—from locals grabbing a quick bite to travelers seeking a genuine community feel.
Atmosphere: Warm and welcoming, shaped by attentive staff and a genuine sense of connection, making it a comfortable place to relax or catch up with friends.

Highlights & Local Essentials

Highlights

Great coffee

Great dessert

Great tea selection

Popular for

Breakfast

Lunch

Solo dining

What they serve

Coffee

Quick bite

Small plates

Vegan options

Vegetarian options

Best for

Breakfast

Brunch

Lunch

Dessert

Seating

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Wheelchair-accessible seating

Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

09:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Tuesday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

08:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

What Locals & Travelers Say

28 Reviews

Sandra Orford

31 Dec 2025

We stopped here for a light lunch.The staff were very welcoming and helpful- personally I think this is very important! I had fruit scone with jam and clotted cream- scone was very light and served warm.My husband had carrot and ginger soup which was delicious- served with warm sourdough bread. Will definitely go again if we're in the area

Flic Wright

05 Dec 2025

Delicious food and drinks at Penelope’s. Very friendly and welcoming staff, including Penelope herself! I had smashed avocado with poached eggs, perfectly cooked runny eggs and very fresh, local bread! Will definitely be visiting again!

Jack Wright

23 Nov 2025

Lovely new cafe in Manningtree, run by Penelope and Jamie. Very welcoming couple. Excellent sausage and egg bap, with great coffee! A good selection of homemade cake, flapjack and scones. Looking forward to returning to try the dish of month- sausage plait!!

Francesca Comer

18 Nov 2025

We had a lovely afternoon tea at Penelope's cafe. A generous selection of sandwiches, sausage roll and cakes. All very tasty and beautifully presented. Lovely atmosphere and wonderful friendly service. Many thanks

Melanie Moss-Burton

11 Nov 2025

The most delicious dark chai spiced hot chocolate I have ever tasted. Wow!! Thank you penelope.

Jane Arthurs

04 Nov 2025

Had a lovely lunch Penelope’s cafe Delicious warm cheese scones with lashings of butter and chutney. Followed by a slice of yummy Blackberry and Cherry sponge cake Laurie had a bowl of scone pudding with enough custard to swim in. I would definitely recommend Penelope’s as a go to for breakfast lunch and Afternoon Tea x

Caitlin Wheatley

18 Sep 2025

Absolutely delicious lunch at Penelope’s. I had the hot smoked salmon with avocado and cucumber ribbons, and my partner had the prawn sandwich. Very friendly, welcoming service and exceptional food (presentation included). It’s clear that everything including the sourcing of the food (local bread and the prawns/salmon etc has been thoroughly considered to ensure the high quality). Will certainly be returning!

Rachael Moss

17 Sep 2025

I would like to do a shout out for Penelope’s cafe ! We had the most amazing afternoon tea today for my sister’s belated birthday. I would highly recommend; the food was all delicious and all baked by Penelope herself. If you haven’t been yet then I would encourage you to frequent this lovely addition to our little town

Penelope’s

Inside Penelope’s

Highlights & Local Essentials

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

What Locals & Travelers Say

28 Reviews

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