Situated close to the harbour wall, Cherry Trees is an unpretentious coffee house which is small in scale and often packed to the rafters, but one which offers a warm welcome and friendly, along with efficient service with every visit.
Cherry Trees was set up by young New Zealand born chef Cherry who had always dreamed of owning a little coffee house in England, having been inspired by her grandfather who ran a cafe for many years just across the harbour from where you will find Cherry Trees today. A tempting selection of daily changing home-baked cakes is the big draw here, although you are strongly advised to book ahead for the ever-popular afternoon tea (think finger sandwiches, scones and sweet treats) which is served on colourful retro crockery – unless you are prepared to hang around for a table.
Although the sugary snacks are undoubtedly the main reason for the unwavering popularity of Cherry Trees coffee house, there are plenty of other reasons to visit this light and airy café – notably light lunch options such as smoked haddock, salmon and pea cakes or seared calamari with tomato and caper salad. If you prefer more traditional lunchtime fare, there is also a large selection of baps, sandwiches, toasties and baguettes to choose from, with fillings ranging from bacon with brie and caramelised onion to Cajun style chicken.
Cherry Trees is also well known for its reasonable prices, while sweet and attentive service which really makes you feel at home ensures customers come back time and time again. If you don’t manage to secure a table, a kiosk at the front of the cafe offers a high-speed alternative for those who are happy to buy their food and enjoy it while drinking in the life-affirming views of the harbour across the road.