At Keswick Cottages, we’re always delighted to recommend fantastic, local places to eat — and Merienda remains one of our all‑time favourites.
Located in the heart of Keswick, this vibrant café‑restaurant blends cosy charm with exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a menu designed around high‑quality, local produce. Our bookkeeper, Louise, recently enjoyed a lunchtime visit, reminding us once again why Merienda is such a standout choice for guests looking to refuel after a morning exploring the Lakes.
Merienda is known for its beautifully prepared food, and Louise’s lunch experience certainly lived up to that reputation. She started with the Soup of the Day, served with crusty ciabatta and butter. Made in‑house and full of hearty, comforting flavour, it’s the perfect choice on a cool Keswick afternoon and a great example of the kitchen’s commitment to fresh, wholesome ingredients.
To share, Louise and her friend ordered the Grilled Cheese, Leek and Onion Sandwich — a favourite on the menu and for good reason. With rich, melted cheese, sweet sautéed leeks, and toasted bread that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s everything you want from a grilled cheese. Served with a vibrant house salad and slaw, it strikes the ideal balance between indulgent and satisfying.
Classic comfort food, elevated.
Of course, no lunch at Merienda would be complete without their excellent coffee. Louise enjoyed two lattes during her visit, which is a testament in itself— smooth, well‑crafted, and consistently top quality. Whether you’re stopping by for a caffeine boost or lingering over a long lunch, Merienda’s baristas always deliver.
Just as memorable as the food is the service. The team at Merienda are consistently friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. From guiding you through the day menu to checking in with a smile, the staff create the relaxed, uplifting atmosphere that keeps both locals and visitors returning again and again.
Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting soup, a gooey grilled cheese, a vibrant salad bowl, or one of their Middle Eastern‑inspired specials, Merienda’s menu offers something to suit every taste.
With vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, and dairy‑free options clearly marked — and dishes prepared fresh to order — it’s a superb choice for groups with varied preferences or dietary needs.
At Keswick Cottages, we want every part of your stay to be memorable — and that includes where you choose to eat.
Merienda delivers everything we look for in a lunch spot: freshly prepared food, vibrant flavours, fantastic coffee, and warm, caring service. Whether you’re heading out for a day on the fells, browsing the shops in Keswick, or simply treating yourself to a well‑earned break, we wholeheartedly recommend stopping by Merienda for lunch.
Louise loved her visit — and we’re confident you will too.
