Partner profile: Laxey Woollen Mills
The island’s vibrant hospitality sector took centre stage at the 2025 Manx Menu Awards, with VIBE Plant Based Café named as the Overall Winner in a celebration of culinary creativity, sustainability, and local pride.
Organised by Business Isle of Man and Visit Isle of Man, the 2025 Manx Menu competition received over 100 entries from 57 businesses, and nearly 2,000 public votes helped determine the finalists, with winners chosen by an independent judging panel.
Held on 30th April at Woodbourne House and sponsored by Tesco, the awards evening celebrated local chefs, mixologists, front of house staff, and producers. Guests were treated to a bespoke menu designed and served by Catering, Hospitality & Food Services students from University College Isle of Man - a fitting tribute to the future of the industry.
VIBE Plant Based Café made a remarkable impression, collecting not only the Overall Award, but also accolades for Customer Service and Innovation. The Sustainability Award was deservedly won by Kiki Lounge, whose commitment to low-impact mixology continues to set a high bar.
Biosphere Isle of Man proudly judged the Sustainability and Innovation categories, and were honoured to present the awards at the ceremony. Celebrating businesses that embrace local ingredients and responsible practices aligns strongly with the values of a Biosphere community, where balancing the needs of people and the rest of nature with economy is essential.
Kiki Lounge, VIBE and other winning businesses, such as Biosphere Partners Kerroo Brewing Company, exemplify how local sourcing and innovation can thrive hand-in-hand. The Manx Menu reinforces the importance of supporting home-grown talent and promoting food provenance - not only to safeguard the environment, but to enrich community identity and resilience.
With a shared prize fund of nearly £10,000 and ongoing marketing support, the winners of The Manx Menu 2025 are poised to inspire others and further showcase their products and offerings.
Be sure to go and try / taste some of the Award-winning products and establishments!
Posted up on 19th May 2025
