Top Cafes in Smithy bridge, Greater manchester

Although Rhode Island Coffee is currently rated as one of the best places for coffee in Oldham, that isn't saying much as your options are fairly limited - especially if you're trying to avoid Costa.

We were in Oldham and looking for coffee and a bit to eat at 8am and places we might otherwise have chosen don't open till 10am so Rhode Island Coffee severed a purpose of being warm and dry.

My husband had an Americano which he said was average, the hot chocolate is nothing to write home about and the toasted tea cake was fairly disappointing in all honesty.

Rhode Island Coffee is essentially fine but nothing to write home about and definitely not a 'destination' - it's not bad but I wouldn't make any effort to return.

Better than any Costa or Starbucks, A warm cosy coffee shop, coffee is amazing as is the food, friendly staff and I would definitely recommend

Rhode Island Coffee has become my absolute favorite spot in town, a welcoming haven that I visit at least twice daily—whether it’s a morning coffee run before my classes at University Campus Oldham, an afternoon catch-up with my husband on his work up, or a must have pre drink / post drink with friends after uni.

The atmosphere here is incredibly inclusive and warm; it's a place where everyone is made to feel at home. The staff genuinely elevate the experience— especially Tara, Diogo, Sam, John, and the rest of the team go above and beyond to make every visit special. Their attentiveness and friendly smiles create such a welcoming vibe, making it clear that they truly care about their customers. They not only remember my favorite order but also always take the time to ask about my day, making every interaction feel personal.

Rhode Island Coffee is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community space where everyone, regardless of background, feels valued and comfortable. I can't recommend it enough for anyone looking for a genuinely inclusive, cozy, and friendly coffee experience.

We popped in for a quick cup of tea,looking at the cakes & scones while i waited,we didn't purchase on this occasion.
The two tea's are also a little bit more costly than in the local independent cafes.
But we got our loyalty card stamped,just need to work some overtime before my next visit. 🍰☕️🍪

It's kind of hard to write a review of this particular place. It has the feeling of being a chain, but I have no experience of whether this is true or not. With that comes all the hallmarks of a typical Costa or Starbucks experience, largely soulless and more 'fit for purpose' than anything else. I've eaten food here on a previous trip (Ham & Cheese toastie/ciabatta) and it was okay, it did the job. I ordered it for takeout and it came sit in, so I missed my bus but still. In that instance I was served by one amazing individual and one that was more interested in chatting about anything but doing her job, mixed bag much.
The coffee however (pictured) is really nice, well crafted by the barrista, creamy, if a little too milky (even for a latte).

All in all, it's a fine experience, but it's hard to get much more excited than that. If you want a brew, it'll do, but I won't be going out of my way to return, more only if my bus is late.

Id say pick it over the mainstream chains for a quick take out coffee for sure, anything else is at your own risk.