Kent, Mediterranean Restaurant Guide

“Still zinging after all these years”, this colourful Westgate outfit (est. 1988) is not the Gallic eatery you’d expect from the name, but rather a “very popular” and “lively” Mexican. Between the “happy atmosphere” and “scrumptious” cuisine, “a pilgrimage to Canterbury for Café des Amis is a must” (with the option to check out their local sibling Café du Soleil – part of a three-strong mini-empire that surprisingly includes a Hawaiian spin-off).

“Still our favourite after 20 odd years” – cook Nikki Billington and her partner Paul Watson’s outfit provides a “perfect mix of mostly Mediterranean-inspired food and professionally relaxed service, in delightful surroundings overlooking the north Kent coast”. “Everything is freshly cooked and prepared using top-notch ingredients” and there’s “something for everyone” on the menu – in particular “great seafood and strong veggie options”. Top Menu Tips – “mutton and feta koftas and creamy savoy cabbage in winter”.