Cote Canterbury

Lovely branch of Cote in a beautiful building right on the main street through Canterbury. It's in a little square with a terrace which is perfect for people watching. Busy when we went. The staff were charming and working very hard because it was packed. Simple and delicious french food. Great atmosphere. It's in a buzzing part of town so perfect for a tourist holiday vibe.

We all know that the mid-market restaurant is under a lot of pressure, so a “chain” has to have its values and training just right in order to consistently stand out. Over the last couple of years Cote has really upped its game and is very much our go-to place for a light lunch as we travel around, unless there is a stand out local place. Yesterday we were in Canterbury and, again the service was great and our food ( sea bream and a nicoise salad) was both well prepared and presented on the plate, with a reasonably priced glass of wine to support. The cost is reasonable for what you get - not for the everyday but worth the money for what they offer. The tips go to all the staff I gather. The front of house team were great. A restaurant can’t create an atmosphere on its own, but the buildings have character and are well located, so there tends to be a bit of a buzz. Other great ones include Salisbury , Bath, Oxford and Cambridge. Well worth giving them a go if it’s your sort of thing and well done to them.