Best Cafes in Kent, United Kingdom (2025) - Top 10 Rated!

Rating: 5 / 5

Fabulous brunch, as ever, from the friendly, helpful, attentive team at Cliffs. We love this place, with its relaxed, retro-vinyl vibe. No better place to relax and re-fuel, with the excellent choice of inventive breakfast and brunch dishes, and great coffee. The tamari mushrooms are to die for, and the veggie breakfast, just superb. The chill-out tables upstairs are ideal for friends and family get-togethers, the play area for toddlers is the ‘icing on the cake’. We’ll be back!

Rating: 5 / 5

Love it. Sweet staff, chilled atmosphere, Great coffee, gluten free treats, fresh and tasty breakfast/brunch! Recommend the big breakfast plates and the crumpet sliders.

Rating: 5 / 5

Went in for breakfast and had a vegan crumpet slider, which was great. Lots of vegan options. Really nice coffee too. Great service and a nice atmosphere.

Rating: 5 / 5

This place is 10/10. Service = phenomenal. Super affordable and actually quite cheap for what you’re paying for. Atmosphere is homely with a separated area for working so that part of downstairs is more social. Great decor, great playlist. We both ordered the kimchi hash special. The really did the Korean influence justice (saying this as an East Asian person who has eaten too many minimal effort whitewashed token use of Asian ingredients in restaurants). Straight up delicious. They also take payment on order so it’s great if you need to rush off after. Breakfast and drink totalled to around £9 per person including an extra sausage added on for each of us

Rating: 5 / 5

Great food and great service, lovely place, friendly staff

Rating: 5 / 5

Visited today with my friend after shopping and loved it. The atmosphere was lovely as well as service and food was reasonably priced. Highly recommended 👌

Rating: 4 / 5

The staff are very friendly, polite and attentive. Service was great and quick. Food wasn’t that bad so i can say wow. Very reasonable price and well worth a visit if you are looking for a quick bite when shopping in Ashford.

Rating: 5 / 5

What a delightful gem in the heart of town! My partner and I stopped by on a whim today and were pleasantly surprised. The service was attentive, quick, and delivered with a smile. It was heartwarming to see the café acting as a welcoming hub for the older generation, with staff so familiar with their regulars that they knew their orders before they even sat down. This is exactly what a cafe should be! The portions were generous, and the value for money was outstanding. We’ll definitely be back!

Rating: 5 / 5

We have become regulars here over the past few weeks - the staff are friendly, kind and helpful, there is always a positive buzz whatever time of day you're here and the food is delicious. For fellow vegans and people who are gluten free, there are gf and vegan options available. Leah's has become our favourite place to visit at the weekend - If you haven't been to Leah's before, treat yourself!

Rating: 5 / 5

We really enjoyed our experience today at Leah’s bistro. There’s a lot of choice on the menu, something for everyone, and everything is freshly made and cooked. We really enjoyed the food, it was delicious! Prices are really reasonable too - 2 adults, 2 kids - lunch (sandwich and panini, 2 x kids meals), drink and cake each, worked out at about £40. Definitely will come back. Staff are lovely as well, really friendly.

Rating: 5 / 5

Had a fantastic experience here. The food was great and of good quality. Portions were more than generous and especially for a kids roast. The atmosphere was very unexpected with someone playing the piano by the entrance. People working there were all very fun and bubbly to be around and engaged with the kids too.

Rating: 4 / 5

Update 2024 December Had a roast lunch which was promptly ordered and served by polite very hard working staff. It was plentiful in size but could have been heated a little more evenly, this was £12 there was an OAP option for £10 which was smaller apparently. I though the cheese cake a bit expensive for its size £3.95. Update 2023 Staff were friendly and patient. We had a roast lunch each which was served very hot, portion size were just adequate. They were amazingly quick at delivering our meal after order.

Rating: 5 / 5

The pub is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with the log fire burning, very welcoming. Our meal was first class. The fish and chips was fresh and tasty. The beef and mash, and the chicken pie was also enjoyed by my friends. Hayley served us, nothing is too much trouble for her, assisted by a friendly young man in charge of the bar. A great way to spend a Monday evening! Looking forward to our next visit, that's Christmas Lunch with our MG Car club. Thank you.

Rating: 5 / 5

Any pub that is open smack on 11am gets five stars. Great pub with great history

Rating: 4 / 5

Update 2024 December Had the Christmas set menu which was fantastic, the traditional turkey was fine and portion size was huge, so don't eat anything before your meal. I personally thought it was couple of quid over priced. Don't get me wrong the food was good and service was out standing. The bar staff worked very hard so give them a good tip. UPDATE December 2023 Had our Christmas meal here. Great service and friendly staff. But to be honest personally I was disappointed with the mushroom soup, Christmas meal was good but could have been hotter. Still have a number of good range of real beers. Good range of draught beers, food and service excellent. Would have been nicer if the restaurant area had been warmer. Service in the normal bar area was sporadic.

Rating: 5 / 5

Good food and good beer and friendly staff. Also very dog friendly. Visited again, usually go once a week whilst dog walking. Today went for dinner and had by request roasted tomato and red pepper soup which was fantastic, followed by pie of the day, beef and mushroom today and it was brilliant. Wholeheartedly recommend this pub.

Rating: 4 / 5

A lovely little timber-clad cafe with ramped access and inside / outside seating. Hot meals such as Welsh Rarebit and very nice made-to-order sandwiches too. For dessert there are some amazing cakes, sundaes or even milkshakes. The afternoon teas also looked fantastic. The coffee is also really good, although bizarrely the large ones come in an extremely hot mug with no handle!? We had to ask for a small cup to pour them into as there was no way we were touching that cup! Friendly for little people and an accessible WC there too. All in a nice bite to eat!

Rating: 5 / 5

With the weather being so glorious, a spot of afternoon tea outdoors was in order. We took a trip to Felicity's Cafe at Quex Park. After performing the, what has become normal, NHS track and trace scanning we were walked over to a table situated perfectly in the sun. We were offered a choice of tea or coffee and told the food would be out shortly. Within a few minutes we had a stack of savoury and sweet treats presented to us. On the lowest tier were 4 sandwiches: salmon and cream cheese, chicken and tarragon, cheese and tomato (amazingly tasted like pizza) and finally egg mayonnaise. On the next tier we had a scotch quails egg, caramelised onion quiche and piccalilli. Finally, the top tier included a chocolate brownie, red velvet, bakewell and carrot cake topped off with a few strawberries. We've had many afternoon teas over the years, it's always great to experience the same sort of meal with differing menus or twists. In this case, there were several elements on offer that wouldn't have been my choice. However, the empty plates at the end speak volumes. The food was great! The cheese and tomato 'pizza' sandwich was amazing. The salmon sandwich fantastic. The scones crumbly, with lashings of clotted cream and a blob a jam. The red velvet light and fluffy with icing that was sweet and creamy. It was the perfect amount of food that left us just to the comfy side of stuffed. Service was great. We were offered refills of tea several times and didn't have to wait long should we require anything else. The staff were all very friendly and attentive. Feeling secluded from the rest of the world and all its chaos, it was a satisfying and peaceful way to let time tick by. If you're looking for a good quality afternoon tea in a relaxing setting, give Felicity's Cafe a try.

Rating: 5 / 5

Oh wow! I'm gluten free so messaged prior to booking to be reassured there were plenty of options. Tasty soup served with a sandwich. They had a chocolate & hazelnut cake too. I was too full up so I took a slice of go 😁 Service was a bit slow but was so worth it. Great experience set in lovely grounds

Rating: 5 / 5

Lovely brunch style cafe, good food/drinks, great portions and welcoming staff as well. Will definitely go back again. We loved to see they allowed dogs in as well, there was a cute little puppy next to our table which makes it even more appealing to us!

Rating: 5 / 5

I don’t often write reviews as I’m usually too lazy however after visiting here I felt it was necessary I do one. For starters, when you walk in the place itself it is beautiful. Flowers everywhere and great photo op decor. They’ve hit the nail on the head with the decor and is super eye catching. Secondly, they greet you upon entrance and sit you down at a table which really uplifts the experience from a regular cafe to a proper restaurant. Server (owner) came over and asked if we’re ready and was lovely when we needed more time. When the drinks arrived I was gobsmacked. The caramel macchiato was SO GOOD and looked so freaking cool. The attention to detail was impeccable and it was just another regular cold drink served in a regular old glass. The drink itself was super sweet at first but it was a good burst to my senses but after a few sips was a more tame flavour. My boyfriend ordered a smoothie, it looked awesome as now expected and it also was so good. Wasn’t too sweet but wasn’t bland either. Food came and it was so yummy!!!! Presentation was really good also and fruit came on the side of my full breakfast which was a sweet surprise. Overall this place is a great place but also it is well thought out and an awesome twist on an English cafe and Turkish breakfasts.

Rating: 4 / 5

The food and coffee here are both excellent, though it is a bit on the expensive side. The place itself is really nice and well-presented, which adds to the experience. However, there was one issue that stood out to me. During a breakfast visit, someone brought their dog into the cafe. At first, the dog was sitting under the table, but then it started barking and growling at a child on the next table. After a few minutes, the dog jumped up and was sitting on the velvet seating next to the owner, and it stayed there. We were seated on the opposite side of the cafe, so it didn't affect us directly. But honestly, if they had been seated anywhere near us, we would have walked straight out the door, I don’t feel comfortable eating near animals in a restaurant or cafe—especially when they're sitting at the tables. We generally prefer to dine in places without animals around, so I hope this was just a one-time thing, It would be nice to keep coming back without worrying about unexpected dog encounters.

Rating: 5 / 5

Really lovely cafe. I went for brunch with a friend and my daughter and we definitely wasn't disappointed! The pancakes were my favorite,so light and fluffy! I definitely recommend them ,but generally everything was delicious! I can't complain about a thing. It was a lot bigger inside then I thought,the seating was comfortable and lovely and it wasn't noisy like some cafes can be. The best part is it's in walking distance from my house so I will definitely be going back again. Thank you No61 cafe

Rating: 5 / 5

This restaurant is an absolute gem. The food is excellent and the chef really knows his stuff. The menus change with the seasons. Tonight we had scallops with the silkiest buerre blanc sauce, the crab meat and smoked salmon, steak Diane (cooked perfectly, melt in the mouth), Vineyard Chicken and the roasted cauliflower. For desserts we had the raspberry burnt cream with chocolate eclair and caramelised banana, all really tasty and beautifully presented. I really like the addition of flowers. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. I have been twice now and have had the best experience each time. The restaurant does both set menus and A La Carte. They have a lovely vegan offering too. Wines range in price from around £20 and the list is extensive and interesting. They also have a great range of cocktails and mocktails. If you haven’t tried this restaurant out yet, then I highly recommend you do.

Rating: 5 / 5

Having lived in the surrounding villages for a long time, and now moved to West Malling, I've driven past this place countless times. I’m aware that the premises have gone through a few variations over the years. I wasn’t sure what to expect, as I’d heard there were new owners who took over earlier this year. I was thinking it might have a pub/restaurant feel, but I was mistaken. This is not a pub at all, but a restaurant. Inside, it’s beautifully decorated. A lot of attention to detail and expense has clearly been put into the decoration, from the decor to the artwork. Chairs, tables—everything has been done to a high quality, giving it a sense of fine dining. This is enhanced by the exceptionally presented food and the excellent service provided by the staff. Moustapha, our main server, was excellent. The food was good and tasty and they have an excellently presented menu and wine list. The atmosphere was also wonderful, making it a great place for a date night. It stands out from other local places with its real restaurant feel.

Rating: 4 / 5

Went here for breakfast. Dog friendly cafe. Had the 'Hair of the Hound' full English breakfast which was ok. Wife had Gluton Free (GF bread was not good). Fast service and Friendly staff. Recommendations: clean the windows from the cobwebs and flys, not nice when your eating.

Rating: 5 / 5

We all had a lovely afternoon tea at Baskervilles Coffee House. The traditional tea had a good selection of savoury and sweet treats. The child's tea also had a good selection, having changed the sandwich fillings to known favourites. Our dog certainly enjoyed her afternoon tea too and it was great to be able to give her something designed for her instead of snuffling our sausage rolls. The staff were really happy, polite and chatty. This is a wonderful little coffee shop and a great place to visit if you want to sit with your dog.

Rating: 4 / 5

A far cry from a truckers café, this local coffee house offers a cosy seating area with a modest menu. The interior is well decorated. There is a standard selection of hot items with a range of cakes that also cater to vegan requirements. Parking is easily found on the road, or it's a walk away for local residents who tend to come here and socialise in small groups. Prices are what you would expect.

Rating: 5 / 5

Lovely vegan breakfast 😀 Will certainly be going back again. Friendly staff and a great selection of vegan cakes too! Dog friendly also which always gets bonus points in my opinion! Highly recommend.

Rating: 5 / 5

I’m so glad my office moved to Ashford and this is now my fave place for lunch. The food is well prepared and tasty - some of the portions are huge. I always have the eggs royale which are impeccably cooked and the smoked salmon is beautifully flavoured and lean. It also does its own freshly squeezed orange juice, which goes down a treat.

Rating: 5 / 5

Very busy and well established cafe, all breakfast freshly made. Super friendly staff and great service.

Rating: 5 / 5

Me and a friend went in and had the special breakfast. Best ever. All I can say if you are hungry go in and try tge food it’s top quality all at reasonable prices. On top of that the service is first class and staff are friendly, fast and efficient. Place is spotless. Go see for yourself.

Rating: 5 / 5

Wish I could give more than 5 stars. Just had the best and biggest breakfast for a great price served by very lovely and happy lady's. Food was hot and fresh. Will definitely be back here to try some more of the menu. Thank you lady's, was the perfect treat after being away

Rating: 5 / 5

Gorgeous family run home cooked food , never been disappointed, prefect servings all freshly cooked

Rating: 5 / 5

Beautifully cooked Christmas lunch. As usual, the food was lovely, the fresh veg always goes down well, gravy is divine and roast pots, lush. Try the roast pork, it's divine.

Rating: 5 / 5

Dining at the Parlour is always a delightful experience, and even after 10 years, it remains as exceptional as ever. Kelly and her daughter manage the front of the house, while Glen, a seasoned chef with a history of working in top Kentish Pubs, including the Old Coach & Horses, The Compasses at Crundale, The Chapter Arms at Chartham Hatch, and the George at Newnham, runs the kitchen. It's a family-run business with a strong family ethos. Glen sources all food locally and prepares it with care. Years ago, he transformed an ice cream parlour into the charming venue it is today, complete with original 1930s artwork on the walls. The menu ranges from ice creams, coffee, and homemade cakes to wholesome dishes reminiscent of childhood favorites, catering to all tastes and budgets. The parlour, situated on the outskirts of Birchington's bustling high street, is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering limited roadside parking. After an extensive refurbishment, they've reopened, ready to welcome both new and returning patrons. On my recent visit from Canterbury with a friend, a former patron of the Old Coach & Horses, we hadn't booked, but they graciously accommodated us. I messaged Glen en-route. I savoured the Slow Roasted Belly of Pork with crispy crackling and apple puree, accompanied by roast potatoes and vegetables, all brought together with a rich gravy reduction that was simply divine. My friend opted for the Sausage and Mash with Mustard Gravy, which was also perfectly prepared with a flavourful onion gravy. To finish I had a dark truffle chocolate torte dessert with sprinkles of frozen raspberries, and a raspberry swirl ice-cream, it was delicious. As others have said you got to eat here if you want the best in Birchington in my humble opinion. Well done to Glen and the family for keeping up the best standards.

Rating: 5 / 5

We visited yesterday and it was a wonderful experience! The ladies are absolutely lovely and was so nice to be able to have a chat and them be happy to engage! The ice cream was delicious! So was the homemade tart! Thank you for a lovely service and we will be back again!