GastroRanking
GastroRanking header logo
whatsappWhatsapp
phoneCall
desktopWebsite
menuMenu
bookingBooking
4,3

Based on 587 opinions finded in 3 websites

4.2Ambience4.2Cuisine4.3Price4.3Service
site_photo4

comment_iconOpinions

I loved the food here, but found the service a little slow. Guess it is understandable when we all want to eat before a show

site_logo

mandy30538 . 2019-09-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Arrived very late but they managed to fit us as just before the kitchen was shutting. food was tasty and hot.

site_logo

Mark K . 2019-04-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My friends are I were very pleased to visit this close by restaurant before the afternoon matinee one Saturday in September. I would recommend going here either for lunch or dinner

site_logo

kippett . 2019-01-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We both enjoyed our Sunday roast. We had the entire restaurant to ourselves. Student staff that were both very nervous. Fair in price. Good sized meal. The plate was cold and so was the food. I felt bad but had to send it back, which is embarrassing but retuned exceptionally well. Staff need to use napkins to serve and act with conviction. Only place to find a roast in the town centre. We will return as we enjoyed the meal even with its hick ups.

site_logo

glenb191 . 2018-12-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This restaurant is part of the group at whose hotel we stayed and as a consequence we were offered a discount. We were only in Canterbury a couple of nights so checked TA and decided to take a look on the first night and book for the second. We were glad we did. This was a delightful evening putting us in the festive cheer and with some superb musical accompaniment. A previous reviewer mentioned a superb steak and upon this comment I ordered one and was delighted too. Very good service and served on very hot plates I could find no fault. Very reasonably priced too.

site_logo

PoshSod . 2018-12-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

After reading such positive reviews, we were looking forward to our Christmas dinner, which we had booked and pre-ordered for. We arrived and were seated at the front of the restaurant, which was sectioned off from the main area, meaning it was very difficult to get the attention from staff, however the staff were very polite. This proved to be an issue as after waiting a gruelling 40 minutes for cocktails, it then took another 20 minutes for us to be served our pre-ordered dismal dinner. The confit duck was very dry and bland. The parsnips and Brussels sprouts were under cooked and carrots were mushy and unseasoned. The pigs in blankets were very pink, so they weren't eaten. There was not enough gravy served on the meals, when we asked for more we were given such a small jug between a table of 6, it had to be rationed out. The crème brûlée was cold and under cooked. However the chocolate torte was lovely. Overall, we won't be coming back.

site_logo

918jasmineah . 2018-12-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked this restaurant for a Saturday night while staying at the Canterbury Hotel, they had a pianist playing which we first thought oh that's not our thing. But he was great and playing a good mixture of tunes most that we recognised!Now as for the food I think I had the best steak I have ever had.... All the food we had was fabulous, full of flavour and presented perfectly.It was good value for the type of restaurant it was and the service was excellent.We would definitely recommend to all.

site_logo

759DavidJ . 2018-12-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Went into Dems recently for dessert as they have the most wonderful desserts. The Bailey's cheesecake is to die for. Service was fantastic as always. Also a wonderful place to stop for a drink or some food before going to the theatre.

site_logo

jb2801 . 2018-11-29

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My partner and I visited Dems prior to seeing a show at the Marlow as the restaurant is in a great location, very close to the theatre.Their pre-theatre menus proved to be great value for money, i opted for the melon and parma ham for starters, followed by the muscles as a main and the chocolate brownie for dessert, all of which were superb.The staff were very friendly and helpful, and despite arriving during a busy period, our meals were delivered promptly leaving us plant of time to make our way to the theatre.We'll definitely be making a return trip next time we're in Canterbury and will certainly recommend it to our friends.Thanks for all the staff at the restaurant.

site_logo

944Leroy . 2018-11-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We where planning on going to the Marlow theatre, and stopped off at Dem's for there some food. so many choices but I decided on having the parma ham and melon for starters then for the main meal we had the mussels and finally as a naughty treat for me the chocolate brownie. The staff were very friendly and funny, our meals were delivered promptly and where delicious. We where having such a good time that we almost missed the start of the show. To sum up excellent food, and service real value for money. Will definitely be making a return in the future

site_logo

Olivia_Rainbow . 2018-11-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had mistakenly gone to another restaurant on Tuesday 20th Nov to enjoy a special offer of 1 main meal and 1 free but the noise level of the customers next to our table at the Olive was so loud we left and went to our favourite. They did not disappoint. We both had pate starters Mackerel for me and Chicken for mt wife - superb. My calves liver was the best I have ever had. I loved the wine we bought Montepulicano for me and the Pinot Grigio for my wife and the the excellent meal came to just over £61. Service excellent - this for me is the best restaurant in Canterbury. Fully recommend coming here.

site_logo

timetachyon . 2018-11-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The restaurant is centrally located, close to The Marloew theatre, it was attractive to us for that reason. Table booked for 5:30 in preparation for a performance starting at 7:15. We arrived on time, and after discussion, were offered a table close to the server. Drinks and orders were made, and produced promptly and we settled down to exchange news, as friends do. The restaurant, which had been anything but busy, suddenly became very active, with a large party settling down right opposite us. At 6:30, we started to become concerned, and shortly after we made a first representation to the serving staff. We were told than we would receive our main course in no more than 5 minutes. When it had not arrived in 10, we began to realise that we might arrive in our theatre seats with indigestion and at 6:55 we decided to abandon our meal.

site_logo

mikedlibbits . 2018-11-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Our party of 3 arrived at the restaurant just before 6pm in good spirits, looking forward to a leisurely pre-theatre meal, followed by an evening of opera at the Marlowe immediately opposite. Its close proximity was our reason for choosing Dems.

site_logo

troglodytes123 . 2018-11-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We came here for a pre-theatre meal on a Tuesday. Arrived at 17.45, restaurant virtually full. Ordered starters, which arrived promptly: my chicken liver pate barely tasted of liver (or indeed of anything) and had a consistency which can only be described as vomitory. My partner’s melon and parma ham was better, but bizarrely covered in an avalanche of rocket and parmesan. Then we waited, and waited and waited, until at 6.50 (show at 7.15!) we joined a queue trying to pay their bills at the counter. No apologies, except for a weak ‘Our kitchen wasn’t up to it tonight’. And a voucher for 20% off our food, should we decide to return!

site_logo

gkold . 2018-11-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good quality ingredients, lovely staff. Very reasonable prices. Home made croissants, Perfect coffee. Just popped in, we were not staying at the hotel and we were made very welcome. Very professional and approachable staff. Excellent eggs Benedict.

site_logo

Fred B . 2018-10-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

we had the eggs benedict for breakfast eggs cooked to perfection and the hollandaise was to die for certainly one of the best place for breakfast in Canterbury WW

site_logo

bbbalazs007 . 2018-10-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Llegó a Dems un sábado por la noche justo antes del teatro, desde el exterior se ve muy pequeño, pero al entrar, se puede ver que hay más de lo que se ve desde afuera.

site_logo

Connector823741 . 2018-10-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Estábamos alojados en un hotel local y fuimos a Dems para el almuerzo. Era muy tranquilo para un viernes a mediodía, pero el servicio y la comida eran de primera clase. Ofrecen un menú fijo muy razonable y disfrutamos de un entrante y un plato principal. El tamaño de la porción fue muy generoso. Nos sentamos en la sección de la calle principal del restaurante y me sorprendió mucho cuando usé los baños, lo grande que era el restaurante. La gran decoración parece ser muy popular entre las multitudes del teatro y los menús ofrecen opciones de teatro antes y después. Buena comida, precios razonables.

site_logo

628ChristinaC . 2018-10-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Elegimos Dems ya que está muy cerca de The Marlowe y habíamos disfrutado de varias comidas aquí antes. Lamentablemente no esta noche y no volveré y ya no recomendaré.

site_logo

Ann A . 2018-10-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Dems es una joya de lugar y ofrece una excelente relación entre precio y calidad con dos cursos de alrededor de 13 y tres de 15. La comida es, en su mayor parte, de gran calidad y se sirve caliente. La única excepción que diría es el helado que acompaña al brownie de chocolate, que es de baja calidad, una decepción dado el alto nivel del resto de la comida. El servicio carece de calidez y la comida se entrega de manera superficial, lo que no ayuda al ambiente, pero nunca menos recomendaría este restaurante.

site_logo

Suzanne G . 2018-10-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Dems is in a good location for a pre-theatre dinner. It looks tiny from the outside but goes back a long way. It was a little confusing when entering as there was no staff in the front restaurant and no one to direct to table, etc. There is a good two course dinner pre-theatre for $12.95 and a "vegan option" on the blackboard. However, when I asked for this, was told it was not available. Pleasant decor, quite amateur service. A vegan chick pea curry was average. Served with white rice, and very little curry flavour, it was acceptable, though not worth the $12.50 charge. With all the eateries in Canterbury, this would not be my first choice on returning.

site_logo

marigoldKent . 2018-09-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Ate here for the husbands birthday in May. The food was fantastic and catered well for gluten intolerances. The menu was excellent and varied and the service was impeccable. Ambiance was also perfect which really made the evening. This place is a hidden gem and would definitely recommend.

site_logo

Emma B . 2018-09-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The food was nice but the price of a glass of wine was£8 we had the pre theatre two courses for £12.95. My wifes soft drink was .£2.50

site_logo

Alan S . 2018-09-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We could not go to our usual Canterbury restaurant so decided to try Dems Restaurant. Disappointing really. For starter I ordered Mackerel Pate - whilst tasty, it was not a pate and I picked out 4 bones. I followed it with liver and bacon. I felt that the liver was overcooked (I prefer it pink in the middle and I was not asked how I would like it). It was the bacon that made the meal tasty. My wife’s Parma Ham and Melon was fine but the chicken was just okay. So we will not be revisiting Dems.

site_logo

MBKOKent . 2018-09-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Their was four of us and we had a mixture of pre-theatre dinner menu £12.95 2course or £15.95 3 course bargain! Also ordered from normal menu. All our food was amazing and my mother-in-law is very fussy, we had no complaints from her. Another family menu is vegan and had an excellent choice for her too. Excellent service and will definitely be returning.

site_logo

BWhit16 . 2018-09-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had a pre-theatre meal. The staff were very polite and accommodating and the service was good, the restaurent was clean and nicely preesented. However, the food was dissappointing, the presentation of our starters looked cumbersome, I would rather have alittle less food and it presented with care than alot which looked as though it had been thrown on the plate. I had smoked salmon, a pile of salmon two blobs cream cheese and two big slices of toasted bread and green rocket salad. Some of the rocket was old and yellow! I mentioned this to our waitress and advised her to tell the chef. I also had the roast belly pork, with crackling! This was soft and bendy, couldn't eat it, mash potato and spring green. The mash was quite dry, not creamy and light and the spring green although it looked delicious was barely warm, I inform the waitress about this to. My mums salmon was nice but far too many vegetables on the plate and made it look untidy and not very appetizing . Most of the food was edible , but when you pay quite alot for your meals you expect a certain standard, if it says crisp crackling then it should be, if it says green salad then it should be fresh and green. Serving green salad that's not daily fresh is, unacceptable. Needless to say I didn't make a fuss, as it was my mums 82 birthday treat along with theatre show to see the wonderful and fabulous "calender girls" .

site_logo

Jose W . 2018-09-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Enjoyable evening with good friends at Dems. Excellent menu selections, including a two or three course menu. Excellent and congenial waitstaff. Conveniently located. Agreeable environment. Good place for a pre-theater dinner.

site_logo

Mike M . 2018-09-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Der Service hat sofort überzeugt, die Auswahl ist sehr abwechslungsreich, schöne Weine, jedoch leider kein gezapftes Bier. Schade war, daß Sonntagabend einige Essen ausverkauft waren. Trotzdem sehr zu empfehlen, auch für das Frühstück. (Pilgrim's English Restaurant ist in Dem's aufgegangen.)

site_logo

Gerry K . 2018-09-05

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This spacious and attractive restaurant definitely deserves to be much much busier! We wanted a meal at 5.00 p.m. when many restaurants are closed. The food was excellent, the atmosphere very conducive to a relaxing conversation with friends or family and the service was friendly, efficient but unobtrusive. This is one of my three favourite restaurants in Canterbury, which I enjoy going back to again and again. The vegetarian pasta was absolutely delicious, even perfect!! I have tried to imitate this at home but it just doesn't taste as good!!

site_logo

maggieyaxleysmith . 2018-09-05

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The best vegan nut roast I've ever tasted. The vegan chocolate torte was to die for.

site_logo

Lisa D . 2018-08-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

have been here 3 times before shows and each time good food and service i would recommended nice options and the set menu is good 3 courses for 15.95 cannot go wrong.

site_logo

lumpar . 2018-08-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My wife and I visited Canterbury for the weekend, passed this restaurant and as it looked good, we went in.

site_logo

DarenWessex . 2018-08-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We went for a pre-theatre meal and we were surprised by being led through our nearest inn into a delightful restaurant where we were met by helpful staff and seated in the window watching the world pass by as we waited for our meal. We had as a main a chicken breast topped with peaches and cheese, a enjoyable combination served hot and very tasty. A surprise awaits those who venture in, and well worth the visit, and it set us ready for our evening with Killer Queen in the Marlowe.

site_logo

christophernewman44 . 2018-08-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We have very mixed feelings about our first visit to Dems. We ate here as two couples for birthday celebrations. Arriving from the high street was strange as it was hard to find the desk or any staff to check in. The restaurant was incredibly quiet for a Saturday evening in this busy city. The back section was in complete darkness and there were only 3 tables occupied when we arrived at 8.30. Although we weren't early, we had to hover and wait while our table was made up.

site_logo

Claire C . 2018-08-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We cannot recommend this Resturant enough.

site_logo

Sherpa801947 . 2018-08-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I would not recommend this restaurant to anyone. We ordered one paella and one fish pie (dish of the day). We had to wait more than half an hour for the food to arrive.

site_logo

Anne L . 2018-07-27

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Had the lamb off the menu which was cooked to perfection. Great friendly service from the staff. I hope to go back over the weekend of our stay in Canterbury.

site_logo

896SteveP . 2018-07-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had a lovely evening at Dems restaurant. The food was delicious and of high quality, the service excellent and we enjoyed listening to the pianist playing the grand piano. Would recommend this restaurant highly! The prices are also very affordable.

site_logo

carolcaz79 . 2018-07-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A lovely time here, great food and nice staff who were very professional and helpful. Toilets were clean and the place was spotless.A bit pricy,BUT very well worth it.

site_logo

saz L . 2018-07-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked a table for a Saturday night pre-theatre dinner. When we arrived there were manyvacant tables with reserved signs on. We were seated at a table in the glass shop front in the full sun. When we asked to move to a table in the cooler area, this was refused - theoretically because the tables were booked - however, when we left these tables were still empty. The manager was just being awkward. One of our party nipped out to nearby restaurants to see if we could swap but they were full (perhaps their staff were more pleasant!) Meal was OK - but we preferred the previous menu they used to have at the Pilgrims restaurant which was more traditional pub food and straight forward. Due to the unpleasantly hot and stuffy environment and pig-headed attitude of the manager - we won't be returning. I understand the nearby Wildwood restaurant is good - we will try there next time.

site_logo

umwdeal . 2018-07-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

taken here for a birthday meal with my girlfreind. great cozy atmosphere with the piano playing great songs. romantic setting and the food was amazing. fillet steak was cooked to perfection!! the lamb was beautiful. puddings and starters were great. good selection of drinks and food. staff were friendly and attentive and welcoming. very chilled and sophisticated at the same time. will go again!.

site_logo

Dave K . 2018-07-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

First class service. Lovely food. Great vegan choices and all at reasonable prices. Very pleasant staff.

site_logo

limelightjames . 2018-07-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This place was recommended by our hotel. Staff are pleasant and helpful and the interior is nicely arranged. On the nights we dinned there was a pianist playing. Food was excellent, served without too much delay and wines very reasonable. The cater for theatre goers as they are close to Marlowe Theatre.

site_logo

K M . 2018-07-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We went here for the pre theatre menu. There were just us & one other table. No atmosphere at all & lack lustre waiting staff. I asked if the mussels were in season and was met with a blank stare. She went to check it no one knew. The food was mediocre TBH I expected more. Boring.

site_logo

amandamonkey . 2018-07-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

While we were strolling in the cosy streets of Canterbury and looking for a place to have dinner we were attracted by dome fine piano music coming from Dems. With the piano music came a more sophisticated restaurant then we encountered before, a perfect place to have a nicely served dinner. This for a fair price and very professional friendly staff. I would definitely recommend this restaurant !!!

site_logo

Pascal D . 2018-07-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Had an awful experience with the food here. My husband ordered fish pie with seasonal veg, when it arrived 9 after the waitress almost threw it across the table) the veg, which was broccoli and sugar snaps, was heaped on the plate in a mound and looked disgusting. The veg was as good as raw and almost cold. The fish pie was so hard round the edges he had a job to chew it. After asking the waitress to take it back and remove the veg the plate came back with all the scrapings still on it. I would have at least expected a clean plate. I ordered chicken, where do I start, chicken was overcooked, potatoes were swimming in some sort of fluid plus fat which the potatoes had been tossed in. I sent mine back to have the fluid drained off. Altogether the meal was awful. No prices on the board where the fish pie was ordered from, when I spoke to the waiter about it he said they don't put the prices on the board because it is a different one for lunch and evening. I said he should still have the prices on show. Not to be recommended.

site_logo

Rosemarie G . 2018-07-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Excellent food and staff first class, would definately go back. Short walk from theatre and carparks. Dems also had a pre theatre menu which was tasty and delicious.

site_logo

deniseaxtell735 . 2018-06-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Went there with friends, and had to try the fillet steak... was not disappointed! Cooked to perfected and melted in mouth. Frites, and salad were great additions to the plate. Staff were very friendly too! Will be going back!!

site_logo

Harrysed . 2018-06-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My friend and I went last week for my birthday. The place was quiet with only 6 people in total. We had eaten there before and had a nice experience. This time, the food was extremely salty. My friend had the French beef casserole while I had a coq au vin. Unfortunately for us, we both suffered for that. Whilst my case was mild, my friend woke up at 2am with severe food poisoning which left him debilitated for 5 days. He still hasn’t recovered fully as of the this review.

site_logo

JN-UK . 2018-06-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A very central restaurant close to the Marlowe Theatre which makes it a good port of call before a show. The pre-theatre set menu is excellent value. The staff are friendly and well trained.

site_logo

dwhayward . 2018-06-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Very close to the Marlowe theatre and the pre theatre menu timings nicely coincides with the 2 for 1 cocktail timing

site_logo

TEP847 . 2018-06-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We usually eat in the Marlowe Green Room pre-theatre but it was booked so we came here - smart move!

site_logo

ArchieandPenny . 2018-06-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Had a thursday dinner here to celebrate our anniversary  Food was absolutely lovely(fish starter and beef stew very tasty), great choice of wine, service was first class and bill was very reasonable  I would highly recommend

site_logo

andrewshaw1970 . 2018-06-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A friend and I had a lovely meal there last week before heading over to the Marlowe. The food was lovely, very tasty, and plenty of it. We had the pre theatre menu, with the mushroom en croute and mackeral pate to start, the muscles and coq of vin as mains and we shared a brownie. All was very tasty and I would return based on that alone.

site_logo

QuirkyGirl_73 . 2018-06-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Ideal location if dining before or after a visit to the Marlowe theatre, but suggest a reservation as it is popular. Food is good quality, as is service and staff are friendly. Premises are very clean and the atmosphere is good.

site_logo

Rubyann40 . 2018-06-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Dems was a perfect Saturday evening. Live and talented pianist, great food (but quite a lot of it) and great service! But the price was a surprise- bargain

site_logo

Tim C . 2018-05-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

One of the better Full English Breakfasts in Canterbury, came with toast just as it should and they actually swapped egg for sausage with out fuss. Otherwise, a hash brown would complete it and the bacon and sausage seemed on the cheaper side or just over done... but still good

site_logo

Edward H . 2018-05-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We’ve lived in Canterbury for a number of years and this was our first visit. We will definitely be back. Excellent food and ambiance with live piano playing in the background. Recommend the salt marsh lamb as some of the best ever eaten with a very generous portion of delicious dauphinois potatoes. The service was excellent too.

site_logo

Caroline C . 2018-05-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

What a great find! We have tried several restaurants in Canterbury over the last few years, many good, and this is definitely our favourite. From the moment we arrived the staff were excellent; friendly, helpful and efficient. Our waiter was from abroad but his English was perfect. The ambiance is relaxed, refined without being stale and a very good pianist was playing for most of the evening, the whole place was spotless and the food was faultless. We will certainly go again next time we visit Canterbury.

site_logo

Mathew B . 2018-05-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I came in for a meal with my mother, the food was nice but I witnessed a male member of staff being extremely rude, making fun and laughing to another younger member of staff. He was also rude to other customers around us, being very...

site_logo

Emma D . 2018-05-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This restaurant was very cosy and the dinner was very tasty. I would recommend a visit if in Canterbury

site_logo

keith b . 2018-05-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely food and setting, but unfortunately the language barrier with a few of the waiting staff caused some frustration and confusion. Happy hour cocktails 2-4-1, great deal. Excellent value £12.95 for 2 courses, will be returning.

site_logo

Keeley24 . 2018-05-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Tried to get a table in zizzi's just opposite

site_logo

21Timbo . 2018-05-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My wife and I wanted to celebrate our wedding anniversary (24th April) and chose once again Dems Brasserie. We got the pre-theatre menu and I had the mushrooms en croute and my wife the pate. We followed with mains beef stew for me and coq au vin for my wife and once again superb food - cooked to perfection. The service was extraordinairy good. I had two large glasses of wine - French merlot and the Italian Montepulciano and my wife Pinot Grigio. I wont write any more reviews on this restaurant but it is one of the best 5 in Canterbury.

site_logo

timetachyon . 2018-04-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Friends suggested we should try Dems but what a disappointment! We booked a table for four and arranged to dine with friends who were visiting Canterbury for the day. We arrived on time but unfortunately so did a group of 50 other visitors who were clearly deemed to be more important than our small group of 4! We waited and waited for attention and eventuallly we ordered our drinks that took an age to arrive. We again waited a long time and had to prompt staff that they needed to take our order. After about fifty minutes our meal arrived but it was not inspiring. We chose from the limited menu two portions of mussels, a chicken supreme and a burger. The mussels were smothered in a thick white sauce and they were lukewarm, the burger was tough, the chicken was very ordinary and the chips all round were cold. The staff were inattentive and the experience was poor. We will not return.

site_logo

Keith J . 2018-04-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We came out of the theatre & saw Dems Restaurant, as we had not booked a table we were pleased to be shown a table in the window. We chose the After Theatre meal & were pleased with the result. I suppose if you like a really big meal it was not for you, but we had sufficient & enjoyed the meal & the outlook on the street.

site_logo

Porky70103 . 2018-04-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I rang up in advance to explain my specific dietary requirements and Dems were fantastic, remembering me from the phone when I arrived and ensuring my dish was specially prepared. Usually ’special’ food is bland and boring, but mine was as delicious and exciting as everyone else’s - I can’t have garlic onions dairy or wheat so I ordered the chicken which came with veg and peach slices and herbs - unusual but it worked! Scallops for starter were amazing too, wrapped in bacon with a little salad in the side, perfectly cooked. For pudding they went out of their way to ask the kitchen if there was a special GF and DF option they could specially make for me. In the end I was too full so just had a cocktail, which was also lovely.

site_logo

laurasummers92 . 2018-04-21

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Booked our table for 6pm last night as going to the Marlowe for 7.30pm we arrived 10 minuets early was shown our table, it took about 10 mins for someone to come take our drinks order so we placed our food order at the same time, there was 6 of us and out of the 6 people only 1 had a starter of mozzarella and tomatoes salad so no cooking involved in this dish, the starter came out at around 6.35pm we asked about our main courses and was told they hadn’t even been sent to the kitchen yet and would be another 20mins, by this time it was approaching 6.50pm, the main courses arrived at 7.05pm and we had to be at the Marlowe for 7.30 so we had to rush eating our food which is not nice, I ordered chicken breast which should of come with a white wine sauce but it didn’t, so I went upto the waiter and mentioned that the sauce was missing, and was told they would get me some, the sauce eventually turned up but it wasn’t white wine sauce it was heated up butter, so I would not recommend this restaurant and we won’t ever be returning, oh and to but salt in the wound they have charged twice for 1 drink.

site_logo

Vicki M . 2018-04-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Stayed in the Pilgrims Hotel and with Dems restaurant being physically attached to the hotel we decided to have lunch there.

site_logo

phil d . 2018-04-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We Enjoyed A Family Meal For A Big Birthday Celebration. We Had A Party Of 10 & Due To The Size Of Our Party We Were Placed In The Paris Room, Which Holds 10-12 People.

site_logo

Gj R . 2018-04-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked Dems for a meal before going to a ballet at the Marlowe initially because it was near the theatre but what a lovely surprise. It was a delious meal & very reasonable

site_logo

Doreen C . 2018-03-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I visited your restaurant last Wednesday with my wife for a valentines meal. We’d previously visited together before a theatre...

site_logo

Lucas D . 2018-03-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Chose Dems after good reviews and lication to the Marlowe theatre. We were very disappointed with the food. For my main course I chose the seafood paella which was served tepid on a cold plate . The rice was overcooked and tasteless. Another dish had an item missing and tiramisu lacked flavour. I suggest that they perhaps stick to a simple lunch menu that the kitchen could cope with better. Would recommend trying it again for a summer evening outing.

site_logo

Carrie190463 . 2018-02-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We chose to eat here ahead of our show due to the proximity to the theatre as well as the good reviews. Service was fine on the whole but nothing/no-one stood out. The food was average - presented well but the flavours just didn't quite hit the mark. We sent back one dish because it was lukewarm & was served on a cold plate. The staff dealt with this nicely but it was a shame it happened. We would consider trying this restaurant again but there is plenty of other choice in the city unfortunately for them...!

site_logo

Kim B . 2018-02-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We’ve eaten here on numerous occasions, usually having the pre theatre option. The staff are lovely, attentive and friendly. We’ve always had the table we’ve requested which in other restaurants quite often gets ignored.

site_logo

ppw16 . 2018-02-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This was our first visit to Dems. We were sat in the front of the restaurant which was a bit cut off from the main dining area and very cold as it was right next to the door. Service was a little slow but the food was tasty and well presented. There was a pianist right next to us and although I initially thought it would be too loud, it actually wasn't.

site_logo

JannyBrads . 2018-02-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We've eaten here a few times: for breakfast on a Saturday morning, pre-theatre after work and last night for Valentine's...

site_logo

suissestar . 2018-02-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Had a fabulous pre theatre meal at this restaurant last night. £12.95 for 2 courses. The Hachis ParmentierSlow cooked shin...

site_logo

BarkingBug . 2018-02-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Got to say excellent food with a great choice for all tastes Excellent and varied wine and drinks Staff friendly...

site_logo

Steve A . 2018-02-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Took my mother and her partner for their birthday, can not fault the service, food or atmosphere. A diverse menu which caters for a wide range of diets. My husband is vegan and it is refreshing to go to a decent restaurant with more than one vegan option. Looking forward to going again for a Sunday roast

site_logo

Suzie W . 2018-02-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The restaurant is inside the hotel but is accessible via the main road. The menu offers different types of cuisine, some dishes are French, some Italian, and others Spanish, so it's a bit confusing 'cause it doesn't have a proper identity. The food is normal, nothing particularly good, the risotto/kind of paella were well overcooked and with a plain taste, but the fishes were cooked quite nicely.

site_logo

Red_Sunrise1993 . 2018-01-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This was my first visit to this restaurant and it had come highly recommended. First impressions were good - lovely decor and very welcoming and attentive staff. My companion and I both chose from the set pre-theatre menu. I am not sure if I just made the wrong choices that evening, but my meal was very disappointing. The starter was supposed to be wild mushrooms in a garlic sauce en croute. When it arrived the mushrooms were in a pale orange creamy sauce without a hint of garlic. For my main I ordered Pesto Penne Pasta. Again, the pasta was in a thick, creamy sauce which looked suspiciously pale. On tasting the pasta it became obvious that there was no pesto in the dish at all. I could see someone at the next table had ordered the same main course and could tell that he did have a pesto sauce. I told the waitress that there was no pesto and she went to speak to the chef. On returning, she said that the chef was very busy and had forgotten to put the pesto in!! It was such a shame as I had heard such good things about Dems. I have to say the waiting staff could not have been more friendly and attentive but on this occasion the kitchen let them down.

site_logo

aquarius55 . 2018-01-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I've eaten at this restaurant twice, the most recent, last night. I chose the mozzarella, avocado and tomato salad, which was plentiful in serving but needed a little more pesto or balsamic. The main course was very tasty and the portion control was generous. The beef was tender and the sauce was tasty. There was plenty of well cooked broccoli which was delicious. The mash was likewise tasty but any cheese was little in evidence. This was disappointing as the mash was frankly, cold. I mashed it into the gravy to gain any heat. I'd urge the chef to make sure all the food was piping hot and served on hot plates!

site_logo

Suzanne G . 2018-01-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Family meal for 10 in Dems pre-Panto on Tues 2nd January 2018. 2 children in party, 8 adults including 1 vegetarian & 1 gluten-free diet. Superb quality food, excellent value for money & great service from all staff. Added to that only a few paces from the theatre! Very impressed & will definitely be returning.

site_logo

neil708 . 2018-01-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Stopped for dinner here on a quiet Monday evening. The outside is deceiving as it's a lot bigger on the inside!

site_logo

louH119 . 2018-01-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Went for a family lunch at Dems Friday last, 15th December 2017. Booked a table for four at 1.30pm, the restaurant was quiet, but the staff were very welcoming and helpful. We order two starters between us, both of which were Wild Mushrooms en croute, then one Coq au Vin, One Hachis Parmentier (beef stew) and two Grilled Chicken breasts. I have to say that everything was cooked perfectly and was delicious. The food was hot, service was prompt, but unhurried. I really only have one criticism and that is the plates. Both courses were served in the same style of bowl, like large brimmed soup bowls, which meant presentation looked a bit messy and cluttered with all the food piled in together. The portions were generous, which only made it look worse. Sorry I have a thing about plates, "slate" is another bug bear of mine.

site_logo

Dickie61 . 2017-12-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

After a trip to Leeds Castle we stopped off in Canterbury. Cold and wet we decided to use Dems as it was in the main shopping street. Food was excellent and the staff made us feel welcome and treated us as though we were the only customers. We’ll definitely eat there again.

site_logo

parda4 . 2017-12-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Group of 6 of us ventured here before a trip to the cinema and ate from the early evening menu which consisted of 3 courses for £14.95.

site_logo

Warren D . 2017-12-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Just a quick note to say how much we enjoyed our Christmas dinner at Dems/the Pilgrims. The food was delicious and the service excellent. Thank you!

site_logo

rgiles4453 . 2017-12-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I have been to Dems a couple of times recently, every time I've been the food has been delicious and the service has been superb!

site_logo

charlottecasey95 . 2017-12-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

After a busy day shopping it was a great idea for us to have dinner at Dems. Some members of our family are vegetarian and vegan so it’s not always easy to find a menu which caters for all of us. We were greeted with a warm welcome and friendly helpful staff. We all enjoyed our delicious food and the service. I really hate having to rush my food but their attentive service never rushed us therefore giving us plenty of time to enjoy our bottle of wine.

site_logo

Julie C . 2017-12-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Our waitress was lovely, she forgot to bring out our olives and when we asked she did so, without charge and apologised profusely, although the main meal followed pretty much straight after so didn't really enjoy those as much as we would have. My lamb was supposed to come with dauphinois potatoes, instead it came with mash. Waitress did go to kitchen to get me a portion of dauphinois when I mentioned it. Again she was apologetic on behalf of chef. Lamb was tender and generous portions.We then realised that my sister's pork belly was supposed to come with crackling and black pudding, it had neither. And instead of seasonal greens, she got a pile of watercress. We didn't mention those as we just wanted to get on with our meal. We were offered complimentary deserts and both ordered the fruit fondue with marshmallows. The marshmallows were the mini ones you put on hot chocolate...felt a bit like they were just "making do"? Overall, the restaurant has a lovely atmosphere but am not sure what the chef was up to in the kitchen. What we ate certainly wasn't bad as such but for a brasserie charging what they were, definately wouldn't recommend it or return. Thankyou to our waitress who was really friendly.

site_logo

Lianna M . 2017-12-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The three of us went for a meal on Tuesday 5th December for just after 7 pm. As it was early we benefited from the special price for 2 courses. I had the wild mushrooms en croute which was superb and the food melted in your mouth, For the main course two of us went for a wonderful Hachis Parmentier. No matter how much I could try there is no way I could cook to this superb quality. The wine a Medoc AOC was a very good accompaniment and I think cost £7.25 a large glass. I thought the service, the ambience was eclectic and this place is a must for anyone wanting good food at a reasonable price. I fully recommend this restaurant!

site_logo

timetachyon . 2017-12-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Its been a year since we were last in Canterbury, decided to try Dems again as we'd had a great time on our first visit. Not disappointed by going back. The atmosphere is still very good, relaxed, fairly intimate but with a nice buzz about the place. The quality of the food is still excellent as is the service. The prices are very competitive too. We'd go back again, and again if we were local. A lovely place to eat

site_logo

N304fa . 2017-12-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I took my eldest to the Marlowe theatre last night, we stopped in at dems for a pre theatre meal and we were more than delighted with not only the food but the fantastic service. My daughter is vegan and found it easy to enjoy a meal for once. There were plenty of items on the main menu that she could choose from and she thoroughly enjoyed it. A clean restaurant with a fancy bathroom and lovely staff, we will be back soon.

site_logo

989Liss . 2017-11-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Came here 10 days ago last time was over a year ago when our daughter graduated. We all enjoyed it just as much. Food was delicious had the scallops and fillet steak. The only thing they did try and rush us to order but we slowed things down.

site_logo

Elphinstone . 2017-11-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Our first time in this restaurant, perfectly situated for a good meal right next to the Marlowe theatre in Canterbury. However the meal was better than just convenient and good value.£60 for 2 courses with wine, and both our meals were delicious. Why not 5 stars? Table placing a little tight, fortunately we had very nice neighbours.

site_logo

David D . 2017-11-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Ate her before going on to the Marlowe to see the fantastic Imelda May. Pre-theatre menu is very good value for money and offers vegan options for all courses, Vegan red cabbage soup was superb and tasty as was the mushrooms en croute. Mains were of the same high standard, my coq au vin was delicious and Sue couldn't finish the hachis as the portions are very generous. No possibility of trying the desserts as we were too full. Staff were friendly and professional and service was prompt. We'll be back

site_logo

NorwichCarrow . 2017-10-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Our party of four had a very enjoyable evening meal. All the food was good, but the main courses were the most varied and the most commendable: slow roast lamb, poulet Breton, cashew nut risotto, hache parmentier (a sort of beef cottage pie). We weren’t able to take advantage of the set menu, so our average spend for three courses with wine and tip was £40. The wine list is not long but well chosen, sensibly priced, and most of the wines were available by the glass.Our main waitress, a final year student from the University of Kent, was very efficient and charming.

site_logo

Nigel S . 2017-10-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Went here as a coiple pre-theatre - it is very near - and were welcomed and made to feel at ease immediately despite not having booked. The food was excellent and the ambience beautiful. the staff were most pleasant and we shall have no hesitation in returning.

site_logo

Spiritguide22 . 2017-10-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Similary restaurants in South East

restaurant_img
4,0

116 Opinions

L'Escargotlocation-icon22 High StreetFrench

I love the liver and I love garlic mushrooms, great little set menue o and the lemon posset is to die for, we have never been disappointed. Yes its old, yes they are set in there ways but they have always been very nice. We eat in lots of places chain restaurants and good expensive restaurants this sits highly above any chain restaurants and better than many independent. If anyone wants nice food at a reasonable price the set menue is great and the chef normality comes up and his wife is always chatting friendly and genuinely warm. To those critic's go to your chain where you will be happy with no personal service and for those who want an old fashion restaurant good food and don't mind actually being friendly you will get a genuine warm welcome back.

steakcookedlambcheesechickenonionduckmushroomspatesaladporkchocolatecoffeesoupbelly