Dolche Vita in Canterbury

it was a lovely day and we were struggling to find somewhere with enough seating and so were lucky here. Our food was fine, didn't take too long and we were served by friendly people. there is a small garden out back but not enough shade for us so we stayed inside. All good.

Very busy and nice atmosphere but very let down by service. Our order wasn’t placed to kitchen but it was only after I checked in with them that they confirmed this. Obviously a new waitress that was learning but it just made me sad that none of the more senior colleagues were checking in with the tables she was waiting to make sure it was okay. I witnessed a few people being offered ‘free drink’ coupons - possibly due to situations like ours, but some more constructive management could lead to better outcomes and experiences for customers, as we don’t feel like returning.

Ordered moules et frites. Not very good I'm afraid. The mussels stuck in their shells somehow so weren't eaten and cream sauce was tasteless (no garlic, no white wine). " Home baked bread" was from a supermarket and then heated through. Fish and chips were fine apparently. No prices on wine list which struck us as odd and not entirely in line with trading standards for pubs and restaurants...

Arrived to a very loud and noisy bar to find out our table was next to the door, across from the bar and next to noisy drinkers. We waited 15 mins for a drink although the drinkers at the bar where served ahead of our drinks order.....we knew then we had made a mistake! The food was excellent we both cleared our plate but atmosphere, service and attention to detail was lacking. Would not return in the immediate future.

Had bottomless brunch, Katie was superb as our server. We were never left waiting for our top-up