The Cake Hole in South Kesteven

Booked our visit for lunch on our journey to York. The food was amazing. Homemade parsnip and apple soup was superb. Lovely brown bread for our tuna sandwiches plus a side cup of soup. Finished off with delicious cherry frangipan and cream. Tea served in china teacups was a lovely touch. Highly recommend.

Had a fantastic meal here. The September taster menu was great from start to finish. Nice relaxed atmosphere and food delivered at a perfect pace. Unfortunately was driving so couldn’t have the wine pairing. Also big portions for a taster menu! Remarkable value as well. Definitely get booked in!

I visited Dougie’s this evening with my mother and had requested two vegan options for their set menu. I had assumed, with the dietary requirements, that we would have a few less courses and that the wine pairing wouldn’t be available to us. How very wrong I was, not only did we get the full 8 courses but the wine was vegan and the food was incredible, not to mention beautifully presented. It felt very luxurious and the staff gave the evening a real personal feel. We have already booked in to go again! I would highly recommend the evening bistro to anyone but especially vegans who are looking for something a bit special.

What a lovely little bistro with a decent range of eats to suit most palates. Very pleasant staff who look after you so well providing a high service. This super little place caters for the many regulars as well as passing trade including walkers, cyclists and 'stray' motorists who are wandering and looking for something different. Well worth a visit.

This is a place to keep a secret, in case you can’t get a table in future! Visited for the August taster menu, with friends! Just lovely! Food fresh, tasty and well presented! Wine matches perfect! Atmosphere and ambience just right! Such amazingly good value for money, will definitely be returning! This would not stop me from returning but If there was one criticism, it is the serving staff, one was over exuberant and telling us how lovely the food was or how lovely it looked and feel this is not the role of the waitress and the other lacked a little confidence! For real finesse and take to the next level serving staff need some more training! Thanks Kirk!

Found this lovely bistro on way from Suffolk to Sheffield 2 mins off A1!!! Coffee v good and food was well cooked and prepared. Delicious. Slight omission in salad was quickly compensated for by owner. A sign of a good establishment. Would recommend wholeheartedly

We popped in for a quick takeaway lunch while on the go. Superb stilton and walnut sandwich, great cakes. Very efficient and friendly service.

Visited with my mum and her friend for coffee and cake. Haven't been for ages. Lovely coffee as ever and red v is definitely my favourite. My mum had carrot cake which as always was really yummy (although I was only allowed a crumb!) Looking forward to a return visit

Visited on a Saturday for lunch. Really busy but staff were very quick to get us seated. Great menu with lots of choice. I had a bacon and sausage muffin which was lovely, the muffins are from Hambleton's and are the best I've ever tasted. Lovely and clean cafe and a nice place to have a bite to eat.

I visited Dougie’s Cakehole today after mentioning to my husband that I hadn’t been in for ages at the weekend. I like to support local business and as I live in Barrowby, I thought I’d give it a go with my son at lunchtime today. How the Cakehole has changed since the last time I visited! There was no welcome when we arrived, no hello, not even a smile from the man behind the counter. My son is 2 years old and still in need of a high chair, I found one but with holding a bag and a toddler, it was quite a struggle to manage the high chair too. Two members of staff walked past and watched me struggle. It was clear from their faces that children weren’t welcome (Evidently as it was the middle of the day and my son was the only child in there.) A lady came over to give us menus and to run through the specials. We ordered a portion of toast and I had a sandwich. This was fine. Nothing special, just fine. Unfortunately, I felt like I had to rush our lunch and get out of there quickly as I noticed the gentleman behind the counter (who I assume is the owner?) glaring at us on three separate occasions. I quickly went up to the counter to pay and it was the lady that took my order who took payment. There was NO customer service. She didn’t ask if we had enjoyed our lunch, she didn’t say thank you. I was so disappointed as when I have been in previously, it couldn’t have been more different. I will not be returning or recommending to friends. Such a shame as this is one of the only places we have in Barrowby and by behaving in this manner, they are limiting their customers.

From the moment we opened the door to the moment we closed it behind us Dougie's was memorable. A warm and genuine welcome, friendly explanation about 'how it works',a truly delicious menu and super wine selection (we loved the wine matching) the food and presentation surpassing all our expectations, just the right amount of attention from lovely serving staff, brief but very welcome explanations of key courses from the chef HIMSELF! This is our restaurant of choice from now on - we can't wait to see the upcoming monthly set menus and will set a repeating monthly event in our calendar.Congratulations Dougie's on getting it absolutely right in a tough market .... what shone out for us most of all was the passion the chef and his team feel for serving and pleasing the audience. We were VERY PLEASED!

An all over amazing dining experience whether you want coffee and cake, lunch or the Bistro evening. Staff are attentive, courteous and friendly. Can honestly say we have never been disapointed.

We enjoyed a fabulous evening at Dougie's. The tasting menu was delicious and featured carefully considered seasonal produce. The restaurant felt special, cosy and romantic, yet relaxed and unpretentious. The service was fantastic too. Thoroughly recommended.

First time visit to the bistro, every course was delicious and beautifully presented, every element on the plate was explained to you on delivery. Intimate & cosy setting, hospitality and service excellent. Thank you to all. X

Visited for mothers day and found myself treated like royalty. Amazing service and such a wonderful selection of cakes for afternoon tea. I love scones and I am afraid my visit has ruined any other scone for me, the scones were quite frankly the best I've ever tasted, honestly to die for. Would definitely visit again.

I visited The Cakehole - renamed Dougies yesterday. It was a world away from my last visit of a warm welcome and hospitable staff. Suggest a new front of house person is employed as on arrival we werent acknowledge with a nod, smile, hello or any other normal salutation. We seated ourselves and a man came and gave us a menu and offered the specials of the day then gave us time to order. Have to say it really was a chilly welcome. Back to take order and it almost felt like a very curt response when we ordered only sandwiches and drinks. Clearly expected to spend more than the £13 we did. I loved this place, but afraid the positively cool reception has done it for me. I wont be returning anytime soon. Such and absolute shame as the food was delicious. No more village business meetings to be held here then!

We found this little gem a few years ago and have watched it grow- and now make a point to visit whenever we are in the area-try the bistro nights...awesome!,

My husband and I decided to call in for coffee and cake today. However once we saw the menu, we decided to have a light lunch as many of the items sounded yummy. I had the cheese scone which was served with an apple, walnut and cheese salad together with a cup of Pear & Parsnip soup and my husband had a platter.

I’ve previously been to the cafe and bistro with adults on a number of occasions. Today I visited with a friend with our two young children due to the new Wednesday opening times had an awful experience.

Amazing food every time we visit. Lovely for brunch. Coffee is excellent. Friendly staff. Cakes are heavenly. Soups are so different and delicious. Can’t wait to try a bistro night.

Known well to other members of my family, this was my first time here. Noon on a cold Friday and it was already almost full but we were beautifully greeted by the staff and directed to a table. Small, cafe-style with a deli counter at one end. The menu had lots of sandwich and ploughmans-type lunch options, but we both chose the cauliflower and walnut soup, which was truly excellent - warm, interesting, tasty and filling. Because I had a good feeling about the probable quality, I also had the quiche and salad. So many cafes and lunch-spots do limp and tasteless quiches but this was fresh and with all the flavours intact - the salad too was good. We drank coffees (a latte and a mocha) which once again were well above average. Three dishes and 2 coffees cost £23. The "coffee-shop & deli" turns into a bistro on Friday and Saturday evenings - one the strength of the very high lunch quality, that would definitely be worth trying too.

Stopped for refuelling late on a Thursday afternoon. Cafe was full, mainly of groups of ladies finishing off super looking afternoon teas. I had bacon muffin with a cup of soup. Very tasty and hit the spot on a chilly day. Café is very well decorated and laid out. Staff are very friendly with good advice on options. A little bit pricey but worth it for a treat, I will be back.

Had a lovely evening. The food and wine matching were excellent. A nice intimate venue with great service that doesn't break the bank. Will definitely be back, will check out next months menu.

What a lovely little place, staff very helpful and welcoming. Food was delicious and was hard to choose what to have from the small but delicious menu. All finished off with a yummy slice of brownie. Would recommend and will be back.

My Husband and I always visit The Cakehole when we are staying locally. The Cafe is excellent BUT the Bistro Dining has taken it to a new level of excellence.

Service was excellent ,food amazing the team did a great job given our party had a vegan vegetarian and wheat free guests. Thank you so much for an excellent evening.We will be back soon.Karen

What more can you say? Excellent. Shame the coffee shop is only open Thursday to saturday. Excellent choice of menu. High standard of service. Staff are helpful and friendly. Everything prepared to order.

Well this was our second visit to this lovely restaurant. I can’t praise it more highly. The food is wonderful, service exceptional. A set menu of delicious food ,Having recently been to a Michelin starred restaurant I know which one gets my vote. Can’t wait to go again , I won’t be waiting until my next birthday.Thank you cakehole

Absolutely thrilled at the changes since our last visit. We tried the new comfie areas for Tapas and antipasta. We were not disappointed, excellent value for money at just £12 for 4 plates and as usual the quality of the food and service was outstanding.

Yet another amazing night at the Cakehole with outstanding food and excellent service. First class, can't wait for our next visit

It was our 17th wedding anniversary and my wife and I decided that Dougie’s Cakehole in Barrowby near Grantham was the place to go. A wise decision as it turned out.

Ourtstanding food and selection of Deli products . Haven't been to a Bistro night but wish I had. Thre service is fast and efficient with good knowledge of the menu. Children welcome . All warmly welcomed well worth a visit

The Cakehole bistro night was a superb dining experience. Rarely have I felt so welcome and relaxed as I did last night. The chef is clearly a master of his trade, the courses were beautifully presented and the flavours were sublime. The Cakehole is certainly worth a visit and we will be returning in the near future. Thanks to everybody at the Cakehole for a memorable culinary extravaganza.

Visited in Feb for my girlfriends birthday and had a very enjoyable meal at one of dougies bistro nights.

My first visit to the Cakehole and i wasn’t disappointed. A group of 9 friends arrived and we were treated with a smile and sat at our table for the evening 7 course set menu. The portions may look small, however they were perfectly sized and packed full of amazing flavours. The food was beautifully presented and the timings on service could not have been any better. We did not feel rushed, nor did we have to wait around. With the head chef explaining the meals as we went along was a great touch. We all left feeling very satisfied and I can highly recommend the Irish coffee to finish off!!

The Cakehole has been our breakfast stop of choice for a number of years on our trips north to our daughter in Manchester/Sheffield/Leeds. Imagine the disappointment when we rolled up on Saturday and found the opening time changed from 08.30 to 10.30. That's not breakfast time. Is the place now being run as a hobby rather than a really good café/deli?

Dougie's is the Bistro part of The Cakehole in Barrowby Grantham, and is only open Friday and Saturday evenings. It is superb. Dougie's serves a fixed menu for a fixed price (currently £35) with 7 or 8 courses and a couple of tasters in-between. Soup, fish, meat and sweets all are presented visually well and well cooked--the Pork 2 ways this time was succulent and tender--great. For value for money this has to rate at the top for this quality of service, menu and quality. Downside is that it has become so popular that you need to book several weeks in advance and leave a deposit. Just before your date someone will phone to confirm and ask about allergies from the menu which will be available on their website. All staff are attentive and seem to be having a ball doing the job. Good selection of wine by glass or bottle. Water free on table and refilled when empty. Bread and butter also served with the meal. Coffe/tea included too.

This was my first visit following a recommendation from a friend and I wasn’t disappointed. The service was far from mediocre, it was spot on with extremely attentive staff. The choice for lunch is amazing which left me in a quandary about what to select. My eventual choice was amazing and we all agreed that the food was superb. Although we were too stuffed to have a cake, the selection seemed to be pretty good. I’m looking forward to my next visit and I have it on good authority that bistro night is worth a visit.

Visited last year and thought this place was lovely , very disappointed this time. Rubbish selection of cakes, slow service...

Brilliant atmosphere. The food is always delicious and fresh, the staff are friendly and more than willing to help with...

Just been for our second bistro night here. It is a 6 course set menu with a set price. Kirk...

My wife and visited the Cake Hole recently for the Bistro Event; as soon as we walked in we were...

We ate at The Cakehole on a Bistro Night in early July. Having recently been treated to a mid week meal at Purnells restaurant in Birmingham Kirk Stubbs and his team had a lot to live up to.

My husband and I went for lunch on mon soup and sandwich combo always absolutely delicious!!! my husband always enjoys his cappuccino as I enjoy a glass of wine the staff really are a credit to the cakehole we have booked for the bistro night for November as the bistro nights get booked up very quickly as there so popular will definitely be back again soon

We came as a group of 4 for afternoon tea. The place was pretty busy and a table was reserved for us as we had booked in advance. Service was quick and friendly. The food itself was nice enough but I would have preferred either verbal information on the contents of the sandwiches and the cakes or a written list. As a non-fish eater I found the sandwiches rather fish heavy but the ham and cheese sandwiches were lovely. The sandwiches are not dainty either so expect to be full quite quickly. The cakes were nice also but the scones were a bit on the small side and the cream/jam combo would have been better self-applied not pre-applied. Unlike some places serving afternoon tea drink re-fills were not included in the price which was a bit of a shame. However, overall it was a nice afternoon tea and not too badly priced for what we got compared to other places - but free refills should be considered.

Small, as one would expect a village tea room to be, but packed to the rafters with people who appreciate great food and service. I had the ploughman’s which included local cheese and bread, and was very good. My companion had the pork pie board which he declared to be one of the best pork pies he’s ever had. I had a small one on my board and tried it—I am not fond of pork pies but this one could have converted me had there not been so many other wonderful tastes. The only trouble with such a bountiful, delicious lunch is that we had no room for any of their pastries, which looked very tempting.

Came here just before a wedding in the local church and used it as a meeting place for a few people who were going as well. They had a bacon roll whilst they were waiting for us and they said it was really tasty. I just had a toasted tea cake and a decaf coffee. It was very nicely presented and tasted very nice. They have little mini room where they sell little bits and bobs which is a nice touch. They also seemed to have fresh cakes which looked lovely. The atmosphere was busy and buzzing. I would probably come back here if I was in the area and wanted a snack or lunch etc.

Every Friday evening they do a Bistro menu here and it really is something quite special. This is our second visit and with any kind of luck it won't be our last. They do a fixed menu of about 7 courses, including a Trou Normand, which varies from week to week. In all honesty, unless you have food allergies, there's no need to check out the menu because whatever it is it will taste delicious, seriously!The last time we came the food was just as perfect but the wine let the meal down a tad. This time the wine was good as well.If you fancy haute cuisine at not very haute prices, you really need to try this place out.

Can we for breakfast the food was amazing friendly staff nice and relaxed atmosphere will be returning

Today we went for a very enjoyable lunch at the cakehole barrowby I enquired about the soup of the day it was cream of mushroom i wasn't sure what it tasted like the waitress serving us very kindly bought me out a small serving to try which I found very thoughfull both me and my husband decided to have a sandwich and soup combination very good idea best of both my husband throughly enjoyed his capachino I had a very refreshing glass of wine they have a fantastic wine menu the atmosphere is very friendly the food is delicious very good value for money we will definitely be back again

We have been to The Cake Hole many times. There is always a friendly welcome by the staff and owner. The range of food is fantastic. Today we popped in for a coffee and take away food. Being vegetarian there are always options. The staff are more than happy to explain the different types of food and the costs. The coffee is of a very high quality and well presented. We have eaten lunch many times at The Cake Hole and the food is excellent again with great service. Keep up the excellent work. The chilli chocolate was lovely.

Looking for somewhere for coffee, breakfast or lunch with easy access from A1 then this place has to be on the list. Lovely selection of breakfast items. Fresh bread and muffins. Pleasant friendly service. Easy to find on google maps just west of the A1 at the A52 junction

I visited the cake hole for lunch with a friend I asked for a ham salad. It's not on the menu but a ploughman is. So I asked if I could have this with no pork pie or cheese and instead have extra ham. Quite simple you would think? But it wasn't possible to do! I then asked for no cucumber on a quiche salad. Not possible! So I was given a pile of rocket and a slice of quiche for £8. No homemade coleslaw or anything. Far too expensive and just silly not being allowed a ham salad sorryNice cake and coffee. Lovely waitress

We were looking forward to our first evening bistro experience at the Cake Hole - but six courses for the same price as a main course at a London restaurant - what on earth would it be like for that price? Amazing, we discovered. Leek and cheddar soup, led into gilt head bream, led into all sorts of other delights, culminating in a trio of delicious puddings, called simply 'citrus'. The quality of the ingredients and the skill with which the chef handles them is astonishing - we frequently eat in high end restaurants and they could learn lots from this little gem. Add to that, the reasonably priced and imaginative wine list and attentive service - the chef is a lovely chap who is at pains to make sure the diners are enjoying themselves - and it all makes for a very good night indeed.

Stopped here Bank holiday Monday for lunch. Lovely deli and restaurant with garden. Great choice of food, all very well presented and tasty. Good selection too - will appeal to older and younger tastes. Excellent range of dishes - from full cooked lunches to boards and sandwiches. Local ingredients and staff happy to help. Great place to go. Well recommended.

We found this on our journey from Kent to the Lake District and have been back on every journey since. This cafe has a lovely ambience, good coffee and cakes and is set in lovely surroundings - A very relaxing and enjoyable eating experience.

The family all got together for afternoon tea to celebrate Mothers Day. Amazing afternoon tea although ended up with many doggy bags of cakes as the portions were so generous.Thank you for looking after us and making the day so special.

A great place for lunch and a chat. Everything on the menu is always so fresh and it's lovely how that most of the ingredients that are used are local too. The staff are always so speedy and as well as friendly. Can't wait for my next little lunch visit!

Well worth a visit excellent food excellent service very friendly food was amazing we just wish we had enough room left for the amazing cakes on offer

I go regularly and love this place. A warm, friendly welcome assured. 200 degrees coffee, soya milk available. The only thingy hat would make it perfect would be a more frequent change to the menu as I am a regular

I visited "The Loft" on a trip to Edinburgh recently having read about it on this website and curious as to whether it was as good as many made out. I can say that I wasn't disappointed - It provided a warm, friendly and utterly hospitable environment. I quickly made a friend of the "Barista" who whipped up a fab latte that I used to wash down a thoroughly delicious bacon role. As I sat musing on my I-pad I couldn't help but notice how helpful and attentive one of the female staff members was towards an elderly couple one of whom was disabled. In all a thoroughly nice experience and a welcome break from the misery of the A1 !! In the words of Arnie - "I'll be back"

This is so much more than a little local cafe.Fresh local good quality food is at its core.Simple, yet tasty, homemade soups, sharing platters and artisan bread at lunch are well presented and offer great variety. The evening bistro nights are something else. This chef knows what he is doing - Food befitting a fine dining restaurant paired with beautiful wines are lovingly presented, each course tasting absolutely amazing. I almost don't want to tell too many people about this hidden gem as it is hard enough to book a table.

We went shopping nearby and decided tomeat away from the shops at this little cafe,had to wait for a table but glad we did.We both had a "board",mine with a large cheese scone,choice of cheese and salad plus large cup of lovely homemade soup,my husband had the soup plus cheese,pork pie and bread,together with a pot of tea came to just under £20.So filling no room for cakeStaff very friendly and only small complaint was lack of prices on shop goods.Lovely clean loos.,well worth a visit.

Amazing food and very friendly staff and a nice location all local products and all homemade and very good value for money I would highly recommend here to everyone

This is a very popular meeting place, especially for Mum's who have children at the nearby school.It caters for light bites and cake, and the coffee is very nice. It's a lovely venue to meet up with other girlies.

I have always had a great snack, lunch and indeed evening dining experience at this lovely cafe. It is such a friendly welcoming place and the food is always delicious!

I come here often. A bit of a bolt hole for me. Gives a calm environment to collect my thoughts and, of course, have something great to eat. Whether it's breakfast - great bacon, crumpets, muffins and Lincolnshire poacher cheese, or lunchtime sandwiches and salad or just a coffee and cake, this place always delivers.Today's treat is a cappuccino with a blackcurrant and liquorice mousse cake with a red velvet base, served with pouring cream.... really delicate flavours but totally Delicious.

Several times a year we have to slog up and down the A1, and like most major roads, the places you can take a break are uniformly pretty depressing. So we decided to look for something near the route, and were very pleased to find this place so near to the A1.Barrowby is a lovely village, and the Cake Hole is well up to the standard of the surroundings. I had a delicious smoked mackerel sandwich, while my partner went for a humus platter, and was very satisfied. She also bought some cakes to take away with her.We'll definitely be back, next time we have to do that A1 trip.

This is more than just a coffee shop, it goes way beyond that. Staff are friendly and helpful. If I go in on my own they are excellent, I have disabilities there is always someone on hand willing to help with either getting to my table, putting g my jacket on and ensuring that my meal is served so that I can manage it. There is an excellent menu choice and the cakes are to die for. Chicken and chorizo pasta salad, creamy mushroom pasta, soup of the day, ploughman's platter, cheese platter as well as excellent range of sale dices, muffins with bacon just some of the choices. A lovely secluded sunny garden space if you want to sit out. This place just goes from strength to strength.

Meet a colleague here for a meeting. Lovely cake and pot of tea. Really nice surroundings and check out the back room for cards and little nik naks!

Called in at this out of the way little cafe on the spur of the moment for a lunch time snack and certainly didn't regret it. The cafe is larger than you think and even has a garden to sit in. All the sandwiches (and there is a great selection to choose from) are freshly made from local produce including the bread and are simply delicious. The service is good and the staff polite and helpful in fact I cannot praise the establishment enough. There is a great menu with plenty of choice. Go there try it you will not be disappointed.

We called in here for lunch having seen the reviews on TripAdvisor. We were warmly welcomed and loved the light airy interior. We ordered Stilton, walnut and onion chutney sandwiches, which came on very fresh 7cereal bread. Liz ordered the hot sausage and Stilton sandwich. All sandwiches came with a few crisps and a dressed mixed leaves garnish. They were all very tasty, with very fresh bread and substantial fillings. I also enjoyed an excellent Latte as well as some San Pell. water. We were looked after by attentive and friendly staff. Overall an excellent call for lunch - worth the slight deviation off the A52.

We stumbled in hungry on a Sunday afternoon. Pleasant service and delicious food. Local cheese, fresh bread, local preserves. Wish it were closer to Colorado!

I visited here as recommended by a friend and I was not disappointed it is a beautiful light and friendly little place. Food all fresh and very tasty, staff very helpful, I will be returning.

We found this cafe after leaving a 2 hour traffic jam en route to the airport. It was perfect. Lovely friendly staff, great food and great coffee all served in a pretty garden. I wish we lived closer so I could go back sooner. Thank you for turning a stressful afternoon back into a holiday!

Gorgeous cakes, delicious sandwiches and soups, really good quality for sensible prices. Cannot recommend the red velvet cake highly enough, not ideal if you are trying to diet!

Before I start can I just say that I have visited The Cake Hole during the day and have enjoyed it. Not only because of the ambience, the waitresses and chef are so friendly and welcoming, but the charcuterie and cakes are fab.So obviously when they started doing Bistro nights I wanted to go. They were always fully booked so I registered my mobile number to be informed when a table became free (fabulous idea). Kirk (owner and chef) rang and not only took the booking but asked us to check the menu online in case there was anything we didn't like (fab idea number 2).Last night I finally made it to the Bistro night and unfortunately I was disappointed. Be warned if you go and find the blinds are down (last night the Closed sign was also showing but apparently they just forget to turn that sometimes) the cafe is open! We sat in the car waiting for the 7.30pm opening time until we saw someone walking in. The blinds allow for privacy and does make the place feel cozy. The atmosphere was great, obviously the locals go often as a lot of the people knew each other. We were met by Kirk who welcomed us and checked again that the menu was OK. The waitresses were lovely and friendly as always. The tables were beautifully decorated and the lighting subdued. So far so wonderful. To the food. First we had Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. This was delicious, you could really taste the red pepper, only niggle was the over use of black pepper but, as I like pepper and generally have to add it to soups, this was OK for me but it did start to mask the lovely red pepper flavour. We then had Seared supreme of lemon sole with lemon dressed leaves. Now I am not a great fan of fish, it is to do with the general lack of flavour and bones, I hate bones. The fish was OK but flavourless and the promise of lemon dressed leaves didn't give a flavour of lemon which was a shame. It was beautifully presented but nothing special. Although I filleted it quite well (even if I do say so myself) I gave up on this dish both because of the lack of interest in flavours and small bones! Here allow me to digress. This being a tasting menu I expected small portions, they are not. The next dish was Riccioli al Barolo, plum tomato and buffalo mozzarella. The mozzarella was lovely and creamy and the dish had a great dressing, just the right balance between sharp and sweet. But there was a distinct lack of tomatoes and, for me, the pasta was overcooked, I do like it al dente. Next was Trou Normand. I have to confess to not knowing what this was. The flavour was pomegranate and vodka. You could certainly taste the pomegranate and the kick of vodka was great. Again though, a sharper sorbet would have been more palette cleansing as the pomegranate was overpowering.Next, I know, we are still going, was Ras al hanout rubbed pork with spiced puy lentils. This, for me, was the strangest flavour. Come with me, if you will, to the 1970s. My Mum occasionally bought Chicken Supreme in a can for us to have on toast. This is what the pork tasted like, so with every mouthful my brain is trying to find the flavour of the pork. Brought back lovely memories but this dish did not work for me. The pork was stringy, dry and chewy. The lentils were cooked to perfection but the flavours were just not right for me.Last, but definitely not least, we come to the dessert simply described as Strawberry shortcake. This was sublime. Beautiful fresh strawberries, a shortbread so delicate and fine balanced on a strawberry 'cake' (delicate mousse like square on top of a thin sponge) together with strawberry quenelle and dots of balsamic sauce. Not only was the presentation perfection but the flavours and textures were too. I enjoyed every mouthful and decided if they would do Bistro menu of different desserts I would be there every month.I feel like I am betraying the cafe giving an average review in one way. The waitresses throughout the meal check if you want a break or more drink etc. The staff, ambience, location everything is wonderful. Kirk I know is a good chef but I have eaten better elsewhere.For £29.95 per head, I think we had a lot of food and would certainly not complain about the quantity. Personally I would prefer to be able to choose my dishes. I can certainly see why the locals enjoy it, but as I have to drive to places, I know I will not drive back here for Bistro night.

Popped in here today for cake and coffee and what a lovely experience. My hubby had the granola bar and I had raspberry frangipann both of which were to die for. On top of this was the really friendly professional staff who obviously enjoy their work. Wished we lived nearer because this venue would be a regular haunt.

I love this place. I keep visiting during lunch hours and have taken friends and family over at weekends. The service can bit a little slow, so build in some time to wait for the food. But when it does arrive, it's well worth it. Everything has so much flavour. The sandwich and soup combo is a great deal. You really get a lot for your money. The ingredients used are full of flavour. I can't recommend the cakes enough, love them. Especially the red velvet. Their brie and cranberry sandwich made me like brie now! Friendly staff and a nice little shop to buy a few local/organic bits. They seem to have more tables now, which works better. And there is a lovely little garden out the back.

Having been often for daytime coffee or lunches (and the sublime scones and cakes!), we at last managed to get a booking for their Fri evening bistro night - no wonder they're booked up many months ahead! The set menu has 5 courses of truly scrummy, innovative and beautifully presented food cooked by owner Kirk and his team of oh so friendly staff. You can go at your own pace so if you want a little break between courses, no problem. We certainly didn't feel stuffed at the end, just nicely full - such is the stylish but sensibly modest portion size. Perfection on a plate!

A great find, just out bumbling around, stumbled upon it, tea and cakes excellent plus the small deli attached.We WILL be back!

Pulled over at the services and checked trip advisor for anywhere better than Costa. The Cake Hole is only five minutes from the services but a million miles better. The Cake are truly fantastic!

A lovley little place only went for coffee and cake with my daughter it was very busy and I can see why the red velvety cake was fabulous we will be visiting again very soon.

We booked in as we were visiting friends, and I was a bit worried because my daughter is a very fussy eater, but I needn't have. The menu was very sophisticated with a gorgeous creamy mushroom soup to start, followed by salmon which looked big enough to be a main course. My fussy eater scoffed the lot and she hates fish. It was cooked to perfection with a lovely crisp salad and raspberry balsamic dressing - just heavenly. This was followed by what I can only describe as heaven on a plate, and it was the part of the menu I was least sure of. Squid ink pasta with Stilton sauce, oh my word absolutely glorious. I could have eaten another 3 bowls. We had a little sorbet to cleanse our palate then main course was a beef brisket with sweet potatoes and a lovely jus. Proper grown up food!!!!!!! Finished off with an orange cake (my description doesn't do this justice) and chocolate gnash, light and fresh and just perfect. The staff were happy, friendly and made sure we had a personal service, and nothing was too much trouble, my fussy eater cleared everything put in front of her and asked for more. Kirk the owner (and the chef) came out to say hello and check everything was OK, a real personal touch. An absolutely delightful evening, the best food I have ever eaten - without a doubt Can't wait to book again - do you have space in November?

Only half a mile off the A1 so we stopped off to break up our journey based on previous reviews. Glad we did as both sandwiches were very nice and bread was very fresh and tasty as was home-made chutney. Also treated ourselves to a slice of cake each which again come highly recommended. Service was excellent and everyone very friendly. Will return next time I'm making my way up the A1.

My Husband and I went to The Cake Hole on Tuesday for lunch. We do pop in quite often as we live fairly locally, usually just for coffee. We were greeted, as ever, by very friendly, polite staff. The atmosphere was good, quite bustling and busy. I had Stilton, walnut and onion marmalade sandwiches on 7 seed bread...a delicious flavour combination. My Husband had sausage sandwiches - also yummy. There is a good choice of coffees, the latte is particularly good. The Cake Hole is the sort of place you keep wanting to visit, we would highly recommend it and have never been disappointed whatsoever! We have booked for the Friday Bistro evening in July...couldn't get in sooner!

My husband and I call into The Cakehole a couple of times each month - more often if we can - and are never disappointed...other than if all of the tables are taken, of course!The atmosphere is great, the staff are friendly and polite, and the coffee and food are wonderful! We went to Syston on Easter Saturday morning as the Cakehole was closed, which only re-affirmed how good the Cakehole is!We are looking forward to the Bistro meal in July! (couldn't get in sooner)

Popped in on the way to Wyndham Gardens hotel after finding the Cakehole on Google maps explore. Not only is The Cakehole excellent value for money, the food itself is definitely made with love and care as it points out on the chalkboard inside. The food is of a high quality, this is reflected in the flavour and taste of the meals and cakes.Me and my partner had meals and cakes. Cappuccino was beautiful and had a great tasting coffee. Toasted muffin with sausage and bacon was tasty, great meat. The saute mushrooms were creamy and delicious. May I recommend the red velvet cake... WOW. Cannot praise the place enough, I commend the staff for being so welcoming and sweet. Wish I lived closer as I would 100% be a regular. Thanks.

Another outstanding meal at this bistro. Everything was, as it always is, perfect - the food, the wine, the exceptionally pleasant service. If you haven't been here before you are simply missing out on one of THE really outstanding dining out experiences.

We visited this cafe after hearing lots of reviews. There were 4 of us and all had a selection of breakfast items which were fresh and tasty. The time pasted quickly and we all stayed for cake and more drinks which were equally nice. A lovely morning and we will definitely be back.

Small friendly atmosphere with excellent food, presentation spot on. Enjoyed two lovely Friday evenings with friends, tried to book again but fully booked till July '16. So that just speaks for itself.

The cake hole no longer has proper cakes, very disappointing. Only had tray bake looking things available at midday and they looked as if they had been made by a child.Very few customers and no atmosphere.What a loss.

We couldn't believe our luck when we discovered this place just a few miles from the hotel we were staying in. Initially, we planned to have cake and coffee, however, upon browsing the menu we decided to have a late lunch. We were not disappointed. I can definitely recommend the mushrooms on toast and the cheese platter - the carrot and lentil soup was pretty tasty too! We finished with the lemon curd ice-cream and honeycomb toffee vanilla ice-cream. Pure decadent delights. Unable to eat anymore, they kindly prepared a picnic for us to take home (cakes, olives and quiche) Full marks for top notch food and friendly attentive service. Well worth a visit!

Attentive & friendly staff coupled with scrumptious food - we only dropped by for a cake and coffee, but couldn't resist sampling the cheese platter and the mushroom-on-very-posh-toast - we were not disappointed! The side order of a cup of soup was amazing value at just £2 for a large teacup filled with yummy home-made carrot and lentil, brimming with flavour... The cheese platter had three generous portions of cheese, wonderful fruity toast, tasty onion marmalade (I think this is home made, too), was prettily dressed with some salad leaves, along with crispy biscuit flatbreads - plenty for two to share as a snack, it would be quite filling as a meal for one... Then there was the ice- cream, did I mention they serve ice-cream? Lemon curd, cinder-toffee, elderflower and gooseberry, to name but three of the flavours - premium quality ice- cream, which we just had to sample :-D After our feast, we had no room for cake, so brought it home to eat later ... I would happily recommend this lovely cake/coffee shop and just wished I lived nearer - I'd definitely be a regular!!!

My friend treated me to lunch to celebrate her 70th Birthday. What a treat it was! I'm always prepared for disappointment when going to a tea shop. So what a pleasant surprise awaited me. A bowl of hot pea soup was accompanied by a BLT on Gluten free toasted bread with a garnish of green salad leaves in balsamic vinegar. The large cup of decaffeinated proper coffee came with a jug of Soya milk and there was homemade warm coffee cake available for if I had any space for it. I didn't, but how refreshing to find! Apparently, if I'd phoned ahead the Chef would have made me something special! No ♿ disabled loo as such but the one loo was large enough for wheelchair access. However, there are 2 small steps at the front door to negotiate which may pose a problem to some. Definitely a pleasurable visit with helpful, smiling and attentive staff. Obviously a venue for Ladies who Lunch and always busy.

I am fortunate enough to live just a few doors down from The Cakehole.The café food is really good - love the hot rolls, mackerel pâté sandwiches and the brilliant selection of cake. The drinks are equally satisfying, whether you choose a steaming coffee or a local Belvoir fruit farms bottle. The little delicatessen near the till is also very inviting. But the best part? The bistro evenings held on Friday night and are always busy - you will have to book well in advance. I enjoyed the bistro evening a couple of months ago with my wife. It was a great experience. Superb service from the team and chef, fantastic food over the 6 or so courses and very drinkable wine, which always helps. I hope that the team gets rewarded with more recognition and can perhaps expand to more evenings...?The only fly in the ointment is that it is never open on a Sunday. As I work during the week my ability to use The Cakehole is limited to those rare Friday nights and Saturdays.

I absolutely love The Cakehole. The staff are always friendly and attentive, the food and drink is of a high quality and there is always a relaxed atmosphere. Highly recommend the soup as I have never been disappointed ... Delicious. Keep up the good work .

We pulled off the A52 on a whim, to break a long journey up the A1 and found this small sleepy village, turned a corner and came across this bustling little tea room. It was perfect, the staff couldn't be more helpful and the selection of sandwiches all sounded delicious. We had to choose and they were as good as their descriptions, freshly made with tasty ingredients. Washed down with a pot of tea, we were happily and gratefully refreshed to go on our journey.

The chef is ex-forces and well versed in banquet style dining. With that in mind they do a fine-dining experience every Friday evening and it's well worth trying. The food is absolutely perfect and, whilst the dishes are small, there are 5 of them - including a trou normand - so you leave with a stomach that is comfortably content. The only reason I haven't given it 5 stars was that the wine was a bit of a let down. A bottle of average Sancerre was £30, which I felt was a bit pricey. However, the real let down was when we ordered a second bottle (it wasn't that too pricey) and it arrived at room temperature! Some wine you can get away with serving at the wrong temperature, Sancerre is not one of these. So not only had they forgotten to put a few bottles in the fridge but the staff were so unfamiliar with wine that they didn't think there was any harm in just breaking another bottle out of the pantry and serving it!The attitude to wine was a such odds to the perfection of the food that I have to assume they have learnt a lesson and the wine storage and knowledge has improved, I certainly hope so.Wine aside the service was good, the ambience great and it was all very well priced.

Great food - great service - allergies well catered for - cant wait to go back. Set menu - loads of things that I would never have ordered off a menu with choices but loved every course!Nice to meet the chef - before, during and at the end of the evening.