As soon as we stepped over the threshold of this gem of a restaurant we were swept straight to the bazaars and exotic atmosphere of Morocco. Set amid the small streets that surround Canterbury Cathedral and housed over several floors, Café Mauresque's ambience and decor took our breath away as we settled on soft cushions at a quiet table lit by a lantern.
Welcomed by the friendly staff, we perused the extensive menu. The owner, Xavier German, moved from table to table welcoming diners old and new and offering advice on the menu, which combines ingredients from North Africa and Spain and delighted us with delicate flavours and aromas. We decided to start our meal with the Moorish mixed starter for two. The platter contained tempting dishes of lamb meatballs, hummus, olives and feta, chorizo with sherry and tomato, Serrano ham and Manchego, bread and almonds.
We delighted in the different flavours and were happily nibbling our starters and enjoying the atmosphere when an unmistakable aroma announced the arrival of our tangines. My friend opted for the duck with honey-glazed squash, almonds, sultanas and cinnamon, which she declared to be the best she had ever tasted. I chose the salmon and tiger prawns with cherry tomatoes, peppers and chermoula which had been recommended by Xavier. Needless to say the salmon melted in the mouth and the prawns were superb. Although feeling satisfied after our meals, we couldn't resist our waitress' recommendation of date cake with ice cream. Each mouthful of the rich cake was more moreish than the last - this is a dish that everyone visiting should try at least once.
Café Mauresque also has a function room that seats 15 people, a lunch deal Monday to Friday for £7.95, a student discount of 20 per cent off food on Sunday and Monday evenings and Canterbury residents also get 20 per cent off on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. For anyone wishing to enjoy a leisurely lunch or a family get-together in a unique and exotic setting, Café Mauresque is a must.
