How it rated

Quality of service excellent

Value for money very reasonably priced

Ambience tastefully decorated

Speed of service just right

Quality of food excellent


MIDDLEWICH has never been known for its abundance of quality restaurants so when Kandi Cafe Bar and Grill opened in Wheelock Street before Christmas I was just itching to give it a try.

Formerly Cafe Bar M, the new owner and chef Jason Tanfield really has done wonders with the place.

The modern, but tasteful decor, mood lighting and relaxed atmosphere makes for a pleasant, if not romantic evening out.

My companion and I visited the restaurant on a Friday night and fortunately we had booked first as it is easy to see how the small, cosy dining room could soon fill up.

We were greeted with a pleasant welcome from the attentative members of staff and shown to our table in a cosy nook.

The menu was extensive and offered a mouth-watering selection of steaks, fresh fish, pizza, pasta and vegetarian options - all very reasonably priced.

For starters I opted for the chargrilled skewered king prawns on a bed of lemon dressed leaves with a sweet chilli dip, while my companion chose the pan fried mushrooms in a creamy brandy and pepper sauce.

Both were equally delicious and at less that £5 for king prawns you certainly can't grumble at the price.

For the main course I went for the grilled tuna steak and after much deliberation my partner settled on the rack of lamb.

All main courses are served with a choice of rice, jacket potato, chips or mash and salad or veg, as well as a choice of various mouth-watering sauces to compliment your meal.

Again the food was delicious and the service was prompt and efficient and the fact that you can mix and match your meats and sauces adds a personal touch.

Next course - and my favourite - dessert. I went for the sticky toffee pudding and my companion had the banoffee pie.

Of course the sweets were divine and it is quite clear that everything in this restaurant is homemade with the utmost care and attention.

One unusual addition was a TV screen at the back of the restaurant with views of the kitchen so that you can see your food being made.

Having worked in restaurant kitchens when I was younger this could have proved to be a dangerous experiment, but from where we were sitting the kitchen seemed to run like clockwork.

Overall this was a brilliant meal, with great service and a lovely atmosphere. This funky and modern little restaurant is just the tonic for Middlewich town centre and I would well recommend a visit.