A warmly reviewed, sea-view meze restaurant with excellent seasonal cooking and strong repeat appeal, though service can become disorganised during busy periods and sharing costs need planning.
JoJo's Meze earns its standing through strong food quality anchored by fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients, paired with knowledgeable staff who excel at guiding diners through sharing portions. The coastal setting and ocean outlook create genuine destination appeal within Whitstable, though occasional service lapses during busy periods and minor consistency variations in execution keep it just short of the very top tier.
JoJo’s is a relaxed coastal restaurant where the sea view competes seriously with the food for top billing. Reviews describe a warm welcome, a comfortable room and especially appealing outdoor tables; one recurring impression is that the breeze and outlook turn lunch into a small seaside occasion. The mood can be lively when busy, and the restaurant has enough local affection to attract repeat diners as well as visitors. The cooking is seasonal, generous and confidently eclectic within a meze format. Seafood, meat and vegetables are designed for sharing, with standout praise for mussels, croquettes, calamari, aubergine with halloumi and fresh salads. Staff often explain how to order and how much to choose, which is useful for first-timers. The trade-off is that service can lose its rhythm: some diners waited for drinks, felt rushed, or found occasion requests overlooked. Expect roughly £35-45 per person for a full meal before drinks, so this is a worthwhile treat rather than an everyday bargain. Families are welcome and several reviews describe enjoyable meals with children or larger groups, but this is not a dedicated children’s restaurant. The menu offers familiar possibilities such as calamari, cod bites, deep-fried plaice, gnocchi, potatoes and bread, alongside many more adventurous dishes; a review also noted a shortage of high chairs. Picky eaters may need some advance planning, while families with adventurous children should find plenty to share.
Area vibe: Quaint seaside town with a strong maritime and independent-trader vibe.
Safety: Generally safe with well-used promenades and village streets; quiet after late evening.
What's nearby: Close to Whitstable Harbour, beaches, independent shops, pubs, and seasonal events; rail link to Canterbury and London.
Start with the mussels, squid, or croquettes, then add a few sharing plates such as aubergine with halloumi or mutton and feta koftas.
Expect a relaxed coastal meal, but plan ahead for peak-time service, a potentially expensive sharing bill, and an adventurous menu.
JoJo’s pairs a comfortable, relaxed room with sea views and outdoor tables that make lunch feel like a small seaside occasion.