Mocha Restaurant — Restaurant in East Devon

Phoned Mocha on the 8th August to book a table for the 28th August (Bank holiday) as we were on holiday in Sidmouth that week and knew it would be very busy everywhere, spoke to a lady who took my booking. I asked especially and made it clear it was for the evening of the Bank holiday as I know they don't open in the evenings out of season but was told they stay open until end of August. Arrived at the Mocha to find it closed. There was two ladies talking outside at the door, I recognised them from working in Mocha and asked them why was it closed. They said that yesterday was the last evening that they opened for the season. I said that I had booked a table for tonight Bank holiday Monday, they thought I was joking I said I was serious but they still thought it was funny, very unprofessional. I can't believe it was closed on a Bank holiday probably the busiest night of August, how ridiculous, bad business. Now we were in a quandary as everywhere was packed to the rafters and we needed to eat, luckily we managed to get a table at Dukes but outside, good job the weather was good. I think some of your staff could do with some customer skills as we came in the day time and I bought two cokes and asked for some ice to be told what do I want ice for the were cold, I said they were not as cold as I would like them as it was really hot outside so I would like some ice please, she begrudgingly went to the kitchen to get some ice...

Food is a little overpriced but I guess you pay a premium for the location. Scones for the cream tea should probably be warm given the prices.

What really stood out was the abrupt and indifferent manner of the (small blonde haired lady) who served us at the till. She made us feel as if we should be grateful to be there. Got rather irritated with our children trying to look at the cakes and asked them to move away from the till. After placing an order for food and drink for just shy of £50, we were taken aback when asking for 2 glasses of iced tap water to be told that ice only comes with bottled water! Changed the request to straight tap water and were met with a rude comment about our order that was passed to another member of staff within our earshot. There are such a wide variety and number of fantastic places to eat and drink in Sidmouth, all within walking distance of Mocha and with far more courteous and hospitable staff. Having now spent 10 days in Sidmouth over two visits, I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending that Mocha be given a wide berth until the customer service levels are elevated beyond that of a Siberian prison...

A corner slot at the end of a main pedestrianised area overlooking Sidmouth sea front makes this a cracking location to stop and have a bite to eat and a cuppa. Although quite small, it's like a Tardis inside, with more room than seems likely until you go in. There is a range of wholesome food on offer, all specially prepared to order. A small seating area is also available outside facing the sea, which is a wonderful place to enjoy your purchases whilst taking in the view and people-watching. Just when you think it can't get can't better, there is the staff. They are wonderful; charming, polite and helpful. One young man stands out - young, of slight build and bespectacled (I didn't get his name). He is an absolute gem; a natural with the public and clearly enjoys his job. I've been here several times and the quality of food and standards of service never...