HERE are some of Cumbria and the South Lakes most respected and popular restaurants and cafes to go for a bit to eat.

Do you prefer a Thai meal or something spicy?

Thai at Review

The Nelson Street Thai restaurant is a popular Thai and Asian serving business which is known for its extensive Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, and Gluten Free Options.

Hayley said: "Visited Thai at review with my husband this evening to celebrate my birthday. The food was delicious, the service was polite, discreet, and timely and the atmosphere was cosy. Loved it."

Base Restaurant

Ulverston's Base Restaurant has become a popular destination for members of the public seeking Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, or Gluten Free Options.

Chad said: "We've been coming to this establishment for many years and been astonished by the standard of the meals. People thinking it's just a park cafe must think again. Excellent food and service and dog friendly."

Cafe Olive

Kendal's Olive Cafe located on Stramongate holds a collection of five-star reviews online, and has been praised for its service by the public.

Known for its Cafe option, Mediterranean, European, Turkish, and Middle Eastern dishes, the cafe is one to consider when you are in town.

One reviewer said: "I've eaten at Cafe Olive twice now, a year apart. Each time the borek filled with spinach and mushrooms (vegan) and the babaganoush have been divine. It's so good I took some home with me to Scotland (having been on a day work trip). The owners are lovely people and make a lunch or coffee stop so pleasant. The baklava is great too."

Izgara

Barrow's Izgara is located on Cavendish Street and holds a five-star rating online.

The restaurant holds a range of dishes including Turkish, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Vegetarian Friendly, and Vegan Options.

Dawn said: "Just finished eating, absolutely fabulous! Not familiar with the area, have come to Barrow in Furness to stay at Abbey House Hotel and fancied somewhere to eat. Found it easily. We had cheese garlic mushrooms and battered prawns to start. Just yum. With fresh salad and lovely dips. Sharing platter of lamb and chicken followed. Every mouthful delicious. You really won’t be disappointed. If we travel north again, will definitely call back. Thank you."

Number Nine Bar & Kitchen

Kirkby Lonsdale's popular bar and kitchen business which has developed a strong following within the community.

Known for its hospitality and atmosphere thanks to the friendly staff, the Number Nine is a very popular destination for the area.

One reviewer said: "We popped in for a late evening meal and it was full, managed to come back 30 minutes later and get a table. The restaurant is run by a husband-and-wife couple and the food was of the highest quality, as well as a friendly down to earth waitress who looked after us very well."