Hastings eatery’s delight at Best Local Restaurants 2026 accolade - 'recognition like this means everything'

Tonka, in Marine Parade, Hastings Old Town, says its menu is 'inspired by the rich food heritage of Mauritius; a vibrant tapestry of Indian, Chinese, African and French flavours, all brought together using wonderful -local, when possible produce.'

Kim Duke runs it with her partner San Seesarun, who is from Mauritius. Cakes and savouries in the bakery are home-made by Kim.

Kim said: " As an independent restaurant, recognition like this means everything.

"It's game changing not only in our visibility but also in our drive to keep going. We've poured our hearts into creating something unique in Hastings.

"We're incredibly grateful to the Good Food Guide and to every guest who's supported us along the way and who continues to help us doing what we love."

A Good Food Guide spokesperson said: "The Best Local Restaurant awards celebrate the community driven restaurants that offer brilliant value for money and top-quality cooking in a relaxed, convivial setting.

"In recent years it has propelled independent stars such as Bavette in Horsforth and Lucky Lychee in Winchester into the national spotlight."

They added:  "In a year of rapidly rising costs for hospitality, this year’s list reflects the proliferation of micro restaurants and multistrand business models. While 10% of entrants squeeze in 20 or fewer guests, more than 25% of businesses in the list rely on additional income from trading as delis, wine shops or cafés."

Chloë Hamilton, head of reviews and listings at the Good Food Guide, said: ‘In the face of adversity, creativity has flourished in unusual and unlikely places. It has been hugely rewarding to see how these tiny operations are offering outstanding quality in a way that so clearly strikes a chord with the local crowd. Arrive with an open mind and a good appetite and you’ll be brilliantly rewarded.’