Our Story
In 1874, Whitstable had a population of around 3,893. Postal directories from the time record a bakery on Essex Street run by George and William Dawkins. By 1882, the Dawkins’ had moved their business to 56 and 58 Canterbury Road, one of only two bakeries in Whitstable at the time. The bakery remained at this address until sometime between 1929 and 1939, when it became known as Smith W & Son Bakers, who we now know to be Wallace Smith. Over the years, the premises changed hands several times, by 1975 it was Mister B’s Place, followed by Daves cafe, Deb’s Café, Victoria’s Pie & Mash and as of November 2024, Junior’s Café and Deli.
During the restoration of the building, we uncovered a stained glass sign reading ‘Smith and Son’, hidden beneath six wooden boards and layers of old paint. Remarkably well-preserved, this long-forgotten feature felt like a missing piece of Whitstable’s history. Recognising its significance, we had a damaged section carefully restored by a heritage specialist.
Adding to the connection, Luke, our chef and co-founder, lives in the former grain store just a few doors down from 58 Canterbury Road, a space likely once used by the original baker, George Dawkins. Today, the restored sign proudly sits on the front of Junior’s, paying tribute to both the building’s past and Whitstable’s rich heritage.
The response from the local community has been truly heartwarming. Many have stopped to admire the sign and share memories tied to the building’s past, including Steven Smith, great-nephew of Wallace Smith, who we’re now in contact with as we continue to piece together its history.
For the three of us running Junior’s, friends who grew up here in Whitstable, the heritage of the building and its story is something we really care about. We’ve tried to create a space that honours the past while offering something warm, welcoming and rooted in the community. Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee and a chat, sharing a meal with friends or grabbing a takeaway sandwich on your lunch break, we want Junior’s to feel like a little sanctuary, somewhere you can feel at home in a place that’s been part of Whitstable’s story for generations.
With over 12 years of experience in the industry, Luke (known as Junior) draws inspiration from the many kitchens he's worked in, each one rooted in fresh, locally sourced cooking. Most recently, he was part of the team at Land and Sea in Tankerton, where creativity and exploring different cuisines were strongly encouraged. Having spent time in Italy and fallen in love with its food culture, Luke takes much of his inspiration from classic Italian dishes, reimagining them in his own style. From the focaccia to the sauces and desserts, almost everything on your plate is made in-house, with care and intention.
