££Modern British
In the charming village of Bridge, within the Nailbourne Valley, lies this 16th-century pub with low beams, roaring open fires and parquet floors – start in the characterful bar with a drink and a few snacks to share. The cooking follows the seasons and exhibits an appealing pared-back style, with the Josper grill used to good effect. Expect a wide range of refined pub classics, such as 28-day-aged sirloin, house-cured bacon chop, or steak and ale pie. If it's on the menu, don't miss the marmalade sponge cake. The set menu, served at certain times, is a steal.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Bridge Arms offers modern British cuisine with an average rating of 4.0/5. Food quality is a standout feature, with Sunday roasts, stone bass, and vegetarian options receiving praise, though some diners reported burnt steaks or mediocre dishes. Service is polarizing; many appreciate the friendly, attentive staff, particularly regarding children, while others cite slow responses or indifference. Ambiance varies significantly: the pub is generally cozy and welcoming, but sports screenings can create a loud, less suitable environment for families. Regarding value, opinions differ, with some finding prices high, yet most agree the food quality justifies the cost.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality British cuisine in a cozy setting; avoid peak sports screening times.
£££Regional Cuisine
Hidden in the heart of the glorious Kent countryside, this delightful 17C farmhouse has been lovingly restored by its owners, and in the garden you'll find a charming, vine-laden conservatory restaurant with rustic décor. There are Italian influences aplenty on the menu, with dishes like ossobuco and crab tagliolini, alongside many cooked over an open fire and steak night on Wednesday. The gardens stretch over 7 acres in total, with individually styled bedrooms spread about the place.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.9/5 · 80 reviews
Updown Farmhouse in Worth offers regional cuisine in a historic country farmhouse setting. Based on 80 reviews averaging 3.9/5, opinions are mixed. Food quality varies significantly; while some praise the fresh Sunday roast, crab salad, and baked hake, others report tough, low-quality steaks and disappointing meals. Service is inconsistent, with complaints about cramped seating during busy periods, uncomfortable chairs, and slow attention, though some guests appreciated warm greetings and excellent cocktails. The ambiance is widely regarded as a highlight, featuring beautiful gardens, a vine-covered pergola, and sympathetic preservation of heritage architecture. Value for money is debated, often undermined by service lapses or food inconsistencies. It suits travelers seeking traditional English rural dining and scenic settings, provided they manage expectations regarding service reliability and culinary consistency.
Suitable for diners valuing rustic ambiance and heritage architecture, but avoid peak hours and expect variable service.
£££Seafood
One of those wonderful restaurants that 'does what it says on the tin', this family-run spot does indeed specialise in Whitstable Oysters, produced right outside the restaurant in the family's own oyster farm. Fresh and pure, they are a must-order and are available in a number of ways including natural, 'Royale' and 'Rockefeller'. The rest of the menu is as seafood-centric as you'd expect, with minimal adornment applied to the latest catch, be that gilthead bream or Dover sole. A large terrace and tremendous views over the estuary are the icing on the cake.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
With an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.0/5, Whitstable Oyster Company is praised for fresh seafood like oysters, scallops, and Dover sole, alongside scenic views and a rustic atmosphere. However, reviews highlight inconsistent service, ranging from rude behavior to serious allegations of racism. Negative feedback also cites slow meal pacing, cleanliness issues, and high prices for mains. While booking in advance is essential due to popularity, the experience varies significantly. It suits diners prioritizing fresh local catch and seaside views, but those expecting consistent service or high value may find it lacking.
Suitable for diners prioritizing fresh seafood and sea views; book ahead and manage expectations regarding service consistency and value.
£££Traditional British
Built in 1616 for the Boys family, this charming old house has been sympathetically converted into a hotel with eye-catching features at every turn, plus lovely gardens and land. The restaurant sits in an extension to the main house and serves high-quality Kentish produce, in flavourful dishes such as hake with roasted cauliflower, caviar and butter sauce. Great wines, also from Kent, are available to pair with your food and, should you wish to grab a drink before dining, the grounds also house a pub with a terrace.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Boys Hall in Willesborough offers traditional British cuisine with an average rating of 4.2/5. Guests frequently praise the stylish atmosphere, attentive service, and visually appealing food presentation, making it suitable for celebrations. However, experiences vary significantly. Some diners report issues with meal pacing, service errors such as missed orders, and inconsistent food quality, with complaints about bland flavors or small portions. While the ambiance is consistently highlighted as beautiful, value for money is debated due to high drink prices and perceived lack of substance in certain dishes. It is a venue with strong aesthetic appeal but variable culinary reliability.
Suitable for diners prioritizing ambiance and special occasions over consistent culinary value.
££British Contemporary
Two alumni of The Goods Shed in Canterbury are behind this unfussy modern bistro, which is a hit with locals and tourists alike. The simple dish descriptions on the concise seasonal menu belie the depth of the dishes, which are made with high quality ingredients and come with distinct flavours and textures. Smooth service adds to the experience.
TripAdvisor review sample · 5.0/5 · 80 reviews
Located near Westgate-on-Sea station, Quince offers modern British cuisine with consistently high praise for food quality and flavor. Guests appreciate the attentive, friendly service and elegant atmosphere. While some noted minor issues with meal pacing, the overall experience is exceptional. The restaurant accommodates dietary needs well and is highly recommended for special occasions or Sunday roasts. Most reviewers find the value reasonable given the superb food and service, making it a destination worth revisiting.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality modern British cuisine and attentive service, particularly for special occasions or travelers valuing convenient transport links.
££seafood
Set just off the esplanade is this understated little bistro with a fiercely local, responsible ethos – even the tables are made of compressed recycled plastic. With no meat on the menu, dishes are centred around well-sourced seafood, be it Dover sole with 'green sauce' or hake with tomatoes and capers. Simplicity is the key to the cooking, with the quality central ingredients allowed to shine thanks to just a few, well-judged accompaniments. The friendly service creates a pleasantly relaxed atmosphere.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Angela's in Margate specializes in seafood with strong overall ratings. Food quality is frequently praised for fresh ingredients and bold flavors, particularly mussels and skate, though some find preparations overly complex or salty. Service is generally warm and attentive, but issues with meal pacing and booking mishaps occur. The atmosphere is cozy yet intimate; however, the rear dining area is criticized for being dilapidated and lacking views. Value is mixed: while some enjoy the experience, others feel portions are small relative to the price, suggesting it may not offer good cost-performance for budget-conscious diners.
Ideal for seafood enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors in an intimate setting; booking ahead and requesting the main dining area is recommended.
🕐 Tu-Sa 12:00-14:30,17:45-22:00
££coffee_shop
A former pub plays host to this sweet little osteria offering southern Italian fare, often using ingredients from the chef-owner's home region of Campania. There's a homespun charm to the place, so it's only right the hand-made pastas form the core of the menu. The rest of the simple, rustic cooking consists of small plates and snacks; look out for the 'polpette di pane al sugo', where bread has been used to fashion a 'meatball' of sorts. The same team run a deli a few doors down, which transforms into a wine bar at weekends that's ideal for a drink before or after dinner.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Margate's old town, Bottega Caruso serves authentic Campanian cuisine. Reviews highlight fresh, tasty dishes like tuna salad, pork and beef ragu, and bean stew, set in a cozy, farmhouse-like atmosphere. However, inconsistencies exist: some guests report slow pacing, dismissive or rude service, and poor handling of complaints. Others find portions small and prices high, questioning the value. While most praise the food quality, negative experiences cite bland pasta and unhelpful staff. Overall, it offers genuine Italian flavors but with variable service standards.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic Campanian cuisine who can tolerate inconsistent service.
££Modern British
A characterful, bow-windowed former sweet shop is the home for this lovingly run restaurant located on the road between Margate and Broadstairs. In a fairly small space, the passionate team have managed to combine a restaurant, a wine bar and a bottle shop. The kitchen fuses some classical French techniques with a distinctly British, produce-driven approach, where nothing is overworked and the natural flavours of a few key ingredients are the driving force. The blackboard-written menu is ever-changing, but expect the likes of sea bass with creamy leeks, almonds and soy-pickled chilli.
££Seafood
Located right on the coast, in an area known as the jewel in Thanet's crown, this is the perfect spot for a seafood restaurant. The dining room is bedecked with a multitude of mirrors, a large open counter and shelves filled with jars of preserved goods and house-made chilli sauce. As with all good seafood eateries, the menu changes with the daily catch; all the prime ingredients are well-cooked and delivered in carefully balanced combinations. The cheery, relaxed staff run the place wonderfully, giving everything a personal touch.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Kebbells in Broadstairs is highly rated (4.8/5) for its seafood and small-plate sharing concept. Food quality is consistently praised for freshness and European-inspired cooking. Service is generally friendly and attentive, though isolated complaints exist regarding last-minute cancellations and seating issues. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, suitable for groups, but the dog-friendly policy may detract from the experience for some guests. While many find the value good relative to quality, others note mixed opinions on pricing. It is a popular destination where advance booking is advisable to secure a table.
Ideal for diners seeking shared seafood experiences in a lively setting, with advance booking recommended.
£££Modern British
One-time '80s rock drummer Graham Garrett has now been in the kitchen longer than he was on stage. His family run restaurant is in a great spot, located in a picturesque village and housed inside a 16th-century cottage with heavily timbered interiors. Graham's dishes are stripped down to show off his quality ingredients and years of technical experience; if you're lucky, you'll get the finely crafted parmesan churros as a snack. The wines are local, the service is as unfussy as the food and the bedrooms have stylish themes.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Biddenden, The West House is renowned for its modern British cuisine. Most reviews praise the exceptional food quality, highlighting flavorful, fresh ingredients and impressive vegetarian options, with some comparing it favorably to Michelin-starred establishments. Service is generally described as warm, knowledgeable, and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere suitable for couples and families. However, a minority of negative feedback points to inconsistent experiences, including bland tastes, pacing issues, limited vegetarian choices, and occasional service lapses. While the ambiance is cozy and relaxing, visitors should note that quality may vary slightly depending on the specific visit.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality modern British cuisine in a cozy setting, with advance booking recommended.
££Modern British
This rustic, modern restaurant sits above the shop in the Chapel Down vineyard and boasts a cosy lounge and a lovely rooftop terrace with views over the vines. It’s run by a friendly team and, naturally, wines from the vineyard play a big role. Each dish on the daily menu comes with a suggested pairing, while the full wine list shows off their impressive range of both still and sparkling options. In the kitchen, the chefs produce ambitious modern dishes with a British heart that push local ingredients to the fore.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Swan Wine Kitchen (also known as Swan Yard) in Knowle offers modern British cuisine. Based on 80 reviews, it holds an average rating of 4.7/5. Guests frequently praise the friendly service, high-quality food, and warm atmosphere, with specific mentions of excellent cinnamon pastries and coffee. It is well-suited for family lunches or casual gatherings. However, some negative feedback highlights concerns regarding value for money, citing high prices for items like tea cakes. Additional criticisms include service errors such as incorrect milk orders, slow organization, missing items, and food served lukewarm. While the overall experience is positive, occasional inconsistencies in service efficiency and perceived value may affect satisfaction.
Ideal for families and friends seeking a warm atmosphere and quality casual dining, though price-sensitive visitors should manage expectations.
££French
Located inside boutique hotel The Gallivant, Harry’s bears all the same hallmarks of discrete seaside elegance. Think comfortable rattan armchairs, tables covered with fine linen and exotic plants giving a greenhouse vibe; guided by a charming team, you will instantly feel at ease here. The cooking is classically French through and through, from traditional terrine to rabbit with mustard sauce via beef Bourguignon – all underpinned by strong produce and textbook technique from an experienced chef.
££Fusion
You'll receive a warm welcome at this well-run roadside pub where vintage charm blends with contemporary cool. The extensive menu is rooted in top-quality British ingredients, but the eclectic dish influences come from all over the world, from France to Thailand, the Mediterranean to Latin America. Whichever country has provided the inspiration, the cooking will be generous in both size and flavour, combining several complementing elements in one dish. The sharing steaks are a feature if you're dining with friends.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Marden, The Stile Bridge offers fusion cuisine and holds a 4.8/5 rating on TripAdvisor based on 80 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights exceptional food quality, attentive service, and a stylish atmosphere. Dishes such as mushroom truffle ravioli, guinea fowl, halibut with coconut curry sauce, and various roasts are praised for premium ingredients and perfect cooking. Conversely, some guests reported issues with meal pacing, blandness, or high value-for-money concerns. Specific complaints included undercooked roast potatoes, hard Yorkshire pudding, and lukewarm dinners during a Sunday lunch. While generally highly recommended for its culinary skill and friendly staff, occasional inconsistencies in execution and pricing may affect the experience.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality fusion cuisine and a stylish setting, with advance booking recommended.
££Modern Cuisine
The charming town of Rye is a destination in itself, and wandering through its steep cobbled streets, you will be happy to stumble upon this converted historic pub to recharge your batteries. Its refurbishment has left it more as a restaurant – one with a rustic, slightly bohemian style – but you can still smell the centuries of welcoming wood fires that have blazed in its antique fireplaces. The cooking casts an appealingly wide net, taking in influences from Cantonese (char siu monkfish skewers) to classical French (chocolate delice with boozy prunes).
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
The Union Rye holds an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.3/5 based on 80 reviews. Food quality is a standout feature, with diners praising fresh oysters, Char Siu pollack skewers, sea bass, and chocolate terrine. The kitchen accommodates dietary requirements well, such as gluten-free and dairy-free options. Service is generally described as friendly and engaging, though some guests noted slow meal pacing. The atmosphere is relaxed, located in central Rye with four distinct seating areas, although one review mentioned a freezing back room. Value perceptions vary; many find it good for money, while others criticize high prices relative to portion sizes and taste. Overall, it offers a memorable dining experience with minor inconsistencies in service speed and temperature control.
Suitable for travelers seeking refined sharing plates and accommodating dietary needs, with advice to allow ample time and check seating area temperatures.
£££Modern British
Nestled deep in the countryside is this 70-acre farm and wine estate with a shop, a café, a tasting room and stylish bedrooms in its former hop barn. The restaurant, occupying converted farm buildings, has a rustic, airy quality with large windows overlooking the vines – as it gets busier, a terrific buzz fills the room. The ingredient-driven cooking focuses on pure, fresh flavours, available from a fixed-price, three-course lunch menu or an à la carte of sharing plates at dinner. The wine list includes their own low-intervention selection.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.6/5 · 80 reviews
Tillingham in Peasmarsh offers Modern British cuisine and on-site wines. The atmosphere is generally pleasant, though some reviews cite slow service, unsafe seating, and long waits. Food quality is polarized: oysters, pizza, and pork belly are praised, while issues like sour chicken liver parfait are noted. Wine tours are informative, but wines are considered pricey with average taste. Experiences vary significantly by visit, suiting those interested in the farm setting who can tolerate inconsistent service.
Suitable for visitors who enjoy farm settings and house wines and can tolerate inconsistent service.
£££Modern Cuisine
In a charming little seaside town, tucked away among the shops, is this narrow restaurant with a rustic look, that's given a cosy vibe by the friendly, engaging manner in which it's run. The creative, eye-catching dishes are full of flavour and focus on wellbeing and ingredient provenance. The format changes depending on when you visit, with tasting menus in the evening, a 'menu du jour' at lunchtime and a roast lunch on Sundays. Vegan diners are catered for too, with plant-based options at all times.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Food in Leigh-on-Sea offers modern cuisine with a generally high rating. Most reviewers praise the tasting menus, knowledgeable staff, and relaxed atmosphere, noting expert presentation and excellent wine pairings. However, some guests cite value concerns, describing certain dishes as bland or under-seasoned relative to the cost. Occasional issues with meal pacing were also noted. Despite mixed feedback on pricing and flavor consistency, the majority highlight superior service and quality, making it a strong choice for those seeking a refined dining experience.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality modern cuisine and a refined experience; booking the tasting menu in advance is recommended.
££££Modern British
There's a rustic, farmhouse-like feel to this former village pub run by two brothers. The team's focus is firmly on self-sufficiency, growing an array of fruit and vegetables on their own land, using no-dig and low-intervention methods. This seasonal produce heavily informs the monthly changing tasting menu, which blends British and Nordic culinary influences in dishes that have bold, well-balanced flavours and lots of personality. In summer, grab a seat on the terrace for an aperitif overlooking the garden.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
The Small Holding in Lamberhurst offers modern British cuisine with high ratings. Food quality is frequently praised for being flavorful, inventive, and fresh, with some noting it surpasses other starred establishments. Service is generally excellent and professional, though isolated complaints cite slow pacing. The ambiance blends relaxed elegance with a stylish interior and views of the farm. Value perceptions vary; while many find the experience worthwhile, others criticize the extremely small portion sizes, describing them as hors d'oeuvre-sized, which leaves some guests hungry despite the high cost.
Suitable for diners seeking refined, creative cuisine and farm views, though those sensitive to small portions should consider larger menu options.
£££Modern British
Tucked away down a narrow street, The Plough proudly declares that it is 'community owned, family run'. The community in question is the people of Trottiscliffe, who rallied round to buy and refurbish their local pub when property developers were circling. Among their number was the Yates family, who now look after this small restaurant offering a concise menu of carefully crafted, ambitious and classically based dishes. Local produce, some of it their own, informs the menus – even the butter is homemade.
££Traditional British
With top hats as lampshades and tubas in the loos, quirky is this 16th-century coaching inn’s middle name. Its charm and character are only enhanced by its location within a picture-postcard village that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. The pub itself offers appealing, boldly flavoured dishes – such as a lovely plum frangipane tart for dessert – and sourdough pizza is served from the outdoor Smithy Kitchen when the weather allows. The wine list features large-format magnums, jeroboams and imperials.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.6/5 · 80 reviews
The Bell in Ticehurst offers traditional British cuisine, averaging 3.6/5 from 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights food quality, friendly service, and unique decor, with specific praise for fish and chips and some Sunday roasts. However, negative reviews frequently cite poor value, inconsistent food quality (e.g., tough meat), service errors like unfulfilled bookings, and slow pacing. While the atmosphere is generally welcoming and rooms are creatively designed, some guests noted cleanliness issues and limited menu variety. The experience varies significantly, requiring careful consideration of cost versus quality.
Suitable for travelers seeking a unique rural atmosphere with flexible budget expectations, advised to confirm bookings in advance and manage expectations regarding food consistency.
£££Modern Cuisine, Sri Lankan
Chef Jack Lury skilfully blends his British, European and Sri Lankan heritage at this personal little restaurant in the town centre. Look out for the discreet entrance, then head down to the relaxed dining room where Lury cooks alone for just 10 diners. His original tasting menu is filled with enticing, interesting dishes that enhance British ingredients with deft spicing. Stand-out dishes include the likes of puréed aubergine with mustard seeds, crunchy turnip and Brussels sprouts, or tender venison with a spiced garlic sauce.
€€Seafood
This pleasant top-floor restaurant boasts a peerless panoramic view over the Strait of Dover and the English coast… it is like something you would expect to see in a painting! The food showcases locally caught fish: lobster casserole, sea bass in a salt crust, sole meunière. To be washed down with a good wine chosen from a list carefully curated by the proprietor.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.9/5 · 80 reviews
Aquar'aile, located in Blériot-Plage, is noted for its stunning sea views and classic French ambiance. Positive reviews frequently praise the warm service, clean environment, and exquisite dish presentation, making it suitable for families or romantic dinners. However, negative feedback highlights inconsistencies in food quality, with some ingredients reported as lacking freshness and meal pacing issues. While the view is a major asset, critics note limited menu options and additional costs that detract from the overall value, leading to mixed experiences regarding cost-effectiveness.
Recommended for visitors prioritizing scenic views and classic ambiance, though those seeking consistent food quality and high value should proceed with caution.
€€Modern Cuisine
The chef, Matthieu Colin, puts the experience he gained in Michelin-starred establishments to good use. In a lovely contemporary interior, he continues to pay tribute to local fishing, but also brings local produce into creative dishes that thrive on originality: cod with seafood condiments, grapefruit, crozets, spiced fennel. Friendly and efficient service.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Located near Calais' port, Le Grand Bleu is led by former three-star chefs and holds a high 4.8/5 rating. Food quality is generally praised for its refinement and generous portions, though some note bland desserts or insufficient vegetarian options. Service is mostly warm and efficient, yet a few guests experienced rushed pacing or pressure from staff. The atmosphere is elegant and welcoming, but the single poorly located restroom causes frequent queuing issues. While value perceptions vary slightly, most diners find the experience worthwhile, making it a solid choice for those seeking modern cuisine despite minor logistical flaws.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality modern French cuisine who can overlook minor facility flaws.