Discovering Broadstairs: A Culinary Evolution by the Sea
My hometown, Broadstairs in east Kent, has long been a cherished holiday destination. It’s important to clarify that this is not Broadchurch, the fictional location created for the acclaimed TV crime series, which is situated much further south in Dorset. However, Broadstairs boasts its own majestic white chalk cliffs, sandy beaches, and a rich cultural heritage, including a notable connection to the beloved author Charles Dickens, who spent time here and even penned some of his works. Among its charming attractions is the renowned pink marble ice cream parlour, Morelli’s, which has been delighting visitors for over 90 years.
Last summer, pop sensation Dua Lipa was spotted filming in the nostalgic parlour and along the picturesque Viking Bay beach. While Broadstairs has long been celebrated for its stunning scenery and golden sands, its reputation for culinary excellence was not as well established. Traditionally, this quaint Victorian seaside resort has attracted visitors seeking picturesque views and beachside relaxation, rather than gourmet dining experiences. Unlike its vibrant neighbor, Margate, Broadstairs had yet to carve out a niche as a dining hotspot.
However, the culinary landscape in Broadstairs is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Over the past few years, a wave of new food and drink establishments has emerged, with many chefs migrating from the culinary hub of Margate, which had previously claimed the majority of the region’s best restaurant openings. Among these talented chefs is Swedish-born Tomas Eriksson, who has launched a Basque-inspired small-plates eatery called Bar Ingo. “Our cozy corner of York Street felt just right for Bar Ingo,” Eriksson shares. “The town has so much to offer—an amazing fishmonger, intriguing galleries, coffee shops, and fantastic dining options. Plus, many of us enjoy stunning views, whether it’s the beach or the charming streets.”
Another exciting addition to the food scene is MasterChef finalist Tony Rodd. After relocating from London to open a restaurant in Margate last summer, he and his wife quickly realized that Broadstairs offered a more laid-back atmosphere, perfectly suited to their lifestyle. They opened Fifteen Square Metres, noting, “The restaurant-goers in Broadstairs are quite different. We love Margate, but it’s a much younger crowd. Broadstairs aligns better with our mid-40s lifestyle, which is a bit slower than it was 15 years ago.”
In the autumn, chef Billy Stock, known for his acclaimed French restaurant Sète in Margate, introduced his Southern-fried chicken concept to Broadstairs through a long-term pop-up at the Neptunes Hall pub, which also serves fantastic pizzas. “Broadstairs offers chefs a vibrant and affordable dining and social atmosphere compared to London,” Rodd explains, revealing that he sold out his Valentine’s Day evening service within hours. “When I finish at night, I walk out, turn left, and see the sea. We feel ten times better here.” While I haven’t yet come across Dua Lipa’s cult pickle drink (a blend of Diet Coke topped with pickle and jalapeño brine), it’s clear that Broadstairs’ culinary scene is now sophisticated and stylish.
In 2023, Broadstairs was recognized by Which? magazine as one of the coolest places to live, and the seafront restaurant Twenty Seven Harbour Street earned a spot in OpenTable’s Top 100 list for 2024. This establishment was among the first to establish Broadstairs as a notable food destination. When I dined there during my house-hunting journey eight years ago, it played a significant role in convincing me to settle in the area. The restaurant offers high-quality breakfasts, unbeatable roasts, innovative small plates, and an impressive selection of local wines for the evening crowd. Their bijou Txoko room hosts intimate supper clubs and wine tastings, featuring local produce such as native Whitstable oysters and Viking Bakehouse sourdough from Ramsgate.
Broadstairs is also developing a vibrant coffee culture. When I first moved here, the coffee scene was almost non-existent, forcing me to stick to tea. Thankfully, the arrival of Smiths, with its silky-smooth lattes and warm banana bread, has since been complemented by an increasing number of independent cafés. Some notable mentions include:
- Forts: A newcomer from Margate serious about coffee, offering the best brunch in town.
- Salt: Known for its acai bowls and local wines, run by surfing enthusiasts who also own the lively beach hangout, Namaka on Stone Bay.
- Kope + Loko: A trendy spot where coffee is served alongside generous slices of homemade cakes and lifestyle fashion.
- Staple: Ideal for croissants and cruffins that will have you browsing Rightmove after just one bite.
Jo Scott, director of the biannual Broadstairs Food Festival, which attracts hundreds of vendors every Easter and October, shares, “We have the expected coastal fish offerings, but with a quality, innovative twist. Small and shareable plates have become the norm, not just a novelty.”
Before this new wave of culinary innovation, Broadstairs had a few hidden gems worth visiting, including my personal favorites: the family-run Italian restaurant Posillipo and the atmospheric tapas bar Albariño. However, the emergence of increasingly diverse and high-quality dining options means there’s now a compelling reason to visit beyond the summer season. The colder months bring vast, clear skies and serene, empty beaches. My ideal day involves a windswept walk from Joss Bay to town, with a stop at the charming 18th-century flint pub, the Tartar Frigate, for a pint and a prawn sandwich, all while planning my next dining adventure.
Getting There
Southeastern trains connect Broadstairs with London St Pancras, London Victoria, Margate, and Ramsgate.
Where to Stay
The Yarrow, a spacious hotel that trains students from the adjacent catering college, offers double rooms starting from £100. Alternatively, Broadstairs House Boutique B&B features double rooms from £130 including breakfast.
More Information
For more details about the Broadstairs Food Festival, which takes place from April 18-20, visit broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk; for local attractions, check visitthanet.co.uk; and for travel information, visit visitkent.co.uk.
