Kiora’s Guide to the Best Places to
Eat in Whitstable
Whitstable, nestled on the Kent coast, is a picturesque seaside town and has long been known as a destination for food lovers. Famous for its succulent oysters and a wide array of dining venues, the town has an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary culinary options. From the time-honoured oyster bars that echo the town's rich heritage to the modern gastro pubs, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Exploring the Local Harbour Market and High Street
The Harbour Market and High Street stand as a testament to Whitstable's vibrant local food scene, featuring stalls from local food producers and talented chefs. The bustling town is the perfect place to discover:
Fresh and locally sourced produce that highlights the season's best.
Artisan cheeses offer a taste of the region's dairy craftsmanship.
Unique culinary treats and celebrated ingredients that reflect Whitstable's innovative community.
Visiting the Harbour Market and High Street provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle and an opportunity to support small businesses and producers.
Best Restaurants in Whitstable
Here are some of the best places to eat in and around Whitstable:
The Whitstable Oyster Company
The Royal Native Oyster Stores,
Horsebridge,
CT5 1BU
Whitewashed former oyster store serving produce straight from the sea in a classic rustic setting.
Michelin stared gastro pub – about 15 mins drive out past Sea Salter the other side of Whitstable from Kiora – fantastic food in a rustic pub setting. You need to book a good six months in advance!
Town’s oldest restaurant with a seafood bar, the original tiny oyster parlour plus a recently added back parlour, serving market-fresh seafood.
Beautiful French Bistro in the heart of Whitstable, full of character and charm, serving local seafood, an array of French delights and homemade desserts.
Unfussy, rustic bistro with a blackboard menu dedicated to local fish, meat and seasonal greenery.
Harbour Street Tapas
48 Harbour Street,
Whitstable,
CT5 1AQ
Serving Spanish small plates inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain’s many regions.
Fantastic for a relaxed lunch – open Tuesday 12pm-3pm, Wednesday /Saturday 9am-3pm, Lunch 12pm-3pm
It’s a 15-minute drive, to get to this lovely country gastropub, but well worth it.
Hotel Continental
29 Beach Walk,
Whitstable,
CT5 2BP
A light and airy bistro overlooking the Thames Estuary that serves a varied French style menu.
I think the best chippy in town – if you are queuing, they hand out a little bag of chips to keep you going.
Pub and upstairs restaurant serving Modern British cuisine using local seafood, meat and cheese.
Seasonal Highlights and Culinary Celebrations
Each season brings its own flavours and festivities to Whitstable’s food scene. Noteworthy events include:
The Oyster Festival: An annual celebration that honours the town's oyster-fishing heritage with food stalls, live music, and traditional activities.
Tankerton and Whitstable FreeWheelin FEASTival: Every June and September, the town enjoys street food, pop-up bars, alfresco dining and live music looking across the North Sea.
Food Fairs: Regular events that showcase the diversity of Whitstable's food scene, from street food to gourmet offerings, highlighting local chefs and producers.
These local events offer a perfect opportunity for those staying at Kiora to experience local traditions and enjoy seasonal delicacies.
