Summertime eating by the sea is surely one of the life’s greatest pleasures. These cafes, bistros and seasonal shacks - all within a salty kiss of the coast - are coming up trumps for good, unfussy food and atmosphere. Order fish and shellfish as fresh as the sea breeze, and while booking might be advisable at some (especially at peak times), we list places that welcome spur-of-the-moment walk-ins too. Relax, the holidays have begun!
28 of the best coastal cafes and restaurants by the beach
Best Local Restaurant
Six signs you're in a great local restaurant
When Best Local Restaurant nominations closed in May, our real work began. From 60,000 nominations there were, of course, many that we knew well because they were included in the Guide, but many, many more were new to us. Your passionate reports and some of our own research helped us draw up a plan to visit, anonymously, the best contenders.
Local Guide
Where to eat in Folkestone
Renaissance, regeneration, revolution - Folkestone is in the groove, explains Zeren Wilson, Folkestone resident and co-proprietor of John Dory Wine in next door Sandgate.
Local Guide
Where to eat in Whitstable
Cool, trendy Whitstable, with its pretty beach huts, fishermen’s cottages and working harbour, remains a magical spot. The Sportsman in nearby Seasalter established a beachhead almost 25 years ago, and Stephen Harris’s pioneering produce-first approach is still well worth the pilgrimage, but a table here requires planning ahead. For a more spur of the moment trip there are plenty of places to enjoy.