Best Restaurants in Margate, UK
Margate’s food scene has come a long way from soggy chips on the seafront. These days, this seaside town is home to everything from rustic Italian trattorias to hyper-seasonal wine bars and modern British bistros. Whether you're after a laid-back lunch with sea views or a memorable dinner showcasing Kent’s best produce, Margate punches well above its weight.
Bottega Caruso
The food at Bottega Caruso is nothing short of phenomenal. Tucked away in Margate Old Town, this laid-back Italian spot delivers deeply comforting, high-quality cooking rooted in chef Simona's family traditions from Molise.
The pasta is exceptional — handmade, perfectly cooked, and paired with rich, soulful sauces that speak of real care and craft. It's clear that Simona is something of a local legend as everyone we spoke to in Margate knew her.
Tables are released 60 days in advance and fill up fast, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings, so book early if you're planning a visit.
La Cantina
Right next door to Bottega Caruso, La Cantina is the relaxed little sister. A wine bar, bottle shop, and deli all rolled into one. It’s the kind of place you pop into for a glass of wine and end up staying for hours, grazing on small plates.
The space is cool but unpretentious, with shelves lined with Italian deli goods you’ll definitely want to take home. Whether you're waiting for your table at Bottega or just fancy a casual evening of wine and nibbles, La Cantina is well worth a visit.
Sargasso
Sitting right on Margate’s Harbour Arm, Sargasso is a small but stylish spot serving seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired small plates with a focus on seafood and veg. The menu changes regularly, but everything is fresh, unfussy, and full of flavour.
With natural wines, a relaxed vibe, and views across the sea, it’s the perfect place for a slow lunch or sunset dinner. Book ahead if the weather’s good — the outdoor tables go fast.
Fort’s Cafe
Not a restaurant but worth mentioning, Fort’s Cafe is known for its inventive brunch dishes and excellent coffee. The menu features creative options like Korean chicken focaccia and scrambled eggs with portobello mushrooms and mushroom gravy on sourdough toast.
The café offers a relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere with sea views, making it a popular choice. Given its popularity and no-bookings policy, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a table for brunch.
Peter’s Fish Factory
Peter’s Fish Factory is a Margate institution, serving traditional fish and chips since 1984. Located near the Turner Contemporary, it often has long queues during peak times.
The menu features generously portioned, freshly battered fish with flaky interiors and well-cooked chips. The staff are known for their friendliness and generous use of salt and vinegar.
While the shop is compact, there is outdoor seating available, and additional seating can be found around the corner, or you can take your fish out to the beach and enjoy it there.
On Our Hit List For Next Time
Sète | A stylish wine bar with a focus on low-intervention wines and seasonal small plates. Perfect for a laid-back evening with good conversation and even better drinks.
Angela’s | One of Margate’s most celebrated spots, Angela’s champions hyper-local, low-waste dining with simple but exceptional seafood and vegetable-led dishes.
Dory’s | A relaxed seafood bar from the team behind Angela’s, serving sustainable, daily-changing dishes with a focus on local fish and veg.
Pomus | A stylish wine bar, restaurant, and bottle shop located just off Margate’s high street. The menu features inventive small plates inspired by Kent’s local produce
POM | Sister to Pomus, a playful cafe and bottle shop offering natural wines, great coffee, and a creative all-day menu. Great for brunch or a relaxed bite with friends.
Colina | Neighbourhood wine bar and restaurant serving Portuguese-leaning small plates, great vibes, and thoughtful wines in a cosy setting.
Pearly Cow | Located in No.42 by GuestHouse, Pearly Cow is a refined spot for wood-fired meats and elevated British classics, with slick service and a beach view.
The Good Egg | Bright, breezy cafe known for Middle Eastern-inspired brunches, shakshuka, bagels, and seriously good coffee. A lively spot to start your day.
