The Best Places to Eat in Deal, Kent

Deal, the charming seaside town in Kent, is quickly becoming a foodie hotspot. Known for its fresh seafood, stylish pubs, and innovative dining, Deal now boasts some of the best restaurants on the Kent coast and is by far The Kent Tourist’s favourite location in Kent to eat at.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or you’re a local looking for your next meal out, here’s our guide to the best places to eat in Deal.

The stunning interior of The Blue Pelican, our favourite place to eat in Deal.

1. The Blue Pelican

  • Location: Deal High Street

  • Cuisine: Seafood, Japanse-inspired, bistro-style dining

  • Specialty: Fresh, locally sourced seafood including Dover sole, crab, oysters, and mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and parsley.

  • Why Visit? The Blue Pelican stands out for its commitment to sustainability and Kentish ingredients. With its coastal-themed décor and first-class seafood, it’s a must-visit for lovers of fresh fish. If they’ve got Yellowfina Tuna on the menu, don’t miss it.

2. Scott and Frog

  • Location: Near Deal seafront

  • Cuisine: French-inspired with British influence

  • Specialty: Seasonal dishes such as confit duck, steak frites, bouillabaisse, and British classics with a French twist.

  • Why Visit? An intimate bistro with an extensive wine list, Scott and Frog is one of the best restaurants in Deal for a special occasion or romantic date night. They also own the wine bar Le Pinardier a few doors down. Make sure you try it for a post-dinner aperitivo.

3. The Rose

  • Location: High Street, Deal

  • Cuisine: Modern British with seasonal menus

  • Specialty: Sharing plates, bold seasonal flavours, and brunch dishes paired with craft cocktails and natural wines.

  • Why Visit? A beautifully designed boutique hotel restaurant that has become a hub for Deal’s food scene. Ideal for brunch, cocktails, or a stylish dinner.

4. Dunkerley’s

  • Location: Beach Street, Deal seafront

  • Cuisine: British classics with a seafood focus

  • Specialty: Lobster, crab, fresh fish, and classic steaks served with sea views.

  • Why Visit? An award-winning seafront restaurant with decades of reputation, Dunkerley’s is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with an elegant touch.

5. The Zetland Arms

  • Location: Kingsdown Beach (a short drive from Deal)

  • Cuisine: Traditional pub fare with seafood

  • Specialty: Beer-battered fish and chips, sea bass, and hearty seaside classics.

  • Why Visit? Nestled right on the beach, The Zetland Arms offers unbeatable views and a laid-back pub atmosphere. A hidden gem for dining by the water.

Honourable Mentions

Other excellent restaurants in Deal include:

  • 81 Beach Street – A popular spot for modern British dining by the sea.

  • The Courtyard – A stylish café-bistro with fresh, seasonal menus.

  • The Lane – Known for brunch, coffee, and relaxed dining.


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