The Best Places to Eat in Deal 2025
Our Guide to the Foodie Town’s Finest Dining Spots
Deal has quietly evolved into one of Kent’s best seaside destinations for food lovers in recent years, and we (at The Kent Tourist) are lovers of the elite food scene.
From seafood bistros and boutique hotel dining to French-inspired kitchens and beachside pubs, this coastal town offers something for every palate. There’s quite literally something for everyone, from romantic dinners to relaxed brunches, or a family meal with sea views. Here’s the The Kent Tourist’s picks for the best places to eat in Deal.
1. The Blue Pelican
Set in the heart of Deal’s High Street, The Blue Pelican is one of Kent’s most exciting coastal restaurants and one of the best we’ve eaten at at The Kent Tourist. With a menu focused on Japanese-inspired small plates and the freshest seafood, it has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The open kitchen and relaxed bistro atmosphere perfectly match the town’s creative energy. When you do go, don’t miss the Yellowfin Tuna.
Location: 112 High Street, Deal, CT14 6EE
Price Point: Expect mains to range from £24–£30 (but be aware the speciality here are small, high quality plates).
Specialties: Dover sole, crab, oysters, and mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and parsley. Their Yellowfin Tuna — when available — is a must-try.
Awards: Featured in The Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2024 for its contemporary seafood dining.
The Kent Tourist tip: Book in advance — The Blue Pelican is small, intimate, and often fully booked at weekends.
The distinctive interior of The Blue Pelican
2. The Rose
A restored Victorian hotel turned stylish restaurant and bar, The Rose has become the beating heart of Deal’s modern food scene. Inside, mid-century interiors meet playful design, while the menu delivers bold seasonal flavours and Kentish produce. We’re also huge fans of the hotel side of The Rose. It’s easily one of the most unique and cosiest places to stay in the whole of Kent.
Location: 91 High Street, Deal, CT14 6ED
Price Point: Expect mains to range from £20–£28.
Specialties: Sharing plates, Sunday roasts, and inventive brunch dishes paired with craft cocktails and natural wines.
Awards: Included in The Times “Best Places to Stay by the Sea” and The Michelin Guide 2024 for its contemporary British cuisine.
The Kent Tourist tip: Visit for brunch — their smoked trout on sourdough and Bloody Marys are favourites.
The exterior of The Rose
3. Frog and Scot
A hidden gem tucked near Deal seafront, opposite The Rose, Frog and Scot combines French bistro flair with a refined British touch. Expect a warm, candlelit dining experience, with an exceptional wine list curated by the owners, who also run the popular wine bar Le Pinardier. We’re equally as excited as Le Pinardier as we are about Frog and Scot, so do make time to visit both if you can.
Location: 16 Victoria Road, Deal, CT14 7AP
Price Point: Expect mains to range from £22–£32.
Specialties: Confit duck, steak frites, bouillabaisse, and other French-inspired seasonal dishes.
Awards: Praised by The Guardian and Kent Life Magazine for its romantic dining and wine pairing menu.
The Kent Tourist tip: Pair your dinner with a pre- or post-meal drink at Le Pinardier for an authentic Deal evening - literally a 30 second walk away.
4. Deal Pier Kitchen
When seated, you are literally perched at the end of Deal’s historic pier so Deal Pier Kitchen offers some of the best sea views in Kent. The bright, contemporary café-restaurant serves hearty brunches and quality seafood with a focus on local suppliers.
Location: Deal Pier, Beach Street, Deal, CT14 6HZ
Price Point: Expect mains to range from £15–£25.
Specialties: Crab benedict, smoked salmon breakfasts, and fish finger sandwiches served with panoramic sea views.
Awards: Kent Café of the Year 2022 finalist in the Taste of Kent Awards.
The Kent Tourist tip: Visit early on sunny mornings for coffee and breakfast as the sun rises over the Channel.
The bar at the Deal Pier Kitchen (Kent Online)
5. Soul Chef Kitchen (at The Port Arms)
Housed inside the historic Port Arms pub, Soul Chef Kitchen delivers a modern twist on classic comfort food. Expect locally sourced ingredients, bold flavours, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere right on Deal’s seafront.
Price Point: Expect mains to range from £17–£25.
Specialties: Slow-cooked lamb, spicy seafood stews, and their signature loaded fries.
Awards: Winner of Kent Hospitality Awards 2023 – Best New Dining Concept.
The Kent Tourist tip: Perfect for casual dining — grab a pint from The Port Arms bar and enjoy your meal with sea views.
6. Holy Dough
If you’re craving pizza done properly, Holy Dough is Deal’s go-to spot. Known for its wood-fired sourdough bases, fresh toppings, and cool coastal vibe, it’s a family-friendly favourite located just off the High Street.
Location: 187 Mill Rd, Deal CT14 9BG
Price Point: Expect pizzas from £12–£17.
Specialties: The “Holy Margarita” and “Hot Honey” pizzas are local favourites, using locally sourced ingredients and inventive flavour combinations.
Awards: Kent Pizza Awards 2023 finalist for “Best Independent Pizzeria.”
The Kent Tourist tip: Order takeaway and enjoy your pizza on the nearby seafront steps for the best sunset view in town.
7. The Zetland Arms
Nestled right on Kingsdown Beach, just a short drive or walk along the coastal path from Deal, The Zetland Arms is a classic seaside pub with unbeatable views. The menu is all about local produce, seafood, and hearty pub favourites.
Price Point: Expect mains to range from £16–£24.
Specialties: Beer-battered fish and chips, sea bass, and fresh mussels cooked in cider and cream.
Awards: Named “Best Seaside Pub in Kent” by The Telegraph’s Coastal Awards.
The Kent Tourist tip: Arrive early for a table on the terrace — it’s one of Kent’s most scenic pub dining spots, especially at sunset.
