The Kentish Pantry

I honestly cannot describe how *extraordinary* this experience was. This place alone is a reason for you to visit Margate on your weekend. Please read on, and check my pictures below. We had the luck to stumble upon this hidden diamond - during our two days in Margate. Passing outside, me and my partner noticed the books on the windows, and thought: these people must have some taste. So we went in. The smell was SO good to start with, and the place was heartwarming. We were amidst antiques, local made goodies and bottles on the wall-shelves, books, LEGO figures, and an old bicycle. Thankfully, a small table for two wasn't booked. A kind-voiced gentleman called Jason came to our table, and introduced himself; he and Ian (the chef) were running the restaurant together. I asked for a local pear cider called "The Wise Owl", and it was excellent. My partner had a lovely British pinot noir. Then I had the soup of the day, a really tasty butternut squash - my partner had a delicious mushrooms starter dish - both an absolutely wonderful prelude to what I was about to follow. Then, the Pie of the Day came.. My goodness. I almost felt embarrassed to put my fork in that pie.. it was smelling like home, as if it was a dish only your grandma would have made. The presentation, the perfect pasty, the divine filling, the gravy.. Those potatoes, thick and crusty, with the exact amount of oil, and with a gorgeous crispy orange-like colour. Overwhelming! And surely, there was a more-than-generous amount of food in our dishes. We finished about two-thirds of the vegetable dish, which came with the Pie - it had fresh and well made vegetables, and, no surprise, the mash was amazing as well. Without exaggerating at all: I almost cried a bit, and I usually only have these moments with music. Yes of course, I was with my girl and it was romantic - but also this meal for an Oscar and the cozy atmosphere made me just realize how privileged I was. My partner, who's definitely a foodie and has done loads of travels, had the best impression too about the place. We were looking forward to a lemon and berries dessert! but we were full and entirely satisfied. Ian and Jason are also making their own gin. And I could not resist buying a Rhubarb Kentish Gin for the most affordable amount of £12, which I save for a special occasion. I forgot to say - That dreamy pie ONLY cost £12 too by the way....What?!? :-) :-) I am a Greek living in London, and I frankly didn't know Jason and Ian. But it was such an unforgettable experience that it would be unfair not to write for them. Please be safe and happy, both! And do pass on the knowledge about your Art to others too. Thank you guys! <3 With respect, Christos

Great atmosphere. Delicious seafood. Delightful desserts. My favorite restaurant in Margate.

We had a delicious quick lunch - a lovely toasted snack and tasty mussels in a curried sauce with plenty of bread to mop it up with. Friendly service, good atmosphere and super old town location. Margate is full of excellent food stops, Kentish Pantry included.

I must say this place is a great find and a treasure. The owner and chef are really friendly and the food there is amazing and great value for money. I must say the pie I had there is the best I have ever had all the food is sourced locally. They also make sauces, pickles, flavoured gins and also beard oils (I buy my oils from here religiously)

Fantastic food. Great culinary creations from Kent produce. Also they stock The finest Gins/ Vodkas and Ales from Kent, great atmosphere with excellent customer service.