The Forge

The Forge Whitstable is a hidden gem that's a must-visit for anyone seeking the quintessential fish and chips experience. As a firm believer that the best fish and chips often come from vans and shacks, I can confidently say that this shack is truly impressive. Tucked away from the main high street and just a stone's throw from the sea, The Forge offers a delightful array of options. In addition to the classic fish and chips, they also serve oysters and have a license to serve alcohol, making it a versatile choice for all tastes. One of the standout features of this place is its fast service. Despite the high quality of their offerings, you won't be waiting long to satisfy your cravings. The selection is also fantastic, and the outside seating area is a lovely touch, allowing you to enjoy your meal while taking in the sea breeze. What sets The Forge apart is its commitment to freshness. Everything is freshly caught and cooked, which is a testament to their dedication to quality. While it may be a bit more expensive than your average fish and chip shop, it's a price worth paying. The Forge Whitstable operates on a no-bookings-required basis, which is great for those who prefer a spontaneous stop on their coastal walk. The Forge is also dog friendly as it is all outside seating. This is not a place for fine dining, but rather a classic takeaway experience where you can sit on a provided bench or a nearby beach to savor your meal. However, it's important to note that parking is limited, and they only accept card payments. So, be prepared for a bit of a parking challenge, but the culinary delights you'll find at The Forge will make it all worthwhile. It's a fantastic spot to refuel during your coastal journey, offering a genuine taste of the British seaside.

Firstly, we tried the famous oysters, £25 for two portions. They were delicious! Pricy but fair enough as they’re fresh oysters! Then we got fresh donuts, the guy making the donuts gave us an extra one! The donuts were hot, crispy, fluffy and delicious! Then later in the day we got fish and chips, which was superb along with two Kent Lagers which were great! 10/10 Experience!

Mine & my partner's first time in Whitstable, and was going to visit Wheeler's, yet it was closed. This was my second choice, but these are, without doubt, the best oysters I've ever had! The cashier's demeanour was cold and unwelcoming however, and would be the reason I wouldn't come back if the oysters weren't so good; weather was a bit all over the place, and being an outside place didn't help much. Overall though I'd come here just for the oysters - just don't expect a friendly service