Griggs Of Hythe

The coastal landscape between Dungeness and Ramsgate is smattered with fascinating attractions for anyone interested in British history, wildlife, water sports or culture. In the past decade or so, its culinary scene has proved itself a worthy equal for attracting tourists. Here we’ve found a sample of the best restaurants along this intriguing corner of the British Isles.
Sitting inside Saltwood on the Green, you would be forgiven for imagining yourself in downtown New York rather than an unassuming English coastal village. It’s stylishly decorated and has an innovative, cosmopolitan menu based around local produce. Head chef Jeff Kipp arrived from Chicago (via London) and delivers food that is indulgent, experimental and extremely beautiful to behold. You can count on the seafood to be cooked to perfection, and the desserts are deliciously playful and plentiful.
Saltwood on the Green, The Green, Saltwood, Hythe, Kent, 01303 237 800
Loaf offers an array of very fine breakfast and lunchtime food, set just off the seashore in the village of Sandgate, between Hythe and Folkestone. The interior is sparse but stylish, with Morris-print wallpaper, and vintage furniture to set the appropriate tone for the innovatively crafted sandwiches, ciabattas, soups and salads on offer. Loaf attracts a bohemian and trendy clientele, but parents with children are welcomed, as is the occasional well behaved dog.
The Smokehouse is owned by the same people that run the more upmarket Rocksalt, and offers a more casual atmosphere and menu. It’s a fun place to eat good food in a non-pretentious environment, with particular highlights being the salt and pepper squid and mussel popcorn from the starter menu. The dessert menu is particularly straightforward but delicious: four flavours of local Kentish ice cream.
Owner Matt Sworder prides himself on the excellent British classics on offer at the Corner House in the village of Minster. Local produce is carefully sourced to create favourites such as pork belly and mashed potatoes, and the excellent steak. Sharing platters are popular, featuring such delights as beef brisket, lamb shoulder and rabbit loin. Beers are similarly local and compliment the food perfectly.