Let’s be real: But of course, Dover is so much more than a white cliff (although, anybody who has to be told that must be living in a hole). Another way it’s kind of gourmet is because it can also be a little bit of a foodie paradise. English food, or rather what some people tend to generalize as English food, which used to be stereotyped as being all about boiled vegetables and tasteless meat dishes, has come a very long way. But the culinary experiences leave you drooling in Dover restaurants and, perhaps, leave doubt over any other kind of dining. No matter whether you are in the middle of a typical Friday takeaway or a gourmet restaurant worthy of a Michelin Star, you are covered in Dover. Let’s dive fork-first into some of the best spots to grab a bite.
You can’t talk about British dining without mentioning pubs. Dover is home to some of the coziest, most character-filled pubs where the food is anything but an afterthought. The White Horse Inn, a short jaunt from the castle, serves up hearty fare that could warm the soul of even the grumpiest diner. Think steak and ale pie that feels like a hug from your nan or bangers and mash with gravy. It's so good, you’ll want to swim in it. Wash it all down with a locally brewed pint, and you’ll understand why pubs are the heart of British culture, just like local castles.
Another gem is The Smugglers Inn, tucked away in a spot that feels like you’re stepping into a time machine. Their Sunday roast is the stuff of legends—fluffy Yorkshire puddings, crispy roast potatoes, and succulent beef dripping with rich gravy. It’s the quintessential British dining experience, complete with a crackling fireplace in the corner and a menu that reads like comfort food poetry.
Everyone who comes to Dover cannot help but get some seafood because the place is a coastal town. Varne Fish Bar is a place that provides simple fish and chips, but it does not seem rather simple in the meantime. They have the most incredible batter on their fish, and their fish is as fresh as any fish can get, and then there are their delicious mushy peas! Yes, mushy peas are polarizing, but her,e they’re practically a revelation.
For a more upscale seafood experience, head over to Hythe Bay Seafood Restaurant. It sits right on the waterfront, so you’re basically eating your fish while staring at its former habitat. Try their Dover sole (naturally), and savor how delicately it’s prepared. It’s a dish that reminds you why this town has a fish named after it. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine, and you’ll feel like royalty, even if you’re still wearing your sightseeing sneakers.
You would be pleased to know that there are some restaurants in Dover offering British cuisine but with a touch of moderation. The Allotment defines what a cute little eaterie with a not immediately impressive face should be: the food will bring a critic to tears. They do have specific dishes for certain times of the year, however, there are always creative and delicious meals too. Imagine beetroot tartare and goat cheese or simply pork belly that should be savored slowly since it has been slow-cooked.
The second restaurant that should be mentioned is Blakes of Dover, the menu of which can also be called unique since it features traditional British dishes and beverages but is reimagined in a gourmet setting. That does not refer to Hatfield’s Kingston menu, where the lamb shank is so soft one could use it as a relay baton, and the desserts are patently wicked! The sticky toffee pudding is so much more than just the representation of a sweet treat; this is a life changer.
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I am also fond of some small and not famous places which I can meet when I eat in Dover. They blow your expectations out of the water. Eva’s Kitchen is one of those spots. It’s a little family-run café that doesn’t try too hard to impress but ends up wowing you anyway. Their homemade shepherd’s pie could win awards, and their scones with clotted cream are nothing short of divine. It’s the perfect spot for a low-key lunch or an indulgent afternoon tea.
And let’s not forget about The Happy Chef, a quirky diner that’s all about big portions and good vibes. Their breakfast spread, served all day, is the kind of meal that keeps you full until dinner—or longer. It’s not fancy, but it’s the kind of honest, hearty cooking that makes you feel right at home.
No culinary tour of Dover would be complete without dessert. Enter Pebbles Kiosk, a tiny seaside café known for its legendary ice cream. Their flavors are inventive, seasonal, and packed with fresh ingredients. On a sunny day, there’s nothing better than grabbing a cone and strolling along the waterfront.
If you’re craving something more traditional, The Corner House Tea Room is where you want to be. They serve an afternoon tea spread that’s like a miniature feast: finger sandwiches, fresh scones, jam, and cream so thick it’s basically butter, plus an assortment of cakes that look too pretty to eat (but you’ll eat them anyway). It’s quintessentially British and utterly delightful.
If you time your visit right, you might catch one of Dover’s food festivals or pop-up events. These are the places to sample even more of what the town has to offer. Local chefs, brewers, and bakers come together to showcase their best, and the vibe is a mix of community pride and food nirvana. Keep an eye out for seafood festivals in particular—they’re like a celebration of all things fishy, in the best way possible.
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One thing that sets Dover’s culinary scene apart is its love for local ingredients. Many restaurants here pride themselves on sourcing their produce, meat, and seafood from nearby farms and fishermen. It’s not just a trend; it’s a way of life. You can literally taste the freshness in every bite. At The Bay Bistro, for instance, their locally caught crab and oysters are practically a love letter to the surrounding waters. Even the veggies in their salads seem to have more flavor, probably because they were picked from a farm just down the road. Eating local here feels like giving back to the land—and your taste buds get all the rewards.
Dover isn’t just a place to tick off your historical sightseeing bucket list. It’s a town that knows how to feed its visitors well, with a dining scene that’s as diverse as it is delicious. From cozy pubs serving up traditional fare to contemporary spots redefining British cuisine, there’s something here for every palate. The next time you’re planning a trip to this charming coastal town, make sure you leave plenty of room in your itinerary—and your stomach—for its culinary delights. Just don’t blame me if you leave a few pounds heavier and a lot happier.
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