“Located just off the seafront in Whitstable’s high street, Samphire has been a destination for locals and tourists for almost 20 years. The focus has always been on making the best use of Kentish and British produce and the team are proud to showcase exceptional seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, fishermen and producers.” ‘CENE

“Samphire is a small space with a slightly open kitchen at the back so it’s got a brilliant energy to it. A self-described bistro, it is all about seasonal produce, meat and fish and, deservedly, it’s well recognised for that.” Tom Kerridge

“Cane back chairs, bare wood tables and blackboard menus signal the approach of this “always busy” ‘Kentish Bistro’ – “a great little place on the high street.” Hardens 2026

“A proper neighbourhood restaurant that just happens to serve some of the finest food in town. The kitchen team here is obsessive about provenance. The menu changes with the seasons but always maintains a careful balance between land and sea. Starters might include wild mushrooms with oozing egg yolk and flecks of tarragon, or their exemplary cod and parmesan croquettes with confit garlic mayonnaise. Main courses showcase the kitchen’s versatility: the fish pie has long held a following locally, while mains like confit duck leg with nduja pearl barley show equal care with meat […] This is a Whitstable cornerstone, and under its new ownership it remains exactly that.” IDEAL 2026