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Margate

Sète in Margate has received positive feedback for its warm ambiance, knowledgeable staff, and high-quality, flavorful dishes. The wine selection is praised for its variety and quality, and the seasonal menu offers a delightful dining experience.

Sète Margate: A Charming French-British Bistro Experience in Cliftonville United Kingdom 

Nestled at 238 Northdown Road in the heart of Cliftonville, Margate, Sète offers an intimate dining experience where French and British culinary traditions come together in a delightful harmony. This quaint bistro has quickly become a beloved spot for food lovers seeking innovative dishes crafted with meticulous care and quality ingredients. From the moment you step inside, the 

 and attentive service make every visit feel special. Perfect for trend-conscious travelers and locals alike, Sète boasts a charming setting complemented by a wine list that beautifully balances classic and natural wines.

Sète's menu features standout dishes that have won the hearts of diners, including the buttery, crisp vol-au-vents filled with whipped cod's roe and the legendary chicken schnitzel served with Café de Paris butter — a dish praised as one of the best on any menu. Seafood lovers rave about the lemon sole cooked to perfection in a luscious butter sauce, melting in the mouth with every bite. The lobster rice and duck with green beans and shallots are other highlights that reflect the chef's mastery in a small kitchen setting.

Beyond the food, Sète's welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff create a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. Guests appreciate the ability to watch their meals being prepared from the table, adding an interactive dimension to the dining experience. The restaurant is also known for making occasions memorable — from spontaneous champagne treats to exceptional wine pairings, every detail is thoughtfully considered. Outdoor seating is available, making it an excellent choice for enjoying Margate’s coastal air.

 Sète operates as a wine bar and shop on Wednesday and Thursday from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Friday from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and Saturday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm. The kitchen serves food on Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:45 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 6:00 pm to 9:15 pm.

 Yes, Sète is dog-friendly and welcomes well-behaved dogs in their outdoor seating area.

 Yes, Sète provides gluten-free options on their menu to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Sète has earned glowing reviews for its exceptional service, innovative menu, and inviting atmosphere. Diners consistently praise the balance of French and British flavors in dishes, the cozy yet elegant setting, and the thoughtfully curated wine list. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to quality, making it a must-visit culinary gem in Margate’s vibrant food scene. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying an evening out, Sète promises a memorable experience that delights all senses.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the charming Cliftonville area of Margate, Sète is a culinary gem that beckons food lovers from near and far. With its inviting atmosphere and a menu that celebrates fresh, local ingredients, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience. The moment you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, enhanced by the tantalizing aromas wafting from the open kitchen. Sète is not just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of flavors, creativity, and community.

At Sète, every dish tells a story. The **lemon sole**, delicately cooked in a rich butter sauce, is a standout, melting in your mouth with each bite. Diners rave about the **whipped cod's roe vol-au-vents**, perfectly crisp and buttery, making it a must-try starter. Each plate is a testament to the chef's skill, showcasing a blend of traditional techniques and modern flair. The menu also features seasonal specials, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting.

One of the unique aspects of Sète is its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. The chef often visits local markets to select the freshest produce, ensuring that every meal is not only delicious but also supports the community. A delightful anecdote shared by regulars is how the chef once created a special dish using ingredients that were about to be discarded, transforming them into a culinary masterpiece.

Situated at 238 Northdown Road, Sète is conveniently located near the stunning beaches of Margate. After a delightful meal, visitors can stroll along the sandy shores or explore the vibrant arts scene in the area. The iconic Dreamland amusement park and the Turner Contemporary gallery are just a short distance away, making it an ideal spot for a day out.

 Sète is renowned for its exquisite seafood dishes and commitment to local sourcing.

 The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu that changes with the seasons.

 Sète is close to Margate's beautiful beaches and attractions like Dreamland and the Turner Contemporary gallery.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Sète is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates fine dining and a welcoming atmosphere. Book your table today and experience the culinary delights that await you!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3b1BtUXFnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

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OUTSTANDING! We were on our mini moon and had been eating in all the best places from Margate to Broadstairs to Whitstable, and Sete is the standout winner for us! We personally thought it was incredible value for this level of food. The staff were wonderful and even treated us to a glass of bubbles to celebrate our big day, and the restaurant has a great ambience and charming setting. Hands down the best lemon sole I have ever eaten, cooked to perfection and it just melted in the mouth. Many places are charging these prices but are not reaching this level of food so for us it was a real find.

Between the two of us we greedily ordered the whipped cods roe vol-au-vents, which were buttery and crisp, the whipped cods roe really worked well as the filling. We also shared the duck with green beans and shallots, the lemon sole in butter sauce which was to die for, the chicken supreme with aioli was super delicious, and the lobster rice was incredible so we ordered another. It was all outstanding!

Hats off to the chef for achieving this very high level of cookery in such a small kitchen. We will be regulars!

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Wonderful food, really friendly staff without being at all overbearing or feeling rushed, and being able to watch the chef prepare the food from our table was a lovely bonus. Will definitely visit again and eat as much of the menu as I can. Absolutely worth a dedicated trip if you are in or around the Thanet area, and thank you for making our birthday celebration truly special.

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A gem! Great service, warm atmosphere and delicious food. The wine list was excellent. Highly recommend a visit for a drink or a bite to eat.

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The best thing on the menu – or, indeed, perhaps on any menu I’ll eat this year, and it’s only March – is Stock’s chicken schnitzel, there in honour of Ribbe’s heritage. The tender schnitzel, robed in crunchy breadcrumbs, is served with a whopping quenelle of Café de Paris butter, though Stock’s version is like a steroid-riddled curry sauce mated with a buttercream ganache.

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We went for the chicken schnitzel after reading Grace Dent's review. It was indeed the highlight, with the tempura salsify a close second, but everything was delicious (including the drinks of course). A lovely, cozy bistro with truly exceptional service (I've never had a dropped fork replaced so quickly). We look forward to going back the next time we're in Margate.

5-Star Dining Experience at Sète, Cliftonville, Margate

Sète, named after the coastal town in France, opened as a wine bar and bottle shop in October 2022 and expanded to include a restaurant and garden in July 2023. It was awarded a place in the Michelin Guide in June 2024.

Sète Wine Bar and Restaurant History Overview 

Nestled in the heart of Cliftonville, Margate, Sète draws its name and inspiration from the picturesque coastal town of Sète in France. This charming venue has quickly become a beloved destination for lovers of French cuisine and fine wine since its inception. Its history is a testament to rapid growth fueled by passion for authentic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.

Sète first opened its doors in October 2022, establishing itself as a sophisticated wine bar and shop. This initial phase focused on curating an extensive selection of French and international wines, attracting both casual visitors and dedicated connoisseurs. The inviting ambiance and expert staff quickly earned it a reputation as a must-visit spot in Margate’s vibrant food and drink scene.

Expansion to a full restaurant and garden

In July 2023, Sète expanded its offerings by introducing a full-service restaurant and a charming garden area. This development allowed guests to enjoy a complete dining experience featuring French-inspired dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The garden added a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for relaxed lunches or elegant evening dinners under the open sky.

Less than two years since its opening, Sète’s commitment to excellence was officially recognized in June 2024 when it was featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide. This notable achievement highlights the restaurant’s exceptional standards in French cuisine, its carefully curated wine list, and its warm, inviting atmosphere that captures the spirit of both Margate and its French namesake.

 Opened as a wine bar and shop focusing on French wines and local favorites.

 Expanded to include a full restaurant and garden, offering an immersive French dining experience.

 Featured in the Michelin Guide, establishing Sète as a culinary gem in Kent.

Dine In

Takeout

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

On the vibrant Northdown Road in Cliftonville, Margate, a culinary gem awaits those eager to savor the gastronomic delights of Sète. This charming restaurant emanates a warm, inviting atmosphere where the stylish decor cleverly marries traditional British seaside aesthetics with a modern twist. Here, one can indulge in a menu inspired by the coastal flavors of the Mediterranean, each dish crafted with local ingredients and a touch of creative flair. Beyond the delicious food, Sète serves as a gateway to exploring Margate’s enchanting coastline and vibrant arts scene.

Sète

A seasonal menu focusing on modern European cooking with a heavy French influence.

Prawn cocktail lettuce cups, Marie rose sauce

Devilled eggs

Pineapple hedgehog

Mini quiche

Jelly

Oast Bakery Baguette + Butter

Saucissons + Cornichons

Boquerones

Pork Rillettes, Mustard, Pickles

Oyster Mushroom, Burrata, Salsa Macha

Beef Cheek, Polenta, Green Sauce

Hispi Cabbage, Borlotti Beans, Agrodolce

Pink Fir Potatoes, Leeks, Vinaigrette

Radicchio, Blue Cheese, Hazelnut

Chocolate Ganache, Raspberry, Honeycomb

Panna Cotta, Strawberry, Shortbread

Strawberry Ice Cream

Neal’s Yard Dairy Cheese Plate

Sète Menu

Sète menu overview at margate's culinary gem 238 northdown rd cliftonville kent united kingdom gb ct9 2qd margate england united kingdom uk 

Nestled in the heart of Cliftonville, Margate, Sète offers a refined dining experience that celebrates modern European cuisine with a distinct French influence. This seasonal small plates menu highlights the finest local produce Kent has to offer, crafting dishes that are both vibrant and elegantly simple.

Begin your meal with exquisitely crafted starters that tease the palate with delicate textures and bold flavors. The Vol-au-vent features a luscious filling of curd cheese paired with tangy pickled onions nestled inside a buttery, crisp puff pastry shell.

For those seeking something more adventurous, the Braised Squid served on olive toast with aïoli delivers a harmonious blend of tender seafood, rich olive undertones, and creamy garlic-infused sauce that perfectly complements each bite.

The main courses at Sète are a celebration of hearty European classics with refined twists. The Tartiflette showcases tender potatoes baked with rich Reblochon cheese, savory lardons, caramelized onions, and a splash of white wine, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.

For a standout signature dish, the Chicken Schnitzel with Café de Paris Butter offers a crispy, golden breadcrumb coating enveloping tender chicken breast, enhanced by a luxurious, herb-infused butter sauce that elevates every forkful.

Vegetarian diners will appreciate the Tempura Pumpkin, where delicately battered pumpkin is fried to perfection, topped with parmesan and a nutty pumpkin-seed dressing that balances crunch and creaminess beautifully.

Conclude your dining experience with the elegant Choux Bun Pudding, a delicate choux pastry filled with smooth vanilla custard and complemented by tart rhubarb, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and acidity to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Sète complements its menu with an excellent selection of wines and cocktails, perfect for pairing with your meal or enjoying a leisurely drink. The welcoming ambiance and attentive service make it an ideal spot for celebrations or intimate dinners alike.

 Vol-au-vent with curd cheese and pickled onions, Braised Squid on olive toast with aïoli.

 Tartiflette with potatoes, Reblochon cheese, lardons, onions, and white wine; Chicken Schnitzel with Café de Paris Butter; Tempura Pumpkin with parmesan and pumpkin-seed dressing.

 Choux Bun Pudding with vanilla custard and rhubarb.

Savor delicious dishes at Sète in Cliftonville, Margate! Experience vibrant flavors and cozy ambiance. Book your table now to indulge!

Sète Restaurant - Cozy Dining in Cliftonville, Margate

Margate Municipality

A wine bar offering a selection of wines predominantly from France, Austria, Germany, and South Africa, with a focus on organic and biodynamic producers.

Wine Bar

A bottle shop featuring a curated selection of wines, including natural and classic French, European, and South African wines.

Bottle Shop

A kitchen serving a seasonally changing menu with modern European dishes, heavily influenced by French cuisine.

Kitchen

Sète Margate: A Coastal Culinary Gem with Wine Delights and Intimate Tastings 

Nestled in the charming Cliftonville district of Margate, England, 

 offers a refined dining experience that perfectly blends coastal flavors with an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. This stylish restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers exploring the vibrant Thanet area, boasting a menu that highlights expertly crafted dishes and a wine selection that delights connoisseurs and casual sippers alike.

Sète is renowned for its masterful preparation of seafood and classic dishes that elevate local ingredients to new heights. Diners consistently praise the restaurant’s signature lemon sole, cooked to perfection and melting in the mouth, alongside succulent chicken supreme with aioli and rich duck with green beans and shallots. The buttery, crisp whipped cods roe vol-au-vents and lobster rice are other standout offerings, showcasing the chef’s skill in a compact yet vibrant kitchen.

For those who appreciate a well-curated wine experience, Sète’s Wine Bar offers a perfect setting to unwind. From Tuesday to Saturday, 4-6pm, guests can enjoy a selection of wines by the glass during the lively Apéro Hour, starting at just £5 per glass. This is an ideal way to sample a variety of vintages and share a relaxed moment with friends or loved ones amidst Margate’s coastal charm.

Elevate your visit by booking a private wine tasting at Sète, where you can explore an evolving list of exquisite wines—ranging from revered old world classics to vibrant natural wines. These no-cost tastings provide a unique opportunity to deepen your wine knowledge in an intimate environment, perfectly complementing the restaurant's carefully prepared cuisine.

Sète cultivates a warm and inviting ambience that makes every guest feel celebrated, whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out. The attentive yet unobtrusive staff enhance the experience with thoughtful gestures — like a complimentary glass of bubbles to toast a memorable mini-moon — and the open kitchen allows diners to watch the culinary magic unfold.

Whether you're craving an unforgettable seafood dinner, a casual glass of exquisite wine during Apéro Hour, or a special private tasting event, Sète delivers a memorable experience. Its blend of sophisticated flavors, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere makes it a standout destination on Margate’s culinary scene. For locals and visitors alike, this elegant yet approachable spot promises to delight every palate and occasion.

Sète Restaurant in Margate: An Engaging Culinary Experience with a Few Considerations 

Nestled along Northdown Road in the charming Cliftonville area of Margate, Sète offers a delightful escape for food lovers seeking innovative French-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. This warm and inviting bistro has become a standout destination for locals and travelers alike, thanks to its creative dishes, attentive service, and a carefully curated wine list that perfectly complements each meal.

The atmosphere at Sète is both cozy and elegant, making it an ideal spot for intimate dinners or special celebrations. Guests consistently praise the staff for being friendly and attentive without ever feeling intrusive, ensuring a relaxed dining experience. Watching the chef craft dishes directly from your table adds a unique and engaging touch, enhancing the overall charm of the restaurant.

Sète's menu showcases a range of innovative and expertly prepared dishes that frequently receive accolades. Standout items include the exquisitely cooked lemon sole that melts in your mouth, the tender chicken schnitzel served with a rich Café de Paris butter, and the indulgent lobster rice. The kitchen’s ability to deliver such high-quality flavors from a small setting is truly impressive, and gluten-free options ensure inclusivity for diverse dietary needs.

Warm ambiance, attentive service, innovative dishes, extensive wine list, dog-friendly, gluten-free options.

Portion sizes may be small for some, prices may be considered high by some patrons.

While many visitors rave about the impeccable flavors and service, some note that the portion sizes can feel modest and prices a bit on the higher side. However, these aspects often reflect the quality and attention to detail found in each plate. The restaurant is not geared towards families with young children, focusing instead on providing a refined dining experience. Reservations are recommended, especially for special occasions or weekend visits.

For food enthusiasts and lovers of innovative European cuisine in the Margate area, Sète represents a true culinary gem. Combining a welcoming atmosphere, exquisite food creations, and thoughtful service, it promises a memorable dining experience. Whether celebrating a special event or simply indulging in an evening out, this restaurant’s unique offerings and cozy charm make it well worth a visit.

Kent

Discover Sète in Margate, the perfect spot for French-influenced cuisine, extensive wine selection, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in Cliftonville.

Sète Margate: French-Inspired Wine & Dine Experience in Cliftonville

Plan your visit to Sète in Margate for a gourmet experience with French-inspired dishes, a diverse wine list, and scenic outdoor seating in Cliftonville.

Exploring Margate's Sète: Top Tips for Food & Wine Lovers

Learn about Sète Margate's journey from a wine bar to a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, offering seasonal French cuisine and a vibrant wine selection in Margate.

Sète menu overview at margate's culinary gem 238 northdown rd cliftonville kent united kingdom gb ct9 2qd margate england united kingdom uk

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mains

desserts

drinks and specials