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Whitstable

The Sportsman in Seasalter, Whitstable, is renowned for its exceptional food and relaxed atmosphere. Patrons frequently praise the quality of the dishes, the use of local ingredients, and the attentive service. The five-course tasting menu is particularly highlighted for its creativity and value. However, some reviews mention that the service can be inconsistent, with occasional lapses in attentiveness.

The Sportsman Whitstable: Michelin Star Coastal Dining Experience in Seasalter UK 

Nestled on Faversham Road in the charming village of Seasalter near Whitstable, Kent, The Sportsman stands out as a jewel of British coastal dining. This Michelin-starred pub offers an extraordinary culinary journey that perfectly blends the rustic charm of a classic seaside establishment with the sophistication of high-end gastronomy. For food lovers and travelers seeking an authentic local experience, The Sportsman delivers an unforgettable five-course tasting menu that showcases the freshest locally sourced ingredients.

The menu at The Sportsman is a carefully curated masterpiece, often described as a series of delightful courses including several "snacks" to awaken the palate, followed by a sequence of bread, starter, fish, meat, cleansing dish, dessert, cheese, and a sweet closing treat. Each dish is prepared with meticulous attention to detail, highlighting the flavors and textures of Kent's finest seasonal produce. From oysters and butternut squash soup to John Dory with olive tapenade and signature beef main courses, every bite tells a story of the region's rich culinary heritage.

Relaxed Coastal Ambiance and Friendly Service

Despite its Michelin star status, The Sportsman maintains a warm, approachable atmosphere that invites guests to unwind without the formality often associated with fine dining. The coastal pub setting is classic and unpretentious, encouraging diners to enjoy their meal at a comfortable pace. The staff are praised for their knowledgeable and attentive service, explaining each course with enthusiasm and ensuring that guests feel at ease. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a foodie adventure, the experience is designed to be memorable and welcoming.

Smart casual attire is recommended to complement the fine dining atmosphere.

Ample free parking is available both in the lot and on the street for guests arriving by car.

Highly recommended to secure a table due to the restaurant’s popularity and limited seating.

The Sportsman is wheelchair accessible, welcoming guests with mobility needs.

Yes, there are thoughtfully prepared vegetarian dishes available on the menu.

What is the dress code at The Sportsman? 

The dress code is smart casual. While the atmosphere is relaxed, guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for a fine dining experience.

Is there parking available at The Sportsman? 

Yes, there is ample parking available for guests.

Yes, reservations are accepted and recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

Yes, The Sportsman offers vegetarian options on their menu.

Positive reviews dominate, with many diners praising the exceptional quality of food and the relaxed yet attentive service. 

 The five-course tasting menu is lauded for its creative dishes and excellent value, highlighting the best of local Kentish produce. Some feedback mentions occasional service inconsistencies, but overall, The Sportsman is celebrated as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts exploring the UK’s coast.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the charming coastal town of Seasalter, just a stone's throw from Whitstable, the Sportsman is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary destination that has earned its Michelin Star through dedication to local ingredients and innovative cooking. Picture a classic pub setting, where rustic charm meets contemporary flair, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to unwind and indulge in an unforgettable dining experience.

At the Sportsman, every meal is a celebration of the best local produce. The five-course tasting menu is a must-try, featuring exquisite dishes like the John Dory paired with olive tapenade and a delicate Bouillabaisse sauce, and a rich beef main course that melts in your mouth. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the region.

The ambiance is relaxed yet refined, allowing guests to savor each bite without the pressure of formal dining. The attentive staff enhances the experience, explaining each course with passion and care. For those seeking a lighter option, the amuse-bouche, including a delightful cheese Wellington pudding, offers a perfect start.

The Sportsman is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, sourcing ingredients from local farms and the surrounding waters. This dedication not only supports the community but also ensures that every dish is fresh and bursting with flavor. The restaurant's location, overlooking the beautiful Kent coastline, adds to its charm, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal.

The Sportsman is celebrated for its Michelin-starred dining experience, focusing on local ingredients and innovative dishes.

For an unforgettable culinary journey that highlights the best of Kent's produce, paired with a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.

The picturesque town of Whitstable is just a short drive away, known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful beaches.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the Sportsman promises a dining experience that is both memorable and delightful. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the flavors of Kent—book your table today and prepare for a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

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https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQeTdxUmFREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUQmRbMy2UcRPBwfciVLmJU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQeTdxUmFREAE

Been meaning to try here for years and given the Michelin Star, I always wanted it to be foodie worthy and oh my, it really was!

I had the 5 course menu, however, could be seen as 11 as had 3 “snacks” as they are called here, bread, starter, fish, meat, cleansing dish, dessert, cheese and then a closing sweet before the bill.

The place is just great and food was sensational. Each ingredient prepared and cooked to perfection and the flavour of it all was superb.

It’s just heaven of a local place and was very fair considering the quality.

Set in a very classic coastal pub feel with not a huge pretentious or fine dining feel so very at ease and not needing to be all dressed up and fancy. Just enjoy the lovely food presented.

Staff were great and explained all the courses and was not rushed at all. Just a perfect meal. I’ll be back

This was a Thursday lunch at 1200

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiai0tczRRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUQmRbMy2UcRPBwfciVLmJU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiai0tczRRRRAB

Absolutely spot on from start to finish.  Nice relaxed and attentive service. Staff booked our cab for us in advance for peace of mind.  Drinks were all really nice and reasonably priced. The food was outstanding, we picked the five course menu and you choose from a selection in each course.  All the dishes flow well with little snacks and pallet cleansers between for good measure.  You can see why it’s hard to get a table here!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYN3JLbGdRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUQmRbMy2UcRPBwfciVLmJU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYN3JLbGdRRRAB

We had a wonderful meal at the Sportsman this evening. There was a choice of menus and we had the five course tasting menu. There were three amuse bouche before the main menu started. These included a cheese wellington pudding and a type of lamb samosa with mint sauce. I started with oysters and my partner began with butternut squash soup. My fish course was John Dory with olive tapenade and Bouillabaisse sauce and my partner had slipsole. Our main course was beef and for dessert we had a tarte tatin for two. There was an extra pan cotta brought before the main dessert. Every course was sumptuous. It was a very high quality meal indeed. The waitresses were all pleasant, helpful, efficient and lovely. We were brought three different types of bread, all delicious. There is a good wine list and selection of other drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The restaurant is a long way from anywhere, but they offered to get us a taxi if required. There is ample parking if you come under your own stem. I can't recommend this place highly enough.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURudWZPNFNREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUQmRbMy2UcRPBwfciVLmJU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURudWZPNFNREAE

It was my fiancé’s birthday and my sister had kindly put a £200 voucher on the table so the Sportsman knew it was a special occasion. Unfortunately we were sat at the bar where they make the coffee. Dreadful table with a view of a cracked wall, plus a constant stream of waitresses walking passed. There should be no bad tables but if the restaurant is greedy enough to use this area put a glass screen up. I will not be returning or recommending this restaurant. We spent £246 on lunch.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIMUozSGdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUQmRbMy2UcRPBwfciVLmJU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIMUozSGdnRRAB

A feast for the senses - every course from the flavour filled morsels of starters through the delights of the tasting menu was a wonderful combination of textures and flavours. Using the best of locally and home  produced foods cooked well with attention to detail but no unnecessary theatrics - Thank you Chef and staff .

Experience Michelin-Star Dining at The Sportsman, Whitstable

The Sportsman, located in Seasalter near Whitstable, has a rich history dating back to 1642 when an inn first stood on the site. The current owners, brothers Philip and Stephen Harris, took over in November 1999 with the intention of serving good food in relaxed and informal surroundings. They have held a Michelin star since 2008.

At the edge of the serene Seasalter, nestled alongside the charming coastline, lies a captivating spot known as the Sportsman. This distinctive bar and restaurant crafts an exquisite blend of local culinary artistry and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that make Whitstable a favored destination for both locals and visitors. The menu showcases an array of fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the bountiful waters and rich farmlands of the surrounding region, making each plate a reflection of the best that Kent has to offer.

Sportsman

A selection of dishes showcasing local ingredients and seasonal flavors.

Unpasteurised Cheese with Oatcakes & Quince Jelly

Braised Halibut Fillet with Crab Bisque

Roast Chicken with Truffle Cream Sauce

Homemade Bread with Home-Churned Butter

Slip Sole with Smoked Salt Butter

Bramley Apple Soufflé

Panna Cotta with Lemon

Chocolate Mousse Cake

Sample Menu at The Sportsman

Sample menu at the sportsman in seasalter, whitstable uk.

Discover a culinary journey at The Sportsman, where the menu is a vibrant celebration of fresh, local ingredients and exquisite seasonal flavors from the charming coast of Seasalter in Whitstable. This Michelin-starred coastal pub offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience with dishes that are thoughtfully crafted to delight every palate.

Begin your meal with comforting and refined starters that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The unpasteurised cheese paired with crunchy oatcakes and a dollop of quince jelly offers a beautiful balance of creamy, savory, and sweet notes. Equally inviting is their homemade bread served with rich, home-churned butter – a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to start.

The mains at The Sportsman exemplify coastal British cuisine at its finest, featuring expertly prepared fish and meat dishes that embody local charm and culinary skill. The braised halibut fillet is served with a luscious crab bisque that enhances the delicate flavors of the fish with a rich, oceanic depth. For those craving a classic dish elevated to gourmet heights, the roast chicken with truffle cream sauce delivers indulgence with every tender bite. Another standout is the slip sole with smoked salt butter, a subtle yet flavorful presentation that highlights the freshness of locally sourced seafood.

Conclude your meal with decadent desserts that marry traditional British favorites with refined craftsmanship. The Bramley apple soufflé offers a light, airy texture with the sweet tartness of Bramley apples perfectly balanced by delicate meringue. The panna cotta with lemon zest provides a creamy, refreshing finish with a zesty brightness that cleanses the palate. For chocolate enthusiasts, the chocolate mousse cake is a rich, velvety indulgence made from dark chocolate, cream, and eggs, delivering a satisfying finale to your dining experience.

The Sportsman complements its exquisite menu with a thoughtfully curated selection of drinks, including fine wines and locally brewed beers that perfectly accompany each course. Seasonal specials and tasting menus offer guests the opportunity to experience a series of expertly paired dishes, showcasing the best of local and home-produced ingredients. The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensure a relaxed dining atmosphere without any pretension, making it an ideal destination for both special occasions and casual indulgence.

 Unpasteurised cheese with oatcakes and quince jelly, Homemade bread with home-churned butter.

 Braised halibut fillet with crab bisque, Roast chicken with truffle cream sauce, Slip sole with smoked salt butter.

 Bramley apple soufflé, Panna cotta with lemon, Chocolate mousse cake.

Indulge in exquisite dining at Sportsman in Seasalter, Whitstable. Enjoy gourmet dishes, local seafood, and stunning sea views. Reserve your table now!

Gourmet Restaurant Sportsman in Seasalter, Whitstable

Whitstable Municipality

A seasonal menu featuring small dishes that highlight local produce.

Five-Course Tasting Menu

A curated selection of wines to complement the tasting menu.

Wine Pairing

Experience The Sportsman in Seasalter: A Michelin-Starred Coastal Gem in Whitstable, Kent United Kingdom.

Nestled along the scenic Faversham Road in the charming village of Seasalter near Whitstable, The Sportsman stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and authentic coastal dining in Kent, England. This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its exquisite five-course tasting menu that celebrates the very best of local and seasonal produce. Here, food lovers and discerning travelers alike can indulge in a feast crafted with passion, skill, and a deep respect for the flavors of the region.

At The Sportsman, the gastronomic journey begins with a thoughtfully curated five-course tasting menu priced at £80. This menu is a celebration of small, artfully prepared dishes that capture the essence of local Kentish ingredients. Guests can expect a series of delightful courses including fresh oysters, seasonal fish like John Dory, tender meats, and inventive palate cleansers that refresh the senses throughout the meal. The culinary experience is enhanced by a £40 wine pairing option, offering a handpicked selection of wines that perfectly complement each course, elevating the flavors to new heights.

Unlike many Michelin-starred establishments, The Sportsman offers a welcoming, classic coastal pub atmosphere without the fuss of fine dining pretensions. This approachable vibe means you can relax and enjoy your meal without needing to dress up excessively, making it ideal for a casual yet exceptional dining experience. Attentive and knowledgeable staff provide warm service, carefully explaining each course and ensuring guests never feel rushed, contributing to an unhurried and memorable meal.

 – The menu showcases fresh produce from Kent, capturing authentic coastal flavors.

 – A journey through expertly prepared dishes, including snacks, starters, fish, meat, cleansing dishes, desserts, and cheese.

 – Thoughtfully matched wines available to enhance your dining experience.

 – Enjoy fine dining without the formal atmosphere, perfect for locals and visitors alike.

 – Free parking and easy payment options including NFC, debit, and credit cards.

The Sportsman is a perfect choice for those seeking a special lunch or dinner experience in a coastal setting. It serves lunch and dinner but does not offer breakfast or brunch. The venue welcomes groups and allows dogs, making it a versatile option for different occasions. While outdoor seating is not available, the cozy interior offers a warm and intimate atmosphere. It is highly recommended to reserve a table in advance due to its popularity and limited seating. Guests can enjoy a full range of drinks, including excellent coffee, wine, and beer, adding to the complete dining experience.

Discover why The Sportsman is considered a hidden culinary treasure on England’s southeast coast and treat yourself to a dining experience that harmoniously blends exquisite flavors, local charm, and impeccable service.

Kent

Indulge in a Michelin-starred tasting menu at The Sportsman in Seasalter. Enjoy local ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere—reserve your table today!

Experience Luxury Dining at The Sportsman, Seasalter

Plan your visit to The Sportsman in Whitstable with our top itineraries and tips! Discover the best dishes and nearby attractions in Seasalter.

Explore Whitstable: The Sportsman Itinerary & Tips

Learn about The Sportsman, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Whitstable's Seasalter. Discover its history, atmosphere, and local cuisine.

Experience Michelin-Star Dining at The Sportsman, Whitstable

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