A La Turka Whitstable - (Near Kent, london)

Angela Bennett Today, for the fifth year running we had our usual Pre-Christmas lunch at the Tudor tearooms in Whitstable. We like to try and visit as often as we can because the food is always so good, the staff are so friendly and the atmosphere is calm and cosy. Today was the last day of the Christmas menu and, as ever, it was the closest to our own Christmas Day meal as we have ever had. There were four of us, at the last sitting (2pm) and all of us had the (turkey and all the trimmings main course. Three os had the prawn cocktail which is exactly what we have at home, very often as a first course to a Sunday roast and always on Christmas Day. Served with brown bread and butter it was generous helping. The turkey roadtbwasbscrumptiousvwith four veg and extra gravy was available sausagemeat stuffing together with a largebsdd as usage wrapped in bacon were tasty accompaniments. Two of us had Christmas pudding with delicious custard and well made pudding it was. Again, I don’t eat Christmas pudding anywhere else as we make our own Christmas puddings to an old traditional family recipe so other than the Tudor tearooms no other comes even close! One of our group had the cheesecake and especially loved the shards of stem ginger, whilst the other had the black forest dessert which she said was delicious. A small glass of mulled wine started the lovely meal admirably. Wonderful usual, looking forward to next year - our Christmas starts with this visit where we always take a group photo on the beach! I’m already looking forward to my next visit and midweek roast dinner!

Neil Denny We found a lovely Cafe in Whitstable at the end of the High Street, start of Harbour Street. There was a cosy atmosphere, great coffee and a warm welcoming service. My wife loved the homemade Sunburst apple cake, and my Croque Monsieur hit all the right spots. Next time I am going to try one of the delicious looking Galettes and an authentic Breton Cider……can’t wait!!

millie Brilliant first experience here, lovely food and atmosphere! Polly our server was really friendly and attentive, as were the rest of the staff members!

Giles Polglase I recently had the pleasure of visiting The Pearsons Arms in Whitstable, and honestly, it’s exactly what you want from a seaside pub. While the exterior might look unassuming, stepping inside is like getting a warm hug. It instantly feels welcoming, especially on a chilly day, thanks to that lovely open fire crackling away in the hearth. When I visited it was very busy, and there was nowhere to sit which was a pity. What I particularly appreciate is that The Pearson’s Arms operates as a genuine free house. This means they aren’t tied to one single brewery, and it shows in their selection. The range of real ales, local Kentish brews, and fine wines on offer is genuinely impressive and clearly curated with care. Its fantastic to have such freedom of choice when youre looking for the perfect accompaniment to the sea air. I went for lunch, opting for a seasonal seafood dish, which was clearly made with locally-sourced ingredients and expertly cooked. The upstairs dining area, with its fantastic views over the bay, gives it a gastro-pub feel, while the bar downstairs retains that proper, cozy English pub charm. Now, a crucial tip: if you plan on visiting for their renowned Sunday roast or just a weekend meal, booking a table is absolutely advisable. I saw just how busy it gets—the place was absolutely packed! Dont risk turning up without a reservation, or youll likely face a long wait. Its a highly popular spot for a very good reason. I’m already planning my next trip back; it’s a perfect slice of Kentish coastal hospitality.

Dan C We collected a take out on Christmas Eve and really glad we did. The food was ready promptly. The staff were really friendly, the restaurant had a lovely buzz. The food was excellent. We shared a mixed kebab starter, and had 2 beautiful curries with rice and naan. Couldnt fault a thing. The king prawns in the jalfrezi were delicious and the naga lamb had a great kick to it. Looking forward to our next one already!

Jenny B This is a creative, welcoming restaurant with a talented chef. I visited Whitstable with two good friends and visiting 39 (or Laurens as I prefer to call it) was one of our highlights. Whitstable is already a place worth celebrating for its pretty scenery, clear blue sea and independent shops, and this place was a hidden gem - though not so hidden as we found it through good Google reviews! We were very kindly welcomed by Fairlie and Roy and enjoyed the cocktails, with Head Chef Laurens Lemon Drop being the winner! The food was a delicious fusion of flavours! We found that five of the small plates shared by three of us was filling enough that we didnt ask for a desert. I would recommend giving 39/Laurens a try for its food, creative gallery feel and friendly ambience and if Roy is there he will happily tell you about the local area so do ask him!