The charming seaside town of Deal in Kent has been praised as one of the UK’s top “hidden” foodie hotspots. The historic town, known for its delightful cuisine, was named alongside four other destinations perfect for food lovers.
The Guardian recently tipped Deal as one of the country’s top five “lesser-known spots” for food enthusiasts. It said the town offers a “perfect flavour-filled break”.
Deal was ranked alongside Tisbury in Wiltshire, Orford in Suffolk, Clitheroe in Lancashire, and Porthleven in Cornwall. The guide also suggested places to stay and eat in Deal.
The newspaper stated: “One of Kent’s most charming coastal towns, Deal has picked up the baton from Margate with a burgeoning foodie culture, encompassing everything from unctuous French cheeses and tangy charcuterie at the No Name Shop deli to fish straight off the boat at 81 Beach Street (excellent GF/vegan options).
“Stay at The Rose, a former pub converted into a quirky eight-room boutique hotel with bold colours and an eclectic mix of retro and contemporary artworks and furniture, and Nuno Mendes, ex of the Chiltern Firehouse, as executive chef of the hotel’s excellent restaurant.”
The Guardian described a visit to the town, saying: “Evenings begin with cocktails at The Lane, with supper at the Updown Farmhouse a charming restaurant with rooms,” while also suggesting: “Before heading home, pop into Arno and Co to pick up small-batch wines, craft beers, and tapas snacks, and Jenkins Fishmongers for great fish pates.”
Deal isn’t new to praise. It’s been named one of the best places to live in the county before, as Secret London ranked it top among Kent Seaside towns near London.
Deal has a rich history, dating back to the Addelam settlement mentioned in the Domesday Book. Nowadays, it’s seen as a quaint escape from London, like stepping back into the golden ages.
There are plenty of great places to eat in Deal. Alongside the No Name Shop deli, 81 Beach Street and Updown Farmhouse recommended by The Guardian, the town boasts its own Michelin-recommended restaurant, Frog and Scot.
Described as a “lively English tapas bar”, it’s nestled near Deal’s conservation area and just a stone’s throw from the main beach. Other top-rated eateries include the Goose On The Green Cafe, ranked among Kent’s best on TripAdvisor, Little Harriettes of Deal Tea Rooms, famous for its homemade cakes, and Victuals and Co, a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award winner.
There’s no shortage of great drinking spots either, with a host of popular pubs and bars like Queen Street Tap, The Plough And Harrow Tilmanstone and The Ship Inn.
Away from food and drink, Deal is “buzzing with culture”. Attractions include the impressive Deal Castle, a historical gem dating back to Henry VIII’s reign. Open all year round, visitors can explore its intriguing history, wander through underground tunnels and enjoy various activities. History buffs will also love the Deal Timeball Tower Museum.
Other must-see attractions are the beautiful Astor Theatre, the Kent Museum of the Moving Image and Deal’s Old Town, packed with unique shops and eateries. And let’s not forget Deal beach – a lovely stretch of shingle perfect for a leisurely walk or seaside sit-down.
The beach boasts one of only two piers in Kent, dating back to the 1950s. It stretches far out to sea and has a cafe and fishing decks at the end. The beach is also backed by a charming historic town centre with plenty of amenities.
If you fancy living by the sea, Deal could be just the ticket. Rightmove says that over the past year, properties in the town sold for an average price of £385,093. Most of these were terraced homes, which went for an average price of £393,904.
Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £362,320, while detached properties fetched £545,682. Overall, sold prices in Deal over the past year were two per cent up on the previous year, and 10 per cent up on the 2021 peak of £348,588.
Deal also has great transport links, with regular high-speed services to and from London every day, as well as easy access to the A2 and A256.
