Buoy & Oyster: One of the Best Restaurants in Margate

When people talk about the best restaurants in Margate, one name appears time and time again: Buoy and Oyster. Positioned on Margate’s iconic seafront, this family-run seafood restaurant has become one of Kent’s most celebrated dining destinations, known for its fresh local seafood, stylish atmosphere and stunning coastal views.

Combining relaxed seaside charm with award-winning food and expertly crafted drinks, Buoy & Oyster offers a dining experience that captures the very best of Margate’s thriving food scene.

A Standout Restaurant on the Kent Coast

Since opening in 2015, Buoy and Oyster has established itself as a key part of Margate’s culinary identity. The restaurant is proud to showcase top-quality seafood and seasonal ingredients in a welcoming seaside setting.

The ethos is simple: to serve great quality food and drinks in a relaxed and stylish seaside setting while supporting local suppliers and celebrating Kent’s coastal produce.

This commitment to quality has earned the restaurant significant recognition, including 2 AA Rosettes since 2019 and the title of Muddy Stilettos “Best Restaurant in Kent 2022”.

Fresh Seafood and Seasonal Menus

At the heart of the restaurant is a strong commitment to fresh, responsibly sourced seafood. The chefs work closely with Kent-based fishermen and local suppliers to ensure ingredients arrive at their peak freshness. Much of the fish and shellfish served is often landed and delivered on the very same day.

Menus change four times a year to reflect the seasons and showcase the best produce available.

Guests can expect dishes including:

• Fresh oysters and shellfish

• Seafood platters and fruits de mer

• Coastal classics such as fish and chips and mussels

• Seasonal specials inspired by British coastal cooking

Alongside seafood, there are also vegetarian, vegan and meat dishes, making the restaurant suitable for a wide range of diners.

The seafood bar is especially popular, offering oysters, shellfish and small plates in a more relaxed and social setting.

A Lively Seafood Bar Experience

One of the standout features of Buoy and Oyster is its vibrant seafood bar, located beside the open-plan kitchen. Here, guests can enjoy freshly shucked oysters, shellfish platters and cocktails while watching chefs at work.

The restaurant’s popular Oyster Happy Hour runs Monday to Friday from 4–5 pm, offering 2-for-1 oysters and margaritas in the seafood bar area.

This lively setting makes it ideal for pre-dinner drinks, social gatherings or relaxed afternoons by the sea.

Drinks That Elevate the Dining Experience

A major part of what makes Buoy and Oyster one of the best restaurants in Margate is its carefully curated drinks offering.

The restaurant serves:

• Handcrafted cocktails expertly prepared by bartenders using premium spirits and fresh ingredients.

• A selection of local Kent wines and spirits

• Signature drinks, including our well-known Bloody Marys

The seafood bar is described as the perfect place to enjoy cocktails with friends or Bloody Marys alongside freshly shucked oysters and platters.

Whether you prefer a crisp white wine with seafood or a bold cocktail while watching the sunset, the drinks menu has been thoughtfully designed to complement the coastal dining experience.

Beautiful Sea Views and Relaxed Atmosphere

Location is another reason why Buoy and Oyster stand out among Margate restaurants. Situated directly on the seafront, the restaurant offers stunning sea views and sunsets, adding a sense of occasion to every meal.

Inside, the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between stylish and relaxed. The open kitchen brings energy to the space, while the coastal interiors create a comfortable environment suitable for everything from casual lunches to special celebrations.

The restaurant is also family-friendly and offers all-day dining seven days a week from 12–9 pm.

Stay and Dine by the Sea

For guests wanting to extend their visit, the restaurant also offers four unique design-led apartments above the venue, two with direct sea views.

This creates the perfect opportunity to enjoy a full seaside escape, dine downstairs and stay just moments from the beach.

Final Thoughts

If you are searching for one of the best restaurants in Margate, Buoy and Oyster offers everything that makes coastal dining special. Fresh local seafood, expertly crafted cocktails, stunning sea views and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere all come together to create a memorable experience.

Whether you’re stopping by for oysters at the seafood bar, enjoying fish and chips by the coast or settling in for a long evening meal with cocktails, Buoy & Oyster continues to set the standard for dining in Margate.