When you think of a British seaside town, certain images pop into mind: windswept beaches, questionable seagull behaviour, and maybe a slightly sad chip shop. But Folkestone? Oh no. Folkestone didn’t get the memo.
This quirky Kentish coastal town has quietly transformed into a bit of a food-lover’s playground — and while the sea views are still there (and still windy), you’re just as likely to leave Folkestone raving about the food as you are the beach. So, if you’ve been sleeping on this gem of a town, it’s time to wake up and book a table (or three).
Contents:
Brewing Brothers – Pizza, Beer, and Absolute Vibes
Let’s start strong. Brewing Brothers have taken over a shipping container of Folkestone’s Harbour Arm with wood-fired pizza, house-brewed beers, and enough cool factor to make London jealous.
This isn’t their first rodeo either — they started out in Hastings and St Leonards. They expanded – and locals quickly caught on that beer and pizza are still a winning combination.
Their Folkestone outpost brings the same magic: relaxed, slightly industrial interiors, banging tunes, and the kind of pizza that makes you regret every supermarket frozen one you’ve ever eaten.
The best part? You can eat your pizza with a sea breeze in your hair and a pint in hand, knowing you’re doing it right. Perfect on a sunny day!
Brewing Brother’s Menu
Are you looking at heading to the one in Folkestone? I know you’re after the Brewing Brothers Folkestone Menu – so I’ve linked it for ease.
My Brewing Brother’s Order?
Inferno £14 – A Mozzarella Base, ‘Nduja, Salame, Hot Honey & Rocket. Honestly, a winner every-time.
Marleys – From Small Restaurant to Local Legend
I first went to Marleys when it was a little blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot on the old high street.
I had just moved from Australia, to a little seaside town in England, where I didn’t know anyone, so, I had a burger here by myself. Overall, something that could have been an intimidating experience – really wasn’t – the team are lovely!
I then found out, that back then, people used to queue out the door just to get a stack of pancakes on a Saturday. And honestly? Fair enough – they are epic!
Fast-forward a few years and Marleys has grown into a bold corner restaurant with big windows and even bigger flavour. While they still do a cracking breakfast (different pancake special stacks every week I believe!), the real star (in my humble, pork-loving opinion) is the pork roast.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you rethink your life choices. Tender, juicy, a bit crispy on the edges — I’m not saying it changed me as a person, but I have seen the light. Everyone I speak to about roasts, it’s my go-to recommendation.
Whether you’re there for brunch, lunch or a big ol’ dinner, Marleys knows what it’s doing.
Marley’s Menu
Keen to try it yourself? Here is Marley’s Menu – I know I always take a look before I head to any venue.
My Marley’s Order?
I bet this is a surprise… Butchers Pork Belly – £22.50 – no further review needed!
A Wildcard: The Potting Shed
I know – I said this was going to be about eateries – but I could not talk about Folkestone, and leave out the Potting Shed.
So, not technically an eatery, but let’s be honest: no food tour is complete without a sneaky cocktail or two.
The Potting Shed is Folkestone’s answer to “what if a garden centre got cool and served Negronis?”
Hidden behind a discreet cupboard entrance (you’ll need a booking to get in – it’s that kind of place), this speakeasy is full of character, charm, and drinks that’ll make you feel like you know what you’re doing.
Once you’ve made a booking, on the day – you’ll be sent a secret code word (I have never had the same one multiple times – so it is secret!). You’ll need to approach the counter – where upon a correct code delivery, they’ll ‘sneak’ you through the back (to the speakeasy – nothing weird!)
I do not have an image of the inside – strict no photos allowed, you know being a speakeasy and all.
There’s always a good atmosphere, usually a few too many people pretending they’re cocktail experts, and it’s just a short stumble from the local Spoons, if you feel like bringing the mood down dramatically afterwards.
Final Thoughts? Folkestone’s Having A Moment
Forget what you thought you knew about sleepy seaside towns. Folkestone is serving wood-fired pizza, gourmet roasts, and hidden cocktails with a side of sea air. And while the seagulls are still aggressive (classic), at least now you’ve got a pork roast to defend.
So, next time someone suggests Brighton or Whitstable for a foodie trip, lean in and whisper: “Have you tried Folkestone?”