Looking for the best places to eat in the Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells? Our Local Guide to Pantiles Restaurants includes must try local gems, fine dining spots, cosy cafes, family-friendly eateries, and more!
Popular Pantiles Restaurants for Casual Dining
The Ragged Tousers
Over the last two decades, our pub, The Ragged Trousers, has become a favourite amongst locals and visitors. The Ragged is a cosy pub with a modern twist. By day we serve a menu that’s a mix of traditional French brasserie dishes and proper British pub food. By night, the Ragged becomes a vibrant bar!
Known for our laid-back and super-friendly vibe, we stock a large range of craft beers, real ales, cocktails, wines, and more. Our outdoor seating in the Pantiles is just perfect for soaking up the atmosphere!
- Family-friendly
- Dog allowed
- Craft Beer Bar
- Cocktails
- Casual atmosphere
Sunday Roast on the Pantiles
Looking for the best Sunday roast in the Pantiles? Our Sunday lunches at the Ragged are very popular. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, our chef puts together a fantastic dish loaded with perfect roast potatoes, vegetables, and the perfect gravy.
For parties of 8 or more, please book by phone or email.
Sankey’s The Old Fishmarket
Famous for its seafood, Sankey’s The Old Fishmarket specialises in fresh British fish and shellfish. The Old Fishmarket is a top pick for seafood lovers! Their spacious, informal setting is ideal for a relaxed evening meal.
- Seafood specialists
- Family-friendly
- Casual vibe
Kumquat
Kumquat offer an elegant fusion of traditional Asian flavours and modern flair. The family-run restaurant focuses on serving fresh food, made with fresh ingredients, in a relaxed and inviting environment.
- Family-friendly
- Asian flavours
- Casual dining
Framptons Bar & Grill
Sitting right at the top of the Pantiles, Framptons Bar and Grill works with local suppliers to serve gastropub food, wine, craft beers, cocktails, and coffee in a casual atmosphere. It consists of two floors, and although the top floor has more of a formal restaurant vibe, you can still expect a casual dining experience.
- Family-friendly
- Dogs allowed
- Casual dining
The Old Auction House
The Old Auction House sits just behind The Pantiles on Linden Park Road. They offer a unique setting with a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. With rustic charm and dishes including breakfast, sandwiches, croques, salads, and both sweet and savoury crepes, it’s a nice spot for a laid-back but memorable dining experience.
- Fresh seasonal menu
- Family-friendly
- Rustic charm
- Extensive wine list
Kirthon Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
Kirthon delivers a taste of India with a menu filled with authentic Indian dishes and fusion creations. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and flavourful curries, it’s a top choice for a casual night out or takeaway.
- Indian cuisine
- Good for groups
- Takeaway available
- Casual vibe
Marino’s
This popular fish and chip shop is perfect for a quick, casual bite in The Pantiles. Serving fresh, golden-battered fish with a side of British tradition, Marino’s hit’s the spot if you’re craving classic fish and chips.
- Family-friendly
- Takeaway available
- Casual dining
Best Brunch Spots and Cosy Cafes in The Pantiles
The Philanthropist
The Philanthropist is the Pantiles café and coffee shop with a cause! Over at “the Phil,” we serve amazing sandwiches, soups, pastries, and cakes along with freshly brewed teas and coffee, in a super-relaxed atmosphere.
To make your visit even more special, browse our book shelves in the café. The proceeds of every purchase are donated to charity.
- Family-friendly
- Café food and lunch
- Cakes
Hattons
Hattons is a stylish café with an elegant twist. It’s known for it’s afternoon teas, light bites, and lovely brunch dishes. It makes for a sophisticated yet comfortable spot in the Pantiles.
- Afternoon teas
- Brunch
- Cosy atmosphere
Charlotte’s in the Pantiles
An elegant and modern city cocktail bar and café in the Pantiles, Charlottes specialise in cocktails, prosecco, and brunch. The main menu includes light bites, sliders, tacos, and pizzas.
- Cocktails
- Brunch
- Elegant ambiance
Eggs Eleven
Eggs Eleven is a breakfast and brunch lover’s paradise, serving creative egg-based dishes ranging from classic eggs Benedict to inventive omelettes. It’s also got a great menu for kids.
- Family-friendly
- Laid-back vibe
- Café food
The Pantiles Café & Bar
The Pantiles Café offers a relaxed environment to enjoy coffee, light snacks, cocktails, beer, and wine. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s an inviting spot to relax and people-watch in The Pantiles. Expect a British café menu which includes brunch, tapas, sandwiches, cakes, and more.
The CakeShed
The CakeShed is an independent coffee shop on the Pantiles. They serve a light lunch menu consisting of soups, salads, bagels, wraps, and more. They also (as the name suggests,) offer a scrumptious selection of handmade cakes.
Best Pantiles Restaurants for Fine Dining
Essence
Atul Kochhar’s Essence brings refined dining to The Pantiles with its seasonal menu and high-quality ingredients. Offering modern Indian food, it’s a top choice for special occasions or if you’re looking to enjoy a memorable meal.
- Fine dining
- Intimate setting
- Indian cuisine
- Set menus available
The Tunbridge Wells Hotel (The Eating House)
The restaurant at The Tunbridge Wells Hotel is known for its elegant and classic British menu. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, it’s a fine dining destination that also offers a selection of fine wines and cocktails. The restaurant offers everything from continental breakfasts and light lunches to romantic formal dining experience.
- Fine dining
- Afternoon tea
- Intimate dining
- Historic charm
La Casa Vecchia & The Grey Lady
Offering a fusion of Italian and British flavours, La Casa provides a charming fine dining experience just a short walk from The Pantiles. Their sophisticated yet warm atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for an intimate dinner or special celebration. Upstairs, The Grey Lady Bar provides live music and cocktails.
- Fine dining
- Romantic atmosphere
- Mediterranean cuisine
- Live music
FAQ: Dining in The Pantiles
What types of restaurants are available in The Pantiles?
The Pantiles offers a really diverse mix of dining options, whether you’re looking for something casual, a pub, international cuisine, or a refined fine dining experience – it’s all there!
Are there family-friendly dining options?
Yes, several restaurants, like The Ragged Trousers, Marino’s, and The CakeShed are family-friendly, offering kids’ menus and casual settings. Here at the Ragged and at The philanthropist, families are always welcome.
Do any restaurants offer outdoor seating?
Many places do offer outdoor seating on the Pantiles. We offer plenty of seating here at The Ragged and over at The Philanthropist, and we encourage you to make the most of it! Framptons and The Pantiles Café also offer outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying the charming atmosphere of The Pantiles.
Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Here at The Ragged, we’re always happy to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets! We offer both. Other locations like Kumquat and Hattons also have a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, as do several other restaurants in the area.
Which restaurants are good for special occasions?
It depends what you’re looking for! We take group bookings right here at the Ragged, if you’re looking for a casual and relaxed atmosphere but a fantastic bar! For a memorable fine dining experience, Essence and The Tunbridge Wells Hotel both offer sophisticated menus and settings, ideal for large celebrations and romantic evenings.