If you’re searching for one of the best restaurants in Margate, there’s one name that keeps coming up: Sargasso.
The restaurant everyone told me to book in Margate, and they were absolutely right.
Perched on Margate Harbour Arm, overlooking the sea, Sargasso is the kind of place that instantly makes you slow down. With its relaxed atmosphere, beautifully considered menu and expertly curated wine list, this tiny wine bar and restaurant has become one of the most talked-about coastal dining spots in Kent.
It’s effortlessly cool without trying too hard, the kind of place where you can sit for hours watching the waves, enjoying a glass of wine and sharing plates of exceptional food.
A coastal restaurant with Mediterranean influences
Sargasso’s menu is all about celebrating incredible ingredients.
The dishes are designed for sharing, with a focus on seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood and Mediterranean influences. Rather than complicated cooking, the restaurant lets the quality of the produce shine through.
The result is a menu that feels relaxed but refined, perfect for a long lunch, a special occasion or simply making the most of a seaside day in Margate.
What we ate at Sargasso
The menu changes with the seasons, but a few dishes from my visit were absolute highlights.
We started with salami, crisps and Cantabrian anchovies, served alongside the silkiest taramasalata. The combination of salty, rich flavours with the creamy dip was the perfect start, especially enjoyed with a chilled glass of wine overlooking the harbour.
A refreshing watermelon and tomato salad followed, beautifully balanced with delicate orange shavings. It was fresh, vibrant and exactly the kind of dish that feels made for sunny days by the sea.
And dessert? Don’t skip it.
The soft-serve ice cream finished with a shot of espresso was such a simple but brilliant way to end the meal, combining creamy sweetness with the richness of coffee.
The wine list at Sargasso
Naturally, the wine list was one of the reasons Sargasso stood out for me.
With a carefully selected collection of wines, including natural and low-intervention bottles, it’s a dream destination for anyone who loves discovering something new.
My choice was a beautifully crisp Verdicchio from Terre Silvate: fresh, vibrant and exactly what I wanted with the sea breeze.
Why Sargasso belongs on your Margate list
Margate has become one of the UK’s most exciting coastal destinations, with its creative food scene, independent shops, art galleries and beautiful beaches.
Sargasso perfectly captures that modern Margate spirit.
It combines exceptional ingredients, interesting wines and a laid-back seaside atmosphere, creating a restaurant experience that feels memorable without feeling overly formal.
For lovers of beautiful food, brilliant wine and restaurants with a genuine sense of place, Sargasso is a must-visit.
Next time you’re visiting Margate, make sure you book ahead, because this little harbourside gem is already one of Kent’s most sought-after restaurants.
