Discover this place
The Forge is a seafood-focused restaurant located at 1 Sea Wall in Whitstable. It specializes in fresh, locally sourced dishes, with a particular emphasis on oysters, including Whitstable Rock Oysters and Wild Native Oysters. The menu offers a range of seafood classics such as line-caught cod and chips, scampi and chips, lobster and chips, and fritto misto. Alongside seafood, the restaurant serves a variety of hot drinks and breakfast options like bacon, sausage, and egg bap sandwiches. The atmosphere reflects its coastal setting, providing a casual yet purposeful environment suitable for both quick bites and leisurely meals. The Forge highlights regional ingredients and traditional British seaside cuisine, making it a notable stop for those exploring Whitstable’s culinary scene. It also offers complementary items such as hot doughnuts and coffee to round out the experience. The combination of straightforward seafood offerings and a simple, welcoming ambiance defines the restaurant’s local identity.
Photos
Amenities & More
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Delivery
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
Amenities
- Bar onsite
Atmosphere
- Trending
Reviews for The Forge - Whitstable CT5 1BX
Review highlights
Based on 1,201 reviewsThe Forge in Whitstable is widely praised for its fresh seafood, particularly the oysters and fish and chips, which are consistently highlighted as top-quality and generously portioned. The restaurant benefits from a prime seaside location, enhancing the dining experience with pleasant views. Guests frequently mention the popular daily oyster happy hour, which offers excellent value and a lively atmosphere. Service is noted as friendly and efficient, even during busy periods, contributing to a welcoming and relaxed environment. While prices are slightly higher than some nearby venues, many reviewers feel the quality and extended opening hours justify the cost. Locally sourced drinks, including an oyster stout, are also well received. Some feedback points to limited seating and occasional queues during peak times, but overall, The Forge is regarded as a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts looking for fresh, well-prepared dishes in a charming coastal setting.
There is a happy hour between 5 pm to o 6 pm for oysters everyday. The oysters is fresh and delicious Their chicken dishes are great, too. I highly recommend this place when you visit Whitstable.
This spot, located right by the beach path, is a great place to visit despite slightly higher prices than the main port area. It’s well worth it, especially since they stay open a bit longer than other places. The oysters are fresh, and the fish and chips are outstanding, making it a must-try for seafood lovers. While the queue can get long, it moves quickly, so patience pays off. Seating is limited to shared benches around the hut, but you can always find space.
Oyster Happy hour every day from 5-6PM. 1/2 dozer £6.25 . Amazing fresh and nice! The staff is friendly and good smiling even when they all really busy in “ happy hour”
This is our go to fish and chips in Whitstable. We always return as it’s so fresh and you can sit and look out to sea while you eat. The portions are really big so we like to share a large cod and chips between two and grab a set of oysters to go with. The drinks are all local which is lovely, I would particularly recommend the oyster stouts. You can also get donuts fresh to order and proper ice cream. The staff are always very friendly and laid back even when you can see that they’re under pressure. It’s such a nice atmosphere to be able to see the oysters being shucked on the seafront or watch your donuts go through the machine. Will always recommend the Forge and will always return!
Great, fresh oysters, turnover so fast you know they've never been lying around for long. Big portion of cod and chips and locally brewed beer, including the famous oyster stout. Would go back, without a doubt.
Great spot for some fresh oysters. The native oysters are meaty, but they also have rock oysters as an option. The chips are chunky and great. Good range of drinks on tap (& bottles). Fast service. Very popular with tourists and locals - location is key. There's outdoor seating available.
Does exactly what it says - no frills oyster shack! Happy hour 5-6pm for £1.25 oysters or 6 for £6.25. We sadly missed it by 10 minutes but even full priced it isn’t too bad (£2.50 per oyster or 6 for £12.50). Would definitely recommend for the oysters and al fresco beachside drinks. As other reviewers have said - probably not the best spot in Whitstable for fish and chips.
Stopped here while walking past. The food was fine and the atmosphere was casual. Nothing fancy, but good enough for a quick meal if you’re nearby.
Write a review
Share your experience with the community. Your honest feedback helps others find great places.
Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday (Today) Closed
- Tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location
Own this business?
Claim this listing to update info, respond to reviews and reach more customers.
Claim listingMore places in Whitstable
Discover more places like this
Browse thousands of bars, restaurants, cafés and more — wherever you go.