Best restaurants in Tunbridge Wells

There are plenty of great places to dine in Tunbridge Wells, including pubs, gastropubs, and chain restaurants, along with those serving many kinds of cuisine, including Argentinian and French through to Caribbean food and Middle Eastern. Because of the variety on offer, you can be sure that the whole family will find something they enjoy. It doesn’t really matter what you’re hunting for, we know you’ll find it. As there are so many options, hundreds in fact, we have narrowed down the very best restaurants in Tunbridge Wells into one simple list so that you can have a particularly special meal when you need one (which is always, right?).

Updated on 02 September 2024

Known for beautiful, sweeping gardens and grand countryside, fairytale castles and impressive manor houses, Royal Tunbridge Wells is a town in Kent that lies 30 miles southeast of central London. A popular choice with commuters who want a balance of country living and city life, Tunbridge Wells has become a wonderful place to spend time – whether you’re enjoying the serene surroundings, taking a stroll down the high street and browsing in the independent shops, or, doing what we like to do best, eating.

Our ultimate list of restaurants in Tunbridge Wells features a plethora of places, from casual chains serving excellent-value set menus and kids deals, to fancier spots that hero seasonal produce and stellar service. All are brilliant, but we’ve made sure to include a range of cuisines and styles to suit any type of dining occasion. The bottom line? Every single one of these entries promises fantastic food.

Ready to start your search? Discover the best places to eat in Tunbridge Wells, then go ahead and book one today.

Tallow

Tallow

15A Church Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 0RX

Tallow is a relaxed British restaurant just north of Tunbridge Wells. Known for its precise cooking and confident hearty flavours, it makes a great spot for a warming lunch or indulgent evening.

£50 - £79
British
SquareMeal UK Top 100
Côte Tunbridge Wells

Côte Tunbridge Wells

71-73 Mount Pleasant Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1PX

French brasserie chain Cote is always a winner when you’re in the mood for affordable comfort food served in a laid-back setting. Cote Tunbridge Wells is located in the centre of town where you can feast on all your French favourites, from steak frites to beef cheek bourguignon.  

Under £30
French
The Brasserie at One Warwick Park

The Brasserie at One Warwick Park

One Warwick Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5TA

Found in the Pantiles, Brasserie at One Warwick Park is a modern British restaurant with a relaxed but refined menu of light lunches, hearty meals, afternoon tea and favourite national dishes.

£50 - £79
Modern European
Brasserie
The Beacon

The Beacon

Tea Garden Lane, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 9JH

Set in a beautiful country house with views of picturesque gardens, The Beacon is an image of whimsy and rustic charm. But the menu is pure sophistication; picture Romney lamb with smoked aubergine and glazed artichokes. It also boasts seven uniquely styled rooms if you'd like to turn your dinner into a foodie getaway.

British
Cantuccio

Cantuccio

42 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2QD

Sourdough pizza specialist Cantuccio specialises in authentic, handmade pizza made with local, and sometimes organic, ingredients, alongside an organic wine list and an eclectic craft beer collection. Paired with a warm and cosy atmosphere, this will quickly become one of your new favourites spots.  

Under £30
Pizza
The Old Fishmarket by Sankey

The Old Fishmarket by Sankey's

19 The Upper Pantiles Royal, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5TN

Sankey’s Champagne and Seafood bar in the Old Fishmarket building specialises in premium sparkling and fresh oysters, but you're also invited to build your own seafood platters if you prefer. Think dressed crab, lobster, clams and devilled anchovies, all served over ice.  

£50 - £79
British
Bars
Fish
Hotel du Vin & Bistro Tunbridge Wells

Hotel du Vin & Bistro Tunbridge Wells

Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2LY

Hotel du Vin & Bistro is located inside a restored grade II-listed mansion making it the perfect location for a special occasion meal. Book a table at Bistro du Vin for classy interiors, classic French cuisine and a curated wine list to boot. Alternatively, afternoon tea, a Sunday roast and special seasonal menus are available throughout the week.  

£30 - £49
Kumquat

Kumquat

30 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5TN

Kumquat describes itself as a fusion of cuisines and cultures, but at its heart is a haven for vibrant East Asian dishes and creative cocktails. From Thailand to Taiwan, be transported across the globe with the likes of miso caramel glazed aubergine with edamame and sesame seeds, pork gyoza with yuzu, and yellowfin tuna tartare.  

£30 - £49
Pan Asian
South East Asian
The Tunbridge Wells Hotel

The Tunbridge Wells Hotel

58 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5TD

A beautifully restored Georgian Hotel in the heart of the Pantiles, The Tunbridge Wells Hotel offers traditional British fare, an affordable wine list and live jazz on select dates throughout the month.  

£30 - £49
British
Afternoon tea
The Ivy Royal Tunbridge Wells

The Ivy Royal Tunbridge Wells

46-50 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1XF

The Ivy is a brasserie-style restaurant known for its blend of contemporary and classic dishes. The menu is broad, and the interiors are suited to fancy afternoon teas, lunches, and intimate dinners.

£30 - £49
Modern European
British
Afternoon tea
The Kentish Hare

The Kentish Hare

95 Bidborough Ridge, Bidborough, Kent, Kent, TN3 0XB

Brought to us by the Tanner brothers, Chris and James, The Kentish Hare may just be one of the greatest gastropubs in the region. Anticipate artfully presented bold dishes, warm service, and inviting interiors.

Gastropub
Thackeray

Thackeray's

85 London Road, Tunbridge Wells, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1EA

Reported to be the oldest house in the town, Thackeray’s offers fine dining fare without the frills and pretension. Expect a range of creative menus at varying price points, local artwork, and comfortable interiors.

£50 - £79
Modern European
The Warren

The Warren

5A High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1UL

The Warren crafts British sustainability-led dishes with produce from its own 650-acre Crowborough Warren Estate. This stylish restaurant is ideal for date nights in the orangery and summer evenings on the terrace.

£50 - £79
Steak
British
The Poacher and Partridge

The Poacher and Partridge

Hartlake Road Tudeley, Unknown, Kent, TN11 0PH

With sweeping views, a buzzing garden area and a classic menu of British classics, pizzas, and Mediterranean plates, The Poacher and Partridge is the perfect spot to while away an afternoon and catch up over cocktails.

£30 - £49
British

This is a town that clearly has much to offer when it comes to good food. Although a relatively small town, you’ll find some great places to eat in Tunbridge Wells offering everything from affordable midweek dining to sustainable fine dining fare.

If you’re planning a special occasion, why not check out our collection of the best restaurants in Kent to explore some of the best cooking in the country. And if every detail of your evening requires perfection, just take a peek at our recommendations for group and private dining in Tunbridge Wells.

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