Based at the end of Whitstable’s East Quay, The Lobster Shack is a beach bar-style restaurant serving a selection of fresh seafood in a spacious but relaxed setting. Sat right on the beach, there is outdoor as well as indoor seating meaning that during the summer it’s the perfect place to sit back and enjoy some amazing food alfresco whilst looking out over the Thames estuary. However, during the colder months there is a wood burner inside, giving the restaurant a cosy ambience and ensuring that regardless of the time of year you will be perfectly comfy at The Lobster Shack.
The Lobster Shack appears rustic from the outside with its black painted wooden shell, but then once you head inside expect a more canteen-like vibe – the open kitchen is adjacent to the bar and small wooden tables are spaced out beneath the menu of seasonal specials which is scribbled on a blackboard above the bar. There is also an array of iced oysters on show in the far corner of the room.
The food menu is largely focused around local oysters but there are plenty of different dishes available. As well as the ever-changing seasonal specials, regular dishes range from classics such as beer battered cod, and a smoked salmon ploughman’s, all the way through to various lobster dishes including lobster thermidor and grilled lobster with chilli and chorizo. Or if you can’t make your mind up there’s also the option of a seafood platter. On top of this there is a short children’s menu too.
The drinks list includes a variety of local wines and beers which, when enjoyed alongside a lovely plate of seafood, will guarantee that you will have a hugely enjoyable meal at The Lobster Shack. If you’re a big seafood fan, this is a great restaurant to visit regardless of the occasion.