The best restaurants in Royal Tunbridge Wells
Royal Tunbridge Wells has long been known as a foodie destination. Its streets are lined with quality eateries from award-winning burger restaurants to those with a place on the prestigious Michelin guide. From the best of British cuisine to Mediterranean, or Asian fusion – something for everyone has never rung truer. If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Royal Tunbridge Wells, look no further.
Did someone say Michelin?
When it comes to fine dining, you’re truly spoilt for choice in Royal Tunbridge Wells. First up, The Counter by Robin Read which made its way onto the Michelin guide. This tasting menu-only restaurant couples fine dining with a more informal setting.
“It’s hard to fault anything about the Counter, because this is precise, accomplished cooking that feeds you classily but plentifully, then aims to finish you off entirely with the dessert courses.” – Grace Dent for The Guardian
For more relaxed fine dining options, enter Thackeray’s. This multi-award winning restaurant has been a staple in the town for years and has earned its spot on the Michelin Guide and three AA rosettes!
For fine dining Indian style, head down to The Pantiles for two time Michelin star chef Atul Kochhar’s restaurant, Essence at The Pantiles. A beautifully decorated restaurant offering expertly curated menus form the acclaimed celebrity chef.
Head a little further afield for the one green Michelin star restaurant, The Small Holding, or other nearby entries on the Michelin Guide: The Kentish Hare in Bidborough or Southborough’s highly-acclaimed Tallow.
A taste of the Mediterranean
For a tasty tapas option, head to Soprano’s on the High Street. This is a beautiful, cosy restaurant that serves some of the best small plates in town.
Lovers of Italian cuisine are spoilt for choice. Try Lago di Como for some of the best pasts and pizza dishes in town, and its very own terrace for an Aperol Spritz when the sun is shining. Bellissima! Other irresistible Italian options include Pecorino, Il Vesuvio, Cantuccio or Bella Capri.
Rocca Restaurant is perfect for a slice of Mediterranean cuisine. Menu favourites include lamb or vegetable moussaka, grilled seabass and halloumi salad!
Mouthwatering French cuisine
Renowned for its tasty dishes, Royal Tunbridge Wells serves up two tasty French restaurants. Try Coco Retro for an elegant option offering traditional dishes like duck confit and a bouillibase. Ever-popular Cote is also hand with exquisite evening options plus a light lunch menu. Perfect paired with a trip to The Assembly Hall Theatre!
The best of British cuisine
For a taste of British cuisine why not try one of the many British restaurants in town. Upmarket The Ivy is one of the best-known options, located on the historic High Street it offers indoor and outdoor dining and a mouthwatering menu.
Contemporary British dining packed full of local produce, The Warren is a firm favourite in the Royal Tunbridge Wells. It also offers excellent outdoor seating with a view across the heart of town. From Saturday night dinner and cocktails to a Sunday roast – this is one not to miss.
Other British options include TN1 Bar & Kitchen, Bill’s and The Tunbridge Wells Hotel.
The best Asian offerings
Another wonderful option in The Pantiles, Kumquat serves up Asian fusion beautifully blending traditional Asian dishes reimagined in a modern setting.
For casual dining, newly-opened in spring 2025 Pho, as the name suggests, offers Vietnamese noodle soups and street food. With an extensive vegetarian and vegan offering, it’s the ideal place to go with friends!
The Hidden Well in St John’s is a wonderful light lunch or snack restaurant offering bao buns, dumplings and rice noodles galore!
If Thai is more your flavour why not try Giggling Squid or Kai’s Kitchen!
Why not head to the pub?
There are also plenty of pubs on offer across Royal Tunbridge Wells, many of which serve traditional pub grub. A the top of town, The Guinea and The George are great options for eating in – or head down to The High Street for The White Bear (which also offers lovely cocktails) or The Ragged Trousers in The Pantiles.
The best places for lunch in Royal Tunbridge Wells
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to stop for lunch!
Royal Tunbridge Wells is a foodie paradise, with restaurants, cafes and hidden lunch spots dotted all around town. So, keep reading to find the perfect place for your midday refuel!
