GETAWAYS the king-size bed combine with contemporary wooden open wardrobes , black fixtures , Nespresso machines and views of the rolling surf , our own suite ( which can sleep up to three with ease ) proved to be an easy and affordable coastal bolthole ; expect to pay around £ 225 a night including breakfast in September with free parking just outside .
In addition to its range of carefully designed bedrooms , Selina ’ s seafront spot is inspired by the town ’ s innovative culinary scene , which is showcased masterfully by its beautiful conservatory restaurant . Open 12pm to 10pm daily and with an unapologetically simple yet well-executed menu , we were effortlessly welcomed by F & B manager , Annie , and encouraged to sit wherever we felt most comfortable amongst the wooden tables for two or four bedecked with simple chairs or cushion scattered bench seats . To the glow of a Margate summer sunset we began with a classic mescalita and a ‘ Jolly Boys ( sic ) Outing ’, Selina ’ s signature spiced rum , crème de mure , lime and passionfruit cocktail inspired by the Only Fools and Horses iconic Margate trip !
Next came our small plates : classic nachos got an upgrade with a spice-packed fresh and zingy guacamole ; edamame beans offered a mouthpleasing kick of Korean chilli , lime and sea salt ; while padron peppers were bursting with chargrilled heat .
Large plates continued the easy yet effective theme . A classic Greek salad elevated with crumbly aged feta ; pulled chicken quesadilla with a melty Manchego and spiced black beans served with a fresh salsa roja ; and HOWM ’ s signature smashburger with melted cheese , pickles , chipotle mayo and crispy , salty french fries - all delicious and costing around just £ 12 - £ 16 per dish .
Dessert was a one-choice wonder of chocolate fondant served gloriously oozing with fresh strawberries and delicious pistachio ice cream , which paired perfectly with an espresso martini nightcap .
Whether starting your day with a local artist-led workshop , an invigorating pilates class , or an uplifting yoga breathwork grounding , looking for a base to explore classic sandy coves , eclectic art galleries , the Turner Contemporary or the thrills of Dreamland , you ’ re pitching up for a full day ’ s work or a quick email blast over lunch or coffee , or you ’ re ending your day with an acoustic gig , renowned DJ set as the sun fades , or a sea-air induced slumber , Selina Margate has you covered .
Selina Margate 21-27 Eastern Esplanade Cliftonville Margate CT9 2HL
www . selina . com / uk / margate
@ selina & @ howm . margate selinathenomad
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