Birdies
Located on Harbour Street in Whitstable, nestled in amongst boutique shops
and treasure trove type stores, is Birdies.
And it is charming. Although it is much more than that; Birdies is elegant and
comfortable, a cosy French style bistro in beautiful East Kent where intimate
meals for two or large and joyful gatherings of friends can take place all at once
with no one feeling as though they don’t belong.
It is, in a word, lovely; a very special place indeed.
Checked tablecloths, heavy cutlery, vintage ads on the walls, gorgeous old
photographs, handwritten menus, flowers on the tables… here you are treated
and looked after, as well as fed with the most expertly created dishes using
locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. It’s wise to book in advance to
make sure of getting a seat, as Birdies has a reputation for excellent food and
service to match.
Starters include locally caught rock oysters – salty and tangy with lemon – and a
creamy, moreish lobster bisque amongst other delicious offerings. Homemade
bread and butter, hot from the oven, complements each dish.
Main courses are a delight – half a lobster with saffron cream and deep fried
crispy fillet of sea bass with soy and ginger are just two examples; there are
plenty more. Served with perfectly cooked rice or crispy fries as well as tender
vegetables, a meal at Birdies is a wonderful thing.
And there are desserts that are just too good to pass up. The Whitstable mess, a
creamy crème brulee, a rich and opulent chocolate truffle torte – make sure you
leave room for afters!
Everything about Birdies, from the food to the décor to the clientele is
wonderful. This is where you can take your time, taste your food, and talk.
There aren’t many places that offer all of that.
20
insideKENT restaurant guide 2016
41 Harbour Street
Whitstable
CT5 1AH
01227 265337
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