Broadstairs, a quaint seaside town, has been crowned “one of the UK’s coolest places”, becoming a hotspot for renowned chefs. The town has long been a favourite among holidaymakers due to its imposing cliffs and pristine beaches.

Charles Dickens, the celebrated Victorian novelist, also held Broadstairs in high regard. Central Viking Bay, a family-friendly hub, boasts amusement rides and charming beach huts, while the more secluded Botany Bay features breathtaking chalk stacks. The town’s historic streets are lined with unique, independent shops, adding to its distinctive charm.

Broadstairs has also earned a reputation as a haven for foodies, offering an array of stylish restaurants, quaint cafes, and the beloved Morelli’s ice cream parlour, which has been serving the community for over 90 years.

Unlike its neighbour Margate, which has witnessed a recent influx of trendy eateries catering to a younger demographic, Broadstairs continues to attract those seeking a quintessential seaside experience.

Tony Rodd, a Masterchef finalist, initially intended to launch his restaurant in Margate but ultimately chose Broadstairs, drawn by the town’s laid-back dining atmosphere.

He said: “We love Margate, but it’s a much younger crowd. We decided that Broadstairs was more suited to my wife and I, both in our mid-forties with a slightly slower lifestyle than 15 years ago.”

The culinary genius Tomas Eriksson, behind the charming eatery Bar Ingo, has singled out Broadstairs for its irresistible allure, touting his restaurant’s ability to present diners with a “cool view” that captures either the “beach or the curious streets”.

Likewise, fellow food maestro Rodd savours the idyllic setting of Broadstairs, as he relishes being a mere “turn left” away from the sea after concluding an evening at his restaurant – a luxury that uplifts him “10 times better” than his experiences in London.

Another Broadstairs restaurateur, Billy Stock, initially created a stir with the French bistro Sete and has since embarked on a long-term pop-up project in Neptunes Hall pub with his southern fried chicken venture.

Stock’s prowess was lauded by esteemed food critic Grace Dent who extolled his talents in The Guardian, stating: “Stock is plainly a very good cook who adds breathtaking depth to even the simplest dishes.”

Broadstairs’ appeal transcends culinary circles; it has been crowned the 20th “coolest place to live” in a riveting national survey by Naturecan carried out in 2023.

It finds itself nestled in this prestigious lineup alongside such hotspots as Polperro in Cornwall taking the lead, followed by Wells-Next-The-Sea and Marlow in Buckinghamshire.

In addition to industry acclaim, Broadstairs has also captured the hearts of visitors, earning glowing testimonials on Tripadvisor.

One impressed holidaymaker said: “Fantastic beaches – very clean. You can walk right along the front and there is a lift at one end!”.

Another visitor said: “The warm June weather was a great opportunity for a day out in Broadstairs with our six year old Granddaughter.

“With plenty of sand to dig and an inviting sea it was ideal. Good fish and chips bought in the quaint own (little changed from the 1950’s) and delicious ice cream made the day.”