The Pearson's Arms

Old pub with lovely sea views. Friendly staff. Well worth a visit

Very tasty, scampi garlic was yammy. Had to wait but it was a busy time. Wonderful sea view upstairs.

Birthday party of 10 booked this morning for same day lunch. No problem, great staff, superb meal and atmosphere. Could not have been better. Very happy.

Loved our roast dinner, I had everything but the meat it was delicious, vegetarian starter was tasty too we would go back again. Great service by Eliot

Well this was a surprise, didn't expect too much from the outside so before entering we took the flip of a coin between a traditional pub dinner and the Italian restaurant across the road. Upon entering we found an extremely cozy pub venue with very warm and welcoming staff. After a drink at the bar we were led upstairs to a windowed table overlooking Whitstable bay. We opted for single platter to share as a starter, followed by two steak meals for main course which were absolutely phenomenal. Cooked to perfection across-the-board, we had zero regrets that we chose this venue for our meal. The prices were at the higher end but absolutely justified for quality alone, and the portions did not leave us hungry afterwards. I would sincerely recommend this place to anyone whom is looking for a good meal on any occasion. Thank you for having us, it was a true pleasure. Update: First review still valid. Returned today 4 years later, and had half a dozen oysters followed by a fish pie from main course and it was absolutely delicious, outstanding even. Thanks again!

+2

I recently had the pleasure of visiting The Pearson's Arms in Whitstable, and honestly, it’s exactly what you want from a seaside pub. While the exterior might look unassuming, stepping inside is like getting a warm hug. It instantly feels welcoming, especially on a chilly day, thanks to that lovely open fire crackling away in the hearth. When I visited it was very busy, and there was nowhere to sit which was a pity. What I particularly appreciate is that The Pearson’s Arms operates as a genuine free house. This means they aren’t tied to one single brewery, and it shows in their selection. The range of real ales, local Kentish brews, and fine wines on offer is genuinely impressive and clearly curated with care. It's fantastic to have such freedom of choice when you're looking for the perfect accompaniment to the sea air. I went for lunch, opting for a seasonal seafood dish, which was clearly made with locally-sourced ingredients and expertly cooked. The upstairs dining area, with its fantastic views over the bay, gives it a gastro-pub feel, while the bar downstairs retains that proper, cozy English pub charm. Now, a crucial tip: if you plan on visiting for their renowned Sunday roast or just a weekend meal, booking a table is absolutely advisable. I saw just how busy it gets—the place was absolutely packed! Don't risk turning up without a reservation, or you'll likely face a long wait. It's a highly popular spot for a very good reason. I’m already planning my next trip back; it’s a perfect slice of Kentish coastal hospitality.

Absolutely fantastic pub! The atmosphere was brilliant from the moment we walked in — warm, lively, and welcoming. The fireplace adds a lovely touch, especially on a chilly evening, and the live music gave the place a great vibe without being too loud. It’s also dog-friendly, which makes it even better. The selection of beers and gins seemed endless — something for everyone, and all top quality. We were genuinely impressed and left very pleased. Definitely coming back!

Best place for a Sunday Roast in Whitstable. Traditional, cosy seaside pub. Me and my bf have tried the chicken, beef and pork roast and all taste flavourful & delicious! Staff are extremely attentive and they do not put a large service charge on the bill (unless in a larger group) which is a bonus as you are free to tip as you please (which we do because they deserve it). Live music is always a nice touch and you have a lovely view of the seafront. Surprised by some of the bad reviews on here, they seem quite harsh in my opinion.

Family run pub with a good range of drinks and food. Dog friendly. Child friendly. Lovely staff and great service.

We had a lovely meal upstairs with our disabled son and mother in law. The staff couldn’t have been more helpful. Food was excellent. Great atmosphere downstairs with the live band. Everyone helpful in assisting with access for our son and the mother in law. We will definitely be returning!

We came to whitstable for a day and night away I booked here for a Sunday roast on the 21/7 I actually booked the wrong date but the lovely staff sorted us out We both had Mussels and prawns to start followed by roast beef It’s hard to get a roast done really well but this was amazing If I was going to nitpick the chessboard could have been bigger for the price However we really were blown away It’s my birthday they didn’t know but it really made our time fab

Rock oysters are fresh and delicious. Pork belly is exceedingly delicious.

WOW - unassuming bar near the beach front but upstairs in the old ramshackle building the food is inventive, fresh and really quite fantastic! The seafood platter was absolutely delicious. The lobster bisque for dipping just made it. Bar food looks just as clever. Highly recommended.

The Sunday roast was just spot on. Definitely recommend the pork, the crackling was perfect! Will definitely be returning! Staff were really nice and attentive.

Fab food, the seafood platter was so good. The fish and chips spot on. Lobster, mackerel pate, and oysters enjoyed by all. There is a cosy bar downstairs and the restaurant is upstairs with views of the sea. The staff are so nice and go above and beyond.

Great place to enjoy some wonderful food and live music. We enjoyed a window seat upstares with a great view.

A anniversary dinner to remember! Fantastic food, drinks and service. Even a nice little desert touch from the kitchen. Thanks for a great evening.

We travelled from Bristol to visit my dad. Popped in here for a drink and had a great night, band were fantastic.

Excellent roast dinner. Huge portions! Service really friendly

We had an unforgettable Valentine’s meal at Pearson’s Arms in Whitstable! The atmosphere was cozy and romantic, with just the right balance of relaxed charm and elegance. The food was absolutely outstanding. We started with the squid ink pasta to share, and it was one of the most delicious starters we’ve ever had—rich, perfectly cooked, and full of flavor. For our main, we had the beef short rib, which was so tender it just fell off the bone—simply divine. Every dish was perfectly presented and packed with flavor. The service was top-notch, with friendly, attentive staff who made sure our evening felt extra special. The drinks selection was also fantastic, complementing the meal perfectly. If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience in Whitstable, Pearson’s Arms is an absolute must-visit. We’ll definitely be returning!

Lovely cosy sea front pub with nice staff, great food, and a supply of board games to while away an evening while the wind and rain beat against the windows.

We had a great lunch today. My wife is GF and the menu had great choice for her. The fish pie was wonderful and a good size. The sandwiches are great value too. Service was attentive. Well done all.

A Perfect Lunch by the Sea – Pearsons Arms is a Must-Visit in Whitstable! We had the most fantastic lunch at Pearsons Arms. Although we hadn’t booked, the team went out of their way to find us a table – such a warm welcome and a great start to the afternoon. The service throughout was attentive, friendly, and made us feel genuinely looked after. The menu was varied and full of tempting options, and the quality of the food was absolutely first class. The four of us shared a selection of small plates, which was a brilliant idea as it meant we got to try so many of their delicious dishes. The pork belly was without doubt the best I’ve ever had – melt-in-the-mouth perfection – and the calamari and chipolatas were equally impressive. Honestly, I could go on… everything we tried was spot on. I almost never order dessert when I eat out, but we made an exception here – and I’m so glad we did. The fluffiest waffles with ice cream and an incredible Bakewell tart were the perfect sweet ending to a flawless lunch. Pearsons Arms is a real gem. We left happy, full, and already planning our return.

The Very Best Fish Pie that I have tasted for years - and all home made; clearly not out of a packet; very reasonably priced at £20 and a good portion size. Well done to the three guys in the Kitchen !

Excellent place. Lovely food and good beer. There was live music on downstairs which added positively to the atmosphere.

Excellent food and staff, and a lovely relaxed atmosphere - well worth a visit…….

Great staff, a great atmosphere and a wonderful table next to the window upstairs. Generally a really good Sunday lunch for our party which had coeliacs and a vegan amongst us. However, although we had emailed lots of details about our dietary needs, I’ve given 4 stars for food because the GF veggie option was the ‘supporting’ veg only (apparently the nut roast had gluten in it; maybe the pub could consider making it GF?). And only 4 stars for service as the waitress handing out the dishes gave one coeliac the nut roast - thankfully we had had a discussion about this already with another waitress, so queried this and it had to be whisked away. Some pubs use a toothpick with a flag to denote GF - this might help if there are new or young staff?

Booked table 10 upstairs - table with a view of the sea. There are a few stairs to get to the top if you have mobility issues. There is also seating in the main entrance which is the bar area and down a few steps is another seating area and the toilets (the only toilets) staff were really friendly and attentive without being overwhelming and the food was excellent. We had Orzotto - creamy and. Dry delightful with a side of mozzarella and tomatoes - which went very well. Coffee to finish and well worth the visit .

We have had two meals in total and we can't fault the food or service. It's good quality food that reflects the prices. Just had another meal and the portions are getting less.

Nice little pub with great food. Nice and cosy atmosphere. Friendly staff and excellent service. Slightly expensive, probably because it’s on the beach front, and a 12.5% service charge automatically on the tab. Would recommend.

+3

Stopped for a bit of lunch on a Wednesday. Quiet and easy going, relaxed atmosphere, but then it was pretty quiet. Food was good, upstairs the views out of Windows are pretty idyllic. Good place to go and location is great for the coast at Whitstable.

+2

We booked dining for a Saturday night in the last weekend of August. Walking in at 8pm the live music was already loud and proud and not conducive to conversation. But, no problem, the restaurant was 2 floors up and quieter. Good selection of food. I went with the Caesar salad with a chicken schnitzel as a lighter choice while my 3 colleagues too to the burgers. All good food and excellent service.

I ordered fish and chips, and to say l was very disappointed at the food portion size would be an understatement, at £19 l was at least expecting to see more of the food cover the plate than the plate itself. Same with the lamb meal at £26. At first, we thought they gave us the children’s meals, but no it was ours, took me less than two minutes and l was icking it out to finish my fish and chips. Way overpriced for what we got. True it was the la carte menu we choose from as we wasn’t offered any other type of menu. La carte is a poor excuse for small. Fish and chips from the local fish the next night made up for the disappointment.

Lovely pub along the sea front. Staff were very friendly. Food was lovely. Would recommend.

Food expensive and my meal wasn’t good. One thin slice of ham and triple cooked chips had barely seen the 1st cooking let alone 3 times and at £17 not good value. Would have complained but I was too hungry. Mentioned to staff who said they’d tell the kitchen. Friendly staff. Unfortunately a small group of females were in and noise level was high so difficult to relax or talk to the people next to me. Otherwise busy plenty of free tables @ 1.30pm Dog friendly. Good well priced pint of beer at £5. I wouldn’t return to eat but would for a drink or two.

We came here years ago and thought it was fantastic so came back again while we’re in the area. Unfortunately it’s not as good as it used to be. One of our party had fish scotch egg ant the fish burger, these turned out to be the same thing! I had the fish cakes, I never put salt on food but these certainly needed some. Shame because it’s nice restaurant and the staff were very good 🙁

Lovely cosy pub with great atmosphere. Dog friendly too! Unfortunately food was not a good standard. We did complain and received some money off the bill. What a shame! Live music great too!

Food was fantastic apart from 4.50 bread selection. We had a mix of the small plates and fish and chips all very nice. Service was very poor and adding a service charge to it was a bit of a joke I had already paid the bill when I went to the bar to order otherwise I wouldn't of paid it.had to ask for our drinks then had to ask for our mains. food was brought to our table and left with us which wasn't our then given to someone else. had to pile glasses and plates on a window next to us as they weren't being cleared away. Seemed unorganized maybe they had staff off sick. had large tables reserved for hours with no one using them the whole time we had lunch there. Sorry didn't taken any other pics the rest off the food was very good tho

Great position on the sea front. Decor atmospheric. Service very good. Friendly staff and food arrived quickly. Varied menu albeit food didn't really live up to potential. Portions were quite sparse and not overly tasty. Not great value for money albeit on a par with all restaurant prices in this area.

Came for drinks with my husband. Shortly after we sat down the waiter put a sign on our table saying reserved at 2pm. No problem as we had an hour and a half for our drinks in that case. At 1:30 the waiter came up, no apology, nothing. He said we needed to leave as the booked table had turned up, half an hour before the table was booked and while we still had our drinks. There was generally an unwelcome atmosphere. Have been coming here for years every trip to whitsable, won’t be coming again.

Had lunch at Pearsons and was not impressed! Asked for whitebait for a main course and was given a ridiculously huge, burnt amount! Would be surprised if anyone could have eaten it all. One of the group ordered profiteroles but there were none and was offered chocolate mousse- take a look at the picture, would anyone eat that! Looked like a cow pat!! Presentation could have been better.