Rye and the surrounding area are full of places to eat well, from cosy pubs and traditional fish and chips to fine dining with local produce and sea views.
The Fig – Stylish Brunch, Lunch & Cocktails in the Heart of Rye
Just a short stroll from One Church Square, The Fig is one of Rye’s most loved café-restaurants. Founded by Chef Rosie Furnival—a BBC MasterChef finalist with a career that’s taken her from the French Alps to the Arctic Circle—The Fig is known for its bold, healthy flavours and creative cocktails. Guests can enjoy vibrant brunch and lunch daily, with dinner served Thursday to Saturday. The ever-evolving menu is packed with seasonal, globally-inspired dishes made from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re after the best brunch in Rye, a laid-back evening meal, or a cocktail to kick off your weekend, The Fig is a must-visit during your stay.
📍 2 High Street, Rye TN31 7JE. 🌐 Visit Website 📌 Find on What3Words
Hoof – Farm-to-Table Burgers Just Around the Corner
Hoof is a cosy, rustic burger joint with serious local roots. Owned by farmer Oliver Furnival, the beef and potatoes come straight from his family farm on Romney Marsh, just four miles away.
The menu’s all about quality – think juicy burgers, steaks, and their famous FreakShakes (a full-blown dessert in a glass, and a big hit with kids). It’s laid-back, welcoming, and a great pick if you’re after something hearty and local.
📍 35 The Mint, Rye, TN31 7EN. 🌐 Visit Website
🕗 Opening hours: Mon–Sun: 12:00pm–11:00pm Kitchen closes: 9:00pm (weekdays), 9:30pm (Fri–Sat), 8:00pm (Sun)
Rye Sushi – Japanese & Korean Fusion Done Right
Rye Sushi is one of our go-to spots when we fancy something a bit special. Tucked away on Cinque Ports Street, it’s a cosy, family-run restaurant owned and run by Adam and Mee Yun, who are always welcoming and take great care of their guests.
The menu features fresh, made-to-order sushi using locally sourced fish, alongside Korean-inspired hot dishes and great vegetarian options. Whether you’re a sushi regular or trying it for the first time, it’s a relaxed, friendly place to enjoy really good food.
📍 62 Cinque Ports Street, Rye, TN31 7AN 🌐 Visit Website
🕗 Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs–Sun: 12:00pm–8:30pm ( Closed Wednesday)
Haydens – Eco-Friendly Brunch in the Heart of Rye
Tucked along the High Street, Haydens is a family-run café and guesthouse known for its eco-friendly ethos and quality, locally sourced ingredients. The brunch menu covers all the bases – from full English breakfasts and cheddar eggs to pancakes and Eggs Benedict – with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options too.
It’s a welcoming spot with a thoughtful approach to food, and a great choice if you’re after a relaxed, sustainable bite to eat in Rye.
📍 108 High Street, Rye, TN31 7JE. 🌐 Visit Website
Whitehouse Rye – Our Favourite Spot for Brunch
Right in the centre of town, just along the High Street, Whitehouse Rye is a firm favourite for brunch. Set in a beautifully restored listed building, it’s a relaxed café and bakery serving up everything from fluffy blueberry pancakes with vanilla mascarpone to bacon flatbreads with chilli jam and crispy onions.
Everything’s made fresh, and you can pick up a loaf of their excellent sourdough to take back with you. It’s walk-in only, so you can drop by whenever the mood strikes.
📍 24 High Street, Rye, TN31 7JF. 🌐 Visit Website
🕗 Opening hours: Daily 8:30am–4:00pm (brunch until 3:00pm, coffee and cake until close)
Marino’s – Classic Fish & Chips
If you’re craving proper fish and chips while you’re in Rye, Marino’s on The Mint is the go-to. Just a few minutes from the house, it serves fresh fish straight from the local harbour, cooked to order and consistently spot on.
You can eat in, but we often grab a takeaway and head down to the beach at Pett Level or Camber Sands to eat fish and chips and watch the sunset – it’s one of those simple things that always feels like a treat.
They also offer a gluten-free batter on request (just note it’s cooked in the same fryer), and you can order online here for quick collection.
📍 37 The Mint, Rye, TN31 7EN
Tillingham – Natural Wine with a View
Just a short drive from Rye, Tillingham Winery sits on a 70-acre hilltop estate with sweeping views over the Sussex Weald. It’s a working biodynamic vineyard and farmstead, blending rustic charm with clean, modern design.
Guests can enjoy natural wines made on-site, explore the cellar, or settle in for a long lunch in the restaurant – where everything is rooted in sustainability and flavour. There’s also a relaxed bar, pizza in the courtyard, and rooms if you feel like staying longer.
📍 Dew Farm, Dew Lane, Peasmarsh, TN31 6XD. 🌐 Visit Website
Rye Fish Market & Seafood Bar
A brilliant local spot for seafood lovers — grab the day’s fresh catch at the market or sit down for oysters, lobster rolls, and local wines at the laid-back weekend seafood bar. Family-run, super friendly, and just a few minutes’ walk from the house.
📍 Simmons Quay, Rye, TN31 7DQ
🕓 Market: Tues–Sat 8am–5pm, Sun 10am–4pm
🦪 Seafood Bar: Fri 12–4pm, Sat 12–9pm, Sun 12–4pm
ONO Poké Bowls
Fresh, fast, and flavour-packed, ONO brings a taste of Hawaii to Rye’s High Street. Build your own bowl with a base of rice or noodles, add your choice of protein—like salmon, prawns, or tofu—and top it off with vibrant veggies and house-made sauces. Vegan-friendly options include Korean-style cauliflower and panko sesame mushrooms. Smoothies and warm bowls are also available, making it a perfect stop for a healthy lunch or dinner.
📍 17 High Street, Rye, TN31 7JF. 📞 01797 222740