The Old Fishmarket by Sankey's

The story

The Old Fishmarket by Sankey's, Royal Tunbridge Wells | AA 2 Rosette Seafood Dining

Sourcing and Preparation

The Old Fishmarket by Sankey's serves refined Modern British seafood in Royal Tunbridge Wells, earning an AA 2 Rosette for culinary excellence. Live crabs and lobsters arrive directly from Cadgwith Cove in Cornwall, where chefs dress the shellfish on site each day. The kitchen imports oysters from Carlingford, Colchester, Lindisfarne, and the Duchy of Cornwall, bringing varieties to the town that customers rarely see elsewhere. Menus update regularly to reflect these direct supplies rather than relying on static inventory.

Menu and Cooking Methods

Diners build custom platters from oysters, starters, and mains, allowing flexible sharing across the table. A live fire setup operates during Sunday service, introducing open-flame techniques to the seafood repertoire. Friday afternoons feature a dedicated window for raw bar appreciation, offering a buy-one-get-one promotion on oysters from 4pm to 5pm. The kitchen prioritizes freshness over complexity, letting the quality of the catch define the plate.

Interior and Layout

Housed in the Old Fishmarket building on the Pantiles, the compact twenty-seat room keeps the focus tightly on food and service. Reservations include the chef's counter, which provides a direct view of the preparation area, or spots at tall communal tables arranged for pairs and larger parties. A fully covered and heated patio extends seating outdoors, shielding guests from the weather while retaining the street-side ambiance.

Beverage Program

The drink list emphasizes Champagne and sparkling wines sourced from producers around the world. This focus establishes the venue as a dedicated champagne bar alongside its seafood credentials. The bubbly selection aligns with the oyster-heavy menu, offering crisp acidity to balance rich brine and butter. Staff members navigate the extensive list to suggest pairings tailored to the day's fresh catches.