The Port Arms is a characterful historic pub dating back to 1672. With its prime location so close to the beach, stories of smuggling and contraband are rife. Nowadays, the new landlady has brought the establishment up to date, without detriment to its charming olde-worlde ambience. The main bar boasts a cosy log burner and offers fantastic views of the sea – a great place to relax and sip a wine or beer. There are 45 covers in the main dining area, additional seating outside on the side terrace and beach-front tables. Refurbished guest rooms overlooking the beach are available for those wishing to extend their visit.
I began by devouring two tasty flat field mushrooms topped with creamy goat’s cheese. For mains I chose the beer-battered local cod and chips with mushy peas – the cod was meaty and crusted with a delightfully crunchy batter, and the chunky chips were fluffy yet crisp – a perfect rendition of this comforting classic.
Where possible, ingredients are sourced from suppliers within the town of Deal – for example, fresh, daily caught fish is from the local fishmongers, and quality meat is from the local butcher. The pub hosts regular entertainment, including live bands on Sunday evenings. Make sure you visit on Saturday nights, when budding songsters take to the stage – you might just catch a star of the future.
