Stakehaus

Stakehaus has opened at Cinque Ports, Margate

I do have a soft spot for the Cinque Ports. It was the first pub we used to frequent when we moved to Margate seven years ago, often the only place that was regularly open in the winter and often a welcome respite from a windy dog walk.

Now refurbed and given a huge dose of love from Alfie and his awesome team, it feels right that the food was overhauled and given equal billing - from the other half of this hospo duo, his wife Lily who’s the founder of smash steak brand, Stakehaus, who have delivered on their reputation for affordable, great steak and sides in London.

They’ve kept the core menu, the cute diner trays and quick service but you’ll be pleased to know this is more dining room than street food hall. On our visit the serving team couldn’t have been more friendly behind the bar or on the floor.

Tuck into delicious steak frites with friends this winter in Margate

The menu

I mean you’re here for the steak BUT but the beef shin croquettes are my must-eat starters. Gooey, beefy and crispy. Combine with the homemade pickles. Yes.

Choose from a bavette steak, a 3D printed steak (fancy) or a variety of burgers which come smash burger style or a Philly steak sandwich.

Don’t skimp on the sides - the rosemary fries were incredibly morish, go big on truffles or melted cheese or hit the mac n’ cheese. Yes there’s cabbage and winter salad, and fair play if that’s you, but on a winter night we hit the carbs hard. And loved it.

Add the finger lickin’ haus sauce, I fell hard for the garlic and butter for chip-dippin’ or there’s gravy if you want to go northern rather than American.

Waiting time was minimal, the steak comes beautifully cut up for delicate munching, rather than sawing and it’s easy to share (and steal) your companion’s choices.

Save room for dessert. I nailed a choc brownie with white chocolate crumb, which was dense, gooey and just the right size to indulge in.

Best of all and it’s worth calling out - steak and fries clocks in at £19 or a burger and fries will set you back £14 (without sauce). That’s a great deal.

Smash burgers a go go at Stakehaus

The drinks

Cinque Ports has mastered the £5 Margarita since it opened, which makes a brilliant pairing with the rich steak and sauce covered chips. A couple of these and you’ll be ordering pudding and making a night of it.

Check the board for the latest keg lagers and IPAs from local breweries or ask the friendly bar team for cocktail suggestions.

The vibes

Cinque Ports plays a lot of roles in town, not least as the pre-Dreamland gig pub of choice, so going when a massive gig is on does change the front bar at least but now Stakehaus are offering a Showtime Stopper deal of a steak, side, sauce and drink for £20 (with a valid ticket holder).

The pub remains as a great shout for midweek dinners, friend get togethers or that refuge from the wind when the Main Sands has defeated you.

It’s big enough that you can be loud, bring an extra person, bring the dogs and kids and feel at home. Don’t rush and let the evening or weekend afternoon unfold around you. Another Margarita?

Don’t Miss This…

Don’t miss their Sunday roast either. I need to book back in and give it a go.

Stakehaus, Thu - Fri 4pm - 9pm, Sat - Sun 12pm - 9pm (Sun roast menu). Guests can reserve tables via the Cinque Ports website. 

Want to know what else to do in Margate?

Subscribe to our weekly what’s on guide. It’s free and lands in your inbox every Sunday, 8.30am.