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You’d think a trendy brunch with 360° sea views on a sunny spring morning couldn’t get more idyllic?
You’re right... unless you’ve got two toddlers in tow. My own fault, entirely.
Deal Pier Kitchen is without a doubt one of the hotspots in our town.
The never ceasing queue outside is a sure sign of that.
Standing in a line with infant hazards at most angles isn’t something I’d usually entertain with my energetic 15-month-old.
I’m talking low level wooden seating (...of course she thought this was a climbing frame), rails for a leg up, and a sheer drop into the water the other side. Not forgetting concrete steps down to the fishing decks!
But luckily on this occasion, she had a friend to keep her entertained and I too had a friend to offer an extra pairs of eyes and hands.
That said, staff were 'on it'!
They know their customers aren't thrilled by the idea of having to queue so regular updates to let you know the length of wait you can anticipate were greatly appreciated.
Having arrived about 9.45am, with about five others group in front of us, we were told to expect about a 25-30 minute wait.
We stuck it out and we’re glad we did.
Not sure how pleased they were about it, though! Details to follow...
Just before entering, I had the inevitable nappy emergency.
I'm pleased to say their changing facilities within the disabled toilet - which is also used by members of the public - were good.
They were spacious and as about as clean as they come.
Finally, we made it into the dining hall. The decor is easy on the eye but practical, with textured wood and tones of turquoise.
It was spacious enough for a buggy - that's my first tick. No shortage of high chairs - another tick. And menus were swiftly brought to our table - tick. We were good to go!
Cappuccino, the DPK Breakfast with the addition of hasslebacks was my selection, totalling around £16.
The coffee was delicious and the temperature, perfect.
The food was fresh and flavoursome. Highlights for me were the bacon - crispy but not overdone, and the beans, which they'd jazzed up with some fresh tomatoes and spices.
I probably wouldn’t add the hasslebacks in the future but they’re a good extra if you’re looking to really fill your boots.
The staff were polite and helpful. Service was quick without feeling like we were being rushed.
The added bonus at Deal Pier Kitchen is the view.
We had miles of sea to the right and the backdrop of Deal to our left.
The Timeball Tower, Regent building, The Royal Hotel and an abundance of colourful seafront properties is all there to admire.
It was a little hazy so the visibility wasn’t perfect but as summer nears, this is only going to get better.
And if you didn't have time to dine inside, there is a DPK shack located outside - where there are barely queues and still plenty of views.
Meanwhile, our children were doing their level best to interrupt our blissful brunch.
As we were nearing the end of our meal, the toddler tantrums were in full flow.
I had YouTube playing on my phone - most parents will recognise this is a last resort, while my friend had to scoop her usually charming daughter off the middle of the restaurant floor.
I’m painting this picture to highlight that 1) be cautious, if you’re not a fan of kids, this could be what you’re greeted with, but 2) the staff didn’t bat an eyelid and we were made to feel so comfortable.
No eyeballing or snide remarks. This counts for so much.
As a former waitress, I know the drill.
It’s hard going when you have to clear a table which has been annihilated by young people (especially if there’s a queue waiting) so we did our best to clear the crumbs from the floor... and Frozen stickers stuck to the table.
The handful of jelly babies presented with our bill brought us enough time with the children to pay up before things really got too much.
What stands out most for me about the whole experience is that the venue was so relaxed and family friendly.
It's for this reason, I wouldn't hesitate to return - and you should consider giving it a go too.
Ratings out of five
Food: Hearty portions packed with flavour ****
Drink: Best cappuccino I've had in a while *****
Decor: Modern and stylish with expansive views. Nothing to fault *****
Staff: Service was efficient and there was no judgement ****
Price: It's not the cheapest but I'd still go back ***