Lilie’s

The story

Lilie's Margate: A Local Gem for Wild Tapas on the Kent Coast

Chef Jools Moore and the kitchen

Lilie's Margate serves Spanish tapas defined by a wild coastal spirit and rule-breaking creativity driven by chef-proprietor Jools Moore. She established the restaurant in honor of her grandmother, channeling a global food-loving family heritage into every plate. The kitchen fuses authentic Spanish cooking techniques with the freshest local Kent ingredients. Moore describes the spot as the orange place with killer sea views, a vivid match for the bright cliffside building where meals arrive piping hot for sharing. The vibe prioritizes generous abundance and joy, making diners feel welcome like family.

Bold tapas with a coastal edge

The menu delivers punch-packing flavors through dishes like croquetas de jamón paired with saffron aioli and king prawns tossed in garlic, chilli, and dill butter. The tortilla de patatas stands out by adhering to a firm, fried block style rather than the softer variations common elsewhere. Sweet chorizo slow-cooked in red wine with quince provides a rich contrast to simple staples like padron peppers dressed with lemon zest. Every item reflects a commitment to creative twists that keep the culinary tradition lively and surprising.

Sobremesa and the wine list

Meals stretch into leisurely sobremesa sessions beneath the expansive sky, framed by the restaurant's distinctive orange façade overlooking the coast. The beverage program supports this relaxed pace with a curated wine list featuring intriguing French and Spanish newcomers at accessible price points. Dietary needs are easily accommodated, with vegan and gluten-free choices integrated seamlessly across the offerings. This blend of visual drama and honest hospitality anchors the experience, while thoughtful pairings complete the picture.