Why The Hut is the Most Coveted Coastal Table in Britain Right Now

Picture this: golden sunlight bouncing off sparkling blue waters, rosé poured into chilled glasses, laughter carrying across a sun-soaked terrace.

Few would guess we’re talking about the shores of Britain. Where long, languid lunches are usually reserved for the Côte d’Azur or Capri, this is happening just two hours from London at The Hut. And with over 50,000 covers served this summer alone, this coastal hotspot has quietly become Britain’s most in-demand table. Read on to discover why…  

The Whole Experience

Dining at The Hut is about the whole experience. In the eyes of Group Executive Chef, Eoin Smith, it’s “the adventure of getting to us”, as well as the “vibe paired with the delicious food.”

The journey truly is part of the magic, with three modes of transport across land, sea and air that feel equally luxe. Whether it’s arriving by boat on a Solent Rib Charter, being scooped up from Yarmouth Harbour in The Hut’s bespoke transporter, or arriving by helicopter, the beachfront restaurant is proof that escapism can be achieved without catching a flight. 

Shore-to-table Dining

Smith’s Michelin prestige is also something worth travelling for. Summarising The Hut’s food in one sentence, he says: “We use elements from cuisines all around the world. We’re seafood-led, with a strong focus on the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients”.

When you look around the restaurant's unfussy deck, there’s no doubt locality is the cornerstone of the shore-to-plate experience. From the ripe Isle of Wight tomatoes to the freshly-caught seafood that almost tumbles straight onto your table, seasonal sourcing is key to the restaurant’s offering. 

Like a ship under a steady hand, The Hut thrives with its clear direction and exemplary service. Waiters are eager to offer recommendations suited to your palate, and the à la carte menu flatters groups both big and small. From intimate plates to regal sharing mains, if it’s not the briney “Big Fish”, or the Surf ’n Turf board you’re ordering, it’s likely saying yes to a magnum of crisp St Esprit Main Provence rosé - designed for conviviality of course. 

Our meal began with torched monkfish perched on a vibrant, punchy salsa, balanced by a sharing plate of salty anchovies in a shallow pool of extra-virgin olive oil, with Lost Mill sourdough to mop up the herby residue. Lobster proved the table’s clear favourite: delicate meat that melted in the mouth beneath garlicky, charred lemon butter. For extra umami, we recommend a side of kimchi mayo with your chips to tie in with the zesty main.

In the eyes of Smith, “The perfect Hut meal ends with a treacle tart at sunset, Espresso Martini in hand.” Few would disagree.

Food Shapes the Mood 

The Hut’s atmosphere can be likened to that of Riviera beach clubs, albeit with a healthy dose of British character and inclusivity. Notably, there’s a strong sense of warmth and hospitality, allowing for long lunches to seamlessly drift into sundowners.

“Good food puts people in a good mood”, says Smith. “When every table is consistently served at the same time, you end up with a dining room full of happy people ready to enjoy the rest of their time with us.” It’s clear the food orchestrates the entire vibe, but it’s also quite convenient The Hut sits on one of Britain's most sought-after coastlines. If you’re a sucker for golden hour, make sure to visit between March and October. 

The Hut as a Destination

Musing on The Hut’s popularity, Smith proudly shares: “More and more guests are coming to stay on the island for the weekend, and build their trip around dining all out at The Hut”. The Isle of Wight itself is part of the appeal. It’s easy enough to reach, yet simultaneously a world away from the ordinary with its unique atmosphere, golden beaches, sweeping sea views and embrace of the slower pace. 

The Hut has leaned into this by partnering with local accommodation spots, helping transform Colwell Bay into a weekend destination as much as a lunch spot. While its sister outpost in Antigua hints at global ambitions, the heart of the brand remains rooted in showcasing the magic of the Isle of Wight.

The Hut proves that true escapism doesn’t require airfare. With world-class cooking and a laissez-faire approach that marries Riviera nonchalance with island charm, Colwell Bay has become the ultimate daycation spot that should be next on your hit-list. For now, the hardest part might just be securing the table… 

For bookings, email reservations@thehutcolwell.co.uk, or visit The Hut’s website.