The garden at RT Café Grill runs down to the sea wall, with the beach on the other side and the Solent beyond it. In summer there are two ways to eat out there.
Garden dining
Garden dining is the full RT Café Grill menu served on the terrace, at lunch and dinner. It’s the same à la carte you’d get inside, grill and all. If lunch is the point of the visit, this is the one to book, and it’s worth giving it the afternoon: from September to May lunch is served from noon to 3pm, Thursday to Saturday, and on Sundays last orders are at 3.30pm.
When you book, say “garden dining”, so we know you want a table outside.
The garden bar
The garden bar is for a looser sort of afternoon: cocktails, sharing platters and English sparkling by the bottle, under rattan lanterns in front of a living wall. Book a table or just turn up: walk-ins are welcome.
English sparkling is the obvious thing to drink out there. Wiston Estate, from Sussex, is on the list by the glass if you’d like to try it before committing to a bottle, and our wine guide has the rest.
If the weather turns
Both depend on the weather, and this is an island. If the forecast looks doubtful, we’ll be in touch before you come, though we can’t always promise an inside table on a busy day. The dining room looks out over the same water.
Even on a warm day, bring something to put on later if you’re staying into the evening.
When it’s on
The terrace is a summer arrangement. If you’re planning ahead, check the restaurant page for current hours and ask about garden dining when you book.
Bringing the dog? Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the restaurant, and our dog-friendly guide has the details.
Questions we get asked
Can I book a table on the terrace?+
Yes. Book online or by phone and ask for garden dining. It depends on the weather, and we’ll be in touch if the forecast looks doubtful.
What’s the difference between garden dining and the garden bar?+
Garden dining is the full RT Café Grill menu on the terrace. The garden bar is cocktails, sharing platters and English sparkling, for an afternoon that isn’t a full meal.
Do I need to book the garden bar?+
No. You can book, or just walk in.
