Pier 5, Chatham Dockyard

Set at Chatham Maritime, Pier 5 is arguably hidden from view. A short 2 minute walk from the carpark, surrounded by Pizza Hut, Nandos and other big brands, it’s easy to miss Pier 5 – it’s only by chance we found it! With outdoor (under canopy) and indoor seating, the restaurant is prepared for the variable of true British weather. The décor is targeted to entice a younger, indie consumer… hanging lightbulbs, rope, and walls similar to a shipping container, it certainly differs from the mainstream restaurants in the area.

The menu can only be described as short but sweet. Without too many options, there is something for children, vegetarians, vegans and everyone in between. With four to six options in every area, it covers burgers, pizzas, chicken, wraps and superfood salads – not to forget dessert! Unlike most other restaurants, sides are not included with your main, however, this is arguably for the best as a wide range of loaded fries are on offer in addition to traditional fries, corn on the cob, onion rings and more… The only shortfall of Pier 5 would be their drinks menu, if you’re into cocktails like us then you may be disappointed with the variety, however their Pornstar Martini is to die for. Affirmative.

Choosing the ‘Cheesy Melt’ burger, this is described as “our half pound steak patty oozing with Monterey Jack cheese” which is “served in a toasted brioche bun with crispy onions, gherkin, burger sauce & our own recipe onion & chilli jam.” Indisputably, the menu does not do this burger justice: the half pound steak patty is juicy and succulent, the cheese strong and flavoursome. However, the ultimate star of the show has to be their onion & chilli jam. Whilst you may not put jam + burgers together, these two are practically joined at the hip… the jam perfectly complements the patty, and works well alongside the generous serving of burger sauce. Furthermore, the gherkin (whilst not our preference) and the crispy onions (definitely a yummy addition) are a pleasant addition to the burger. Sharing a pan of the ‘Mucky Swine’ loaded fries, we were not disappointed… the menu advises you to: “plunge into our spiced fries, topped with crispy streaky bacon, Cheddar cheese, Mozzarella, baconnaise & BBQ sauce” which are “muckied up with crispy fried onions, spring onions and chillies” and plunge in we did! Served in a large dish, perfect for sharing with an oversized fork to allow you to scoop every element onto your plate, these were a delicious – albeit filling- addition to the Cheesy Melt. The fries were crispy, adequately spiced and generously topped – you couldn’t reach the fries without dislodging the cheesy, gooey, delicious mess smothering the dish. Whilst you’re guaranteed to get sticky fingers, the baconnaise and BBQ sauce is not overpowering and balances the cheesy goodness seamlessly, and even the bacon was generously sprinkled – uncommon in topped chips!

Despite having to order at the bar, the service is quick and your meal is always served hot and after a reasonable wait post-ordering. The server will also bring you a carry-tray full of sauces which defy the traditional ketchup and mayonnaise, think tandoori ketchup or ranch, to name but a few. These are a nice addition and intriguing to try – especially if you’re feeling adventurous! Following your meal you are able to leave immediately, there’s no waiting around for the bill as you pay when you order. The restaurant is also 18+ after a certain time, which, with the flowing drinks, music and spacious seating area, is ideal for an evening of delicious food + drink with your friends, before heading out out…

Undoubtedly, Pier 5 differentiates from the rest in all the right ways; their untraditional sauces + jam, loaded fries, and the bustling atmosphere will have you overindulging in any and every way. Our only advice would be to arrive on an empty stomach - we can assure you will leave unbuttoning-your-jeans full, and mark your next visit in the diary before you’re even out the door…

Location: 3/5 Menu: 5/5 Food+Drink: 5/5 Server: 4/5

Total: 17/20