Welcome to The Reef
**About The Reef**
Nestled on the picturesque Esplanade in Sandown, The Reef offers a delightful culinary escape with stunning sea views. Celebrated for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, this charming eatery excels in both hospitality and diverse dining options. Customers rave about the mouthwatering fish and chips, delectable king prawn spaghetti, and exceptional gluten-free offerings, all crafted with care. The attentive staff, including knowledgeable servers, ensure a comfortable experience for all guests, including those with dietary restrictions. From inviting décor to sensational desserts like chocolate fondant, every visit to The Reef promises an unforgettable dining experience marked by flavor and friendliness.
The Reef: Reviews & Ratings
Can't praise this place highly enough. Staff and food were delightful. They'd had an exceptionally busy day and squeezed us in at the last minute. All so positive and friendly, a great experience overall. Recommend the fish and chips, pizza and king prawn spaghetti. Salted caramel espresso martini and raspberry roulade were sensational. Thank you!
We visited for dinner in Jun 2025. Tasty food, lovely atmosphere and service. My partner is Celiac/Coeliac (gluten free), and there were 3 other celiacs in the restaurant at the same time, including our server Josh. There was a wide range of good gluten free options. Also Josh was great, making us feel comfortable, welcome and safe regarding allergens. At the time of our visit he also told us that they had a fryer only used for frying gluten free options. A great meal and a great setting! The sea view from indoors and outdoors is very nice.
Dog friendly so popped in for a pint and some chips. Friendly staff attentive. Chips were lovely and crisp with a good selection of condiments. Thoroughly recommend.
We arrived quite late in the evening without a booking and were welcomed, fitted in. The staff were fantastic as was the food. Well done for showing how a restaurant should be run 10/10 Paul
Very good dining experience. We had chicken sandwiches and the dessert chocolate fondant is superb. Don't miss it. It's very good. Prices are affordable too.
We struggled to find somewhere as sandown as the town is quite run down, However, when we arrived at the reef the menu was very reasonable. Once the food came out it was exceptionally good. Service was great, staff were welcoming, happy, & willing to make conversation with you. We didn’t stay here but Also, the cocktails were delicious!! Highly recommend regardless of sandown town itself.
We had a delicious lunch here. 2 adults, 2 children. Good wholesome food, clearly homemade. Fantastic, will return.
Dinner here for 12 of us on a Saturday night was so delicious. The team looking after our table were so lovely too. Special thanks to Josh, Lilly, Lily and Sasha. Everything we ate was delicious! Everyone at the table was delighted! Can't wait to come back next time we visit the IOW.
Location
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Esplanade, Sandown PO36 8AE, United Kingdom Hotline: +44 1983 403219
Welcome to The Reef, a charming dining destination nestled in the heart of Esplanade, Sandown. Renowned for its friendly staff and delightful cuisine, The Reef is more than just a restaurant—it's an experience. With a location that boasts breathtaking sea views, this establishment is perfectly positioned for both locals and visitors alike.
Guests rave about the attentiveness of the staff and the overall positive atmosphere. One customer, Kathryn Robbins, highlighted the team's ability to accommodate her party despite a busy evening, showcasing their commitment to exceptional service. The praise extends to the dishes themselves, especially the fish and chips, pizza, and king prawn spaghetti. Those looking to indulge in something sweet won't want to miss the salted caramel espresso martini and the exquisite raspberry roulade, both described as sensational.
For those with specific dietary needs, The Reef excels in providing gluten-free options. Joe Wiltshire recounted a visit where the staff’s understanding and preparation made him and his Celiac partner feel safe and welcomed. The restaurant's commitment to catering to those with allergies was evident with their dedicated gluten-free fryer—an impressive feature that not only reassured diners but ensured they enjoyed a stress-free meal.
Additionally, The Reef is notably dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for pet owners to enjoy a pint and some crispy, delightful chips. As Anthony Platt remarked, the staff's attentiveness paired with the quality of the food—like their well-prepared chips—creates a great atmosphere for any casual outing.
Even late arrivals are treated with warmth at The Reef, as Lisa Kemp-Potter noted, emphasizing how the staff accommodate guests without a reservation while consistently delivering high-quality food. Their menu impresses not only with its variety but also with its affordability, ensuring all can find something to enjoy within their budget.
In conclusion, The Reef stands as a testament to what a well-run restaurant should be. Their focus on quality food, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit. Whether you're indulging in a hearty meal, sipping on a delightful cocktail, or just enjoying the scenic views, The Reef promises a memorable dining experience. Make your reservation today—your taste buds will thank you!