A once-celebrated establishment in Whitstable, famed for its culinary delights and a fixture in the Michelin Guide, has recently faced a stark decline in its hygiene rating following a thorough inspection. The Royal Native Oyster Stores, operated by the Whitstable Oyster Company, has seen its score drop from a prestigious five stars to a concerning two, raising alarm bells over food safety practices within the kitchen.
Alarming Findings from the Inspection
During a visit by inspectors from Canterbury City Council in September 2025, a range of troubling issues were uncovered. Among the most shocking discoveries was a bucket containing “foul-smelling” discarded fish left outside the premises. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding food waste management and the potential for pest infestations, as noted by the inspecting officer.
The inspector’s report highlighted, “A foul-smelling open bucket was noted to be stored directly outside the premises… this is not appropriate storage for food waste and will significantly increase the risk of pest activity within the yard area.”
Moreover, the report identified a lack of formal food safety training among the kitchen staff, which is critical for maintaining the high standards expected of a Michelin-rated restaurant.
Unhygienic Conditions in the Kitchen
The state of cleanliness in the Royal Native Oyster Stores’ kitchen was described as below acceptable standards. The inspection revealed flies in the wash-up area, landing on work surfaces and food contact equipment. The potato chipping room was also flagged for needing a deep clean, as dirt and food debris littered the floor.
The inspector stated, “More detailed cleaning is required throughout the kitchen,” emphasising the need for a thorough deep clean to address the “buildup of dirt, grease and food debris” found in several locations, including behind and underneath kitchen equipment.
Additional concerns were raised regarding the cleanliness of the crushed ice machine, which was found in a poor state of repair, with its lid significantly damaged, presenting a contamination risk.
Structural Issues and Ongoing Maintenance
Beyond hygiene, the establishment is grappling with physical maintenance issues. The inspection revealed parts of the building with missing ceilings, damaged walls, and exposed concrete flooring, particularly in the kitchen and beneath fryers. These conditions complicate cleaning efforts and pose further health risks.
As the inspector pointed out, “The floor within the main kitchen was damaged, and bare concrete was exposed… making cleaning more difficult due to its porous nature.” This combination of structural issues and cleanliness failures has prompted serious questions about the restaurant’s management practices.
Community Reactions and Future Implications
The decline in hygiene rating has sent shockwaves through the local community and dining patrons alike. The Royal Native Oyster Stores has long been a cornerstone of Whitstable’s dining scene, contributing to the town’s culinary reputation and tourism appeal. A fall from grace of this magnitude poses not only a threat to its business but also to the reputation of the wider culinary scene in the area.
Why it Matters
The situation at the Royal Native Oyster Stores highlights the critical importance of food hygiene and safety in the restaurant industry. With public health at stake, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the standards expected from establishments that have earned Michelin recognition. As diners become increasingly aware of hygiene practices, the repercussions of such failures can extend far beyond a single restaurant, impacting community trust and the livelihoods of those employed within the hospitality sector.
