Kent's Best Places to Dine, Autumn Winter 2019

AUTUMN / WINTER 2019 COLLECTION

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MMM Media Ltd 454 Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, Kent ME16 9JA t: 01622 299035 e: sales@mmm-media.com w: mmm-magazine.co.uk

WELCOME Now the beautiful autumn season is here, and the crisp and snowy winter is on the way, what better time to snuggle up in an inviting restaurant or hostelry to enjoy a sumptuous brunch, lunch or dinner out?

To help you choose where to go, our latest seasonal edition of Kent’s Best Places To Dine will guide you to the best eateries the county has to offer!

From warming curries to a host of other culinary delights, Kent is the Gourmet Garden of England, as you can see on the stylishly served pages within.

Types of food range from the finest Kent coast fish to tastes of the Mediterranean and further afield.

The range of restaurants, bistros, gastro pubs, bars and cafés in Kent is growing all the time, and most source their ingredients locally – one venue even grows its own herbs.

And don’t miss our section on Afternoon Tea on the flip side of this two-course publication. We literally have it all mapped, and when you visit one of the fabulous eateries inside please don’t forget to tell them where you read about them! @mmm.magazine.kent

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­­All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. © MMM-Media Ltd 2019

CONTENTS

43

7 Chapter One

Gravesend

8-9 The Red Lion

Chislehurst

10 Coast Restaurant at the Hythe Imperial

Rochester

25

29

Chatham

7

16-17 Who’d a Thought It 18 The Ringlestone Inn 19 The Cliff Restaurant & Bar

34

15

14 Pad Thai Restaurant 15 The Swan Restaurant

Sevenoaks

Gillingham

26

Dartford

28

11 Castle View Restaurant 12-13 Fish on the Green

42

39

6 Amano

23

11

West Malling

Tunbridge Wells

20-21 The Marquis of Granby

14

6

Boughton Monchelsea 36

12

Maidstone

Harrietsham

Grafty Green 24

18

16

Lenham

22 The George & Dragon

32

23 Gem of Kent 24 The Cock Inn 25 The Horse and Groom

29 The Coach House

33 Ashford International

26-27 Powder & Magazine

30-31 Flavours by Kumar

34-35 Rockin Robin on the Green

28 Due Amici

32 The Sqaure Fish Café

36 The Walnut Tree

4 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

m

m

Sittingbourne Margate Whitstable

30

22

Manston

Faversham 8

Wingham

Canterbury

44

37

20

Ashford

40

Smarden

33

Deal 19

Dover

10

Folkestone

38

Tenterden

Ramsgate

Hythe

37 The Green Room

40-41 The Bell at Smarden

38 Raja of Kent

42 Café Taj

39 Tufail

43 Three Daws

44 The Dog at Wingham

Enjoy!

5 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

West Malling

AMANO

RESTAURANT & ROOMS A welcoming, family-friendly Italian restaurant serving delicious food in the bustling market town of West Malling. You can stay here, too!

47 Swan Street West Malling ME19 6JU 01732 600128 ciao@amanorestaurant.co.uk e amanorestaurant.co.uk w @amanokent @amanokent OPENING HOURS Lunch served: Monday to Sunday 12noon–5pm Dinner: Monday to Sunday 5pm-10pm Brunch: Saturday and Sunday 9am–11:30am

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mano is a restaurant where you can seek and find superb Italian food. Ingredients are freshly sourced from the Mediterranean country itself – including cured meats, cheeses, risotto rice and flour – with additional seasonal produce coming from local farms and suppliers.

Overseen by Head Chef Fabio Moschini, the tempting menus celebrate great ingredients cooked in a great way, from fresh pastas – which are made daily in a dedicated pasta cellar – to moreish antipasti, stone-baked pizzas and classic Italian dishes and desserts. Dishes are complemented by a range of good Italian wines, beers and speciality gins as well as delicious aperitivo cocktails and after-dinner drinks.

Amano also offers a weekend brunch, serving up a playful Mediterranean twist on classic breakfast dishes alongside good coffees, smoothies, fresh juices and breakfast cocktails.

The restaurant itself is reminiscent of a classic Italian courtyard in a contemporary setting, with blackened timber cladding, comfortable chairs and a ‘living wall’. Upstairs, there are four individuallystyled guest bedrooms, each named after the team’s favourite Italian divas, complete with all you need for a relaxing stay.

MUSTTRY DISH Fritto Mistro

6 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Farnborough Common

CHAPTER ONE Chapter One is an award-winning modern European restaurant near Orpington which has 3 AA Rosettes

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ollowing a major refurbishment in early 2019, Chapter One has relaunched with a more modern approach, tempting guests with greater variety and quality.

Under the direction of acclaimed chef Andrew McLeish, modern European cooking is available in two formats.

In the Restaurant, sophisticated seasonal dishes are served in a refined setting with a weekly changing three-course Lunch Menu du Jour, a seasonally-inspired seven-course Tasting Menu and an Ă la carte option. In the more informal Brasserie, a selection of favourites are cooked to perfection with the finest ingredients.

The drinks offering is just as exciting, with an AA Notable Wine List, premium spirits, and cocktails. There is also a private dining room for corporate and private occasions.

Chapter One is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, and conveniently located close to the M25 and Orpington train station. There is also on-site car parking available.

Farnborough Common Locksbottom, Nr Orpington BR6 8NF 01689 854848

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@ChapterOneKent @chapteronekent @ChapterOneKent info@chapteronerestaurant.co.uk chapteronerestaurant.co.uk

OPENING HOURS Restaurant: Lunch: Monday to Saturday: 12noon-2.30pm Sunday: 12noon-3pm Dinner: Monday to Thursday: 6.30pm-10.30pm Friday & Saturday: 6.30pm-11.30pm Sunday: 6.30pm-9pm Brasserie: Lunch: Monday to Saturday: 12noon-3pm Dinner: Sunday to Saturday: 6.30pm-10.30pm

MUSTTRY DISH Roasted free range guineafowl

Private Dining Room

7 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Hernhill

THE RED LION Enjoy a picturesque English pub set in the hamlet of Hernhill Crockham Lane Hernhill Nr Faversham ME13 9JR 01227 751207 @theredlionhernhill @hernhillredlion tables@theredlionhernhill.co.uk e theredlionhernhill.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: 11.30am-10pm Food: 12noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm Sunday: 12noon-7pm Food: 12noon-4pm

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onveniently located in between the historic towns of Faversham and Whitstable and the stunning city of Canterbury, The Red Lion is one of Kent’s most beautiful pubs.

The restaurant offer delicious traditional dishes featuring the very best local produce and finest cuts of meat, while their renowned Sunday lunches remain as popular as ever.

Whether it’s for a quiet family lunch, a birthday, or another special occasion, the Crown Post restaurant upstairs can hold up to 50 seated guests.

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M Chr en i u A stm va as ila bl e

At the bar you will find a drink for whatever mood you’re in, with a wide range of beers, ales and gins.

The pub team also work closely with their vintner to select wines from all over the world to complement their dishes.

Open all day, The Red Lion is a quintessential English pub steeped in history, retaining many distinctive character features, including exposed beams, flagstone floors and a crown post ceiling.

The location is idyllic, situated on the village green with views across to the church.

On warmer days, guests can enjoy the al fresco seating as well as a petanque court and a small entertainment area for young guests.

The Red Lion is pleased to be dogfriendly and offers customer parking.

9 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Hythe

COAST RESTAURANT AT THE HYTHE IMPERIAL The AA Rosette award-winning Coast Restaurant at the grand Hythe Imperial hotel offers fine dining in an elegant and scenic setting, a Moët & Chandon Champagne Bar, and a chance to swim, too Princes Parade Hythe CT21 6AE 01303 267441 @HytheImperialhotel @hytheimperial @hytheimperial reception@hytheimperialhotel.com e hytheimperial.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday: 6.30am-10am, 6.30pm-9.30pm Saturday: 7.30am-10.30am, 6.30pm-9.30pm Sunday: 7.30am-10.30am, 12.30pm-3.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm

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uests at the Hythe Imperial can enjoy modern British cuisine, using locally-sourced Kentish ingredients that reflect the seasons and allow the quality to shine through.

The Coast Restaurant is open daily for breakfast and dinner, with every Sunday offering a traditional Sunday lunch with a selection of meats roasted to perfection.

The Hythe Imperial is extremely proud to be the Kent home of Moet & Chandon – ‘the champagne of success and glamour’.

Champagne lovers are invited to recline with a glass in the ice paradise of the Moet & Chandon Bar and enjoy breathtaking views of the seafront. The bar also serves delicious sharing plates.

Afternoon Tea is also available at the hotel, offering over 10 selections of tea, finely cut sandwiches, delicate pastries and freshly-baked scones with clotted cream and jam.

The hotel has plenty of entertaining space to accommodate large groups or private parties, and it runs a busy schedule of events, including live acts, tribute nights, charity balls, and fantastic Christmas parties not to be missed!

10 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

MUSTTRY DISH

Sauté Scallops and Braised Ox Cheek

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Leeds

CASTLE VIEW RESTAURANT Offering diners a relaxed atmosphere while gazing at spectacular Leeds Castle – ‘the loveliest castle in the world’

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MUSTTRY DISH Cajun Spiced Chicken Ballotine

itting beside the moat of beautiful Leeds Castle, the oakbeamed restaurant offers delicious meals which you can enjoy while taking in the stunning, quite unique, outlook over the terrace to the historic building once owned by Henry VIII. During the day, take time out from exploring the castle and grounds to enjoy a light lunch or delicious homemade meal from the seasonal menu. Choose from hot or cold dishes bursting with flavour and variety, or indulge in a choice of cakes and desserts produced by the dedicated pastry team. New for Autumn/Winter 2019,try the ‘Bottomless Brunch’ with unlimited bellinis. A valid admission ticket is required to visit during castle opening hours.

In the evening, the menu changes and the restaurant takes on a more intimate look and feel. Dinner tables can be reserved offering unrivalled views of the castle lit up at night. Parking is free, and an entrance ticket to the castle is not required for evening dining.

11 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Leeds Castle Broomfield Nr Maidstone ME17 1PL 01622 767777 @leedscastle @leedscastleuk e dining@leeds-castle.co.uk w leeds-castle.com/restaurant OPENING HOURS Monday to Sunday: Brunch/lunch: 10.30am-4pm Open for dinner: 6.30pm-9.15pm

Bearsted

FISH ON THE GREEN Fish On The Green is one of Kent’s best seafood restaurants, listed in the Michelin Guide and the proud holder of two AA Rosettes Church Lane Bearsted Green Nr Maidstone ME14 4EJ 01622 738300 fishonthegreen.com w OPENING HOURS Monday: Closed Tuesday to Thursday 12noon-2.30pm & 6.30pm-11pm Friday & Saturday 12noon-2.30pm & 6.30pm-11.30pm Sunday 12noon-6.30pm

Food serving times Monday: Closed Tuesday & Wednesday 12noon-2.30pm & 6.30pm-9.30pm Thursday to Saturday 12noon-2.30pm & 6.30pm-10pm Sunday 12noon- 4.30pm

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his fine seafood restaurant not only serves fabulous food, but is lucky enough to be situated on ‘one of the prettiest village greens in England’.

Adding to the interest, it is housed in a converted stable block that was originally part of the neighbouring coaching inn, The Walnut Tree, which is now the fish restaurant’s sister pub-restaurant The Oak On The Green.

The entire building has now been completely renovated to provide a simple and stylish dining room with a small pre-dinner drinks bar to welcome you.

The restaurant serves a range of classic and contemporary fish dishes using freshly caught fish and the best seasonal ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible.

In addition to the atmospheric eaterie’s ‘trawler-fresh’ fish and shellfish, the menu also offers at least two non-fish dishes and a vegetarian option, so there is something for everyone!

What’s more, you can treat family and friends to gift vouchers for thank yous or celebrations at Fish On The Green. These are available to purchase from the bar.

MUST-TRY DISH Whole lobster thermidor with hand cut chips and buttered mangetout

13 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

West Malling

PAD THAI RESTAURANT At Pad Thai, Manta and the team do their upmost to adhere to authentic methods in all their dishes 15 High Street West Malling ME19 6QH 01732 870000

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manta@pad-thai.co.uk e pad-thai.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Tuesday to Saturday Lunch: 12noon-2.30pm Dinner: 5.30pm-11pm on Friday and until 11.30pm on Saturdays Monday & Sunday: Closed

MUSTTRY DISH Duck with Tamarind Sauce

or over 20 years, Pad Thai at West Malling has built an enviable reputation as one of the best and most authentic Thai restaurants in the South East of England. This is entirely due to Manta Maythachatchaval, the proprietor (left), whose relatives in Thailand have previous connections with the Royal Thai kitchens.

Manta and her all-Thai ‘brigade’ at Pad Thai use their extensive expertise to prepare all the starters and special sauces. Manta herself is solely responsible for the unique Thai dessert Kanom Tuoy – a steamed Thai coconut dessert made with tapioca and rice flour, hand-mixed with coconut milk and pandan leaf – a dessert which is very rare to find in the UK. With fresh ingredients flown in weekly direct from Thailand, authenticity is guaranteed, which has culminated in Pad Thai being one of very few Thai restaurants in the UK to hold the Thai select ‘Premium’ award from the Ministry of Tourism and Foreign Affairs at the Royal Thai Embassy since its introduction in 2012.

14 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

West Malling

THE SWAN RESTAURANT The Swan is a leading independent Kent restaurant bringing modern dining and exciting events to the historic town of West Malling

T MUSTTRY DISH

Sticky Pork Belly, Pickled Carrot Salad, Cashew Nuts, Chilli and Soy Caramel

he talented kitchen team at The Swan deliver fresh and exciting flavours seven days a week using seasonal and local produce. The creativity continues into the inviting bar, where guests can enjoy imaginative, exotic and visually stunning cocktails, thoughtfully selected wines and great coffee.

The Swan’s brunch is one of the best served in the area, while the à la carte menu boasts robust and creative combinations with a selection of grills and seasonal favourites. In addition, the midweek set menu also offers fantastic value.

Guests celebrating a special occasion can take advantage of The Swan’s inviting brasserie, or one of its three private rooms, which provide the perfect space for entertaining – including weddings and civil ceremonies.

The restaurant also boasts a fantastic outdoor area, which is a popular choice for diners and drinkers on warmer days.

Regardless of the reason for your visit, The Swan is a welcoming and vibrant place where you and your friends and family can enjoy high quality food, drinks and service.

15 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

35 Swan Street West Malling ME19 6JU 01732 521910 @SwanWestMalling @swanwm e info@theswanwestmalling.co.uk w theswanwestmalling.co.uk OPENING HOURS Brunch Monday to Friday: 9am-11.45am Weekends: 10am-11.45am Lunch Monday to Saturday: 12noon-5.30pm Sunday: 12.30pm-5.45pm Dinner: Monday to Saturday: 5.30pm-10pm

Grafty Green

WHO’D A THOUGHT IT The Who’d A Thought It is a beautifully-restored 16th-century building set in the picturesque Kentish countryside Headcorn Road Grafty Green Nr Maidstone ME17 2AR 01622 858951

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ombining cosy intimacy with eye-catching decor, the Who’d A Thought It boutique hotel is the perfect setting for any occasion.

Its restaurant boasts an award-winning chef and two AA Rosettes, and offers diverse menus to suit different tastes.

There is a wide and varied choice of delicious home-made food, with locally-sourced ingredients prepared with flair and imagination.

For lunch, it has relaxed seating in the bar area and the colourful outside terrace is particularly appealing on warmer days.

Inside, the sumptuously decorated restaurant offers considerable variety – from modern English cooking and fine dining options to European dishes

@whodathoughtitbar @whodathoughtit joe@whodathoughtit.com e

whodathoughtit.com w OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: 11am-9.30pm Sunday: 12noon-7.3opm

16 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

and platters. House specialities include Chateaubriand and the Who’d A Thought It signature Plateau Rouge – a substantial and spectacular selection of seafood.

The Who’d A Thought It is well known for, and enormously proud of, its extensive Champagne selection, which includes more than 60 varieties.

It also has a broad range of wines, and staff will always be delighted to advise guests looking to perfectly pair their wine with their meal.

As well as the restaurant, the Who’d A Thought It provides 5* accommodation in its range of luxurious, highly individual decorated rooms and suites.

Just perfect for a wonderfully memorable weekend away!

MUST-TRY DISH Oysters and Champagne

MUST-TRY DISH Tomahawk Steak

17 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Harrietsham

THE RINGLESTONE INN Occupying a beautiful Grade II-listed building dating back to 1533, this country pub and restaurant offers seasonal and regularly changing menus Ringlestone Road Harrietsham Nr Maidstone ME17 1NX 01622 743166 @theringlestone theringlestone @theringlestone info@theringlestone.co.uk e theringlestone.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Monday: closed Tuesday: 12noon-11pm Wednesday: 12noon–11pm Thursday: 12noon–11pm Friday: 12noon–12am Saturday: 12noon–12am Sunday: 12noon-5pm

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ucked away in the beautiful Kent countryside, the restaurant at The Ringlestone Inn offers a regularly changing menu and tasting menus featuring the best local and seasonal produce.

The chefs undertake all of their own carcass butchery, utilising different cuts throughout the menu in different interesting ways, including making all of their own dry cured hams and salamis.

They also have the privilege of growing a small amount of their own produce for their dishes, having a well-stocked herb garden.

The bars are a truly memorable place to enjoy a relaxing drink or meal. With the large inglenook fireplaces, stone floors and original brick and flint walls, it’s easy to lose track of time while enjoying the atmosphere. As keen supporters of local food and drink, the pub also stocks a good selection of local wines, beers, ales, spirits and soft drinks as well as a international wine list.

18 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

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Folkestone

THE CLIFFE RESTAURANT & BAR A fantastic food and drink destination on the famous Leas in Folkestone with panoramic views of the stunning seafront

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he View Hotel and Cliffe Restaurant is a stunning 4-star boutique hotel, bar and restaurant on The Leas in Folkestone, offering incredible opportunities unrivalled in this part of Kent. The position of the hotel and restaurant makes it the perfect place for a luxury getaway by the sea, and ideal for enjoying morning coffees through to evening cocktails and everything in between. You can enjoy Lunch, Dinner and Afternoon Tea. The restaurant offers high quality cuisine, amazing atmosphere and panoramic views of the seafront as you dine in style.

During the warmer months, you can enjoy the morning, afternoon and evening sun on the terrace with breathtaking views across the English Channel.

Take advantage of an exclusive offer for MMM readers! Get 15% off Afternoon Teas Monday-Thursday! Call quoting ‘Kent19’.

19 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

The Leas Folkestone CT20 2EF 01303 847880 @TheCliffeRestaurantFolkestone @cliffe_restaurant_folkestone e reservations@clifferestaurant.co.uk w clifferestaurantfolkestone.co.uk OPENING HOURS Sunday: 12noon-4pm & 5pm-8pm Monday to Saturday: 12noon-4pm & 5pm-9pm

Alkham

THE MARQUIS OF GRANBY Experience a true country pub between Dover and Folkestone with luxury accommodation in boutique bedrooms Alkham Valley Road Alkham Nr Dover CT15 7DF

01304 873410

@marquisofgranbypub @themarquisofgranby info@marquisofgranby.co.uk e marquisofgranby.co.uk w Monday to Friday Breakfast: 7.30am-10am Lunch: 12noon-3pm Dinner: 6pm-9pm Saturday Breakfast: 8am-10am Lunch: 12noon-5pm Dinner: 5pm-9.30pm Sunday Breakfast: 8am-10am Lunch: 12noon-5pm

MUST-TRY DISH Scallops

20 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

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estled in the heart of Kent’s picturesque village of Alkham, situated between Folkestone and Dover, is this true country retreat.

With the Marquis of Granby’s original beams and roaring fires, you will lose yourself in the history of this 200-yearold village pub, which offers 10 unique rooms, real ales, craft beers, cracking wine and freshly prepared gastro food.

Their ethos is to source and use local and seasonal produce to deliver fresh, high quality food, however the team will stray to surrounding counties to find the very best ingredients in order to consistently offer an exceptional dining experience.

With shooting season around the corner, our specials’ and Sunday menus will contain a mix of locally sourced game and roast classics done in their own specialised way.

21 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Fordwich

THE GEORGE AND DRAGON The George and Dragon inhabits a beautiful building set on the banks of the River Stour in fascinating Fordwich – the smallest town in Britain!

King Street Fordwich Nr Canterbury CT2 0DB 01227 710661 @georgeanddragonfordwich george.and.dragon@ e brunningandprice.co.uk georgeanddragon.pub w Monday to Thursday Opening Hours: 10am-11pm Food Served: 10am-9pm Friday to Saturday Opening Hours: 10am-11pm Food Served: 10am-9.30pm Sunday Opening Hours: 10am-10.30pm Food Served: 10am-9pm

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ordwich is a tiny town four miles from Canterbury that just oozes history, and the pub has been at the centre of its community life for centuries.

The team’s passion lies in finding quality fresh, local ingredients and cooking and presenting them in a modern but unpretentious way. The menus have a spine of classic British dishes, including sandwiches, light bites, nibbles and a children’s menu, complemented by more exotic influences from other parts of the world. When the weather warms up, you can enjoy soaking up the sun in the large garden while the chefs fire up the BBQ. For your convenience, menus are uploaded to their website each day before 12noon so that you may peruse them at your leisure.

The pub has a Gluten free menu and is proud to be part of the Coeliac Society. Pub walks take place four times a year when guests are invited for tea, coffee and bacon sandwiches on the house before heading out together (dogs welcome).

A large car park and a disabled car park are available.

22 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Maidstone

GEM OF KENT Gem of Kent is a family-run business that believes Turkish food is a lot more than just kebabs and chips

T MUST-TRY DISH

urkish food is representative of many centuries of tradition and heritage passed down through the generations. As a family-based business with over 20 years’ experience in the restaurant industry, Gem of Kent has a team who strive to offer guests home-cooked authentic Turkish and Ottoman dishes that have been perfected over years of hard work and dedication.

They offer plenty of vegetarian, gluten-free and some vegan options, as well as cocktails, wines, beers and spirits.

There are set menus available designed to offer you the full experience of Turkish cuisines, starting from £13.95 per person.

And wine experts have carefully tested and selected the best wines to pair with their dishes to make sure you will enjoy a unique and authentic dining experience.

Gem’s Family Platter

23 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

62-63 High Street Maidstone ME14 1SR 01622 675000

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@gemofkent @gemofkent @GemofKent info@gemofkent.co.uk gemofkent.co.uk

OPENING HOURS Monday to Thursday: 12noon-11pm Friday & Saturday: 12noon-12midnight Sunday: 12noon-10pm

Boughton Monchelsea

THE COCK INN Whether it’s bar snacks, a sit-down meal or special occasions, the food at this charming, centuries-old traditional pub cannot be missed!

Heath Road Boughton Monchelsea Maidstone ME17 4JD 01622 743166

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ituated in the rural surroundings of the pretty village of Boughton Monchelsea, close to Leeds Castle, this consistently high-quality pub – often quoted as being one of the best in Kent – is well known for its freshly prepared country cuisine as well as its chocolate-box looks, cosy log fires, ancient beams and Elizabethan ambience.

The pub is owned by local brewers Shepherd Neame and leased

by Jo and Dave Whitehurst. The team are like a big family, giving a big welcome to all. Many front of house and kitchen staff have been at the inn for over five years, providing a wealth of experience.

Dishes are cooked from scratch using the best in seasonal produce to produce an extensive menu range that caters for all.

It’s advisable to book for the restaurant. Alternatively, you may choose to dine in the atmospheric bar area.

theboughtoncock@btconnect.com e cockinnmaidstone.co.uk w

OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: Lunch: 12noon-2.30pm Dinner: 6pm-9pm Sunday: Lunch: 12noon-4pm

MUST-TRY DISH Crispy Belly of Pork

24 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Wilmington

THE HORSE & GROOM Your hosts are excited to welcome you to their friendly, recently refurbished pub in the heart of Wilmington

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he Horse & Groom at Wilmington, near Dartford, is the perfect place to pop in for a quick bite and a pint (or two!), or to indulge in a delicious meal and a nice bottle from the extensive wine list.

The pub is proud to serve a selection of classic British dishes with a modern twist every day of the week.

Freshly prepared on site, all dishes use locally-sourced and seasonal produce whenever possible.

So whatever you fancy, there’s sure to be something to suit all tastes. On Sundays, quality roast dinners are served from 12noon to 9pm and booking is recommended.

Wifi is also available for all guests.

15 Leyton Cross Road Wilmington, Nr Dartford DA2 7AP 01322 290056 @horseandgroomwilmington @horseandgroomwilmington @horseandgroomUK w horseandgroomwilmington.co.uk OPENING TIMES Monday to Thursday: 12noon-11pm Friday & Saturday: 12noon-11.30pm Sunday: 12noon-10.30pm FOOD SERVING TIMES Monday to Thursday: 12noon-9pm Friday & Saturday: 12noon-10pm Sunday: 12noon-9pm

25 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Lower Upnor

POWDER & MAGAZINE Enjoy Medway’s casual modern dining experience with a variety of menus showcasing the very best of British and European cuisine 72 Ordnance Yard Upnor Road Lower Upnor ME2 4UY 01634 710872

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owder & Magazine is a casual dining restaurant in Lower Upnor, near Rochester, which offers a creative and consistently excellent dining experience showcasing the very best of British and European cuisine.

One happy customer commented: “I was immediately struck by the beauty of the setting as it sits close to the banks of the Medway”.

@powderandmagazine @powderandmagazine restaurant@powderandmagazine.co.uk e powderandmagazine.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Sunday: 9am–6pm Monday & Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12noon–3pm, 6pm–11pm Thursday: 12noon–3pm, 6pm–11pm Friday: 9am–3.30pm, 6pm–11pm Saturday: 9am–3.30pm, 6pm–11pm

26 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, the restaurant serves a classic Sunday lunch menu each week and has regular live music events. The drinks list includes cocktails and local beers and wines as well as an extensive further wine list.

There is plenty of parking available, too, and it’s a great location for walking along the Saxon Shore Way.

MUST-TRY DISH Herb Crusted Lamb

27 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Chislehurst

DUE AMICI A local favourite for 25 years, this restaurant enjoys a lively buzz that has customers visiting from miles around 10-11 Royal Parade Chislehurst BR7 6NR 020 8467 4496 info@dueamici.co.uk e dueamici.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Lunch: Monday to Saturday: 12noon-2.30pm Dinner: Monday to Saturday: 6pm-10.30pm Closed: Sundays & Bank Holidays

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ituated on Royal Parade in the leafy enclave of Chislehurst is the popular Italian hub, Due Amici which has been open since 1994.

The comfortable contemporary dining room exudes an animated yet calm and friendly atmosphere where nothing is too much trouble.

Fresh seafood is available daily, and sea bream, halibut and the perennial favourite Lobster Thermidor are all specialities.

Steak Diane can be flambéed at your table for a touch of theatre unsurpassed by the Italians! And a simple grilled veal chop melts in the mouth, especially when accompanied by the fresh vegetable selection of the day.

Being an Italian restaurant, the pasta menu is extensive and with good reason. This simple meal can be transformed from the basic to the gastronomic and is essential to a good reputation.

If you can’t find anything to your taste on the menu then the highly experienced team will be able to recommend something to tempt you. The extensive wine list is worth studying in its own right, and each bottle has been carefully selected to complement the wide range of dishes available. Due Amici offers everything you would expect to find in the finest Italian restaurant in Italy!

28 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine

Ruxley

THE COACH HOUSE On the border of Kent and South London is a hidden restaurant gem

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pen since 1981, the Coach House restaurant is a long established and highly reputed traditional Italian eaterie that focuses on giving diners a silver service experience to showcase the finest produce it can source.

With warm, effusive Italian hospitality that comes from the heart, you could be forgiven for thinking you are actually in Italy itself!

Fresh fish is one of the specialities, changing daily according to availability. Enjoy Dover sole, sea bass and skate to name but a few, served simply grilled or with a sauce complementing the dish.

Alternatively, tasty lamb cutlets invite you to pick them up with your fingers, while pan-fried calves liver with bacon and beautifully pink fillet steak head up the meat section.

The pasta menu tempts on all fronts, and is as you would expect Mamma to make!

If you have trouble deciding on a dish, just ask Enzo and his team and they will happily recommend something to suit you.

Add to all of the above an extensive wine list, and the only problem you could have is what to choose!

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Ruxley Manor Garden Centre Maidstone Road Nr Sidcup DA14 5BQ 0208 300 4241 e info@thecoachhouse.co.uk w coachhouseruxleymanor.co.uk OPENING HOURS Lunch: Monday to Saturday: 12noon-2.30pm Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday: 6pm-10pm Closed: Sundays & Bank Holidays

Ramsgate & Garlinge

FLAVOURS

BY KUMAR Discover the true delights of Indian cuisine with Anil Kumar, the proud owner and Head Chef of the Ramsgate and Garlinge restaurants 2 Effingham Street Ramsgate CT11 9AT 01843 852631

176 Canterbury Road Garlinge Nr Margate CT9 5JW 01843 226666

@IndianRestaurantamsgate @flavours.by.kumar flavoursbykumar@gmail.com e flavoursbykumar.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Lunch: 12noon-2.30pm Evening sitting: 5.30pm-9.30pm Outside catering also available

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ith a delicate infusion of spices, Anil Kumar brings a taste of the traditional food of the Indian sub-continent to the Kent coast. Located in the seaside town of Ramsgate, with a second restaurant in Garlinge, here is where you will discover the true delights of Indian cuisine.

“For me, food has always been an adventure,” he says.

Anil started his journey in India, then moved to Dubai and London and finally settled in Ramsgate where, in 2013 he became the proud owner and Head Chef of Flavours by Kumar.

His aim is to convey his passion for Indian cuisine in a way that gives you a taste of perfect Indian dishes. Here are just some of those you will find on the menu: • Stir-Fry Squid – spiced squid tossed with onions, peppers, ginger, lemon juice and mango powder.

• Masala Dosa (vegetarian) – a South Indian crêpe made from rice and lentil batter and stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes, served with coconut chutney.

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• Double Ka Meetha, a very popular dessert from Hyderabad. It’s a bread pudding cooked with milk, saffron, cardamom and dry fruits served with vanilla ice cream.

You will always find specials on offer, too, like Lamb Shank served with mint and coconut sauce, or maybe Spiced Crispy Whitebait – so make sure you check out the Specials Board before you order.

The restaurants are open Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and bookings are now being taken. You can book your Christmas party, too. Available for celebrations, Flavours by Kumar can additionally offer outside catering.

MUSTTRY DISH Spiced Squid

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Lenham

THE SQUARE FISH CAFÉ A fine fish & chip restaurant and café on The Square in the delightful village of Lenham, serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner The Square Lenham Nr Maidstone ME17 2PH 01622 858268

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@thesquarefishcafé @thesquarefishcafé info@squarefishcafe.co.uk e

OPENING HOURS Tuesday to Saturday: 11.30am–9.30pm (Last orders) Sunday: 11.30am-8.30pm Monday: Closed

MUSTTRY DISH Beer-Battered Haddock and Chips

long the North Downs way, midway between Maidstone and Ashford, is the pretty little village of Lenham. In the centre of its medieval square is a 15th-century building known as The Chequers. For the past 20 years it has been a traditional fish and chip shop serving the local rural community.

Owner Marino Michaelas has always insisted on using the finest ingredients, with fresh fish sourced from the fishermen of Rye and Folkestone and potatoes from the Smiths of Sandwich.

It was a desire to make the most of these strong sourcing relationships that the ‘garage’ end of the building was added and The Square Fish Café was born.

The café serves all the items you would expect from a fish and chip shop, with fine fresh fish delivered daily (sometimes twice daily, thanks to their friends at Chapmans!) From fresh mussels, scallops and sea bass to cod, haddock and plaice and local wines and beers, everything is served in a wonderfully modern interior contrasting with the medieval views afforded by the floorto-ceiling glass doors, making this a must for all fish lovers.

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Ashford

ASHFORD INTERNATIONAL This 4* hotel offers a menu to tantalise the taste buds, whether it’s a social occasion, a business meal or a great outing for all the family

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his hotel knows the importance of good food and drink!

From a light snack in the bar to a romantic meal in the Horizon Restaurant, the team are continually sourcing new produce and developing menus to suit all palates.

The Horizon Bar is an elegant area in which to enjoy a pre-dinner drink while perusing the mouthwatering menu.

The seasonal menu is designed by the Head Chef and delivers modern British cuisine using locally-sourced produce where possible, and attentive waiters are on hand to advise you on the best wine to complement your meal. So whether you are visiting the hotel on business, or treating family and friends to a delicious Sunday lunch, a gourmet delight awaits.

On warm days, you can also enjoy al fresco dining in garden surroundings on the restaurant terrace. And when the sun goes down, there are heated lamps.

MUST-TRY DISH Grilled Fillet of Sea Bass

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Simone Weil Avenue Ashford TN24 8UX 01233 219988 @AshfordInternationalHotel @Ashford_International_Hotel @AshfordintQ e restaurantandbar@ ashfordinternationalhotel.com w ashfordhotel.co.uk OPENING HOURS Breakfast Monday to Friday: 6.30am-9.30am Saturday to Sunday: 7.30am-10.30am Evening Meals Monday to Sunday: 6.30pm-9.30pm Sunday: Lunch-1pm-9.30pm

Barming

ROCKIN ROBIN ON THE GREEN A traditional British public house serving delicious home-made food 1 Heath Road Barming Nr Maidstone ​ME169AR 01622 727122 @rockinrobinpub enquires@ e rockinrobinonthegreen.co.uk rockinrobinonthegreen.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Monday to Thursday: 4pm-11pm Friday & Saturday: 12noon-late Sunday: 12noon-9pm

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very warm welcome awaits you at Rockin Robin on The Green in Barming, just two miles from the hustle and bustle of Maidstone town centre.

The pub was taken over by a brand new team in late 2018 and they have transformed it into a lively, friendly venue while maintaining the traditional values of a typical Kentish pub.

The staff serve their own award winning beer, produced by the Kent-based Rockin Robin Brewery, including ‘Reliant Robin’, which won Kent Beer of the Year at the 2019 Taste of Kent Awards.

Guests can enjoy an extensive menu of mouthwatering treats,

MUST-TRY DISH

FOOD SERVED Tuesday to Saturday: 4pm-9pm Sunday: 12noon-5pm

Scallops

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MUST-TRY DISH Reckless Burger

including steaks, burgers, curries and salads, as well as tasty vegetarian options such as the goat’s cheese and mushroom burger. The daily home-made specials are not to be missed!

The Rockin Robin is also proud to host live music every Saturday night.

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Yalding

THE WALNUT TREE Serving freshly made traditional pub food with daily specials focusing on seasonal produce from local suppliers Yalding Hill Yalding Nr Maidstone ME18 6JB 01622 814266 @ thewalnuttreeinyalding @thewalnuttreeyalding info@walnuttreepubyalding.co.uk e walnuttreepubyalding.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: 11am-11pm Sunday: 11am-9pm

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ituated in the beautiful village of Yalding, The Walnut Tree was built in 1492 and is a former Kentish Yeoman’s house, that started its life as a beer house in the 19th century.

All the dishes are home-made, with specials often including seafood and vegetarian options. Lighter bites include favourites such as Scotch eggs and chicken wings, and there is carvery every Sunday. The extensive drinks range includes real cask ales and craft gins, alongside a very carefully selected wine list.

With beautiful wooden beams and open fires, The Walnut Tree is the perfect place to enjoy a lunch or a romantic evening meal.

FOOD SERVED Monday to Saturday: 12noon-9pm Sunday: 12noon-6pm

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Canterbury

THE GREEN ROOM Facing the River Stour with picturesque views of Canterbury Cathedral is The Marlowe’s welcoming Green Room restaurant

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ou can enjoy the best in food and drink at The Marlowe, including tasty meals in The Green Room. Whether you would like a light lunch or the full pre-show dining experience, the restaurant offers an informal and friendly atmosphere with great food made from the best locally-sourced ingredients.

Pre-show, relax and enjoy the seasonal menu, with a two-course option for £16.50 or three courses for £19.50, knowing that you will be guaranteed to be in your seat for curtain up, and with the option to have your dessert in the interval.

Outside of show times, the Green Room offers light bites, free Wi-Fi and fantastic coffee, with highly-trained baristas on hand to ensure your coffee is made with care and attention. The daytime menu offers a selection of tasty snacks and sandwiches, all made fresh to order by the chefs using the best quality ingredients.

And feel free to sit out in the sun on warmer days on the Sunley Terrace and enjoy a cool drink, or maybe even an ice cream!

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The Friars Canterbury CT1 2AS

01227 862485 themarlowetheatre @marlowetheatre @marlowetheatre w marlowetheatre.com OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: 9am-8pm Sunday: Open on show days Closed Boxing Day

Tenterden

RAJA OF KENT Restaurateur Rezaul Raja, who owns The Raja of Kent group of Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants, welcomes you to the Tenterden eatery…

Biddenden Road High Halden Tenterden TN30 6SX 01233 851191 @TheRajaofKent info@therajaofkent.com e therajaofkent.com w OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: Lunch: 12noon-2.30pm Dinner: 5.30pm-11.30pm Sunday: Lunch: 12noon-3pm Dinner: 5.30pm-11.30pm

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ezaul Raja’s reputation is such that customers are drawn from across Kent to Tenterden, while celebrity diners have included Joanna Lumley and Jan Francis.

“Our mission is to provide the very best Bangladeshi and Indian cuisines, served by attentive and professional staff within a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere,” he says.

New to the menu are some exciting specialist dishes created authentically, so they are exactly as they would be if they were served in Bangladesh.

They include: Mozadar Mangosh (diced beef and aromatic Bangladeshi spices), Chicken Raas (flawlessly cooked chicken leg), Lamb Shank (slowly cooked), and – perfect for the season – Spicy Sea Bass and Kudu Goost (sweet pumpkin with lamb).

MUST-TRY DISH Sizzling Beef

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Gravesend

TUFAIL Welcome to Tufail, where you will discover many exciting dishes, enriching your knowledge of Indian cuisine

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ufail is pleased to entertain you in contemporary, comfortable and receptive surroundings where you are sure enjoy their unparralled and modernistic approach.

Founded in 2004, this is a family-run business that can cater for parties and any events you require (subject to booking availability).

All food on the extensive menu is freshly cooked on the premises, and the team always give 100 per cent to make your visit a night to remember.

Customer satisfaction is a prime concern, so should you need any help or advice, the staff will be delighted to assist you in any way they can. Tufail has two functions room which can seat 180 guests combined and is pleased to offer free parking.

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139 Parrock Street Gravesend DA12 1EZ 01474 566100 thetufail.com OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday: 5pm-11pm ​​Saturday: 5pm-11pm ​Sunday: 5pm-11pm

Smarden

THE BELL AT SMARDEN Eat… Drink… Relax… Enjoy…

Bell Lane Smarden Nr Ashford TN27 8PW 01233 770283 @BellSmarden @bellsmarden @BellSmarden smardenbellsmarden@aol.com e bellsmarden.co.uk w

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he Bell at Smarden, or the Smarden Bell as it’s affectionately known, is situated just outside the village on the A274 Headcorn Road. Dating back to 1535, it was built during the reign of Henry VIII, and with its wealth of traditional beams adorned with hops & beautiful flagstone floors it makes for a warm authentic place in which to meet friends or just drop in.

The locally-sourced food is served daily, Try a choice of steaks, freshly-made pizzas or spinach & mushroom tagliatelle, to name but a few dishes. Sunday lunch, with a choice of three meats, is a must, although it would be prudent to book in advance.

OPENING HOURS Monday: 12noon-8pm Tuesday to Sunday: 12noon-11pm

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The restaurant seating areas are arranged so that whether you are a party of 10 or a couple wanting an intimate dinner you can relax and enjoy the ambience.

The large wine list and alcohol-free selection appeals to the most discerning customers. Master Brew is the Real Ale of choice, with a guest ale alternating.

With its large car park and beautiful outside seating areas in the garden on warmer days, what better way to enjoy yourself, indoors or outdoors?

MUST-TRY DISH Spicy Oriental Vegetarian Burger

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Gravesend

CAFÉ TAJ Originating from Moghul India, a Taj is a crown, or a headdress, of great distinction 170-171 Parrock Street, Gravesend DA12 1ER 01474 365700 / 01474 364885 info@thecafetaj.com e cafetaj-gravesend.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Sunday to Thursday 12noon-2.30pm / 5.30-11pm Friday to Saturday 12noon-2.30 pm / 5.30-11.30pm including Bank Holidays

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afé Taj, in Gravesend’s Parrock Street, has been established since 1999, and has delivered food all over Europe by both helicopter and aero plane.

Its kitchen staff have catered for England in the World Cup in Germany as well as The X Factor, 4th Base, Opposite Worlds pop band, Lee Ryan from Blue and many, many more.

Café Taj has also been featured on BBC One, ITV, and in The Gravesend Reporter.

They were Quality Food award-winners in 2006, and winners in the Times Food & Drink Awards 2007.

As Associate Sponsor of ‘The Fleet’ for the 2007/2008 season, they wish Ebbsfleet United FC every success for this new season.

Additionally, Café Taj has featured in Spice Times magazine.

Always ready to greet new customers as well as regulars, owner Rob Abdul says: “I am proud to be a chef to the stars. Come to my restaurant and have the chance to meet a famous celeb!”

Cafe Taj offers an evening buffet seven days a week as well as a lunchtime buffet on Sundays. It is also open on Christmas day, giving you a unique festive dining experience to remember.

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Gravesend

THREE DAWS RIVERSIDE INN An historic riverside inn dating back to the 1400s that’s steeped in tales of smuggling press gangs, hauntings and much more

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he Three Daws enjoys a prime location overlooking the River Thames. It is one of the oldest taverns in the country, and was granted its first licence in 1565, but the building is even older than that.

As a member of the Produced in Kent organisation, its menu sourcing aim is to ‘Buy British, Buy Kent, Buy Local’ whenever possible, to produce interesting and varied dishes to suit all tastes.

The Three Daws has been listed in two national Sunday newspapers for its roasts.

The team of chefs, led by Simon Pritchard, produces a regularly changing traditional and original dishes.

The Three Daws’ postition on the Thames gives it great views of the river, and the activities on it.

Town Pier Gravesend DA11 0BJ

01474 566869

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The Three Daws Riverside Inn @TheThreeDaws threedaws.co.uk

OPENING HOURS Monday to Thursday 11am-11.30pm Friday to Saturday 11am-1am Sunday 12noon-11.30pm FOOD SERVED 12noon - 9pm

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Wingham

THE DOG AT WINGHAM Multi-award winning restaurant, including Best for Food at the Great British Pub Awards 2019, with eight luxury rooms nestled in the countryside between Canterbury and the coast Canterbury Road Wingham Nr Canterbury CT3 1BB 01227 720339 @thedogatwingham @DogWingham info@thedog.co.uk e thedog.co.uk w

MUSTTRY DISH Venison loin, swede fondant, pickled blackberry, braised shoulder pastilla, piccolo parsnips with venison & Port sauce

OPENING HOURS Monday to Sunday Breakfast: 8am-10am Monday to Saturday Pub: 11am-11pm Kitchen: 12noon-2.30pm 6.30pm-9pm Sunday Pub: 11am-9pm, Kitchen: 12noon-5pm

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he Dog at Wingham serves modern British dishes made from the finest locally-sourced ingredients.

They pride themselves on giving every guest a warm welcome, delicious drinks, fabulous food and special service.

In the two years since they put new life into the old dog, they won an AA Rosette and then achieved two more recently, came runner-up in the Kent Life Food & Drink Awards 2017 Restaurant of the Year category, and were the National Pub & Bar Awards 2017 County Winner – which they retained in 2018!

Their aim is to serve the finest food in the region and they look forward to welcoming you with your friends and family very soon.

THE CHEFS: Head Chef Samuel McClurkin has trained under Heston Blumenthal at Dinner, Tom Kerridge at The Hand and Flowers, Stephen Harris at The Sportsman and Dev Biswal at The Ambrette.

He’s competed internationally at Cannes in the South of France to represent his college and won the ‘Entente Cordial’.

Sam is supported by Sous Chef Roberto Mantegna, who has cooked in some of the finest establishments in Kent, including Reads, Chapter One, The Sportsman and Eastwell Manor.

Together they were awarded Two AA Rosettes within six months of taking over the kitchen at The Dog.

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Local Ciders, Wines, Food & Gifts Mondays - 12noon - 4pm Tuesdays to Saturdays: 10am - 5pm Sundays: 10.30 - 4.30pm

01795 529100 tiddlypomme@brogdalecider.co.uk www.brogdalecider.co.uk | www.tiddlypommeshop.co.uk The Marketplace, Brogdale Farm, Brogdale Road, Faversham, Kent ME13 8XZ 47 | Kent’s Best Places to Dine