I’m a Kent girl, born and bred (or should that be a Woman of Kent?) Either way, I’ve lived here for the past forty-something years and as much as my wanderlust will hopefully take me around the world, I’m very proud to have my roots here.
There are lots of things Kent does well. Beaches, real ales and food are just the first three things that I think of when I think of Kent and with that in mind, here are three of the most stylish and delicious restaurants I’ve been to in Kent …. and some that are definitely on my bucketlist.
Let’s start with The Sportsman in Seasalter. It was my Dad that first introduced me to this pub/restaurant as he holidays a lot in Seasalter with his girlfriend and thought he’d check this place out. What he didn’t realise was that it’s a Michelin starred restaurant (since 2008) and there was a three-month waiting list! So in fact, neither Dad nor myself have managed to secure a table there yet but, of course, it just makes me want to go even more.
We let the area around the pub dictate what we cook. Behind us, the Thames Estuary, leading out to the North Sea, provides oysters and fish and in front, marshland, woods and fertile soils give us meat, vegetables and game.
The Sportsman also grows some of its own fruit and vegetables so freshness is always guaranteed.
Standout dishes from the menu include:
Dark chocolate and salted caramel tart with vanilla ice cream
Braised brill fillet with a mussel and bacon tartare
Next up is Rocksalt in Folkestone. Folkestone has had somewhat of a re-generation over the past few years and, having spent many a Sunday of my youth at Folkestone Market, it’s good to see that the area has improved so much. I came across Rocksalt when I was attending a conference at the Folkestone Quarterhouse and we nipped out for lunch. We didn’t have time to go to the main restaurant but opposite is a small off-shoot that sells fish and chips. In fact, it’s the best fish and chips I’ve ever eaten in Kent (and I’ve eaten a lot!) So if that’s anything to go by, the main restaurant should be amazing.
We have created an informal yet smart dining space as well as a stylish bar to while away the afternoon or party in the evening. When designing the building we had a very clear vision of what we wanted Rocksalt to become, and that was an environment to suit everyone’s needs.
The restaurant has stunning views of the English Channel and this enables them to serve the freshest fish possible from local day boats.
Standout dishes from the menu include:
Roast & Smoked Cod with Jerusalem Artichokes, Curly Kale & Sherry Caramel
28 Day Aged Angus Porterhouse Steak (1kg), Rocktop Beer Battered Onions (for 2)
Finally, The Three Tuns in Lower Halstow. Technically a pub with a separate dining area, this pub is a new find for me and I’m so glad it’s in my life, especially as it’s only a ten minute drive from home. It was built in 1468 and is a very traditional style pub, with crackling open fires and very friendly staff. The menu is seasonal, and they only use local produce.
Whether you are looking for a fine dining experience or quality pub food you will be sure to find what you want at The Three Tuns.
Standout dishes from the menu include:
Kent has a lot to offer and I love exploring new restaurants so if you have any recommendations, please let me know!
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