Kent is famous for its amazing food scene, featuring award-winning restaurants that showcase top-quality ingredients and unique menus. This lively county offers everything from Michelin-starred pubs to small bistros. This means everyone can find something to enjoy, no matter the occasion. Kent’s rich farming background and its close location to the sea offer a wide range of food experiences. This makes it an ideal place for those who love to eat. Check out our guide to find the best places to eat in Kent and try some of the tastiest dishes around.
Key Takeaways
- Kent is celebrated for its diverse and award-winning culinary scene.
- From Michelin-starred pubs to cosy bistros, Kent offers dining experiences to suit all tastes.
- The county’s rich agricultural heritage greatly enhances its cuisine.
- Proximity to the sea ensures fresh and high-quality seafood options.
- The top restaurants in Kent provide unique and memorable dining experiences.
Kent’s Award-Winning Restaurants
Kent, surrounded by lovely countryside, is known for its top-notch restaurants. These places take dining to new heights. Here, you’ll find meals ranging from new and creative to classic dishes presented beautifully.
Tallow
Tallow shines bright in Kent’s gourmet dining scene, crowned Best Local Restaurant in the 2023 Good Food Guide. Its menu changes every month, offering dishes made from the area’s best ingredients. This makes Tallow a top spot for food lovers in Kent.
The Sportsman, Seasalter
At The Sportsman in Seasalter, chef Stephen Harris combines seaside charm with culinary excellence. With a Michelin Star and high ranking in the Top 50 Gastropubs list, this place is special. It uses local ingredients to honor the seaside’s legacy, blending top-tier food with coastal beauty.
The Fordwich Arms, Fordwich
In Britain’s smallest town, The Fordwich Arms is a hidden gem. It has earned a Michelin Star. This place offers an amazing dining experience. It has seasonal tasting menus, fine local wines, and beautiful River Stour views. It’s a perfect blend of elegance and rustic charm.
A Michelin Star Gem
The Fordwich Arms is a top fine dining spot in Kent. It celebrates seasonal produce with amazing dishes. Guests enjoy the best flavours of the region. It takes Michelin Star dining to the next level.
Looking for a special place to eat? The Fordwich Arms is it. It offers luxury and local tradition. Here, you get more than great food. You get an incredible dining experience.
- Seasonal tasting menus
- Local wines
- Picturesque River Stour views
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Fordwich, Britain’s smallest town |
| Award | Michelin Star |
| Cuisine | Seasonal, locally sourced |
| Ambiance | Elegant yet rustic |
Iconic Eateries in Kent
Kent shines with iconic eateries, offering top-notch food adventures. Stark in Broadstairs and Hide and Fox in Saltwood are especially famous. They’re known for their high standards and unique food philosophies.
Stark, Broadstairs
Stark offers a cosy spot in Broadstairs with just ten seats. It’s an exclusive place where you can enjoy a personal touch. With a Michelin Star, its focus is on simple, flavourful dishes. They offer a six-course set menu showcasing the finest local ingredients.
Hide and Fox
Hide and Fox, located in Saltwood, is a standout in Kent’s food scene. It has earned three AA Rosettes and a Michelin Star. The restaurant is celebrated for its high-quality local cuisine and expertly chosen wines. It promises a top-tier dining experience with unmatched elegance.
Cosy Dining Experiences in Kent
In Kent, the charm of cosy dining experiences is hard to ignore. The warmth found in local pubs and the deliciousness of traditional British food create a paradise for food lovers.
The Dog at Wingham stands out as a top spot. This place has won awards for its food. It offers a cosy setting and a menu full of local ingredients, perfect for a memorable meal.
If you prefer a more private meal, Stark in Broadstairs is a must-visit. It offers a unique experience with limited seats. This ensures every meal is special. They serve traditional British cuisine in a warm and personal setting.
The Plough at Stalisfield Green is another place worth visiting. It’s known for its hearty meals that show off Kent’s culinary heritage. By using fresh, local produce, this pub highlights the quality and comfort of local pubs.
A key place for cosy dining Kent is The King’s Arms in Meopham. Its welcoming atmosphere and delicious, traditional dishes make it popular among locals and tourists.
Kent offers a wealth of cosy dining experiences, whether it’s the home-like feel of local pubs or the intimacy of smaller venues. These places provide not just warmth but also the rich taste of traditional British cuisine. They are perfect for any occasion.
The Goods Shed, Canterbury
The Goods Shed in Canterbury brings together a farmers market and a top-notch food hall, alongside a remarkable restaurant. It’s known for celebrating Kent’s local produce. The 2023 Good Food Guide celebrates it for its high-quality ingredients and outstanding culinary skills.
A Local Food Haven
The Goods Shed stands strong in its commitment to Kent’s local produce. Here, diners enjoy a menu that changes often, showcasing the freshest ingredients from the market next door.
- Artisan bakers offering freshly baked bread and pastries
- Cheesemongers presenting an array of local cheeses
- Fresh produce vendors providing seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Butchers with high-quality meats sourced from nearby farms
This unique restaurant lets you dive into the lively world of farmers market dining. Open kitchens and live cookery shows make eating here even more exciting. Watching your food being prepared adds to the fun.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | The Goods Shed |
| Location | Station Road West, Canterbury |
| Market Hours | Tuesday to Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM, Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM |
| Restaurant Hours | Tuesday to Saturday: 9 AM – 10 PM, Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM |
| Recognition | 2023 Good Food Guide |
Best Places to Eat in Kent
Kent’s food scene is brilliant, offering many amazing eating experiences. You can find cozy dining spots and well-known restaurants. Here, we share top spots to enjoy Kent’s food delights.
Folkestone Wine Company
This place is a top pick among award-winning restaurants in Kent. The Folkestone Wine Company has a select menu, inspired by travels in Europe. It offers a fresh approach to the local food scene. Every visit promises something special. With a focus on quality and fresh ingredients, it’s a key place for top dining experiences in Kent.
Samphire, Whitstable
Samphire in Whitstable is another leading light. It is known for using local ingredients and its seasonal menu. This place has made its mark in Kent’s food world. Focusing on fresh, local products, Samphire gives diners a real Kent food experience. It’s among the top dining experiences in the area.
The Dog at Wingham
Thinking of dining out in Kent? You must visit The Dog at Wingham. This highly rated gastropub is known for its top-notch pub food. It perfectly mixes history with a modern twist in its dishes.
Top Gastropub
The Dog at Wingham is proud of its menu, rich with locally sourced produce. It offers a variety of meals that will delight anyone. Here, guests enjoy a cozy and stylish setting for both lunch and special dinners.
Here’s a closer look at why The Dog at Wingham is a top choice in Kent:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wingham, Kent |
| Specialities | Gourmet pub cuisine using locally sourced ingredients |
| Awards | Top 50 Gastropubs |
| Atmosphere | Charming, historic setting with contemporary touches |
| Dining Experience | Relaxed yet refined, suitable for both casual meals and special occasions |
At The Dog at Wingham, every visit is uniquely delightful. They focus on high-quality, local food. This ensures a memorable outing each time.
Dine in Style at Kent’s Fine Dining Restaurants
In Kent’s contemporary dining scene, those who love good food have plenty to choose from. They will discover many upscale restaurants that mix tradition and culinary innovation perfectly. Places like The Fordwich Arms stand out for their elegant meals. Stark is known for its unique tasting menus. This variety makes Kent’s fine dining truly special.
Each top restaurant focuses on using the best local and seasonal produce. They turn simple ingredients into amazing meals. Here are some top picks:
Featuring lovely views of the River Stour, The Fordwich Arms has both elegance and a cosy feel. It’s known for its outstanding seasonal tasting menus. This place is a top choice in Kent for fine dining.
Stark in Broadstairs offers a unique dining experience that’s simple yet sophisticated. It has a cosy atmosphere and a six-course set menu. Stark is a leader in culinary innovation. It presents food that’s both innovative and deeply satisfying.
| Restaurant | Location | Special Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| The Fordwich Arms | Fordwich | Seasonal tasting menus, river views |
| Stark | Broadstairs | Six-course set menu, intimate setting |
For the best in contemporary dining Kent has to offer, there’s a range of upscale restaurants. Kent stands out for its culinary innovation. Every visit is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Sustainable Dining Options in Kent
Kent is becoming a top choice for sustainable dining. At the heart, Angela’s of Margate shines with its focus on ethical eating. This change reflects Kent’s efforts to keep its culinary culture alive and well.
Angela’s of Margate
Angela’s has earned a Michelin Green Star for its green dining ways. It’s committed to great taste and helping the planet. The bistro loves using locally caught fish and getting supplies the right way.
Guests enjoy meals that are good for them and the environment. This supports local sea life and fishermen, making every dish meaningful.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Awards | Michelin Green Star for sustainability |
| Core Focus | Locally caught fish and responsibly sourced ingredients |
| Sustainability Practices | Emphasis on reducing waste, using biodegradable materials, and supporting local ecosystems |
| Ethical Cuisine Highlight | Menu crafted around seasonality and locality, ensuring minimal transport emissions |
Angela’s shines as a leader in sustainable dining in Kent. It’s a prime example of ethical and exceptional dining. By focusing on the community, Angelo’s pushes other places to follow its green steps. It’s making Kent’s dining scene better, bite by bite.
Conclusion
Kent’s food scene shines because of its great farms and many culinary styles. Places like The Sportsman and The Fordwich Arms have earned Michelin stars. On the other hand, The Dog at Wingham offers a warm, local pub vibe. Our dining guide for Kent shows how special food adventures can be here.
If you’re after meals you’ll never forget, Kent has a lot to offer. Angela’s of Margate focuses on dining that’s good for our planet. Stark in Broadstairs is perfect for those who love a cosy atmosphere. And The Goods Shed in Canterbury celebrates food from around the area, making it a top choice for anyone who loves to eat.
Kent invites you to a world of tasty wonders, blending modern dishes with classic British cooking. Every restaurant, whether it’s topping award lists or is a tucked-away treasure, helps make Kent a dream spot for food enthusiasts. With its rich array of eateries, Kent is a standout destination for a memorable dining experience.
