The Rose, Deal

Grab the other half and make a beeline for this seaside bolthole – with stunning interiors, tasty dishes and oodles of artistic charm – all in the heart of Deal. They serve classic-yet-modern British fare and the menu showcases simple yet sophisticated dishes and, not surprisingly, seafood features prominently. So leave the little ones at home and head to this romantic retreat à deux. Our bags are already packed!

The Table, Broadstairs

One of Kent’s coolest new eateries, The Table, owned and run by Chef Joe Hill and his wife Jenny (her creative eye is behind the interiors) has quickly become the go-to place in Broadstairs – thanks to Joe’s top kitchen credentials. It’s even got Sunday Times‘ Marina O’Loughlin into a spin about its epic food. Sold?

The Bao Baron, Folkestone

The Bao Baron is a Pan-Asian street food restaurant which also blends in the use of key seasonal Kentish produce. Specialising in bao buns and ramen – and yes, you’ve got to try everything from the buns to broth – all the food on offer here is prepared in house and served fresh to order. The setting in which to enjoy these relaxed yet exceptionally well executed dishes is suitably laid back and stylish too. Making this new eatery the latest in a line of Folkestone foodie sensations.

St Leonard’s, West Malling

Add it to your dining destination list – and why not stay the night? St Leonard’s is a new luxury restaurant with four boutique bed and breakfast rooms sits in the charming market town of West Malling. Tom Genty and the kitchen team create contemporary dishes that celebrate seasonal produce and elegant, heartfelt cooking to the table – marrying excellent British ingredients with a well-travelled twist. The light and airy restaurant offers refined, superbly executed fare, where nothing is too fussy, letting the fresh, local ingredients and cooking skills be the real star. The slightest glance at the menu and the food photos on the website, will tell you all you need to know.

The Lazy Shack, Hythe

With beautiful sea views, benches on the beach and quirky interiors, grab a bite to eat at The Lazy Shack. Enjoy coffees, hot chocolate, cake, ice creams, breakfast, lobster and chips and lots more! There’s even a shop with is fully stocked with fresh local produce including fresh fish, meat, Kentish cheeses, milk, sourdough bread, fruit and veg, sold at whole sale price.

The Pumproom, Copper Rivet Distillery, Chatham

Set in the historic Pumphouse built in 1873 with breath-taking views over the River Medway, think exposed bricks, sophisticated cocktails with a Kentish twist and divine fine dining! It’s a great venue for romantic fine dining or tapas with friends. There’s a large indoor dining room which provides an uber cool setting with its’ high ceilings and industrial interiors plus large cocktail bar, tapas lounge and waterfront terrace. The alfresco terrace is a more relaxed setting where tapas is served all day (we recommend the tempura cauliflower) perfect for balmy summer dining with views of Upnor Castle and the River Medway.

Three Sisters, Chart Farm, Sevenoaks

As part of a 450 acres of deer park at Chart Farm, this is a working family run farm in the heart of the Weald of Kent. Shortening the gap from farm to table, they work directly with the farm and butchery at Chart Farm alongside other local producers and suppliers, to source the very best ingredients for their dining-at-home and restaurant. The restaurant is a casual and social affair, open every Friday evening and with the menu changing monthly, their cooking is rooted in provenance and seasonality above all.      

Pick Up Pintxos, Folkestone

Say hello to a real foodie gem loved by those in-the-know! Pick-Up Pintxos is a Basque-inspired restaurant sitting in the heart of the Creative Quarter in Folkestone. It’s understated and unique and there’s a reason it’s got the top food critics around the country panting into their plates.

But what are pintxos, we hear you cry? Well, one of the most amazing sights and tastes of the Basque Country are the bars laden with pintxos (pronounced pin-chos). Traditionally these small bites are served on a slice of bread with a stick through the middle, with many bars also serving small plates, a bit like tapas. Basically it’s like a series of really great tasting, flavoursome bar snacks. Cooked to perfection with impeccably sourced ingredients. Oh and there’s an all Spanish wine list too.

The Curious Eatery, Maidstone

The former restaurant in Boughton Monchelsea has closed its doors for the time-being but is now bringing seasonal feasts to events, functions and weddings all year round. Plus hosting exciting and unique events, pop-ups as well as being available to hire for your special occasion. Run by sisters Lesley and chef Nicole (also known as Pixie) who has cooked for Richard Branson, they create bespoke and very personal events like no other and diners will experience freshly prepared, tasty and unfussy food at its best. So if you’re planning a wedding, a corporate event or a private function, The Curious Eatery might just be for you!

Smoqe, Rochester

Get your taste buds line dancing with the Americana-inspired flavours of these artisan burgers and ribs – served up from this restaurant in Rochester. If you love the taste of an authentic smoked burger and ribs then you’ll love this family-run restaurant – built on a deep-seated love of food and celebrating the way shared flavours and experiences can make joyous memories. Each dish is designed to taste divine and bring a joyous Americana feeling to the table. Comforting and delicious food that leaves you wanting more – combined with their distinctive SMOQE’d flavour. Lip-smackin’ goooood.

The Toll Bridge, Sandwich

An original eatery full of character, in a riverside location, offering food that packs a flavoursome punch – thanks to the Michelin-starred chef! The Toll Bridge is a smokehouse-themed restaurant and bar sitting on the banks of the River Stour, in the heart of historic Sandwich. Located at Fisherman’s Wharf, this dining destination overlooks the waterway and its historic bridge, which still operates as a swing bridge today.

Head Chef Shane Hughes, has won a Michelin star in two separate restaurants and consistently held 3 rosettes for over 15 years in restaurants from Cornwall, Wales, London and Kent. Serving authentic BBQ flavours and ensuring every bite has depth of flavour, diners can choose from Tender Five-Hour Smoked Pork Ribs, perfectly Grilled Fish or Chicken Slowly Smoked Over Beer and much more to tantalise the tastebuds. Salivating much?

The Swan Wine Kitchen, Tenterden

For food and wine lovers, hidden away in the rural vineyard above the winery shop. The Swan is an 80-cover family-friendly restaurant with a privately roomed Chef’s Table and terrace dining. They have been awarded a 2AA rosette and a bib gourmand, serving award-winning reds, rosés and whites, still and sparkling, from Chapel Down. They’re open for lunch seven days a week, and dinner Thurs – Sat. Using only the best locally sourced ingredients, they’ve created a perfect dining experience in such a unique and special place. Treat yourself and your loved ones by booking a table here.

Papà Bianco, Faversham

We are excited to discover this hidden gem, Papa Bianco, offering delicious pizzas and al fresco dining at Standard Quay in Faversham. They offer delicious pizzas, takeaway, casual dining and delivery (over £30 within 3 miles) with free parking for customers. There is also indoor seating in the fabulous converted quayside barn – think beams, fairy lights and a fun and funky vibe.

Frasers of Egerton, Egerton, nr Ashford

Frasers of Egerton is as an award-winning restaurant with rooms, located on a tranquil farm in the heart of the Kent Countryside, plus a gorgeous boutique wedding and events venue. Plus a favourite foodie destination in its own right, the 2 AA-Rosette award-winning restaurant will ensure you dine in style during your stay. The accommodation is situated in three beautiful period buildings; a Kentish ragstone oast house, a converted former stable block and a former cart-barn.

Buoy & Oyster, Margate

A seafood lovers paradise, there’s a lot to love about this family-run restaurant, overlooking the beach in Margate. Enjoy time with friends and family whilst eating great quality food, supporting local suppliers and soaking up the stunning sea views and sunsets. There’s definitely a summer holiday vibe about this one!

Folkestone Harbour Arm, Folkestone

If you’re visiting this cool coastal town then the Folkestone Harbour Arm is an absolute must. This quirky, fun, foodie gem, sits right on the beach, boasts sea views a plenty and is bursting with indie eateries. With bags of character and history, this pier extending into the water is a central buzzy promenade packed with foodie destinations, pop-ups and even a big screen for watching major sporting events or films in the summer. Highlights include fresh Greek mezzo served from a double decker bus to vegan fare in a restaurant housed in two shipping containers, there’s even a tiny Lighthouse Champagne Bar, tucked at the end of the arm.

Fish Union, Chislehurst

Not just an upmarket high street fishmonger but also a small and perfectly formed seafood and champagne bar on Chislehurst’s High St. For an unrivalled seafood dining experience – this really is one classy plaice. Founders of Fish Union, Richard Kirkwood and Andy Roberts, have impeccable credentials. Richard worked in some of London’s best-known restaurants, he then met Fish Union co-owner, Andy Roberts, built out of a mutually shared frustration at the lack of availability of fresh fish in the market. They believe that, as an island we should all be eating lots of fresh seafood, and hopefully the arrival of Fish Union will start the revival!

Nomad Pizza, Whitstable

There’s pizza and then there’s pizza… This take-away venue in Whitstable – perfect for eating beach-side – makes seriously tasty, award-winning craft pizza using local ingredients and organic dough. Inspired by their love of Italian cooking and local Kent produce, husband and wife team, Jon and Vicki Crwys-Williams, has created this beloved pizza eatery making authentic thin crust pizza using fresh and local Kentish ingredients from cheeses, hams and local butcher cooked meats. Order to go – why not enjoy your pizza on the beach?

Dungeness Snack Shack, Dungeness

You can’t eat much more local than this! This family-run Snack Shack catch their own fresh fish and seafood straight from their two small inshore fishing boats right on Dungeness. All sold in a tasty, unpretentious manner with a strong emphasis on sustainability and traceability, you certainly won’t be concerned about the food miles clocked up! Turn up when the days catch gets in and you’ll be in for a very tasty treat which is literally just out of the water. All their food is freshly cooked for takeaway and changes daily depending on the catch but you can always depend on their fish baps and homemade fishcakes. Their famous for their lobster and crab rolls, definitely pop by for them!

Macknade Food Village, Faversham

For those who are in the foodie-know, you’ll already know about Macknade’s Food Village at their Faversham flagship store. But if you don’t, you can expect authentic Italian pizza to home-cooked Indian cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy (including four-legged family members)! Take a look at the menu here. PLUS Every Thurs – Sun, The Food Village is also home to Kent’s most vibrant independent traders, showcasing authentic, traditional dishes and modern, fusion delights which chop and change all the time so you can always count on their being something exciting each time. At the moment, you can experience the delicious; Mamie’s Crepes and The Little Katsu Kitchen. Prepare to salivate!

Moretto’s Café, Tenterden

Moretto’s is a restaurant and pop-up BBQ truck in Tenterden, run by Gerry Avena, who’s had over 35 years working as a chef and restauranteur – we love his authentic Italian cooking! At their Café on Sayer’s Lane, they serve coffee, alongside a breakfast and daytime menu with hand-made pastas, Mediterranean salads and sandwiches, including the famous Moretto’s Meatballs on ciabatta. You can catch their BBQ Truck on Tenterden High St every Fri and Sat from 6pm by the entrance to The Market Square. Let’s go!

Stark, Broadstairs

The only Michelin-starred restaurant in Thanet, the remodelled log-cabin run by Ben and Sophie Crittenden, is the perfect intimate setting for your next date night! This quirky restaurant should be next on your list with it’s frequently changing, seasonal six course tasting menu for £65 (with optional wine flight for £35).

Le Coq Au Van, Sevenoaks

You’ll want to know about this converted vintage horse box serving corn-fed rotisserie chicken across Sevenoaks and surrounding areas! From Roasts, Katsu Chicken Burgers and Char Sui Pork Belly on Bao Buns, this is no ordinary chicken van. You can catch them at The Rifleman Pub in Sevenoaks every weekend, check their locations here. To avoid disappointment, WhatsApp them on 07831498994 to pre-order.

Bay Leaf Coffee House & Pop-Up, Herne Bay

This Sri Lankan cafe is tucked away on the seafront of Herne Bay, where you can expect delicious coffee, sandwiches, scones, pastries, cakes, curries and tasty vegan specials. You won’t want to miss their summertime pop-up by the pier, where their street-food specials embrace twists on seaside takeaways like cod goujons, scampi bites with coconut curry sauce and loaded fries. Or try their burrito crammed with Sri Lankan curry, rice, salad and a tangy coconut sambol. Yum!

Deal Pier Kitchen, Deal

This fab eaterie at the end of Deal’s iconic pier is one of THE best spots in Deal for brunch with all of the well-loved classics (smashed avo on sourdough toast and a very fine fry-up) plus loaded sweet potatoes, sweetcorn fritters and their DPK pancakes. They’re currently serving hot food from their Takeaway Shack (Mon-Sun) so grab some coffee, hot food and take a seat on the beach.

The Small Holding, Kilndown

Situated in one acre of beautiful Kent countryside with the mission of growing, rearing and foraging as much of the food that’s cooked as possible is at its heart – hence the name! This award-winning restaurant has had food critics from all over the country drooling into their plates. Chef owner Will Devlin was recently recognised as Chef to Watch in the Good Food Guide 2020 and credited with ‘an instinctive feel for food’. The sunny decked area is perfect for weekend walkers and inside there’s a cosy bar with wooden floorboards and old farm equipment decorating the walls. This is definitely one for the foodies!

Eat The Farm, Sevenoaks & Plaxtol

Street-food company Eat The Farm is well-known for their amazing burgers from their vintage VW Campervans. They create American style burgers using fresh produce, all from Kent, sourcing their ingredients direct from famers and producers. You can find them at festivals, sporting and private events – also in Plaxtol and at Bradbourne Lakes in Sevenoaks most evenings.

David Brown’s Deli, Whitstable

Catch this delicious Pop-Up Deli Van at The Old Coal Yard in Whitstable on Tues, 12-3pm and Weds-Sun, 9am-3pm and at the Food Market every 2nd and 4th Sat of the month. Serving delicious sausage rolls, ham & cheese croquettes, deli burgers, fish finger buns, soups, salads! No day is the same as their menu’s are constantly changing, so stay up to date and follow them on Instagram for their Current Daily Menu.

Flotsam & Jetsam, Broadstairs

Wyatt & Jones’ pop-up is still proving to be a big hit! Find Flotsam & Jetsam on Broadstairs beachfront, serving JUST delicious seafood and frites, takeaway only on Sat and Sun 11:30am – 4pm. Strictly weather dependent, so pray for sunny weather and pop on down!