FOOD + DRINK
KENT ’ S TOP FARM SHOPS CONT .
MACKNADE
Macknade
With two superstar locations in Faversham and Ashford and a new hub opening in Tunbridge Wells , independent grocer Macknade has been owned by the same family for an impressive 6 generations .
Macknade basically offers everything you could ever need all under one roof – succulent cold meats expertly paired with flavourful cheese and smooth wine to wash it all down with ? How about some fresh fruit and veggies that will make you actually want to eat your 5-a-day , or what about some freshly baked bread that will fill your house with the intoxicating aroma of heaven . They even have a florist , so if you are feeling like you want to spend a few extra pounds you can treat yourself to a bunch of some of the most beautiful blooms in Kent .
It ’ s original Faversham-based traditional farm shop is welcoming and spacious with its cavernous ceilings giving the ( rightful ) impression that this foodie paradise is stocked to the heavens . Alongside the expansive food hall , which sells a host of fresh , local produce and choice cuts of meat from the butchery alongside artisan pasta and olive oil straight from the shores of Italy – you can even bring out your inner child with the pick n ’ mix style ‘ unpackaged ’ dispenser system , where you can fill containers brought from home with all manner of dried goods and confectionery – the other main attractions are the not one but two areas to enjoy their insta-worthy and downright delicious produce freshly prepared onsite . The Macknade Cafe offers a range of teas , speciality coffees and a menu that whilst changing with the seasons never strays from its impeccable quality by using the very best ingredients – all of which are on sale in the food hall . Then there is the Food Village that brings together a host of street food vendors to offer customers the ultimate alfresco dining experience . From Taco Bill and their mouth-watering Mexican food , to Silver Birch Fine Food and their beef brisket burgers served in charcoal rolls , to Macknades very own The Deck , whose homemade pizzas are to die for ; the level of expertise and creativity here is unmatched .
Situated at the blooming Elwick Place in the heart of the bustling town , Macknade ’ s Ashford offering is sophisticatedly rustic , with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sleek black walls . Inside , the venue is spacious , ( particularly after its early popularity led to a swift expansion into the unit next door ) despite being chock full of every ingredient you could ever imagine , whilst the staff are friendly and more than happy to help you pick up whatever you need to make your day a great one . There ' s also an option to sit and watch the world go by on the farmhouse style tables and indulge in some seriously good breakfast , lunch and dinner choices , including , of course , Macknade ’ s legendary eggs and Serrano .
Opening this month , Macknade Tunbridge Wells will occupy the former café site within Hoopers Tunbridge Wells ’ store . Alongside its recognisable produce range , wines , beers , ciders , plants and hand-tied bouquets , and bespoke hampers , visitors will also be able to indulge in Macknade ’ s all-day dining experience too .
macknade . com
Perry Court Farm
Easily accessible from its A28 towards Canterbury location near the Wye turnings , the Fermor family have been running the farm for three generations . Onsite , visitors will not only find the farm ’ s resident Tamworth pigs , southdown sheep , geese , rescue chickens and Elvis and Murphy the miniature donkeys , but also a farm shop bursting with Perry Court ’ s home grown and produced goods and carefully selected premium produce from other local farms .
You ’ ll find bread from Davies Bakery , Ashford and Wye Bakery just minutes down the road ; meat from two local farmers ; whilst David and Bev the fishmongers appear each Friday and Saturday to showcase Kent ’ s finest local catch ; and , if shopping makes you hungry , you can pitstop at the tearoom which is open daily from 8am - 6pm offering a tasty selection of home-baked treats , hearty soups , quiches and scones !
But it ’ s not just edible local creations that you ’ ll find here . There is a large variety of plants and seeds , cut flowers and bouquets are delivered every Wednesday and Saturday and local woodturner Creations Unlimited offer handcrafted gifts and demonstrations too .
www . perrycourt . farm
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