FOOD + DRINK
Number Eight , Sevenoaks www . no8sevenoaks . com
Sitting stylishly on the corner of a weatherboarded Sevenoaks street in the town , is Number Eight . It emits an air of cool , discreet confidence which effortlessly entices discerning diners in for an evening meal or indulgent lunch . Owned and run by chef and restaurateur Stuart Gillies and his wife Cecilia , their menu is a mix of modern European cuisine and traditional British fare , in a relaxed atmosphere . A classic cosy corner bistro space , with a large vibrant bar , offering cocktails , draft beers and an eclectic wine selection . The á la carte menu changes regularly as does the weekly changing set menu of seasonal classics . Expect gastronomic delights such as grilled Rye Bay scallops with nduja sweetcorn and brioche crumb , sitting exquisitely in their fan-shaped shells . Other delicate small plates include pan-fried Scottish salmon with cauliflower puree and caper and raisin dressing , laid before the diner in exquisite artistic simplicity .
The Old Bank , Westerham www . oldbank-westerham . co . uk
A culmination of chef Adam Turley ’ s life-long passion for food , love for fresh , seasonal and regional ingredients , combined with a rich family history to create a relaxed and elegant dining experience . Adam and his wife Emma both grew up in neighbouring Sevenoaks with long family histories in the area . They opened The Old Bank Restaurant as a celebration of Adam ’ s passion for food as well as their family heritage , and thus offer divine contemporary , seasonal British cuisine , influenced by French techniques , using the best quality ingredients locally
available . Indulge in the eight course tasting menu , or the vegan tasting menu , as you sit back and relax at this sophisticated yet unpretentious eating experience set in one of Westerham ’ s historic buildings . For those that may want to extend their learning in wine , the Old Bank ’ s beautiful vault has been transformed into a unique wine cellar . Located in the basement , The Vault is stocked with fabulous wines found throughout Europe , the Americas and Australasia . Guests can come and sample many different wines guided by the extremely knowledgeable restaurant manager . With the use of their ‘ Corovin ’ and ‘ Verre de Vin ’ systems , The Old Bank can serve tasters of nearly all their wines , sparkling wines and champagnes without the chance of spoilage .
Bowleys at The Plough , Trottiscliffe www . theploughkent . com
If picturesque countryside , idyllic villages and incredible food is what you ’ re searching for on your epicurean quest , then look no further than Bowleys at The Plough . A dining destination with a heartwarming tale behind it , this village gem really is the pride and joy of the tight-knit community that helped save it . Once a village pub to be sold to a housing developer , The Plough is now an acclaimed fine-dining experience favourite with diners coming from far and wide to sample the food of head chef Alex Yates who now runs the establishment with his father David . Expect nothing less than creative culinary genius poured into crafting dishes made from locally sourced and foraged ingredients , meticulously selected by the visionary that is Alex . Dishes are frequently changing , but the beautiful presentation and miraculous flavour is unwavering .
NUMBER EIGHT THE OLD BANK
© Joe Josland
BOWLEYS AT THE PLOUGH
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