Why The Garden Room at Port Lympne ?
The Garden Room is Port Lympne ’ s flagship restaurant so to speak , and for good reason , but I saw the role as a bigger opportunity . We also have Babydoll ’ s Italian restaurant on-site , The Mansion Hotel , Giraffe Cottage , Giraffe Lodge and Bear Lodge , so it was a great chance to oversee and develop a number of restaurants and venues .
What is The Garden Room ’ s concept ?
The Garden Room is the ideal place for any occasion . Often , people who dine with us have been to Port Lympne for the day or are staying guests , so we want to extend that experience with a fantastic meal to match . It ’ s beautifully designed and has a really relaxed atmosphere , so is suited for everyone from couples wanting a romantic meal to families on a break together .
Tell us about the dishes and menu you have created ?
The menu is relaxed dining with a carefully considered menu inspired by classic dishes , but with our own style . We ’ re constantly looking at new ideas and dishes to bring to the table . We always aim to use seasonal and locally sourced produce , including ingredients grown within our own estates , to create some amazing flavours .
What ’ s new and exciting for this year ?
We have recently opened our new Orangery venue . It ’ s a stunning space for weddings and corporate events , so it will be exciting to see this new concept grow and be a part of it from the beginning .
What is your signature / favourite dish ?
I ’ m not sure I would say I have a signature dish as such , but there are dishes I am very fond of and that have followed me . My partner would probably say my starter of grilled octopus and prawns , slowcooked cherry tomatoes and smoked pancetta ragu is a firm favourite , or sticky pork belly with chilli and soy caramel . However , developing and creating new dishes is always exciting .
What is your guilty pleasure ?
Has to be peanut butter and marmite on toast !
Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park Aldington Rd Lympne Hythe CT21 4LR 01303 264647 www . aspinallfoundation . org / port-lympne / restaurants
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