insideKENT Magazine Issue 138 - October 2023 | Page 92

FOOD + DRINK

KENT ’ S

CURRY CLUB

A COUNTY BLESSED WITH A PLETHORA OF AWARD-WINNING AND FAMOUSLY DELICIOUS PLACES TO EAT , KENT IS NO STRANGER TO SUPERIOR SPICE .
INDIAN ESSENCE
As the cold weather sets in , our days get shorter and the icy winds begin to bite , heading out to one of Kent ’ s sensational curry houses or Indian restaurants is the perfect way to warm up . Whether it ' s an occasion to celebrate , a mid-week treat or you ’ re simply a foodie with a curiosity for captivating cuisines , Kent is certain to have a restaurant to suit you . From award-winners to family run favourites , here are just some of insideKENT ’ s hottest picks :
Jumeira , Cranbrook www . jumeiragroup . co . uk
Best Restaurant in Kent Award winner , Jumeira vows to reignite taste temptation with intriguing Indian flavours . This is something managing director , Tariq Ahmed , always has in mind when it comes to running the restaurant : “ From before 2000 BC , the Indian mastery of food preparation skilfully heated and blended mystery ingredients for the sensuous warming of mind , body and soul ,” he says . “ In more recent times , a rich infusion of spices , flavourings and powdered chilli pepper brought tantalising new recipes to the Indian fine dining experience . Today , this is reflected in Jumeira ’ s creative menus which are shaped by the senses and the excitement of the fusing of traditional recipes with contemporary stylish tastes .”
Indian Essence , Petts Wood www . indianessence . co . uk
Award-winning chef Atul Kochhar claims that “ quality , ethically sourced and finely preserved ingredients create the most fantastic food ”. Informed by his passion and strongest belief when it comes to cooking , guests at Indian Essence can expect vibrant flavours , subtle spice blends and incredible aromas or as Atul himself would call it - “ a firstclass taste of India ”.
A proud recipient of a Michelin Bib Gourmand from 2016 – 2019 , Indian Essence pays homage to Atul Kochhar ’ s love of traditional Indian cuisine at the same time as exploring innovative and modern British touches , bringing gourmet excitement to the heart and neighbourhood of Petts Wood near Bromley .
92