FOOD + DRINK
DATE NIGHT
Dining
WITH A PLETHORA OF BEGUILING BACKDROPS , KENT EFFORTLESSLY SETS THE SCENE FOR ROMANCE , BUT MAKING IT ALL THE MORE SUPERIOR WHEN IT COMES TO DATES IS THE COUNTY ’ S UNRIVALLED DINING SCENE .
Don ’ t overthink Valentine ’ s Day - planning the perfect date need be no more complex than a classic candlelit dinner . As long as you bring the romance and roses , Kent ’ s exceptional dining scene is certain to make your date as special as they come . Amidst the picturesque landscapes and historic charm , our region boasts a myriad of options to elevate your romantic evening . From luxurious hotels with renowned in-house restaurants to awardwinning fine-dining establishments , Kent provides a haven for gastronomic delight . For those seeking an intimate and relaxed atmosphere , the quaint and cosy pubs scattered throughout the county offer the perfect blend of local charm and delectable cuisine . Whether you prefer a formal meal out in an elegant setting or a more casual rendezvous in a charming pub , Kent ’ s diverse date night dining scene promises to cater to every taste and desire , ensuring an evening filled with love , laughter , and culinary excellence like nowhere else .
MORE THAN JUST A MEAL …
Culpeper ’ s Restaurant at Chilston Park , Lenham
The recipient of two AA Rosettes for its vibrant seasonal dishes finished with the creative flair of head chef , Ali Altuntas , Culpeper ’ s promises delectable dining . Housed in Chilston ’ s original dining room , the restaurant retains a wealth of historic features including elegant sash windows and a decorative ceiling and fireplace , not to mention glorious views of the grounds .
The menu is modern British with a range of seasonal dishes inspired and sourced with local ingredients including Caldecott Farm chicken and south coast turbot . Handpicked favourites include chargrilled ribeye steak , Kentish beer-battered fish and chips and plenty of vegetarian options . Giving you all the more reason to stay the night at Chilston , enjoy an extensive wine list as well as rare whiskies and brandies .
Brasserie at The Manor at Eastwell Manor , Ashford
Experience stately countryside romance in all its glory at Eastwell Manor . Surrounded by acres of beautiful parkland , Brasserie at the Manor is renowned for being Eastwell Manor ’ s culinary jewel . Promising modern British cuisine in a reimagined dining space , it will exceed your date night expectations with beautiful gardens and an architecturally awe-inspiring manor to set the scene even further .
Enjoy cosy cocktails beside a roaring fire in the drawing room before sitting down to a meal sectioned into ‘ From the Ocean ’, ‘ Little Italy ’, ‘ Mains ’, ‘ Steaks ’ and ‘ Sharers ’. Even the fussiest of eaters will be hard pressed not to find more than one alluring dish : think lobster linguine with tarragon , seasonal risotto , aged Wagyu Manor burger , roasted half-chicken and a selection of prime-cut steaks .
FOR FINE DINING DATES …
Dorothy and Marshall , Bromley
If ever there was a perfect setting for a contemporary take on refined , elegant dining , Dorothy & Marshall has found it . Located right in the heart of bustling suburban metropolis of Bromley , which relishes a location that reaches both the heart of London and the rolling fields of Kent ’ s Garden of England in equi-time , this stylish restaurant brings London-style dining to the suburbs with a side order of wow-factor thrown in for good measure . Chef Ralph is passionate about British food and is focused on big , bold , layered flavours . His commitment to quality and his innovative twists on the classics make him the perfect chef for any foodie date night .
Chapter One , Locksbottom
A relaxed and stylish venue serving a modern European menu , Chapter One is well regarded and highly recommended by the AA , The Good Food Guide and Michelin . Offering exceptional food alongside an extensive list of carefully chosen wines and delicious cocktails , Chapter One has become one of Kent ’ s most outstanding and well-known dining experiences guaranteed to impress any valentine . Complete with impeccable service and meticulous attention to detail , Chapter One prides itself on being contemporary and cosmopolitan . With an inspired modern-European menu that regularly changes , Chapter One makes the most of fresh , seasonal ingredients grown locally .
Quince , Westgate-On-Sea
The understated , quieter , sleeker sister to neighbouring town of Margate , Westgate is home to a high street steeped in heritage , boutique shops and fantastic foodie treasures . One of these comes in the form of Quince , a small British restaurant focusing on local ingredients with a splendid Spanish inflection . Expect a bright , modern dining room with solid wooden floors alongside unique dishes presented in perfect style and just as delicious in taste . Kent is showcased to its utmost potential here through a regularly changing menu that includes topnotch ingredients such as Chartham Downs venison loin and seafood dishes such as local oysters - the ultimate aphrodisiac .
THE PINK HOUSE , MARGATE
69 www . insidekent . co . uk •