FOOD + DRINK
THE WINEMAKERS ’ KITCHEN , BALFOUR
BOWLEYS AT THE PLOUGH
QUINCE CHAPTER ONE
THE EAST KENT
FOR KENTISH FOODIES …
Winemakers ’ Kitchen at Balfour , Staplehurst
Enjoy seasonal produce from local producers served alongside Balfour ’ s Kentish wines that have inspired each dish . The menu , a collaboration between head chef Dan Austin and head winemaker Fergus Elias , features recipes specifically designed to pair with Balfour ’ s awardwinning wines . A unique experience to be enjoyed while in a stunning setting looking over the vines on the estate . Anchored in Kent , The Winemakers ’ Kitchen is a must-visit to get a true taste of English provenance – and is also brand new for 2024 . Certain to be a new favourite for wine lovers and Kentish produce appreciators .
The Kentish Hare , Bidborough
As well as sweeping views of the surrounding valleys , Bidborough Ridge also boasts acclaimed gastropub , The Kentish Hare . A must-visit for foodies , this stylishly designed , hare-themed establishment is known for quirky furnishings and for serving the very best of fresh local food . Since 2014 , The Kentish Hare has been awarded various accolades including two AA Rosettes and a Michelin Bib Gourmand , and is currently ranked number five nationwide in the Estrella Damm Top 50 GastroPubs listings - with this array of culinary awards that speak for themselves , be assured that if you ’ re trying to impress a food lover this Valentine ’ s Day , you definitely will .
Bowleys at The Plough , Trottiscliffe
If picturesque countryside , idyllic villages and incredible food is what you ’ re searching for on your Valentine ’ s Day date quest then look no further than Bowleys at The Plough . An acclaimed fine-dining experience , diners come from far and wide to sample the food of young 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 - all meticulously selected by the visionary that is Alex . Dishes are frequently changing , but the beautiful presentation and miraculous flavour is unwavering .
THE COSIEST OF DATES …
The Plough at Leigh , Hildenborough
A traditional , independent , family-run pub serving local ales and seasonal food in pretty surroundings , couples can get a
real taste of cosy Kent here . Being family friendly , if your children want in on your date then they too are certain to enjoy it as it serves a ‘ real food ’ children ’ s menu as well as a hearty one for adults and is home to a huge garden that the entire family is sure to appreciate . Even those of the four-legged kind can enjoy ‘ beer for dogs ’, so it ’ s a happy Valentine ’ s Day all round !
The East Kent , Whitstable
A trendy yet traditional seaside pub with an Australian influence on the menu . The arty and applauded seaside town of Whitstable cherishes this gem with its sunny beer garden , lively atmosphere and a woodfired pizza oven in the garden . Australian highlights entwine with Whitstable ’ s identity as a fishing town resulting in dishes such as their famously good white fish tacos and crab tostadas on the menu .
The Amherst Inn , Seal Chart
Centuries-old pub serving delicious food including homemade award-winning pies , premium steaks and classic pub food alongside a fine range of drinks and cocktails . The ultimate spot for enjoying the traditional atmosphere of a Kent pub , beautiful countryside and great food together .
70 • www . insidekent . co . uk