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KENTISH OILS & CONDIMENTS AND HIGGIDY JOIN FORCES IN PIE-ONEERING INGREDIENT PARTNERSHIP
SEASIDE GEM SHINES ANEW : SHEPHERD NEAME ’ S ZETLAND ARMS UNVEILS WINTER MAKEOVER AND NEW MENU
A coastal icon set right on Kingsdown beach , Shepherd Neame ’ s Zetland Arms has a fresh new look for a new year having undergone a stylish external redecoration in blue and white tones in keeping with its seaside setting , as well as unveiling a delicious new menu inspired by its location .
Kentish Oils & Condiments , renowned for its award-winning rapeseed oil , and Sussexbased Higgidy have unveiled an exciting ingredient partnership , solidifying their commitment to quality craftsmanship and a sustainable food future .
Kentish Oils ’ Cold-Pressed Original Rapeseed Oil now serves as the foundation oil for various Higgidy recipes , exemplifying a harmonious blend of exceptional flavours rooted in shared values .
Higgidy , led by co-founder Camilla Stephens , has been on a mission since 2003 to elevate ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences . Known for wholesome pies , quiches and rolls , Higgidy emphasises quality ingredients and a dedication to shaping the future of the food industry with a focus on the planet , people and food .
Under the ownership of Laura Bound MBE , Kentish Oils & Condiments has established a stellar reputation for crafting fine quality , locally sourced rapeseed oil and condiments . This partnership underscores their meticulous processes and commitment to excellence .
Commenting on the exclusive partnership Laura Bounds MBE , said : “ At Kentish Oils & Condiments , we believe in the power of collaboration to create a culinary tapestry woven with shared values , exceptional taste , and a commitment to a better , sustainable future . We are delighted to be working with Higgidy to realise our shared vision for quality , local ingredient partnerships .”
Higgidy products , now featuring Kentish Oils , can be found at leading supermarkets , including Sainsbury ’ s , Ocado , and Asda .
The changes are all thanks to the arrival of new licensee Chris Hicks six months ago , who , with his wife Alex , also owns The Rose , a hotel , bar and restaurant , and The Blue Pelican , a townhouse with Japanese-inspired dining , both in nearby Deal , whose unwavering goal has been to make the pub a destination in its own right .
Passionate about community and hospitality , Chris envisions The Zetland Arms as a welcoming hub , stating : “ I want everyone to feel welcome here … regardless of the view and whatever the weather .”
SHEPHERD NEAME UNVEILS COBNUT : A NUTTY DELIGHT IN A PINT
Shepherd Neame , the historic family brewer based in Faversham , Kent , has introduced Cobnut ( 3.4 % ABV ) as the latest new addition to its real ale initiative , Cask Club .
The light brown ale captures the essence of Kent with a unique blend of biscuit , toffee and earthy flavours , finishing with a nutty touch . Brewed with Kentish Target hops and locally grown East Kent Goldings , Cobnut also boasts a fresh pump clip design featuring a squirrel enjoying cobnuts against a picturesque Garden of England landscape .
With senior brewer Stewart Tricker assuring us that “ no nuts were harmed in the brewing of this beer !”, cask ale enthusiasts can explore the limited edition offering now with further new releases ‘ Rumour Mill ’ and ‘ Go For Gold ’ set to join the lineup later this year .
The pub , now adorned with a piano for impromptu singalongs , plans music events , including a Ceilidh , and a monthly pub quiz to enhance its vibrant atmosphere , while the new menu boasts Climpson & Sons coffee , Swedish breakfast buns and sausage rolls , and fish-led dishes including mussels with leeks , Kent cider and shallots , which has won rave reviews alongside the ever-popular Zetland burger . Customers can also enjoy a range of bar snacks , kids ’ meals and a delicious range of puddings .
COMMUNITY TRIUMPH FOR THE GEORGE , BETHERSDEN
In a heartening achievement , The George , a community-owned pub in Bethersden , has been awarded Highly Commended by CAMRA ( Campaign For Real Ale ) in the Pub Saving Awards 2023 . The pub , which faced closure during the second lockdown in 2020 , was saved by the dedicated efforts of the village residents who formed The George Community Ltd , a Co-operative Benefit Society , in August 2021 .
Robin Draper , chair of The George Community , expressed the collective ’ s joy , stating : “ To receive this highly commended award is testament to the efforts of all those that supported the campaign through purchasing shares , by being part of the committee , and the tradesmen that did such a fantastic job in bringing The George back to life in 2023 .”
The George has become a vital part of the village , supporting local producers and hosting regular fundraising events for charities . The community run pub , which underwent essential repairs and reopened in May 2023 , has garnered positive reviews for its kitchen and established itself as a hub for social gatherings and local employment .
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