FOOD + DRINK
Award- Winning
DINING
A JOURNEY OF CULINARY GREATNESS THROUGH THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND
Kent has long been celebrated for its rich agricultural heritage , abundant coastline and thriving vineyards . In recent years , the county has also solidified itself as a gastronomic destination , home to some of the UK ’ s most acclaimed restaurants and gastropubs . From Michelin-starred fine dining establishments to innovative farmto-table experiences and award-winning gastropubs , Kent offers a diverse array of culinary excellence . Here are insideKENT ’ s finest dining spots in the county for 2025 …
hide and fox Saltwood , nr Hythe Tucked away in the picturesque village of Saltwood , hide and fox has swiftly ascended the ranks of fine dining , achieving a coveted two Michelin stars in February 2025 , a first for Kent ! At the helm is executive chef Allister Barsby , whose precise and contemporary approach to British cuisine has captivated both critics and diners . According to Michelin , Allister and the team ’ s cooking , including dishes by his acclaimed head chef Josh Hughes , is : ‘ packed full of delicious produce , cooked with due respect to deliver dishes that succeed on every level .’ Alongside intricate dishes , the inspectors especially loved the Brixham crab with crab jelly , tandoori and pickled vegetables , hide and fox ’ s showstopping and ever-evolving taster menu , which insideKENT ’ s editor Samantha Ready has described as ‘ simply exquisite ’ and ‘ the best taster menu in
Kent ’, is complemented by a meticulously curated wine list that enhances each dish with expertly paired selections curated by sommelier extraordinaire and co-founder , Alice Bussi . Alice also leads front of house at this intimate , stylish and modern neighbourhood gem , which Michelin also noted for its service , describing it as : ‘ equally endearing , helping to create an experience that is a true delight .’ hideandfox . co . uk hideandfox Hide and Fox
The Sportsman Seasalter , nr Whitstable Perched on the windswept shores of Seasalter , The Sportsman has long been synonymous with refined yet relaxed fine dining . This self-described ‘ grotty little pub by the sea ’ holds a Michelin star and a current No . 8 Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropub ranking under the stewardship of chef-patron Stephen Harris , who effortlessly bridges rustic charm with gastronomic excellence . The restaurant is deeply rooted in its surroundings , with a menu inspired by the local terroir – think oysters plucked from Whitstable ’ s waters , salt-marsh lamb from nearby pastures and housemade charcuterie . Signature dishes like slip sole in seaweed butter and the legendary tasting menu reflect its dedication to local ingredients and timehonoured cooking techniques . thesportsmanseasalter . co . uk sportsmankent
HIDE AND FOX
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