insideKENT Magazine Issue 157 - May 2025 | Page 105

Where the Chefs Eat cont...
FOOD + DRINK
“ When I’ m not at Marleys, I love supporting Kent’ s amazing food scene. Boys Hall in Ashford is always a favourite- the steak is amazing. For the best coffee and pastries, Docker Bakery in Folkestone is hands down the best. My all-time favourite is THE PIG- at Bridge Place near Canterbury. And my newest go-to? Korean Cowgirl- the beef brisket burnt ends are incredible. What I love most is that many of these places champion local produce, just like we do.”
Mark Hogarth, chef / owner, Marleys, Folkestone
“ My favourite hotspots are The Beacon in Tunbridge Wells- Scott Goss is a culinary genius and his food is flawless, as is Will Devlin at The Small Holding who cooks the most amazing tasting menu- his food is out of this world. I also love Marleys for brunch, especially the breakfast burrito. Lastly I love The Drapers Arms in Canterbury who do the best chicken wings in Kent!”
Aaron Costen, head chef, Pomus, Margate
“ Gurkha Villa in Ashford is my personal favourite; the dishes range from doughy dumplings to crispy fried pork, infused with spices that create a multisensory experience. My standout favourite is The West House in Biddenden, however. Head chef Graham’ s focus on seasonality and minimal production results in clean, palate-driven dishes that highlight the main ingredients and the menu reflects the changing seasons, incorporating various skillful cooking techniques. His roast Peking duck is exceptional, with the perfect succulent texture.”
Mihirdev Rai, head chef, Buenos Aires Nights, Ashford
KEBBELLS
THE SMALL HOLDING
“ After a busy week at our own restaurant, The Counter in Tunbridge Wells, we love to go down to The Pantiles as a family for Sunday brunch at Eggs Eleven. They do a great full English breakfast and coffee. Up where we are on Calverley Road, we love Halstead Bakery for almond croissants and cheese and Marmite twists, and The Bakery TW’ s cinnamon rolls.”
Robin Read, chef patron, The Counter by Robin Read, Tunbridge Wells
“ Life on High does the best coffee and breakfast in Sevenoaks with fresh ingredients and a real attention to detail, and the team is great, too.”
Maria Bradford, Shwen Shwen by Maria opens in Sevenoaks on 4 June
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