Jo
FOOD + DRINK
GLORIOUS ABUNDANCE: FARM TO TABLE IN KENT
July is peak season for fresh, local flavour – here’ s where to eat it.
If you’ re the kind of person who plans a day out around where you’ re going to eat( guilty), July is your month. Kent’ s farmers, growers and fishermen are bringing in the good stuff – and some of the best places to enjoy it are right on your doorstep. Think just-picked veg, sun-warmed berries, estate-reared meat and seafood so fresh it barely knows it’ s been caught.
Here are three brilliant spots for a summery bite, where local produce is the star of the show.
The Ferry House, Isle of Sheppey Tucked away on the edge of the estuary, this family-run spot has serious farm-to-fork credentials. Most of the veg is grown on site, the meat comes from their own herds or local farms and the views are as good as the food. Book a table, sit back and let the team do what they do best: beautifully seasonal food served with a side of estuary breeze.
LAURA BRADY
WONKY PARSNIP
In 2018, the inspired Laura Brady set out to bring a wealth of the world’ s flavours to Kent’ s doorstep by transforming a humble threeacre patch into a thriving haven of diverse produce. Fast-forward to today, having excitedly expanded into a regenerative market garden that spans 15 acres of Brogdale Farm and grows over 100 varieties of vegetables, herbs and specialty crops, it’ s safe to say The Wonky Parsnip( thewonkyparsnip. com) has achieved just that.
Now in its eighth season, the farm continues to prioritise fresh farm flavours over high yields, and particularly focuses on varieties that offer both exceptional taste and nutrition.“ Our approach to farming is rooted in ecological balance as we follow regenerative practices that build healthy soil and support long-term sustainability,” says Laura.
Alongside selling their freshly harvested produce to order and delivering to local farm shops and restaurants, The Wonky Parsnip is also the proud home to a pick-you-own pumpkin patch showcasing 70 varieties of pumpkins that are undersown with clover to improve the soil and provide natural nitrogen.
Marc-Pierre’ s Kitchen, Ramsgate Right on the harbour with a daily-changing menu, Marc-Pierre’ s is all about great ingredients cooked simply and expertly. Expect local fish, fresh herbs and the sort of food you want to eat after a beach walk. It’ s unfussy, flavour-packed and perfect for a relaxed summer lunch( and a cheeky G & T with a view).
Biddenden Vineyard, Ashford You can’ t beat a sunny wander through the vines followed by a glass of crisp Ortega and a snoop in the farm shop. Stock up on Kentish cheeses, charcuterie, chutneys and more – or just grab a bottle and one of their legendary sharing platters, find a spot in the shade and enjoy.
For more ideas of where to visit, head to the Produced in Kent website( producedinkent. co. uk). There’ s dozens of unique places to visit on our‘ Discovery’ page. Get out there and find your next favourite spot to enjoy the summer.
Jo
JO GURR, MARKETING MANAGER
producedinkent. co. uk producedinkent
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