FOOD + DRINK Quirky Eats cont...
THE HENGIST UPDOWN FARMHOUSE
Crumbs, but you’ ll be lucky to get your hands on one of those because they fly off the shelves.
The Goods Shed, Canterbury thegoodsshed. co. uk
Clue’ s in the name here. Once a railway goods shed and positioned practically next to Canterbury West station, this is one of Canterbury’ s most hidden gems. Great for a Saturday morning market shop, head around the veg stall, fishmongers and deli for all the local British goodies including wine. Grab a coffee and a slice from Gills, or pick up something tasty from Docker Bakery- their cruffins always go down well. Or, book a table with friends at the restaurant and dine inside or out. Beautiful and light, the seasonal menu is packed with flavour and the hustle and bustle of the market in the background creates a winning ambience.
Updown Farmhouse, Deal updownfarmhouse. com
Head on down to Updown, not only to have a nosey at the stunning former 17th-century farmstead and the genius interior design work of the owners, or to stay in one of the beautifully luxurious appointed bedrooms across the site- but also to get a taste of what’ s on the menu. Housed just across from the main house in the renovated, magical-looking conservatory, guests are invited to dine within 17th-century brick walls and watch the chefs perform their magic at the open kitchen, complete with a wood-fired grill and farm bread oven. The menu here is small and hyper-seasonal, but big in flavour and delivery. Every little bit of attention to detail goes into getting it just right and they’ ve got a pretty exciting list of wines, beers, and cocktails, too!
Unit 1, West Hythe
It’ s all about the street-food vibes here and right on the Military Canal at West Hythe, this shed-looking building is one of the most popular and vibey places around. Often a place to stop for a beer while walking- or perhaps paddling- the canal, its quirky, shabby-chic interior is cosy, inviting and very much a‘ what you see is what you get’ kind of place. With some great beers and drinks on offer including local options, the crowds are kept happy during the summer months where you can perch at one of the many outside benches( but be aware, they fill up quickly). Most importantly, people come here for the food! Keep an eye out for their calendar of popups from insane street vendors including tasty tacos, pizza and more.
The Hengist Restaurant, Aylesford thehengistrestaurant. com
Cocktails are served. The Hengist in Aylesford is known for one thing and that is its spectacular drinks menu. It’ s unique, a little bit out there and features drinks you probably wouldn’ t come across anywhere else. We’ re talking smoke and fire, theatre and flavour combinations that will blow your mind. The current Picnic in the Park option is served in a picnic basket and comes with homemade popcorn, fudge, pick’ n’ mix, and all the flavours. Want a showstopper? Go for the Catch a Grenade, which is served with a fire surprise.
FUNKY FLAVOURS
N2 SWEET LAB
Are you a flavour guru? Do you love trying something new? These Kent products are sure to get your taste buds tingling … Some may even give you a bit of a present or next dinner party inspo.
N2 Sweet Lab’ s range of incredible chocolate flavours includes white chocolate and passion fruit, or their Giant Chocolate Sphere, an absolute wowser of a creation for any occasion. n2sweetlab. com
Bird & Blend’ s limited edition teas are bursting with unique flavours including Crème Brûlée, Coconut Masala and Digestives for the chocolate lovers! birdandblendtea. com
Ice cream lovers should shop at Bears for their imaginative handmade ice cream flavours. We’ re talking Cream Cheese, Carrot Cake and Salted Chocolate Pretzel Pie. Take a look- you’ ll be in dessert heaven! bearsicecream. co. uk
114 • www. insidekent. co. uk