KENTSTAYCATION
Our main was the magnificent côte de boeuf sharer, served with a satisfying char thanks to The George’ s on-site Josper grill and cooked to a perfect blushing medium-rare. It arrived on a Georgebranded serving platter, flanked by a cascade of crispy fries, pots of peppercorn sauce and zippy chimichurri, alongside generous sides of crispy patatas bravas, each cube a nugget of spicy joy, and a tangle of fresh, seasonal greens. It was rich and celebratory- a dish that demanded leisurely conversation and a good glass of red, so we obliged with large glasses of Vina Illusion Tempranillo with notes of plum and cherry, and Châteaux Pesquié Grenache / Syrah with aromatic raspberry, black cherry and hints of white pepper respectively.
For dessert, we opted to share the chocolate mousse, which arrived as a silky slab offset with a scattering of fresh raspberries. Light yet intense, it balanced sweetness with a deep, cocoa bitterness, punctuated by the bright acidity of the fruit and enjoyed even more back in the garden terrace to a backdrop of mellow tunes, mild summer night temperatures and the last of that Châteaux Pesquie.
The next morning, we headed back downstairs for breakfast and found ourselves lingering longer than planned. There was a plentiful fruit and pastry buffet featuring plump fruit, flaky croissants and slices of buttery toast. Coffees were ordered via a sleek iPad menu, delivering my requested flat white with clockwork efficiency.
Adding to the continental spread, I opted for the George Full English: eggs any style, Cumberland sausages with proper snap, smoky bacon, field mushrooms, grilled tomato and beans- each element cooked just so. Mr R couldn’ t resist the huevos rancheros, where perfectly runny eggs were nestled on a bed of spicy tomato sauce studded with chorizo and topped with a drift of fresh coriander. Zingy, comforting and the ideal start to a day of exploring Rye’ s winding streets.
What makes The George in Rye so memorable is its ability to blend centuries-old character with a distinctly contemporary, almost bohemian elegance. There’ s nothing stuffy or overly formal here, just beautiful spaces, thoughtful details and a warm, unfussy hospitality that leaves you feeling thoroughly looked after, whether checking in to stay, popping in for drinks or indulging in a feast.
Whether you’ re slipping away for a romantic weekend, indulging in local scallops or simply soaking in a roll-top bath under ancient beams, The George is a postcard-perfect staycation and a wonderful, timeless escape.
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© Adam Ready www. insidekent. co. uk • 75