FOOD + DRINK
Epi-curry-ean cont...
FROM ANCIENT AROMATIC BLENDS PERFECTED ACROSS CENTURIES TO REIMAGINED AUTHENTIC RECIPES BEAUTIFULLY RICH WITH WARMTH AND HERITAGE... AS THESE TASTE- BUD TEMPTING DISHES HAVE MADE THEIR JOURNEY ALONG HISTORIC SPICE ROUTES TO THE VISIONARY KITCHENS OF KENT, A VIBRANT TAPESTRY OF FLAVOUR, TRADITION AND PASSION HAS TRANSFORMED OUR COUNTY INTO A THRIVING HUB OF MOUTHWATERING CULINARY DIVERSITY.
SHAMPAN
A story rooted in heritage and growth but even more so in connection and celebration, the history of curry in Britain has witnessed an extraordinary evolution across centuries. What began as an exotic curiosity during Britain’ s colonial rule in India has flourished into one of the nation’ s most-loved cuisines, sitting proudly at the heart of British dining culture.
The word‘ curry’ is said to have originated from the Tamil word‘ kari’ meaning‘ sauce’ or‘ relish for rice’, and essentially was a term adopted by Britain to encapsulate this intriguing new dish that had well and truly captured the attention of the nation. When officers of the East India Company eventually returned home, they brought with them a true love for these fresh aromatic flavours, sparking a culinary movement that would change the course of British dining forever.
By 1810, London had welcomed its very first dedicated curry house, and what followed was a steady rise in popularity as more restaurants began to appear up and down the country showcasing traditional cuisines adapted to British taste. With Kent’ s close proximity to the capital and rich agricultural heritage, it was only natural that our county soon embraced the rise, weaving in its own enchanting character along the way.
Today, Kent’ s curry scene is more vibrant than ever. From award-winning fine dining destinations where expert chefs magnificently capture the soul of South Asia – from India and Bangladesh to Sri Lanka and Nepal – with a thrilling contemporary twist, to authentic and family-run establishments celebrating time-honoured recipes while incorporating quality Kentish produce, each promising a spice-laden sensory journey to remember.
As we step into this new season, where warmth and comfort are sought after more than ever, there’ s no better time than now to pay a visit to Kent’ s hottest restaurants. Whether you crave a mild yet beautifully aromatic dish laced with traditional herbs or a fiery plate bursting with unapologetic spice, this is your guide to the county’ s finest curry houses...
MODERN PLATES & TIMELESS FLAVOURS
Elevated dining experiences where authentic curry recipes take on a contemporary twist.
Desh, West Malling deshrestaurants. co. uk
Meaning‘ Motherland’ and aiming to be a fitting tribute to the places we call home with its comforting fusion of warm hospitality, sumptuous interiors and exceptional dining, Desh authentically captures the long-loved flavours of Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine with a fresh approach. Fusing sensational spice blends with quality local produce to create dishes that are truly extraordinary, the superb kitchen team here are also prided on their attention to detail and picture-perfect plating that ensures every dish looks just as good as it tastes.
Deliciously imaginative, Desh also serves up a range of popular dining events including Thali Nights every Tuesday – offering the perfect opportunity to taste a variety of smaller dishes served with rice and naan – and a monthly Deshi roast dinner, showcasing a unique culinary journey where traditional Sunday roasts meet the vibrant spices of India.
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