FOOD + DRINK
Epi-curry-ean cont...
Shampan, Bromley, Welling & Westerham shampangroup. co. uk
A sparkling jewel in Kent’ s revered curry crown, The Shampan Group – comprising three beloved locations across the county – are true masters at traditional Indian cooking that dazzles with a perfectly balanced modernity. What began as a Bromley flagship boasting a cosy ambience and unfussy yet sophisticated dishes, soon grew into a remarkable dining legacy, joined later by a Welling restaurant proud of its hidden gem status tucked amongst rows of shops, and the Spinning Wheel in Westerham, a culinary star poised for destination dining with a difference.
Within stunning spaces as highly regarded as their considered menus, diners are treated to a wealth of tasty dishes wherever they dine – from incredible clayoven bites and fragrant rices to a wide array of homemade breads and vegetarian options. Shampan’ s drinks list is just as impressive, with showstopping fruity cocktails sitting alongside a wine list that spans continents, not to mention the kind of genuine hospitality that you’ ll want to return for time and time again.
The Cook’ s Tale, Canterbury thecookstale. co. uk
A remarkable experience-led dining destination where every dish tells a story, The Cook’ s Tale proudly showcases the soul of Odisha cuisine – a wonderful region noted for its gentle spices, templeinspired cooking and coastal flavours. With exceptional chef Dev Biswal at the helm, it comes as no surprise why the restaurant has recently been named in the Top 100 Curry Restaurants in the UK at a recent presentation at the House of Lords, and has collected a Fine Dining Award from the esteemed Good Curry Guide.
For a dining experience that is both deeply meaningful and utterly memorable, opt for The Cook’ s Tale’ s signature 10-course tasting menu, taking diners on a journey through the tastes and traditions of Odisha. Each course is meticulously designed to surprise and delight, with highlights including Odiya mushroom, spinach and shrimp pithau bhaja, a delicate pan-fried dish of vegetables and prawns in a fragrant mustard base, and soft shell crab jhola( chingudi checha) topped with a spicy mustard, tomatococonut gravy.
Copper Ceylon, Bromley copperceylon. com
A true celebration of the vibrant and aromatic flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine, the award-winning Copper Ceylon pays excellent homage to Sri Lanka’ s deep rooted culinary heritage within its immersive dining space that oozes warmth and elegance. Keen to honour the island’ s love of food as a symbol of family, love and prosperity, menus here are thoughtfully curated to blend innovation with tradition, and feature delightful signature dishes such as hot butter squid, string hoppers and lampris – an intricate Sri Lankan delicacy wrapped in banana leaves. On the weekends, the restaurant also boasts a buzzing atmosphere with music, lively entertainment and irresistible cocktails prepared by expert mixologists to perfectly complement your chosen dishes.
Talli Kitchen, Orpington tallikitchen. com
Situated in the centre of bustling Orpington, Talli Kitchen is a welcoming and incredibly stylish Indian restaurant with both culture and community at its very heart. With a lively bar, a joyous roster of live music and inclusive events, and an outstanding commitment to giving back to the community through supporting local causes, Talli Kitchen has flourished into a cherished gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Home to an inspired kitchen team who aim to incorporate modern flavours into classic recipes and a strong focus on sustainability, including sourcing the finest produce from local farmers, each dish here is handcrafted to feel special, whatever the occasion. The name‘ Talli’ in fact means‘ tipsy’ in Hindi, and perfectly captures the joy, spirit and sense of celebration created from the very moment you step through this glistening restaurant’ s doors.
DESH
THE COOK’ S TALE
www. insidekent. co. uk • 85