THE FOOD MAP
FOOD + DRINK
KUMQUAT: AWARD-WINNING ASIAN FLAVOURS
On the historic Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells, Kumquat’ s revered and reasonable menu is quietly redefining what a great lunch can be- in fact, its faultless £ 26 lunch is quickly becoming one of the best in Kent. yet welcoming, the restaurant blends modern Asian flavours with refined hospitality, offering a dining experience that feels both sophisticated and accessible.
At the helm is chef patron Alex Boyd, whose distinguished career spans Michelin-star restaurants and prestigious kitchens in London and Hong Kong. His influence is evident in every detail, from the precision of each dish to the harmony of flavours. Recognised with an AA Rosette and named among the Top 100 Asian Restaurants in the UK, Kumquat has swiftly established itself as one of Kent’ s most exciting dining destinations.
The Spring Set Lunch Menu is a vibrant celebration of the season, drawing inspiration from Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and China. Starters include cured sea bream paired with papaya and a bright
Thai tamarind and lime sauce, a delicate chicken yakitori terrine with charred spring onion and green chilli relish, and a vegan sweetcorn custard with pickled shimeji mushrooms and chilli oil.
Main courses continue the journey across Asia, featuring hake fillet cooked in koji butter with a fragrant laksa sauce and spring vegetables, tamarind-glazed pork with Thai roasted chilli paste dressing, and soy and sesame marinated king oyster mushrooms served with Vietnamese rice. To finish, roasted pineapple with coconut and lime posset provides a refreshing and elegant finale.
Available daily from 12pm, the set lunch is priced at £ 26 for two courses or £ 32 for three, offering exceptional value and an ideal introduction to Kumquat’ s awardwinning cuisine. For those seeking an elevated midday escape, this is a lunch worth discovering.
kumquat. restaurant kumquatrestaurant www. insidekent. co. uk • 83