insideKENT Magazine Issue 26 - May 2014 | Page 47

FOOD+DRINK THE EXCEPTIONAL Oscar & Bentleys Run by sisters Katherine and Sarah, Kent-based Oscar & Bentleys is a glamorous gluten-free bistro nestled in the heart of Canterbury. Culinary experts in their field, this pairing are on a mission to put a sparkle back on your plate by serving up all of the delicious food that many who follow a gluten-free diet, think they have left behind. And as one of those despairing individuals, I can confirm, it’s mission accomplished. BY GEMMA DUNN Founded in 2012, Oscar & Bentleys was set up after years of Katherine and Sarah witnessing their coeliac mother's plight to locate produce that was both tasty and gluten-free. As keen cake makers, and having seen the daunting task limiting your diet can behold, this creative duo took to sourcing the perfect ingredients for the task. And the result is clear for all to see: an array of superb handmade, luxurious and gluten-free products, that have certainly put a smile back on many a face. Refreshingly, at Oscar & Bentleys, the rule is that if it tastes gluten-free, it shouldn't be on the menu. Unlike many larger brands, they understand that sacrificing gluten should not mean sacrificing flavour and consistency, and that speaks volumes to the hoards of people left frustrated by the anticipated bland, dry and crumbling produce to which they have succumbed. The kitchen team at Oscar & Bentleys is wholly passionate about the food they are serving, and as a diner, what more could you want for? Priding itself on using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, this stunning bistro boasts a selection of food and drink menus, serving up anything from freshly baked breads and a gourmet burger, to fresh coffees, juices and the ever iconic beer-battered, line-caught cod and hand-cut chips. And because special occasions call for a bit of indulgence (or any occasion really), Oscar & Bentleys quite literally bake up a storm in the kitchen daily, in a bid to provide their customers with a rather fabulous collection of homemade cakes. From mint chocolate and strawberry, to lavender and lemon, pistachio, and their popular mad hatter cake, there is something to suit all tastes; and better still, they're unbelievably moist, fresh, and packed with flavour. So good in fact, we've been planning our next trip back ever since! What's more, Oscar & Bentleys also take orders for celebratory and seasonal cakes, so you can quite literally have your cake and eat it too. Check out the online shop for inspiration. Whether you've been diagnosed with coeliac disease, or you’ve made a dietary choice for yourself and your family, you can rest assured that this eatery is a strict gluten-free environment; however, the same cannot be said for their clientele. Recognised as a fabulous café regardless of diet limitations, Oscar & Bentleys 47 is pioneering in its pledge to get good, homemade gluten-free food out to the masses. Better still, it's working – and these gluten-free goddesses deserve every success. In addition, any product is available dairy-free, alcohol-free and nut-free. All you have to do is contact the kitchen and place your tailored order. Oscar & Bentleys 10 Guildhall Street Canterbury CT1 2JQ 01227 454544 [email protected] www.oscar-bentleys.co.uk