insideKENT Magazine Issue 88 - July 2019 | Page 96

FOOD+DRINK THINK SUMMER, THINK EATING AL FRESCO IF YOU DON’T EAT AL FRESCO THIS SUMMER, YOU’RE MISSING OUT(DOORS). THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE SITTING OUTSIDE WITH THE WARMTH OF A SUMMER’S DAY, OR THE RELAXED COOL BREEZE OF A SUNLIT EVENING ON YOUR SHOULDERS. LONG, COLD DRINKS, A FRESH, LIGHT MEAL AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE ARE ALL YOU NEED TO MAKE DINING AL FRESCO THE ULTIMATE IN SUMMER CHIC AND FAMILY FUN. EAT TOGETHER, PLAY TOGETHER AND MAKE THE MOST OF THE SUNNY SEASON BEFORE AUTUMN REARS ITS MUCH MORE INDOORSY HEAD. Whether you were born in Kent, or have moved to the county later in life, it can’t have escaped your notice that it has a plethora of places to choose from if you like to eat outside. Beautiful, peaceful, adventurous – the stuff that good memories are made of; why not try some of these al fresco ideas this summer? 96 Picnicking You don’t have to have everything planned out to perfection when it comes to al fresco dining. You don’t have to know where you’re going and you don’t have to know what time you’re going to get there...that’s the point. Part of the joy of being able to eat outside now that the summer sun dictates that we don’t have to be cooped up indoors anymore (even if we can see some lovely views from the windows) is that it’s a form of freedom. Breathe in the fresh air, indulge in some tasty treats and sit down on the ground as nature would choose. That’s part of the fun. If you love the idea of dining al fresco but you want to DIY it, now’s your chance. Grab a picnic basket, a cool box, or a bag-for-life from your local supermarket if you prefer and add homemade goodies like rolls, sandwiches and cakes, or some pre-made classics like Scotch eggs and cocktail sausages; not forgetting the all important crisps and dips to make things extra special, as well as something to drink – water, juice, soft drinks, wine, beer, Prosecco…the choice is yours. Bring something comfy to sit on if it makes you happy and find your perfect picnic spot.