FOOD & DRINK
KENT FOOD & DRINK
Welcome to the paradise of the gastro pilgrim . In Kent live places of unadulterated dining joy with innovative menus and local specialties to satisfy even the most discerning of palates .
or centuries Kent has been the acclaimed Garden
Fof England . A title thought to have been coined by Henry VIII , it was in Teynham that Britain ’ s first cherry orchard was planted , after the infamous king was handed a bowl of ruby red cherries fresh from Belgium . Since then , Kent has always worn the crown when it comes to fruit : from the Romans who first cultivated hops and vines for beer and winemaking , to the strawberries now served at Wimbledon , it comes as no surprise that Kent is the biggest provider of fruit in the United Kingdom . The county ’ s Edenic approach does not stop there ; an abundance of vegetables , crops , meats and wild game are also grown and reared upon our fertile soil , and with 350 miles of meandering coast , our seafood scene is just as magnificent .
Born out of this array of inspiring and beautifully fresh produce , Kent is home to a plethora of acclaimed dining destinations dreamt up by culinary geniuses devoted to honouring the county ’ s farming roots while adding their own creative flair . Restaurants , eateries , cafés , delis and more have firmly rooted themselves throughout the county , in turn making Kent a paradise for the epicurean . Clutching a hoard of awards that include Michelin Stars , Green Stars , Bib Gourmands , AA Rosettes and a host of other critical recognitions , find yourself in Kent and you will be in easy reach of a divine menu . With a landscape that provides a diversity of stunning scenes , from panoramic ocean views to rolling countryside and historic towns , visitors will not only have an extensive choice of cuisine but an eclectic mix of venues and surroundings . From ancient inns with crooked beams and crackling open fires , to slick restaurants with marble-topped bars stocked generously , and quaint alfresco seaside cafés , Kent has every opportunity to delight all the senses .
Foodie entrepreneurs have been both born and raised in the county and flocked to it from London , further afield and even overseas , bringing with them an ever evolving plethora of dining experiences and delicious new delicacies . This not only includes chefs and bakers but winemakers and brewers too , who have polished these ancient crafts and given them a 21st century rebirth , resulting in a further accolade for the county as the Wine Garden of England . A name that encapsulates the sheer beauty of Kent ’ s sprawling vine-covered slopes , this is yet another characteristic ready to enchant visitors through both scenery , flavour and homegrown goodness .
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