FOOD & DRINK : REACH FOR THE STARS
The Bridge Arms , Bridge
REACH FOR THE STARS
With roots solidly grounded in beautiful food produce , it stands to reason that an array of the UK ’ s best chefs have firmly established some of the country ’ s finest restaurants right here in The Garden of England , and it comes as no surprise that Kent ’ s eateries now rank as some of the world ’ s best .
An epicurean delight , Kent is proudly home to both Michelin and Green Michelin star restaurants - a nod to the county ’ s sustainability drive - alongside a host of notoriously exquisite fine dining experiences , exceptional tasting menus , perfectly paired wines and elevated gastro pubs , each crafted and run by renowned , award-winning chefs .
The Sportsman , Seasalter Michelin-starred since 2008 , The Sportsman opened its doors back in 1999 offering dining at an airy beachside inn which dates back to 1642 . A five-course tasting menu comprising small , seasonal dishes which showcase the local environment is put together daily and includes recipes from the past 20 years with a current spin . The Sportsman is where the best in good food combines with a relaxed and informal dining room , complete with a Thames Estuary backdrop . Leading out to the North Sea , this provides the restaurant ’ s oysters and fish , and in front , marshland , woods and fertile soils gives them meat , vegetables and game . Also growing some ingredients themselves from a small kitchen garden and a polytunnel , The Sportsman cooks with fruit and vegetables that have the taste benefit of being picked just moments before use . www . thesportsmanseasalter . co . uk
The Fordwich Arms , Fordwich Recently awarded the Estrella Damns Restaurateur of the Year Award , chef / owners Daniel and Natasha Smith offer an acclaimed seasonal menu focused on provenance and showcasing the best of local Kentish ingredients , sourced directly from local farms and producers . The food is delivered in a relaxed , comfortable and welcoming style , perfect for all year round and every occasion . Boasting an enchanting 1930 ’ s bar and oak panelled dining room with three open fires , The Fordwich Arms combines fine dining with English charm at its very best . In the summer months , the riverside location gives rise to a beautiful dining terrace and garden with views over the River Stour . An eye-catching Elizabethan facade and the striking tall chimney stacks make this an interesting and unusual addition to Fordwich ’ s skyline . www . fordwicharms . co . uk
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