Everyone loves to cosy up with a coffee and cake , and having the perfect atmosphere in which to enjoy this is key . Kent is known for its cute countryside charm , so it will come as no surprise that there is a plethora of quirky and quaint eateries and coffee shops dotted about the town and countryside to complement this essential aspect of the county ’ s character . Whether you prefer an artisan café , Champagne by the river , vegetarian cooking in a beautiful garden , or a tasty brunch on the water , Maidstone is sure to have an eatery to inspire .
TOP TOWN DINING
The Little Old Tollhouse , Allington A glorious little cafe , right beside the picturesque Allington Lock on the River Medway . Enjoy freshly made paninis , sandwiches and cakes from the comfort of a stylish chair adorned with brightly coloured cushions . Sit under the shade of the willow trees on the lockside or out in the sun to watch the river . A beautiful spot to enjoy alfresco drinks and delicious food . Teas and coffees come in big funky mugs to warm the soul on colder days , while juices and soft drinks make the perfect refreshment in warm weather .
www . facebook . com / oldtollhouse
The Curious Eatery , Boughton Monchelsea Journey through the looking glass to magical foodie events and dining experiences fuelled by two expertly trained chef sisters ’ passion for sustainability , community and food . The Curious Eatery is a friendly , whimsical and totally imaginative venue to visit . With original rustic decor and a fun atmosphere , this is the perfect setting to enjoy the carefully crafted , fresh and vibrant dishes . The Le Cordon Bleu-trained duo now work alongside chef Ollie , who they met while cheffing on Richard Branson ’ s private island . www . thecuriouseatery . co . uk
The Blackthorn Trust Garden and Café , Barming A lovely vegetarian café and artisan bakery based alongside the plant nursery and shop in the beautiful Blackthorn Trust grounds . Blackthorn Trust is a Maidstone-based charity which offers specialist therapies and rehabilitation through work placements in the Blackthorn Garden .
www . blackthorn . org . uk
Leah ’ s Bistro , Maidstone Café-restaurant located on Maidstone ’ s bustling high street . Leah ’ s serves up an eclectic menu full of passion and home cooked goodness , an array of dishes that include some classic British bites mixed with carefully selected Mediterranean flavours .
www . facebook . com / leahs . bistr0
Who ’ d A Thought It , Lenham A unique , boutique , restored 16th-century pub , no doubt the site of countless parties and celebrations over the centuries , now a luxurious Champagne bar , restaurant and hotel . The restaurant offers classic English dishes , carefully prepared with local ingredients , plenty of attention to detail and individual flair .
www . whodathoughtit . com
Dotty ’ s Tea Room at Kent Life A cute and homely attribute to Kent Life Heritage Farm Park , Dotty ’ s Tea Room serves delicious homemade cakes and a selection of hot and cold snacks . Decorated in a 1950 ’ s vintage style , delight at the quirky interior on colder days or sit in the shade under pretty fruit trees in the garden during the spring and summer months .
www . kentlife . org . uk
Matestone Coffee and Tea House , Maidstone Situated in the heart of the town on Middle Row , Matestone Coffee and Tea House is an independent , artisan coffee house and café at its very best . Serving delectable little dishes made from locally sourced ingredients as well as scrumptious , home-baked cakes , fine teas and freshly ground coffee .
www . facebook . com / matestone . coffee
Eden Sandwich Bar and Café , Maidstone Hidden from the hustle and bustle of the town centre in the historic Royal Star Arcade , Eden Sandwich Bar and Café welcomes guests to their friendly two-floor eatery which serves delicious fresh food , including yummy breakfast favourites . On sunny days , soak up the sunshine on their rooftop terrace or snuggle inside and enjoy a famous Morning Glory English breakfast alongside a mug of freshly ground Fairtrade coffee to perfectly prepare you for a full day of exploring .
www . edensandwichbar . co . uk
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