It was a cold lunchtime in Budapest, the kind where your breath lingers in the air as you step inside from the street. I found myself perched on a wooden stool at a narrow bench that ran along the wall, the windows fogged with steam from the kitchen. Around me, locals chatted in Hungarian, their bowls sending up clouds of paprika-scented warmth. In front of me sat the goulash I’d been hunting for years – the culmination of a long culinary quest. A quest that began with my very first visit to Budapest, over a decade ago, when I tasted real Hungarian gulyás for the first time and fell in love with its warmth and flavour.

A Mission Steeped in Paprika and Memory

I’ve returned to Budapest many times since that first trip. Each visit, beyond the thermal baths and dramatic skyline, I’ve been drawn into a personal mission: find the best goulash in Budapest. Not just any goulash – the one that feels like Budapest in a bowl, the one locals wistfully talk about, the one you dream of long after the last spoonful. Over the years, this mission became my obsession. I’ve dragged my wife down cobbled streets with a short list of eateries to try, obtained from whispers and blogs, and an appetite sharpened by anticipation.

From the outset, I knew that goulash (gulyás) is more than just a meal here – it’s a symbol of Hungarian soul. This hearty stew-soup has humble origins, cooked by herdsmen over open fires centuries ago. Today it’s on nearly every restaurant menu in Budapest, from tourist joints to grandma-style canteens. The challenge isn’t finding goulash; it’s finding the one that stands out. And so, my journey unfolded like a detective story – following leads from locals, chasing down tips, sometimes revisiting places with new insight.

Talking to Locals – “Where Would You Go for Goulash?”

The first rule of finding authentic food in a city: ask the locals. So I did – incessantly, over a few different trips in the last couple of years. I chatted to cab drivers, tour guides, the elderly lady selling kürtőskalács (chimney cake) by the Danube, fellow foodies at the Central Market Hall. “If you were to eat goulash tonight, where would you go?” I’d ask. Initially, I got the safe, popular answers: “Hungarikum Bisztró is very good,” one driver told me, “but you need a reservation.” A tour guide mentioned Menza with a nostalgic sigh, saying she had her wedding dinner there years ago and that their cooking is “always like home, just consistent.”

As I dug deeper, some pointed me off the beaten path. A ruin-bar bartender, upon hearing of my quest over a pint of Dreher beer, scribbled two names on a coaster: “Frici Papa” and “Kisharang Étkezde.” “These are where my grandparents would go for lunch,” he winked. “Cheap, real, Hungarian.” The locals’ tips often came down to this divide: the fancy, well-known spots versus the mum-and-dad eateries. Both, I sensed, were worth exploring – one for polish, one for soul.

Across several visits, each time equipped with a spectrum of recommendations, I set out to try as many bowls of goulash as my stomach (and budget) would allow. What follows is not just a list of restaurants, but a story of tasting Budapest, one ladle at a time, each stop its own small chapter.

Tasting the City: Goulash Stories Across Budapest

Stop 1: The Classic Tourist Favourite

On one trip, I decided to begin at the highly praised Hungarikum Bisztró. This restaurant near Parliament had come up again and again – in guidebooks, TripAdvisor, and yes, from that cabbie. With a name like that, it wears its Hungarian-ness on its sleeve. I managed to snag a lunch reservation and squeezed into a busy dining room decked with folk motifs. A cheerful waitress in an embroidered blouse set down a steaming bowl of gulyásleves (goulash soup). It was excellent – hearty and rich, the chunks of beef spoon-tender, the broth mildly spiced but deeply flavourful. Touristy? Yes – most of my fellow diners were foreigners – yet I could not deny this was a top-notch goulash. I scribbled in my notebook: “Great balance, very clean, perhaps a bit toned down on spice for tourists, but quality A+.” If my journey had ended here, I’d have been satisfied. But it was just the start.

Stop 2: Budapest’s Trendy Side

On another visit, I ventured to Gettó Gulyás in District VII. Reservations here are coveted, but showing up at 5 pm, I lucked into a tiny table in the corner (the last one free!). Gettó Gulyás is tucked in the former Jewish Quarter – a cosy, brick-walled bistro lit by amber lights. Around me, a mix of younger locals and travellers clinked wine glasses and devoured not just goulash but an array of paprikás and pörkölt (stews). I, of course, ordered the classic beef goulash. It arrived in a rustic ceramic bowl, accompanied by a slice of hearty bread and a side of pickled hot peppers (a nice touch). One sip of the broth and I was in heaven. This goulash had layers – a simmered-for-hours depth, spicy pops of paprika heat, the brightness of carrot and parsnip, and melt-in-the-mouth beef. It was the kind of bowl that makes you reflexively close your eyes on the first taste. I understood why many call this place the best. The atmosphere added to it – elbow-to-elbow with other diners, I felt like we were all sharing in a Budapest secret. By the time I scraped the last bits from my bowl, I had decided Gettó Gulyás set a high bar for the trip.

In conversation with the waiter (who was curious that I was taking notes), I learned that Gettó Gulyás’s chef takes pride in traditional presentation. “Our name has gulyás, so it must be the best,” he laughed. He also recommended I try túrógombóc (cottage cheese dumplings) for dessert – which I did, and they were divine. I left with not just a full stomach but a new benchmark for goulash excellence.

Stop 3: Upscale Dining, Hungarian Style

On a later trip I decided to compare these homely experiences with a more upscale venue: Stand25 Bistro. Located in a modern food court at the Hold Street Market, Stand25 is run by a Michelin-starred chef who wanted to bring Hungarian classics to a broader audience. The setting was casual, but the pedigree showed in the plating and service. I ordered their famous gulyás, which arrived in a pristine white bowl, garnished elegantly with a slice of red pepper and a dollop of sour cream – a more refined presentation than the rustic bowls elsewhere. The flavour? Impeccable. It was intensely beefy and peppery, with perhaps a higher ratio of meat to potato than the norm, likely to impress protein-loving gourmands. It felt like a gourmet’s take on the shepherd’s soup – nothing revolutionary, just executed perfectly. I savoured it slowly, pausing between bites to jot down sensory notes and compare to my prior tastings. Stand25’s goulash was undoubtedly one of the best I’d had – but interestingly, it stirred appreciation rather than emotion. It was technically perfect, but maybe lacked a pinch of the “love” that I tasted in Gettó Gulyás’s version. Still, I could imagine anyone ranking it number one for sheer quality ingredients.

Stop 4: A Ruin-Bar Surprise

On another Sunday visit, by a stroke of luck, I found myself in an unlikely place for goulash: a famous ruin bar in the Jewish Quarter, Szimpla Kert, during their farmer’s market event. Amid the courtyard strewn with eclectic furniture, a grandmotherly woman was serving goulash from a giant cauldron. This wasn’t on my official list, but how could I resist? With a mug of hot mulled wine in one hand and a polystyrene bowl of goulash in the other, I joined locals standing around barrel tables. Perhaps it was the wine or the bohemian ambience of Szimpla, but that improvised goulash (likely made by a community cook for the market) tasted wonderful. It was simpler, thinner – more of a soup than a stew – with lots of carrot, potato, and csipetke (little dumpling noodles). As I sipped the broth, listening to a busker strumming a guitar nearby, I realised something: goulash is an experience as much as a dish. The environment – whether a fine restaurant or a ruin bar or a kitchen table – imparts its own flavour. This bowl probably wouldn’t win any awards, but under the glowing lights of Szimpla, surrounded by cheerful Budapesters, it felt just as special as any Michelin-rated meal.

Stop 5: Old-School Tavern in Óbuda

No goulash tour would be complete without visiting one of the city’s oldest stewhouses. On a separate visit I took a tram out to Kéhli Vendéglő, a venerable restaurant dating back to the 1890s, nestled in a quiet Buda neighbourhood. Walking in was like entering the past: deep red walls, heavy wooden beams, and a violinist softly playing Hungarian folk tunes for diners. Here I tried their goulash soup as a starter, followed by a wild boar pörkölt (I had to diversify a bit!). The goulash was very traditional: light on meat, heavy on vegetables, and served in a petite antique bowl. It tasted gentle, as if toned down over generations to please all palates. The experience of eating under old framed photos of Budapest, with live Gypsy music swirling, made it memorable. While the goulash itself wasn’t the very best I’d had, it felt like eating history. I imagined the countless potfuls of stew simmered here over 100+ years. Perhaps on another day, with a bit more salt or spice, Kéhli’s goulash could compete – but on my visit it was simply good, comforting, if not mind-blowing. Still, the authenticity of the venue earned it a star in my notes.

By this point, across these few different trips, I had consumed an absurd amount of goulash. Yet, the ultimate bowl still eluded me. Each place had been excellent in its own way, but my inner Goldilocks had yet to exclaim “this is just right.” I reread the coaster note that bartender gave me – I’d checked off Frici Papa (a visit yielding exactly what was promised: cheap, tasty goulash in a canteen bustling with locals and students) and now only one remained: Kisharang Étkezde.

Discovery of a Hidden Gem: Kisharang Étkezde

One chilly Monday, I set out with my wife, for Kisharang Étkezde. Tucked on a side street (Október 6. utca) not far from the Basilica, Kisharang is easy to miss – its modest sign and old-style storefront don’t scream for attention. I arrived just before noon, hearing that you must go early. Indeed, as we approached, we saw a small queue of people outside, collars turned up against the cold. Through the window, I could make out a tiny interior – a handful of wooden tables, all occupied, with people hunched happily over steaming bowls. A sign on the door indicated “Csak készpénz” (Cash Only). The scene already ticked all the boxes of a local secret.

“Kisharang” translates to “little bell” in Hungarian – an understated name for an understated restaurant. Immediately, we were greeted by warm, savoury smells – paprika, garlic, simmering meat – basically the Hungarian grandmother perfume. After queing outside in the crisp autumn air for around 10 minutes, made tolerable by the complementary hot mulled wine given to us by the waiter, we were sat at the only available space – a pair of bar stools tucked against a narrow wooden counter that ran along the wall (the 6 or 7 tables were already full with locals). The décor charmed me instantly: red-and-white chequered tablecloths (the universal sign of honest, homestyle dining), walls adorned with old pots, ladles, and framed black-and-white photos. It felt like stepping into a countryside kitchen from decades ago.

A no-nonsense waitress (with the kindest smile) handed us dog-eared menus. The offerings were all in Hungarian with rough English translations pencilled in: gulyásleves, halászlé (fisherman’s soup), töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage), paprikás csirke (chicken paprikash)… a greatest hits of Hungarian comfort food. And the prices – jaw-droppingly low. No dish was over about 2,000 forints (under £5). I could see why locals flock here; it’s a working person’s lunch spot from another era.

Naturally, I ordered the goulash – and for good measure, a plate of töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage) to share, since I’d heard Kisharang’s version of it praised highly by the barman in the ruin bar. “Egészségedre,” I toasted to my wife with a glass of cheap but satisfying house red wine as we waited. The room was filled with a friendly clamour – clinking cutlery, the hum of Hungarian conversation, the sizzle from the tiny open kitchen in back. It’s the kind of atmosphere that immediately makes you comfortable. Despite being newcomers, we were treated like regulars – the waitress patiently answered a couple of questions and joked that we’d better hurry if we wanted her famous mushroom paprikash because it often sells out by 1 pm.

Then, the moment of truth. A brimming bowl of goulash was placed in front of me, along with a basket of bread. It looked unpretentious – which is to say, perfect. Golden-red liquid (a shade deeper than some others I’d had, hinting at a generous paprika hand), chunks of carrot and potato, snippets of green parsley, and plentiful beef. A little pool of reddish oil glistened on top, a sign of proper paprika usage. I took a spoonful, blew on it, and… tasted.

It’s hard to describe the feeling when a much-anticipated dish not only meets, but exceeds, your hopes. This goulash did exactly that. The broth was incredibly rich and layered; you could taste that this wasn’t rushed – probably slow-cooked over morning hours. The sweetness of carrot and onion, the mild warmth of paprika, the hint of smoky pepper – all of it danced together in harmony. The beef practically dissolved upon touching my tongue, releasing its juices into the broth. And unlike some restaurant versions, this one wasn’t overly salted or peppered – it tasted natural, like the ingredients spoke for themselves. By the second spoonful, I had what I can only call a Proustian moment: it triggered a memory of my own grandmother’s cooking (though I’m not Hungarian, there was something universally homey about it). It was comfort and love in a bowl.

Halfway through, I was already certain: this was the best goulash I’d found in Budapest. My wife, equally rapturous, simply kept repeating “Wow” between mouthfuls. We fell silent, focusing on each savour. Around us, I noticed locals tearing bread and dipping, as content as could be. A trio of elderly men in flat caps at the next table were ploughing through bowls of goulash followed by plates of schnitzel, chatting in Hungarian – I imagined this might be their daily lunch spot. The vibe in Kisharang was distinct – everyone seemed to wear a slight smile, as if we all knew we’d stumbled into something special.

The stuffed cabbage arrived and was also fantastic: tangy sauerkraut flavour, rich filling, a dollop of sour cream on top. It indeed tasted like real Hungarian home cooking as the barman had promised. But as good as it was, the goulash remained the star of the show. We ate every drop. When the waitress came to clear the empty bowl, I unabashedly told her, “Nagyon finom volt” (it was very delicious). She beamed like I had given her a personal compliment – perhaps in a way I had.

I realised something important at that moment. In fancy restaurants or even busy tourist ones, a compliment to the staff often feels perfunctory; here, it felt personal. Kisharang is small enough that the people serving you might have actually cooked the food too, or at least know who did. There’s a pride and care that permeates the place. The waitress responded, half in Hungarian, half English, that we must come again tomorrow if we want lencsegulyás (lentil goulash) because it would be on the menu. This offhand tip to a stranger – come back tomorrow for something special – encapsulates Kisharang’s warmth. It wasn’t about business, it was about sharing their food culture.

We paid the bill (in cash, indeed) and stepped back onto the street. I stood there for a second, letting the experience sink in. In my notebook I wrote, in big letters, “Kisharang = FAVOURITE.” It wasn’t just the taste (phenomenal as it was); it was the feeling of discovery and belonging. In a city increasingly filled with hip eateries and tourist-oriented restaurants, Kisharang Étkezde felt like a holdout of authenticity – a place locals love and, luckily, are willing to share with those travellers intrepid enough to seek it out. It truly is, as many reviewers said, a hidden gem – one you almost hope won’t get too famous, but also feel duty-bound to tell everyone about.

A Bowl to Remember – Why Kisharang’s Goulash Came Out on Top

Over the course of this goulash odyssey, I learned that “best” is a subjective term. Some might prefer the luxury of Stand25’s premium ingredients, others the lively vibe of Gettó Gulyás, others still the comfort of Hungarikum or the nostalgia of Kéhli. But for me, Kisharang Étkezde delivered something unique: an honest bowl of goulash that hit every note of flavour and did so in an atmosphere of genuine Hungarian hospitality. It combined all the elements I was looking for – authenticity, taste, tradition, and warmth – into one experience.

By the time I left Budapest after my first vist to Kisharang Étkezde, I wasn’t just carrying souvenirs or photos; I carried with me the memory of that perfect goulash. Even now, back home, on a cold day if I catch the scent of paprika, I’m transported back to that tiny restaurant on Október 6. Street – feeling the warmth of the kitchen, and tasting that ambrosial stew. It’s amazing how one dish can create a lasting memory of a place.

For anyone travelling to Budapest, my advice is: embark on your own goulash quest. Talk to locals, try the famous spots – they are famous for a reason – but also peek into those small eateries you pass by. You might find your own Kisharang. And when you do, you’ll understand why Hungarian goulash is not just a dish, but a story – one of history, community, and comfort.

As for me, I’m already planning my next trip, and you can bet the first place I’ll go from the airport is straight to Kisharang Étkezde, with an empty stomach and high expectations. After all, finding the best goulash in Budapest once is great – but confirming it again (and again), that’s the delicious privilege of a lifelong foodie. Jó étvágyat! Enjoy your meal, and enjoy the journey.

Author’s note: This guide was written with a full heart (and a very full stomach). It reflects personal experiences gathered across numerous visits. All restaurants named are excellent in their own right – tastes may vary, but you really can’t go terribly wrong with goulash in Budapest. Still, for that truly special, locals-secret experience, Kisharang Étkezde is my top recommendation. It’s the kind of place you’ll brag to your friends about discovering. Just don’t forget to bring cash, an appetite, and perhaps learn a couple of Hungarian phrases – even if it’s just “Nagyon finom!” when you inevitably find the goulash to be very delicious. Safe travels and happy eating!

The post Best Goulash in Budapest – Discovering Where Locals Eat Gulyás appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Dinner Club at The Bouverie Tap was first launched back in 2020, but the arrival of Covid meant plans had to be shelved before they ever really got going. Now, it’s finally been brought back to life, with Head Chef Callum Tate promising a different, exciting menu for each one. When we saw the menu for this first comeback evening, we knew we had to be there.

From the first amuse bouche to the final wedge of cheese, it was clear this wasn’t about pub grub. It was about showing exactly what the kitchen is capable of when given a blank canvas—and we were seriously impressed.

Amuse Bouche: Big Flavour, Small Bites

The night began with a duo of small plates that set the tone brilliantly. Char siu pork belly bites were a slightly sweet, melt-in-the-mouth, sticky sensation, perfectly balanced with a burnt apple purée. Next to them, monkfish scampi—like nothing we’ve had before, yet instantly nostalgic—sat confidently with a zingy lime aioli. This was clever stuff, and we were only just getting started. Paired with a lively glass of Gran Livenza Cava, I could tell we were in for a treat.

Crab & Lobster Ravioli: A Bowl You Don’t Want to End

The crab and lobster ravioli arrived bathed in a silky lemon butter sauce, finished with herb oil and topped with samphire. The pasta was delightfully tender, holding together a decadent mix of crab and lobster that made us wish for a second helping. The crunch from the samphire brought another texture to the dish. And that sauce was just perfect. In fact, the sauce was so good we unapologetically drank the last drops straight from the bowl—live piano rendition of Coldplay in the background or not. The Les Amourettes Colombard wine pairing? Spot on.

Herb-Crusted Lamb: A Proper Showstopper

Then came the main event: herb-crusted lamb cutlets with a slow-braised shoulder croquette, celeriac purée, Sevenscore asparagus, and a glossy red wine jus. The lamb was cooked to pink perfection, beautifully flavoured with that herb crust, melded to the cutlets with a light brush of mustard. The crunchy croquette exterior yielded to deliver a hearty mouthful of tender slow-braised lamb shoulder that brought real comfort and depth. Tender locally-sourced asparagus added freshness, colour and balance. The celeriac purée worked beautifully, tying the whole plate together, while the rich jus cut through just enough. A glass of Darriaud Côtes du Rhône made the moment linger just that little bit longer. A real lip-smacking delight.

Dessert: Decadence with a Punch of Sharp Raspberry

The chocolate dessert was a knockout, just when we thought it couldn’t get more decadent. A dark chocolate delice served with honeycomb shards and a vibrant raspberry sorbet—each element balancing the others perfectly. The richness of the chocolate, the crunch of the honeycomb, the sharp fruitiness of the sorbet… it was the kind of dessert that leaves you nodding slowly between bites. A real triumph. The Campbells Rutherglen Muscat was a perfect accompaniment—beautifully sweet but not too much—just enough to make you pause, smile, and savour the aftertaste.

Cheese Course: Ending on a High

As if we weren’t already full and happy, out came a generous cheese board featuring high-quality Kentish cheeses, premium crackers, a punchy chutney, and plenty of fresh apple and grapes to keep things lively. It was a fantastic way to end the meal—and a gentle nudge back towards the pub’s usual roots, only elevated. Paired with a glass of Kopke Port, it rounded the evening off wonderfully.

The Verdict

This Dinner Club showed a whole new side to The Bouverie Tap. The atmosphere was still friendly and familiar, but elevated by the brilliant live instrumental set from pianist George Ives, who played modern tracks with a classy twist. Service, as always, was impeccable—with sharply-dressed Bar and Restaurant Manager, Jim Bingham, overseeing wine pairings and making sure everything ran like clockwork. It’s the kind of evening that makes you take notice of a place all over again.

There’s talk of holding these Dinner Club nights monthly. We’re not sure when the next one will be—but we’ll definitely be at the front of the queue.

The post Dinner Club at The Bouverie Tap: Hit or Miss? appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from our travels around Europe, it’s this: eating well doesn’t have to mean spending big. Some of our best food experiences have come in cities where a few euros go surprisingly far — whether you’re tucking into a plate of grilled meats, a perfect slice of pizza, or the freshest street food.

Over the past few years we’ve explored all of these ten cities ourselves. Each one stands out not just for the food quality but for how far your money stretches — something that matters more than ever when planning trips these days.

This is a list for anyone who loves discovering new dishes, eating where the locals eat, and coming home with memories that cost a lot less than you’d expect.

1. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade might just be the best value food city in Europe right now. I was blown away by how much we could eat (and drink) for so little here — and the food was genuinely excellent.

Ćevapi — those addictive grilled sausages served with flatbread, onions, and kajmak — cost us about €6–€7 for a generous portion.

We spent a great evening in a traditional kafana, where a full meal for two — mixed grill, salads, drinks, and dessert — came in at around €30–€35.

And for a quick snack, you can’t beat burek — flaky pastries stuffed with cheese or meat — for €1.50–€2.50 from local bakeries.

What to budget:

• Ćevapi with bread & kajmak: ~€6–€7
• Dinner for two in a kafana: ~€30–€35
• Burek pastry: ~€1.50–€2.50

Things to do in Belgrade

2. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Sarajevo has long been one of my favourite food cities — not least because you can eat so well for so little.

We loved wandering Baščaršija market, grabbing ćevapi in local grill houses — €4–€6 for a filling plate with fluffy somun bread and onions.

Burek with yoghurt made for another perfect cheap lunch — €2.50–€3.50 for a large portion.

And the ritual of Bosnian coffee, served in its traditional copper pot with a cube of sugar, is a must — about €1.50 in most cafés.

What to budget:

• Ćevapi: ~€4–€6
• Burek with yoghurt: ~€2.50–€3.50
• Bosnian coffee: ~€1.50

Things to do in Sarajevo

3. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia flies under the radar, but if you’re after properly affordable, satisfying food, it’s hard to beat.

We’d often start meals with a shopska salad — tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and white cheese — for about €2.50–€3.

Main courses — grilled meats, bean stews, stuffed peppers — typically came in at €5–€9, even in central restaurants.

Breakfast usually meant a hot, flaky banitsa pastry from a bakery, still warm from the oven, for around €1.50.

What to budget:

• Shopska salad: ~€2.50–€3
• Main course in a local restaurant: ~€5–€9
• Banitsa: ~€1.50

Things to do in Sofia

4. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is one of those cities where you can happily graze your way through the day — and barely notice the impact on your wallet.

We’d often start with a simit (sesame bread ring) and tea for about €1.50, then snack our way through balık ekmek (grilled fish sandwiches by the Bosphorus, around €2–€2.50), stuffed mussels, and grilled meats.

One of my favourite cheap eats was sitting in a bustling lokanta, where for €7–€9 you’d get a big plate of stewed aubergines, lentil soup, and rice — honest, homely food that really sticks with you.

What to budget:

• Balık ekmek: ~€2–€2.50
• Simit & tea: ~€1.50
• Dinner in a lokanta: ~€7–€9

Things to do in Istanbul

5. Athens, Greece

Athens is one of my favourite food cities — not just for flavour, but for how much you can enjoy on a small budget.

I’ve lost count of how many souvlaki wraps we grabbed from street stalls and hole-in-the-wall spots here — always hot, juicy, and packed with tzatziki and chips, for around €2.50–€4.

For sit-down meals, local tavernas are unbeatable. We’d regularly order moussaka, Greek salad, and a half-litre carafe of wine for around €15 per person — all with that relaxed, no-fuss Greek charm.

And mornings usually started with koulouri (sesame bread rings) from a street vendor and a strong coffee — the perfect €2–€3 start to the day.

What to budget:

• Souvlaki wrap: ~€3–€4
• Taverna meal with wine: ~€12–€15
• Koulouri + coffee breakfast: ~€2–€3

Things to do in Athens

6. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is another city where it’s easy to eat well without spending much — and the food here is properly comforting and generous.

Lángos (fried flatbread topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese) made for a perfect €3–€4 snack as we wandered the markets.

For proper meals, we loved the two-course lunch menus at local bistros — often €7–€9 for hearty dishes like goulash, chicken paprikash, or cabbage rolls.

And the wine and beer scene is very budget-friendly too — it wasn’t uncommon to pay €2–€2.50 for a glass of decent Hungarian red.

What to budget:

• Lángos: ~€3–€4
• Two-course lunch menu: ~€7–€9
• Glass of wine or beer: ~€2–€2.50

Things to do in Budapest

7. Prague, Czechia

Prague surprised me on our last visit — it’s one of the few cities where the food remains excellent value even in the city centre, as long as you know where to look.

We made a habit of ordering the daily lunch specials — denní menu — where €8–€10 would get you soup, a main dish, and a beer. It’s a brilliant way to try hearty Czech dishes like goulash with dumplings, roast pork, and schnitzel.

Beer, of course, is still wonderfully cheap — often €2–€2.50 for a half-litre of crisp lager.

What to budget:

• Daily lunch menu with beer: ~€8–€10
• Beef goulash main: ~€9–€11
• Pint of beer: ~€2–€2.50

Things to do in Prague

8. Granada, Spain

Granada is the dream city for anyone who loves a good bargain with their food. The free tapa with every drink tradition is very much alive — and genuinely worth travelling for.

On our visit, we’d start with a small beer or glass of wine, and each round brought a new dish: anything from pork stew to seafood rice to jamón-topped bread. After three drinks (and three tapas) we were essentially full — and had spent about €10–15 each for the evening.

The Moorish influence also adds a lovely twist to Granada’s sweet offerings. We made a habit of stopping for churros con chocolate — generous portions of deep-fried dough with thick, rich chocolate — for about €5–6.

What to budget:

• Glass of wine or beer + tapa: ~€3–4
• Full meal of drinks & tapas: ~€10–€15
• Churros & chocolate: ~€5–€6

Things to do in Granada

9. Naples, Italy

Naples is one of those cities where eating on a budget actually feels like an indulgence — because the food is so good.

On our last trip, we found pizza margherita for €5–€7 in old-school pizzerias, with wood-fired flavour that easily rivals any expensive alternative.

Breakfast was typically a sfogliatella pastry and a short, strong espresso — about €2.50–€3 altogether.

Even sit-down pasta dishes in traditional trattorias were very affordable — €9–€12 for a generous plate of seafood linguine or rich ragu.

What to budget:

• Pizza margherita: ~€5–€7
• Sfogliatella & espresso: ~€2.50–€3
• Pasta main in a trattoria: ~€9–€12

Things to do in Naples

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is one of those cities where you feel like you’re getting away with something. The sun’s shining, the food’s superb — and somehow it’s all so affordable.

On our last visit, we ended up in tiny family-run tascas most lunchtimes, where €10–12 bought us soup, a main (often grilled fish or pork), a drink and coffee — all served with the warmth you only get in places that cook from the heart.

Of course, no trip to Lisbon is complete without a pastel de nata. We often picked them up for €1 or less, usually washed down with a bica (espresso) for about the same price.

What to budget:

• Coffee & pastel de nata: ~€2
• Lunch with drink & coffee: ~€10–€12
• Dinner for two with wine: ~€35–€45

Things to do in Lisbon

Final thoughts

Whether you’re sipping coffee in Sarajevo, tucking into tapas in Granada, or devouring pizza in Naples, these cities prove that Europe still has plenty of places where you can eat incredibly well on a budget. Belgrade, Sarajevo and Sofia lead the way for all-round value, but every destination on this list offers something special — from the warmth of local hospitality to the unforgettable flavours of street food and home-style cooking.

So if you’re hungry for adventure but watching your budget, plan your next trip around one of these cities. You’ll come back with stories, new favourite dishes, and — if you’re lucky — a few spare euros for dessert.

The post The 10 Cheapest Cities in Europe for Great Food (2025) appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

This is our ultimate Faro food guide – a blend of personal foodie journey and practical tips – covering Faro city and a few nearby gems across the Algarve. From traditional Portuguese petiscos to the freshest seafood straight from the Atlantic, consider this your Algarve foodie guide. My partner and I ate our way through Faro and its surrounds, and now we’re sharing all our Faro restaurant recommendations based on first-hand experience.

Before diving into the mouth-watering details, here’s a quick overview of our top picks.

Quick Picks: Best Places to Eat in Faro & Nearby

• Tasca do Ricky (Faro) – Intimate, traditional spot with a passionate owner and fresh Algarve flavours (top Portuguese cuisine experience).
• Faro e Benfica – Marina (Faro) – Local favourite by the harbour, known for an all-you-can-eat grilled fish feast and ocean-fresh catch of the day.
• Aperitivo (Faro) – Stylish and trendy vibe offering elevated petiscos (Portuguese tapas) – perfect for a romantic date night with shareable plates.
• Demo Urban Bakery (Faro) – Cozy café with the best pastel de nata in Faro; ideal for a coffee break or sweet fix (unmissable custard tarts!).
• Terraze (Tavira) – Terraced restaurant-bar in Tavira with river views, great wine and cocktails (try the Aperol Spritz), and modern Algarvian dishes.
• Old Tavern (Faro Old Town) – Rustic tavern for traditional petiscos; lively outdoor seating often accompanied by street music and great atmosphere.
• Restaurante Centenário (Faro) – Century-old restaurant serving classic Portuguese fare (and a surprisingly great paella) when other spots close in the afternoon.
• Hamburgueria da Baixa (Faro) – Gourmet burger joint in Faro’s Baixa (downtown) – perfect when you crave a break from seafood; outstanding burgers and fries.
• Taberna D’Olhão (Olhão) – Charming tavern in the fishing town of Olhão, serving delicious small plates with local produce in a convivial setting.
• A Tásquinha à do Inácio (Olhão) – Tiny, authentic eatery by Olhão’s market, offering ultra-fresh fish and seafood dishes based on the day’s catch.

Recommended Tour

These were the highlights of our trip – now let’s dig into the details, tips, and tasty memories from each place!

Understanding Algarve Food Culture: Petiscos, Couvert and Dining Tips

Before we get to the restaurants, a quick primer on Portuguese dining will help you eat like a local. The Algarve’s food culture has its quirks and traditions that are worth knowing:

• Petiscos vs. Tapas: You’ll hear the term petiscos often in Portugal – this is essentially the Portuguese answer to Spanish tapas. Both are small shared plates, but petiscos tend to be heartier and more rustic, often focusing on local seafood and meats. Think of petiscos as “snacks” or mini versions of main dishes meant “to cheat hunger” as the Portuguese say. Many menus in Faro advertise “tapas” to tourists, but locals will proudly use petiscos. The concept is the same – order a variety of dishes to share, take your time, and pair with wine or beer. In short, if you see Faro tapas on a sign, expect authentic Algarvian petiscos!
• Couvert Etiquette: In Portugal, it’s customary for restaurants to bring a small couvert to your table – typically a basket of bread, local olives, maybe butter or sardine pâté. It’s not free. If you nibble on it, it will be added (modestly) to your bill. Usually it’s only €1-2 per item, but if you’re not interested or want to save room, you can politely decline it. Don’t worry, saying “não, obrigado” (no, thank you) to the waiter when they offer the bread is perfectly fine. We often couldn’t resist the temptations of fresh bread and that ubiquitous sardine pâté – just consider it a small appetiser and part of the experience.
• Dining Times & Restaurant Hours: The Portuguese have their own rhythm for meals. Lunch rarely starts before 1:00pm, and many kitchens close by 3:00pm for a siesta-like break. Dinner time in Faro typically begins around 7:30–8:00pm (earlier than Spain but still later than in the UK). In fact, locals might only sit down at 8 or even 9pm. Keep this in mind as you plan – restaurants often close between 3–6pm and won’t reopen for dinner service until evening. We learned this the hard way when we got peckish at 4pm – virtually every place had shut doors until dinner. On Sundays or Mondays, some eateries close altogether or have limited hours, so double-check ahead. When in doubt, an afternoon gelato or pastry (see Demo Urban Bakery below!) can tide you over until the dinner hour.
• Ordering Fresh Fish: The Algarve is famous for its fish – from grilled sardines to sea bream straight off the boat. Many seafood restaurants list fish by the kilogram (especially whole fish). Don’t be alarmed if you see a market price like “€45/kg” on the menu – that usually refers to a whole fish meant for two people. Feel free to ask your server for guidance; often they’ll bring the catch of the day to the table or suggest a portion size. Also, try to eat with the seasons. For example, sardines are at their best (and freshest) roughly between May and October – outside of those months, any sardines you find were likely frozen. In May, we were just at the start of sardine season, and restaurants were beginning to grill them up with pride. If a particular fish isn’t in season, you might focus on alternatives like dourada (sea bream), robalo (sea bass), or octopus which are available year-round. Always ask what the catch of the day is – the waiter’s recommendation will rarely steer you wrong in Faro.

With these tips in mind, you’ll navigate Faro’s dining scene like a pro. Now, let’s get to the fun part – our personal Faro food guide, with each restaurant and foodie experience that we loved. Bon appétit, or as they say in Portuguese, bom apetite!

Faro

Tasca do Ricky – Passionate Cooking from the Heart of Faro

If we had to pick one meal that truly captured the spirit of Faro, it would be our dinner at Tasca do Ricky. Tucked away off the tourist trail, this cosy little restaurant was a standout not just for the food, but for the man behind it. Ricky, the owner, is a character in the best possible way — passionate, opinionated, and incredibly proud of what he’s created.

When we arrived (early by Portuguese standards, just after 7pm), we were lucky to get a table. Ricky keeps the number of diners small — never more than four to a table — to maintain high standards in both the kitchen and the service. It works. You can taste the attention to detail.

Our conversation with Ricky set the tone for the evening. He told us, proudly, that he shops at the market daily and only cooks with the freshest ingredients. He’s on a bit of a mission, actually — to show visitors what real food should taste like, and to push back against the soulless, tourist-focused menus that can plague a town like Faro. You get the sense he takes it personally — and thank goodness he does.

We absolutely had to try a jug of Ricky’s homemade sangria tinto. He’d told us, confidently, that it was “the best in town” — and he wasn’t wrong. Fruity, aromatic, and dangerously easy to drink, it was a highlight in its own right.

The food at Tasca do Ricky was among the best we had all trip. We started, as we so often did in Faro, with pâté de sardinha, that ever-present staple of the Algarve, served here with bread and olives. But the first real “wow” moment came with the cenoura em alhinho — sweet Algarve carrots marinated in olive oil, garlic and coriander. We had this dish in a few different places, but Ricky’s version was exceptional: perfectly soft carrots, rich with garlic, and that unmistakable hit of fresh coriander. Simple, but stunning.

For mains, we decided to share — naturally. I went for the cataplana, a glorious seafood stew packed with flavour. It arrived bubbling in the traditional copper vessel, the lid lifted to release a cloud of garlicky steam. The broth was rich and warming, layered with the sweetness of tomatoes and peppers, the briny tang of shellfish, and just a hint of piri-piri heat. It was hands down the best cataplana of our trip — deeply savoury and full of fresh, beautifully cooked seafood.

Mrs FF, meanwhile, couldn’t resist the Francesinha da Norte — a gut-busting sandwich from the north of Portugal that’s equal parts madness and brilliance. Layers of meat, sausage, ham and cheese, all stacked between slices of bread, covered with more melted cheese, and then doused in a rich gravy-like sauce. This one came topped with a fried egg, and served with a generous helping of fries. As a northerner herself, born and bred in Oldham, Mrs FF declared it the ultimate comfort food, her food heaven — and polished off far more than she expected to.

We ended the meal with two desserts — again, shared of course. The Doca da Casa, Ricky’s house sweet, was a layered cream dessert that was light, indulgent, and utterly delicious. But the real discovery was the Dom Rodrigo — a traditional Algarve treat made from egg yolks, sugar, ground almonds, cinnamon, and fios de ovos (those strange but wonderful sweet Portuguese egg threads). It came wrapped in shiny foil, like a little treasure, and tasted just as rich and decadent as it looked.

Tasca do Ricky is one of those places that stays with you. It’s not just about the food — although that is fantastic — it’s about the experience, the philosophy, and the feeling that you’ve been welcomed into something personal. Ricky isn’t running a restaurant. He’s sharing a passion. And if you’re lucky enough to get a table, you’ll leave with a full belly, a big smile, and a sense that you’ve just eaten somewhere really special.

By the end of our meal, we understood why Tasca do Ricky consistently ranks among the best restaurants in Faro on review sites. It’s not fancy or touristy; it’s warm hospitality and truly authentic Portuguese cuisine. Prices were very reasonable for the quality (mains around €12-15). Do note they only serve dinner and it’s popular, so arrive at opening or reserve if possible. We walked out into the Faro evening utterly satisfied – hearts warmed by the experience as much as our stomachs were filled. Tasca do Ricky set the bar high early in our trip and remains our top Faro restaurant recommendation for anyone craving genuine Algarve flavours.

Faro e Benfica (Marina) – A Fresh Fish Feast by the Harbour

We kicked off our Faro adventure here with a late lunch after a morning flight. I would call this a hidden gem, but it’s very visible, with huge writing that can be seen from the other side of the marina. Understandably, because it is tucked away in the corner next to the marina gate and accessible only through the boatyard, so it’s a spot many tourists might not venture to.

Sitting right on the water’s edge, the setting was a delight in itself, with views across the marina and plenty of wildlife to keep us company. As we nibbled on olives, sardine pâté and goats cheese, and slurped down oysters with ponzu sauce, we watched a cormorant diving for its own fishy lunch, gobbling it down just metres from our table.

Overhead, the elegant storks, famous in Faro, circled above, gliding in and out of their nests perched high on the cathedral rooftops. The storks are a symbol of the city — rare in that they stay year-round instead of migrating — and it was a real treat to see them up close.

For seafood lovers, Faro e Benfica at the marina is an absolute treat – this is where we discovered Portugal’s unique take on the buffet: rodízio de peixe, the all-you-can-eat grilled fish experience. Tucked right on the waterfront of Faro’s marina, Faro e Benfica looks fairly unassuming – a spacious restaurant with indoor-outdoor seating and views of bobbing boats. Don’t let the simple décor fool you; the real show here is on the grills. Arrive hungry and be ready for an onslaught of fresh fish Faro style!

We opted for the rodízio (fish buffet) for mains. Here’s how it works: for a fixed price, the kitchen will keep grilling up a variety of fish and bringing them to your table until you surrender. After our appetisers, They brought sides of salad and boiled potatoes to go with the main event. Soon the waiters began circulating with platters of hot-off-the-grill fish, calling out names: “sardinha?” – yes please! We nodded eagerly and were each served a whole sardine, charred to perfection.

Next came dourada (sea bream), then carapau (mackerel), then baby squid… It was a parade of piscatorial delight. Each time, you either nod “sim” to take a piece or shake your head if you’re slowing down. We lost count of how many types we tried – at least five or six. The variety is astounding; on busy days, rodízio in Portugal can include over a dozen types of fish over the course of a meal.

A few tips for tackling a fish rodízio: Pace yourself, don’t fill up on potatoes and bread, and be prepared to get a bit hands-on (deftly removing fish bones is part of the fun). Also, order a cold beer – virtually every local around us had a frosty mug to wash down the salty goodness, which we happily joined in on. I made the mistake of ordering a local wine to go with the fish at first, but the need to wash it down made my wine disappear very quickly!

The atmosphere at Faro e Benfica was lively at lunchtime with families and groups of friends chatting, the grill masters shouting orders, and waiters hustling with platters. We found the staff extremely friendly; even though our Portuguese is limited, they made sure we understood each fish we were tasting.

The price for the rodízio was around €20 per person – an incredible value considering the amount and quality of seafood. (If you prefer, you can order à la carte from their menu of seafood and cataplanas, but most diners were doing the all-you-can-eat.) By the end, we were utterly stuffed and had to wave the white flag when yet another type of fish came out – our “extra plate” was piled high with bones, a testimony to the feast.

This meal was a highlight of our Faro trip and a crash course in Portuguese fish varieties. If you want to sample fresh fish in Faro and eat like the locals do, Faro e Benfica Marina is the place. We left with sun on our faces, sea breeze in our hair, and the deep contentment that only a long, leisurely seafood lunch can provide.

Aperitivo – Stylish Petiscos and Wine Under the Orange Trees

After our epic lunchtime fish feast at Faro e Benfica, we were still far too full for a full-blown dinner — but the warm evening called for wine and something to nibble. We wandered into the heart of Faro and found ourselves drawn to Aperitivo, a charming spot tucked along one of the busier tourist streets, standing out like a rose among thorns.

Secretly, through my research, I’d already heard good things about Aperitivo, so I guided Mrs FF through the throng of waiters looking to entice us with menus adorned with the British flag, straight to this beautifully relaxed spot. While many places along that stretch cater to the masses with uninspired fare, Aperitivo has carved out a well-earned reputation for elevated petiscos, in a setting that manages to feel both chic and relaxed.

We arrived around 8pm and, without a reservation, managed to secure a small table outside beneath the fairy-lit orange trees — the air fragrant and still warm from the day’s heat. The patio was already buzzing with a mix of tourists and locals, and we could feel immediately that this was a place people lingered. Though we were still digesting lunch, the wine list beckoned, so we settled in with a glass each — a bold Douro red for me and a crisp Algarve white for Mrs FF.

With full bellies but curious tastebuds, we decided to share just one thing: their cheese and sausage board, a generous and beautifully arranged selection of local cheeses, cured meats, almonds, walnuts and fig jam. It was exactly what we wanted — something unfussy but delicious, showcasing classic Algarve ingredients in their best form.

Although we didn’t have the appetite to sample more, we admired the dishes arriving at other tables: sizzling shrimp à la guilho, flambéed in bourbon with herb butter and chilli; black pig boards with grilled padron peppers and chorizo; and grilled pork with coriander and garlic — the kind of hearty, flavour-packed sharing plates that define great petiscos. Several of these dishes are served in larger portions designed for sharing, in that contemporary “plates in the middle” style that encourages conversation and passing things around.

The staff were friendly and attentive without ever rushing us — happy to let us linger with our wine and enjoy the setting. As the last light of day faded and a purple-orange sky glowed behind the rooftops, it felt like the perfect place to pause and savour the evening. Aperitivo isn’t just a meal; it’s a mood — relaxed, generous, and full of flavour. Even though we only had one dish that night, we’d happily return with an emptier stomach to try more of their creative twists on Algarvian classics.

Price-wise, Aperitivo was moderate – expect around €4-€8 per petisco plate, €12-€16 for sharing plates. We found it well worth it for the quality and ambience. For those searching for a Faro food guide recommendation that’s a bit more upscale yet still casual, Aperitivo is a top pick. It’s the kind of place where you might start the evening with “just a quick bite” and end up spending the whole night because it’s so inviting. We certainly left feeling the love – both for each other (aww) and for the delightful food we’d just shared.

Demo Urban Bakery – The Best Pastel de Nata in Faro

No trip to Portugal is complete without indulging your sweet tooth, and in Faro our go-to fix became Demo Urban Bakery. Tucked at the end of Rua Conselheiro Bivar, not far from the marina, Demo looks like a modern hip café with a stylish grey facade and a cozy interior. But we came here for one thing only, again and again: pastéis de nata – the legendary Portuguese custard tarts.

I’ll admit, I’m a nata fanatic and consider myself somewhat of a custard tart connoisseur. So when I say Demo’s pastel de nata is possibly the best I’ve had in Portugal, that’s high praise. We discovered this gem on our first morning in Faro. Drawn in by the smell of fresh pastry, we ordered two tarts and coffees to start the day. Biting in was pure bliss: the crust shatters delicately, impossibly thin and flaky, giving way to a warm, creamy custard center with just the right balance of sweet and eggy. These tarts were not overly sweet, which meant the richness of the egg custard and the hint of cinnamon on top really shone through. We promptly ordered two more!

Demo Urban Bakery isn’t just about pastéis de nata (they do a range of breads, cakes, and also some savory sandwiches), but their nata are the star. We learned they bake batches throughout the day, so if you time it right you get them still slightly warm from the oven – heaven. We made it a ritual to swing by Demo almost every day around late morning or afternoon for a coffee break.

Coffee here was good as well – a strong bica (espresso) for me and a galão (milky coffee) for Mrs FF paired perfectly with the pastries. If you need a light breakfast or a snack, Demo has you covered. We also tried their tosta mista (ham and cheese toastie) one morning, which was nicely done.

Old Tavern – Traditional Petiscos & Live Music in Faro’s Old Town

Few places captured the relaxed spirit of Faro like The Old Tavern, a casual and characterful spot right in the heart of the Old Town. We’d been wandering the cobbled backstreets under a clear blue sky when we stumbled upon it — a cluster of outdoor tables soaking up the afternoon sun, a blackboard menu propped beside the door, and a hum of friendly chatter carried through the square.

We grabbed a table outside, grateful for the sunshine and the lively atmosphere. Moments later, a busker with a guitar began performing just a few feet away. Not long after, another musician turned up — and instead of competing, he joined in. Suddenly we were treated to an impromptu duet, the kind of spontaneous charm that you can’t plan for but makes a meal unforgettable. That mix of warm food, cold drinks, and live music drifting through a sun-drenched courtyard is the kind of memory that sticks.

The menu at The Old Tavern is refreshingly simple — no tourist gimmicks, just a changing selection of local favourites written up on the board. We were warned that some dishes had already sold out (a sure sign of freshness), so we ordered what we could. One of the highlights was the Chouriço Assado — a flaming grilled sausage brought to the table still alight, served on a clay dish. The flavour was bold, smoky and intense — exactly what you want from a dish with that much theatre.

We also tucked into Camarão Frito (fried prawns), sizzling and garlicky, with the perfect bite. The Pota Frita (fried octopus) was a standout — tender, crisp on the edges, and served with a simple salad and boiled potatoes. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you how unfussy ingredients can be when the seafood is fresh and well cooked. We also tried Pica-Pau, a traditional dish of marinated beef chunks — salty, juicy, and moreish — and a salada de queijo fresco (fresh cheese salad) that was light and herby, a great contrast to the richer plates.

Service was relaxed and friendly, with staff happy to talk us through the menu. As with many places in Faro, the pace is unhurried — and rightly so. This is a spot to take your time, sip your wine, watch the world go by, and maybe buy a CD off a busker if you enjoy the music (we did!).

If you’re exploring the Old Town and wondering where to eat in Faro that still feels local despite being right in the centre, The Old Tavern is a fantastic shout. It’s unfussy, full of atmosphere, and the kind of place where the petiscos are tasty, the drinks are cold, and the soundtrack is live.

Restaurante Centenário – A Reliable Classic When You’ve Left Lunch Too Late

There’s a lesson to be learned in Portugal: don’t leave lunch too late. Many restaurants close between 3pm and 6pm, and we fell foul of this more than once. On one such occasion, hungry and with limited options, we found ourselves at Restaurante Centenário, a long-standing establishment in Faro that’s been serving traditional Portuguese food for generations.

This restaurant, as the name hints, has over 100 years of history (founded in 1912) and is something of a gastronomic landmark in the city. It’s located in the centre of Faro, just a short walk from the marina.

We took a seat outside — which, unusually, meant across the road from the actual restaurant, where a collection of tables spills out onto the pavement opposite. Watching the waiting staff dodge Faro traffic while delivering orders was unexpectedly entertaining and a bit nerve-racking at times, but they managed it with cheerful professionalism.

Centenário is one of those solid, old-school Portuguese restaurants: no frills, no fuss, just good food and classic dishes. While we couldn’t say it was the best restaurant we visited on the trip, it came through when we needed it most — and our meal was still excellent.

A significant portion of the menu is traditional Portuguese (grilled fish, cataplanas, steaks, etc.), but to our surprise, one of their standout dishes – highly recommended by our waiter – was paella à casa (2 pax) (homemade paella for two). Yes, the famous Spanish rice dish has a place here, given the Iberian crossover of culinary influences. We were intrigued; having eaten plenty of paella in Spain, we wondered how an Algarve version would fare.

While we waited for our main, we enjoyed a couvert of bread, olives, carrots and patê de sardinha (sardine pâté – I can never get enough of this stuff). The paella arrived in a big pan, fragrant with saffron and loaded with goodies: two huge whole langoustines, whole king prawns, tonnes of clams, enormous mussels, chunks of fish, chicken and pork, and even a few pieces of squid. The rice was a beautiful golden hue and cooked to that perfect al dente texture that a good paella demands.

Honestly, it rivalled some of the best we’ve had in Spain. The flavour was rich from the seafood stock, and they didn’t skimp on the fresh ingredients – every bite had something from the sea. We squeezed some lemon over the top which really brightened the flavours.

Prices are a tad higher than a casual tasca (the paella for two was €40), but given the generous portion and quality, it was fair. The rest of the menu, which we peeked at for future reference, had mains in the €12-€20 range, with plenty of local fish options.

Sometimes, it’s not about seeking out the trendiest new spot — it’s about finding somewhere that’s open, welcoming, and reliable. That’s exactly what Centenário gave us. And if you do find yourself in Faro in that tricky in-between time when many kitchens are closed, it’s a dependable choice. Just maybe aim for a table inside the restaurant if you’re nervous about your waiter’s life expectancy.

Hamburgueria da Baixa – When You Fancy a Break from Petiscos

As much as we loved diving into plate after plate of fresh seafood and beautifully cooked petiscos, there came a point in our trip when we just craved something different — something hearty, indulgent, and decidedly non-traditional. Enter Hamburgueria da Baixa, a fantastic little burger joint located right on Rua do Conselheiro Bivar, slap bang in the middle of Faro’s main restaurant strip, hilariously opposite a McDonalds.

We hadn’t expected much beyond a quick bite, but this place turned out to be one of the best burger spots we’ve been to anywhere, not just in Faro. The menu is stacked with inventive creations, and you get the sense the team here are really proud of what they serve — and rightly so.

I ordered the Arranha Céus (Skyscraper) — an absolute beast of a burger, with three layers of beef patties, each one stacked with classic and indulgent toppings: cheddar, bacon, lettuce, tomato, egg, mushrooms, caramelised onions, and both watercress and rocket to cut through the richness. It was gloriously messy and unapologetically over-the-top — and every bite was worth it.

Mrs FF went for their burger of the month, which on our visit featured a delicious mushroom ketchup, raw onion, crispy bacon, and oodles of Queijo de Azeitão (local semi-hard sheep’s cheese). It was perfectly balanced — meaty, earthy, and punchy — and proof that even a burger joint can show real creativity when it comes to local produce and flavour combinations.

We washed it all down with soft drinks, but the place also has local beers on offer and a relaxed, buzzy atmosphere that made it feel more like a laid-back diner than a tourist spot. The service was quick and friendly, and prices were extremely reasonable considering the portion sizes.

If you’ve hit your limit of grilled fish and garlic prawns — or you just need a meal that satisfies your inner teenager — Hamburgueria da Baixa is an absolute must. It was one of the most satisfying curveballs of our trip, and a great reminder that Faro’s food scene has more to offer than just tradition.

Boat Tour Highlight: Exploring Ria Formosa

One of our most memorable non-food adventures in Faro was a boat tour of the Ria Formosa islands. It’s the perfect palate cleanser between all those heavy meals! We booked our boat trips via GetYourGuide, which made things super easy (they have loads of options and instant confirmation). One tour was on an eco-friendly solar-powered boat, which silently glided us through the marshes – a very cool experience.

As we departed Faro’s marina, our guide pointed out flamingos feeding in the lagoon and explained how this 18,000-hectare coastal park is a haven for birds and marine life. We navigated through tiny channels where clam catchers were digging away hoping to sell their fresh haul to the restaurants and markets.

We also chose an island hopping tour, which included stops at a few of the barrier islands off Faro. First, we visited Ilha Deserta (Deserted Island) – an uninhabited island with a gorgeous stretch of pristine beach. We strolled around on the sand and even did a quick swim in the crystal-clear shallows. The water was a bit cold in May, but we did catch sight of some crabs and little fish darting around.

Next, we headed to Ilha do Farol, named for its prominent lighthouse. This island has a small, charming fishing village. We had time to wander and even snorkel on the Atlantic side of the island, where we swam through clear waters teeming with fish, zipping between the rocky outcrops beneath us. The guide showed us the local oyster farms visible at low tide – mounds where oysters are cultivated for the famous Algarve seafood markets.

Cruising between the islands, we soaked up the sun on deck and felt completely in awe of the natural beauty surrounding Faro. The Ria Formosa’s channels and sandbanks create a spectacular seascape. We even encountered a flock of playful dolphins (not guaranteed, but we got lucky!). The tour wrapped up with a stop at Ilha da Culatra, where some tours include a lunch at a beach restaurant – in our case, we just had a leisurely walk and admired the colorful fishermen’s houses.

Booking tip: You can find many boat tours from Faro – some focus on birdwatching in the marshes, others on snorkeling and island time. GetYourGuide and local operators like Formosamar offer reliable tours. Prices for a half-day trip were around €30-€40 per person. It was absolutely worth it for us – a great way to take a break from city strolling and see a different side of the Algarve. Plus, returning to Faro by boat with the sunset ahead was simply magical. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking to relax on untouched beaches, a Ria Formosa boat trip is a must-do addition to your Faro itinerary (just don’t forget sunscreen!).

Tavira

A day trip to Tavira is well worth adding to your Algarve itinerary — and not just for the food. This beautifully preserved town, often called the prettiest in the region, offers whitewashed charm, cobbled streets, a peaceful Roman bridge, and a castle you can climb for sweeping views over the rooftops.

We opted to take the train from Faro, which only cost €3.50 each and offered a scenic route through the countryside. That said, after a day of climbing castle steps and wandering the town, we were more than happy to grab a Bolt (often cheaper than Uber) back for around €9 — a far more convenient option when you’re full and footsore. If you’re travelling in a pair or more, a Bolt is a no-brainer.

Terraze – Riverside Lunch with a View

For lunch, we headed to Terraze, a stylish riverside spot living up to its name with a fantastic view of the water. We sat right along the riverbank, overlooking the slow-moving Rio Gilão, where crabs scuttled along the banks and fish swam lazily below us. At one point, we even tossed a few leftover lentils into the river and watched as the fish snapped them up — much to the interest of a couple of cheeky sparrows who joined in, pecking at prawn heads we then left nearby on the wall. It was a gentle, joyful kind of lunch in the sun — the kind you don’t rush.

The food matched the setting. We shared a selection of dishes, starting with garlic prawns flambéed in brandy, which arrived glistening with lemon and parsley — fresh, rich and packed with flavour. Terraze had an intriguing section of the menu titled “Tabornice”, which seemed to be their take on open sandwiches — stacked generously with toppings and full of colour and flavour. We ordered the braised tuna option, which came layered with caramelised onions, wasabi mayo, cream cheese, lemon, and mixed greens on toasted seed bread. Unusual but delicious — and the kind of dish that shows how modern Algarve cuisine can blend traditional ingredients with international flair.

We also ordered the marinated chicken salad, which turned out to be much more exciting than it sounds: juicy chicken marinated in lemon and paprika, wrapped in bacon, and served with mixed greens, couscous, lentils, tomato, honey mayo, Dijon mustard and pineapple. It was colourful, hearty and had a lovely smoky-sweet balance that made it feel more like a big main meal than just a salad.

All of this was washed down with a couple of glasses of local Portuguese rosé, which felt perfect for the riverside setting — light, crisp and nicely chilled. Terraze has a cocktail menu too, and while we stuck with wine, we did spot several Aperol Spritzes going by that looked very tempting in the sunshine.

Service was relaxed but attentive, and we were never rushed — in fact, we stayed for quite a while just soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the breeze. The whole experience made us fall in love with Tavira a little. If you’re heading that way, make Terraze your lunch stop — just the right balance of casual and considered, and a perfect place to rest up between sightseeing with excellent food, great wine and a view you won’t forget.

Olhão

For another side excursion from Faro, we headed a few times to Olhão (pronounced Ol-ee-oh), a bustling fishing town just 10 minutes away (easy to reach by train or bus, even easier by Bolt). Olhão is famed for its daily fish market and authentic local vibe – far less polished than touristy spots, which we loved. We spent our time wandering Olhão’s waterfront, eyeing the heaps of fresh catch in the market, and of course, sampling the seafood ourselves. For fresh fish, it tops Faro in our opinion. It’s a much busier and bigger marina – it’s literally seafood central and perfect for foodies.

A Tásquinha à do Inácio – Olhão’s Fresh Catch Hidden Gem

Olhão is a seafood lover’s paradise — and A Tásquinha à Do Inácio, a simple and traditional tasquinha tucked away near the market, lives up to that reputation without fuss or frills. Recommended to us by our boat guide CJ, who knows the local waters well and lives in Olhão, this is a place where the fish is chosen fresh and cooked plainly — and that’s exactly how it should be.

We opted for two local favourites that shine in May: a whole grilled besugo (white sea bream) and a portion of grilled cuttlefish. The besugo was cooked over a flame, the skin perfectly crisped and the flesh soft and flaky inside, served with lemon and just enough olive oil to bring out its delicate flavour. The cuttlefish — a regional classic — was tender and meaty, with a slightly smoky char from the grill and just the right amount of chew.

Both dishes came with the usual Algarve accompaniments: a simple salad and buttery boiled potatoes, allowing the seafood to take centre stage. You don’t come here for elaborate plating or fusion flourishes — you come for seafood as it should be, plucked from the Atlantic and cooked with care.

If you’re a seafood purist, skip anything that sounds out of place for the season (like salmon, which isn’t local and is often frozen), and instead ask what’s fresh that day. Depending on availability, you might also try sardines, horse mackerel, or even the elusive grilled sole — all proudly featured on the menu and best enjoyed during the warmer months.

A Tásquinha à Do Inácio may be low-key in appearance, but it’s rooted in everything that makes Olhão great: no-nonsense service, fresh fish done right, and a deep respect for the sea. It’s exactly the kind of place you want to stumble into on a sun-soaked afternoon.

Taberna D’Olhão – Hearty Meat Petiscos in a Fishermen’s Town

Another of our stops (again recommended to us by CJ) was Taberna D’Olhão, a relatively new but already beloved tavern serving Portuguese small plates in the heart of town.

Taberna D’Olhão is tucked in a narrow street just a couple of minutes’ walk from the Mercados de Olhão (the twin market halls). We arrived in the early afternoon and found the place lively with Portuguese patrons – always a good sign. It felt like one of those secret spots you’re lucky to discover.

We were greeted like family by the owners, who immediately made us feel at home. After a morning of seeing so much seafood at the market, our appetites were primed for some fresh fish. But sipping on our wine (we had a lovely carafe of Algarve white wine with lunch), listening to locals chatter animatedly and watching the delicious petiscos landing on every table, we soon realised from what the locals were ordering, that Taberna’s real showstoppers were the meat dishes.

After scanning the menu again, we were drawn to one dish in particular: the black pork cheeks (bochechas de porco). These are slow-cooked until meltingly tender, served in a rich, meaty sauce that clings to every bite. As soon as the dish arrived, we knew we were in for something special — the aroma alone was enough to make us drool.

The pork was everything it should be — deeply savoury, fork-tender, and full of flavour, with just the right amount of fat to make it indulgent without being heavy. It was a proper comforting plate of food, the kind that makes you pause mid-bite just to savour it properly.

We also enjoyed breaded chicken goujons with sweet chilli sauce and some fabulously creamy goat’s cheese – all absolutely delicious.

It’s easy to assume seafood should always take centre stage in coastal towns like Olhão — and while that’s true in many places, Taberna D’Olhão proves that the inland flavours of the Algarve deserve just as much attention. If you’re after something slow-cooked, deeply satisfying, and unmistakably Portuguese, the pork cheeks are a must.

Portions were quite generous for petiscos; three or four dishes here could easily fill two people. Price-wise, Taberna D’Olhão was very wallet-friendly. The service was warm and unrushed, despite being busy. We felt like we were at a neighbourhood block party where we happened to know nobody but were still treated like friends.

Our experience at Taberna D’Olhão was so delightful that it alone justified a trip to Olhão. If you’re exploring the Algarve beyond Faro, definitely put this tavern on your list. Come hungry, be ready to try whatever the staff recommends (they won’t steer you wrong – they have pride in their local produce and it shows), and if you’re lucky, you might catch a fado night or other live Portuguese music, as the tavern occasionally hosts such cultural evenings. Good food, good music, and good vibes – Taberna D’Olhão has it all.

Must-Try Algarve Foods and Drinks

Our journey through Faro and the Algarve wasn’t just about specific restaurants – it was also an education in the unique dishes and delicacies of Portuguese cuisine. Here’s a quick foodie checklist of regional specialities we encountered (and highly recommend you seek out):

• Sardine Pâté (Paté de Sardinha): Ubiquitous in the Algarve, this creamy pâté made from sardines often appears in the couvert with bread and butter. Spread it on fresh bread for a smoky, rich start to your meal. Don’t be shy – it’s packed with omega-3s and Portuguese soul!
• Cataplana: More than just a dish, cataplana is the Algarve seafood stew, traditionally cooked in a clam-shaped copper pot that clamps shut. It typically includes a mix of clams, prawns, fish, maybe pork, plus tomatoes, peppers, and herbs all stewed together. The result is a fragrant, hearty stew that arrives at your table in the sealed copper vessel, which is then opened with a flourish – the aroma that escapes is heavenly. The dish gets its name from the cookware, and it’s a must-try for seafood lovers. (Just note, many restaurants require a minimum of 2 people to order a cataplana due to its size.)
• Petiscos (Portuguese “Tapas”): As discussed, these small plates are a cornerstone of eating out. Some favourites to try: chouriço assado (flamed grilled sausage on a clay dish), bolinhos de bacalhau (cod fish cakes), pica-pau (marinated beef strips often served with pickles), salada de polvo (octopus salad with onion and vinegar), and cenouras algarvias (Algarve carrots marinated in garlic and vinegar). Those marinated carrots deserve special mention – they are served cold, delightfully garlicky, with a touch of sweetness and herbs like coriander. Petiscos are perfect with a cold beer or glass of wine while you chat away.
• Portuguese Fresh Cheese (Queijo Fresco) & Charcuterie: Throughout our meals we often enjoyed the local cheeses – from the creamy requeijão (like ricotta) to aged sheep’s cheese – usually served as petiscos or dessert with marmalade (quince paste) or fig jam. Algarve is also known for its figs and almonds, so look out for those in salads, desserts, or even as bar snacks (we had roasted almonds given to us with drinks in Tavira).
• Francesinha: If you’re very hungry (or feeling particularly daring with your calorie intake), try to find a francesinha. While this monster sandwich hails originally from Porto in the north, some eateries in the Algarve offer it due to its fame. It’s basically a sandwich: bread, steak, ham, sausage, and cheese, all stacked and then smothered in a hot thick beer-tomato sauce, often with a fried egg on top. It’s usually served with chips to mop up the sauce. We loved it – it’s gut-busting, savoury, and quite delicious. Just make sure you have a friend (and a nap planned afterwards).
• Pastel de Nata: The legendary Portuguese custard tart needs no introduction, but do ensure you indulge in plenty of these while in the Algarve! We became regulars at Demo for this reason. The best ones have that blistered caramelized top, a shattering crisp pastry, and creamy center. Sprinkle cinnamon on top for the classic touch. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a bica (espresso) at any time of day.
• Dom Rodrigo: As mentioned earlier, this is an Algarve specialty dessert. It looks like a shiny foil-wrapped candy. Inside, you’ll find a sticky-sweet concoction of egg yolks, sugar syrup, ground almonds, and cinnamon, often bound together with strands of fios de ovos (literally “egg threads”). It’s very sweet – but it’s a taste of history (originating from nuns in convents centuries ago) and fun to try at least once. One little bundle is plenty to share.
• Medronho & Amarguinha: For drinks, beyond the wines and beers, you might come across these local spirits. Medronho is a strong brandy made from the arbutus (strawberry tree) fruit that grows in the Algarve hills. It’s homemade firewater – down it as a shot like the locals (it’ll warm your chest, that’s for sure). Amarguinha, on the other hand, is a sweet almond liqueur, often served with ice and a twist of lemon. It tastes like marzipan and is much gentler – a nice after-dinner sipper.
• Fresh Orange Juice: Last but not least, indulge in fresh Algarvian orange juice whenever you can. Algarve’s oranges are famous – incredibly sweet and flavorful. Many cafés will squeeze to order. Truly, the Algarve oranges are like sunshine in a glass. We had some every morning and it was the best “vitamin C” boost.

Farewell Faro – We Will Return!

Our ultimate foodie guide to Faro and the Algarve comes from the heart – and stomach! – of personal experience. This region in southern Portugal wowed us not only with its beautiful beaches, mild May weather, and laid-back vibe, but with a food scene that punches well above its weight. Whether it was indulging in a marathon fish lunch by the marina, sharing petiscos in a medieval alley, or hunting down the perfect pastel de nata, every day felt like a new culinary discovery.

Faro, often overlooked as just an airport city, proved to be a fantastic base for this adventure. Fewer tourists meant we often dined among locals, getting an authentic taste of Algarve life. And being there in May, just before peak season, gave us the best of both worlds – pleasant, quiet mornings and just enough buzz in the evenings. From Faro, our side trips to Tavira and Olhão further enriched our journey, each town adding its own flavour – literally and figuratively – to our story.

If you’re planning a visit, I encourage you to use this guide but also to follow your nose and intuition. The Algarve has so many hidden culinary corners. Stop at that tiny café for a coffee, try that unpronounceable dish on the menu, chat with the restaurant owners – you’ll often end up with the most memorable experiences that way. And don’t forget to slow down and savour. The Portuguese way of enjoying food – leisurely, with love and in good company – is something we happily adopted and brought back with us.

In the end, the best places to eat in Faro and the Algarve aren’t just about food; they’re about the warmth of Portuguese hospitality, the traditions passed down through recipes, and the joy of discovering a culture one bite at a time. We hope our ultimate foodie guide inspires you to embark on your own delicious journey. Até à próxima – until next time – happy eating and bom apetite!

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Faro and the Algarve

The post Best Places to Eat in Faro & the Algarve: Our Ultimate Foodie Guide appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

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Our trip to Amsterdam this year was in January, the perfect time to visit, when the city is delightfully lacking in tourists. The opportunities for al fresco dining are limited at this time of year, but being able to walk into almost any restaurant and get a table straight away more than makes up for it.

And with fewer tourists filling the tables, you get to see how popular the restaurants are with the locals, which gives you a better sense of where best to go for a good meal.

We booked our digs in the outskirts of town, something we often like to do in order to take in the otherwise unexplored and often overlooked parts of the city.

Top Tip

Getting around is easy, but pay-as-you-go travel costs can mount up. Instead, get a GVB Public Transport Ticket for the duration of your trip to save money.

Best Places To Eat In Amsterdam

Here are our top picks from our trip. We’ve tried to give you as much detail as possible about each restaurant, along with plenty of photos.

Restaurant Hap Hmm

In search of our first proper meal in Amsterdam, we took a stroll around our local area and stumbled across an absolute gem in the form of Restaurant Hap Hmm. If you’re looking for some authentic Dutch cuisine, I heartily recommend a visit.

This beautifully understated restaurant harks back to Grandma’s kitchen, with a wonderfully cosy feel, old-fashioned decor, and simple, home-cooked food. And they certainly know what they’re doing. The restaurant has been serving traditional, no-nonsense Dutch comfort food since 1935.

With old family recipes on the menu, such as “Grootmoeders Gehaktbal” (Grandmother’s Meatball), “Hollandse Biefstuk” (Dutch Steak), and “Stoofperen” (stewed pears), “Appelmoes” (Apple Sauce), “Warme vla” (Warm Custard) and “Rabarber” (Rhubarb), Hap Hmm is proud of its origins.

Situated in a quiet area of Amsterdam’s Oud-West, this great little spot is always packed with locals – a good sign – and we were lucky to get a table.

Intensely flavoured Stewed Beef with a subtle hint of cloves was served with tender boiled potatoes, green beans and broad beans, and it was perfect. Simple, good food done well. 

Another highlight was the Amsterdam Chicken stewed in beer – absolutely gorgeous, and full of flavour. On a cold and rainy January evening, this was exactly what we needed. 

Staring At Jacob

After the previous night of comforting delights, we weren’t ready for breakfast first thing. But by 11ish we were hankering for brunch, and we found the perfect place.

Staring At Jacob, so named because of its location on the corner of Staringstraat and Jacob Van Lennepkade, is a funky, New York-style canal-side brunch bar with a chilled-out vibe, frequented by students and some of the more trendy locals. It’s a great place to chill out and while away a few hours over coffee, juice or a cocktail or three. And the food here is sensational.

Whilst seated at the bar, waiting for a table to become available – it’s a popular place – we were straight in with a tall glass of Jacob’s Boozy Winter Chocolate – we are on holiday after all! This is a rich hot chocolate and Baileys cocktail with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa, and it really got the appetite going.

So when we perused the food menu, we were all in. I went for the All Around Carnivore – Buttermilk pancakes, soft scrambled eggs, smoked bacon, breakfast sausage, a homemade hash brown and maple syrup, with some homemade aioli on the side. It was glorious – a sweet and savoury match made in heaven. The pancakes were beautifully fluffy, the bacon crisp, the eggs soft and creamy, the sausage fat and juicy… amazing! And that crispy homemade hash brown was to die for.

Mrs FF favoured their version of Eggs Benedict – Jacob’s Benny – 2 poached eggs, smoked bacon, sourdough toast with smoked butter, hollandaise sauce and fried herb potatoes. As good as you’ll get anywhere. Another highly recommended eatery for anyone visiting Amsterdam.

We enjoyed it here so much, we came back a second time in the same trip, opting for the Rasco – buttermilk fried chicken, a giant waffle, scrambled eggs, a mixed leaf salad and maple syrup – which was also delicious. The buttermilk fried chicken was crisped to perfection – a real treat. Staring At Jacob has definitely become an Amsterdam favourite.

Jordaan District

We could have spent our entire trip in the Jordaan area, soaking up the atmosphere on the trendy café terraces, wandering the flowery streets, and browsing the vintage boutiques, galleries and some of Amsterdam’s more alternative museums. The Jordaan neighbourhood is home to musicians and artists alike, and the area oozes character.

Here you will find the famous Anne Frank House along with the Lindengracht Market, the Houseboat Museum and the Amsterdam Cheese Museum, all within a few hundred yards of each other.

But our real highlight was, of course, the food. And one of our absolute favourite restaurants was Pesca.

Pesca

We lunched at Pesca, a fabulous theatre-themed fish restaurant with a difference. Here, before you are taken to your table, you are escorted over to the “Theatre Of Fish” – a fish market display where you can choose the fish you will eat.

Our excellent host, Eloise, told us all about the huge array of seafood on offer, advising on portion size and courses, and how best to create our meal. She went through each of the options in turn, explaining how the chef would be cooking and serving them that day. Then she weighed and wrapped up our choices and took them to the chef.

Then we were taken through to the Wine Market, where we tasted and chose the wine to go with our food. We chose a Dutch white wine – an Auxerrois from the Schouwen-Duiveland region, De Kleine Schorre – which was very tasty.

The menu changes daily, depending on what is fresh and available. Dishes are served in a tapas style, with the larger fish reserved for main dishes. The chef decides when to serve each dish, and everything is cooked fresh to order.

We started with a selection of oysters – Dutch Oysters from Zeeland (matched perfectly with our wine from the same region), Irish Oysters served plain, along with Special Irish Oysters served with tomato ponzu dressing, seaweed and samphire. I usually prefer my oysters pure and unadulterated, with nothing added, but these Special Irish Oysters were particularly good.

Next out of the kitchen were the scallops we chose. These had been lightly seared and were very tender inside, served with mushrooms, artichoke cream and a sauce made from dashi (japanese bouillon), and garnished with samphire. Very, very nice.

Then came the tuna steak, which had been quickly seared but kept raw inside. This was served with a beautiful salsa verde and a tomato and pistachio herb salad. Quite possibly the best tuna steak I’ve ever eaten.

For our main course, we went for a whole Gurnard. This odd-looking fish was often tossed back by fishermen or used as bait, until recent years when it gained popularity as a fantastic fish to eat. 

When it returned from the kitchen, it had been baked and barbecued on charcoal and served with a moroccan spiced vinaigrette made with sumac. It’s a fairly meaty fish that tasted great with the charcoal flavour.

For a vegetable side, we had puffed aubergine with creamy harissa yoghurt, feta cheese, pomegranate seeds and crispy chickpeas – a wonderful way to serve aubergine and extremely tasty. Even Mrs FF, who is usually aubergine averse, loved it.

Finally, as our last side dish, we had a whole roasted cauliflower in a thai-style peanut masala finished with a sprinkle of lemongrass and garnished with radish flowers. It tasted as beautiful as it looked.

Pesca are committed to supporting sustainable fishing with their Pesca Foundation, to which they donate 4% of their annual profit, and an optional 1 euro donation is added to every bill.

Pesca is a great place to try if you’re visiting Amsterdam. We loved the concept. And they have the theatre theme nailed down to the last detail. Dutch comedy plays over the speakers in the bathrooms, and there is even a booth to leave a video review on your way out. A must-visit!

Moeders

Moeders (Dutch for mothers) is a brilliantly quirky restaurant that celebrates mothers everywhere. Every inch of wall space is covered in hundreds of framed and unframed photos of mums, most of which have been contributed by visitors over the years. The plates, glasses and cutlery are all mismatched, as they were brought in by guests as part of the opening night in 1990 and are still used today.

The food was fantastic here, with a menu full of Dutch specialities. We loved the Traditional Dutch Pea Green Soup with huge chunks of smoked sausage and bacon.

For our main, we went for Moeders’ own combination of Dutch classics, curiously named Hollandse Rijsttafel (Dutch Rice Table). There is no rice, but the name comes from the way food was served banquet-style in the former Dutch colony of Indonesia.

This fabulous table full of food included Stewed Beef, Hachée (Dutch beef and onion stew), Stamppot (a dish of mashed potatoes, cabbage and onions served with bacon and Rookworst (Dutch smoked sausage)), boiled potatoes, fried garlic potatoes, red cabbage and apple sauce.

For classic Dutch cuisine, Moeders comes highly recommended.

De Drie Fleschjes

If you’re in the mood for a drink, we recommend heading down to De Drie Fleschjes (The Three Little Bottles), open since 1650, to sample their wide range of the traditional Dutch spirit, Jenever – a juniper-based drink, similar to gin. This spirit, sometimes called Dutch Gin, has a flavour profile somewhere between Gin and Whisky.

If you ask for a Kopstootje (a headbutt), far from getting knocked out, you’ll be presented with a beer and a tulip-shaped shot glass filled to the brim with Jenever. This Dutch drinking ritual involves placing your hands behind your back, bending over and slurping the top of the shot.

The rest of the shot is then gulped down, followed by a mouthful of beer. The flavours complement each other without masking either one. You’ll see this ritual happening in virtually every bar in the city.

Food Markets

Amsterdam has lots of incredible food markets where you can buy all sorts of Dutch delights from local vendors to take home with you. And the smell of street food stalls serving fresh Stroopwafels and hot Kroketten or Bitterballen (Dutch beef croquettes) makes them difficult to resist.

We visited Ten Katemarkt in the west of the city, with over 50 stalls that line both sides of Kinkerstraat. This market is particularly good, because not only will you find all the Dutch classics here, there is an eclectic array of International street food on offer too.

And you can combine it with a visit to the Foodhallen inside De Hallen, which is on the same street. It features around 20 International street food stalls, some of which were set up by Michelin-star chefs, and has live music at the weekends. Well worth a visit.

Coffee Shops & Cafés

It’s important to know the difference between a café and a coffee shop when in Amsterdam. A café is your run-of-the-mill eatery, serving good coffee, cakes and sandwiches, and often a range of delicious meals – much like a café at home. A coffee shop, on the other hand, is where you would go to legally smoke weed or eat a space cake. You might also get a sub-standard cup of coffee if you’re lucky. Make sure you don’t wander into the wrong one by accident!

And if you’re wondering whether we chose to partake in any marijuana while we were here, we didn’t. With appetites like ours, we don’t need another excuse to have the munchies!

Amsterdam – A Delicious Destination

Many people would not think of Amsterdam as a food destination. But, whilst the city is not well known for its culinary prowess, for those of you who enjoy food, Amsterdam has lots to discover.

The post Great Places To Eat In Amsterdam – Our Top Picks appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Belgian beer is famous for its strength, variety and history. From world-renowned Trappist ales brewed by monks behind abbey walls, to experimental fruit beers and rich, whisky-barrel-aged brews, there’s something for every taste — and most of it stronger than you might expect. Many beers come in at 8–12% ABV, and are designed to be savoured like a fine wine.

Food-wise, Belgium holds its own with a cuisine that leans into richness and depth, often cooked with beer as a core ingredient. Think carbonnade flamande (beef and beer stew), rabbit in dark ale, and buttery moules-frites served with a goblet of something bold and malty.

Belgium Beer Tasting Itinerary

From strong Trappist ales to tart cherry beers and complex barrel-aged brews, Belgium offers a beer experience like no other. This itinerary follows our tasting journey across Brussels, Ghent and Bruges, highlighting not just what we drank, but where we drank it — and why you might want to do the same.

Café Culture & Beer Menus

Belgian cafés often have “bierkaarten” — beer menus thicker than a wine list, sometimes with hundreds of options. Each beer is served in its specific glassware, a tradition that helps express the aroma and flavour of the beer properly. It’s taken seriously, and bars are proud of their collections.

Getting Around Belgium

Getting from London to Belgium couldn’t be easier. Eurostar drops you right into Brussels, and from there, intercity trains make travelling to Ghent and Bruges simple and cheap. We stayed in a city-centre hotel in Brussels (easy to find and well located), then moved on to Ghent where we spent three nights on a houseboat near Kaiserspark — highly recommend it for something a bit different. Bruges (or Brugge, as it’s also known) was a day trip, and that turned out to be just right; it’s compact enough to see the highlights in a single day without rushing.

Brussels

The Belgian capital was our entry and exit point, and while we didn’t spend long here, we made the most of our time. With its grand squares, traditional brasseries and seafood restaurants, Brussels is both lively and historic. We based ourselves in the city centre, which made it easy to wander from bar to bar and try some local beers without straying far.

Beer in Brussels

Brussels has no shortage of good bars and classic Belgian beer lists. We didn’t scratch the surface, but a few places stood out — particularly for the atmosphere and friendly service. While many of the beers we tried are available across the country, it’s always special to enjoy them in the place you discovered them.

Brasserie Du Lombard

A welcoming and traditional-feeling bar just off the main square, Brasserie Du Lombard was our first proper beer stop in Belgium — and it made a great impression. Dark wood, vintage signage and a laid-back local crowd made it a perfect spot to unwind after arriving.

Paix Dieu – 10% ABV
Brewed only during a full moon, Paix Dieu is a triple with real character. Rich, smooth, and potent. It’s brewed by Brasserie Caulier following traditional Abbey methods, and each bottle includes a symbol showing which moon cycle it was brewed under. The beer pays tribute to the Abbey of Paix Dieu, where monks once brewed in rhythm with the lunar cycle — a tradition revived by the brewery today. Slightly sweet, strong, with subtle spice.

Chimay Blue – 9% ABV
Dark, rich and warming with notes of fig, raisin and caramel. Brewed by Trappist monks at Scourmont Abbey, Chimay is one of only a handful of officially recognised Trappist breweries. The monks have been brewing since 1862, with profits going to charity and the upkeep of the abbey — so drinking a Chimay is doing good, too!

Le Baroque

Tucked away on a quieter street but still close to the action, Le Baroque had a stylish interior and a more modern feel than some of the older brasseries. It was a great place to try beers that felt a little off the beaten track.

Bon Secours Blonde – 8% ABV
A spicy, fruity blonde beer with a creamy mouthfeel. Notes of coriander and citrus with a hint of yeast character.

Leopold 7 – 6.2% ABV
Fresh and floral with a light bitterness, brewed with three types of hops and seven different ingredients. Slightly grassy with a clean, dry finish.

Food in Brussels

We went big on seafood in Brussels — it felt like the right thing to do. From rich mussel pots to over-the-top seafood platters, it was indulgent and delicious. Add in a couple of quirky stops for gelato and novelty pastries, and we left the capital feeling very well fed.

The Lobster House

This elegant seafood restaurant is nestled just a few minutes from the Grand Place. With crisp white tablecloths and a refined but relaxed vibe, it struck the perfect balance between fine dining and comfort food indulgence.

Seafood is a must in Belgium, and The Lobster House delivered in style. We had mussels (of course), escargot, lobster paella, and a towering seafood platter that was absolute heaven. Service was great, atmosphere relaxed but elegant.

Amorino

A French gelato chain with locations across Europe, Amorino’s Brussels branch didn’t disappoint. Busy but efficient, it’s worth the queue for a cone that looks like a work of art.

Gelato sculpted into a rose shape, with as many flavours as you like. Instagrammable, yes — but also genuinely delicious.

La Zigounette

If you’ve got a sense of humour (and maybe a childish streak), this bakery is a must. The cakes are… unforgettable. Expect a laugh, a photo op, and a lot of icing.

One of those “only in Belgium” moments. Genital-shaped baked goods and cakes, sold with a cheeky grin. Not fine dining, but very memorable. Lick away, my friends!

Ghent

Ghent was our favourite stop on the trip — a beautiful, vibrant city with a more relaxed vibe than Brussels, and a lot of character. We stayed on a houseboat just outside the main centre, which was a great way to unwind between busy days out. Everything in Ghent is walkable, and the canals give it a peaceful charm.

Beer in Ghent

We drank well in Ghent. Bier Central was our go-to and ended up being one of the highlights of the entire trip — a beer list as thick as a novel, helpful staff, and a chilled-out atmosphere. We also had a few great drinks elsewhere, but Bier Central was the place we kept coming back to.

Bier Central

Centrally located with a huge beer menu and comfy pub-style décor, Bier Central quickly became our local in Ghent. Think warm lighting, knowledgeable staff, and a beer bible that covers every style under the sun. It felt welcoming whether we stopped for lunch or just a drink.

Belgoo Magus – 6.4% ABV: A lighter, slightly cloudy saison-style beer with herbal notes and a dry finish.

Belgoo Luppoo – 6.5% ABV: A hoppy pale ale brewed with five different grains. Slightly bitter, but balanced with a malty backbone.

Trappistes Rochefort 10 – 11.3% ABV: Deep red-brown, rich and boozy with notes of ripe banana, dark chocolate and honey.

Trappistes Rochefort 8 – 9.2% ABV: Darker and maltier, full of plum, fig, and caramel.

Gouden Carolus Whisky Infused – 11.7% ABV: Powerful, full-bodied and warming. Vanilla, oak and chocolate notes.

Delirium Red – 8% ABV: Intense cherry and red fruit flavours with a sweet-tart balance. The iconic pink elephant logo is now world-famous, originally chosen as a cheeky nod to the hallucinatory effects of alcohol withdrawal — a playful reference for a beer that pulls no punches at 8% ABV.

Chouffe Cherry – 8% ABV: Sweet, fruity, with almond and port-like depth.

Gulden Draak Brewmaster’s Edition – 10.5% ABV: Aged in whisky barrels. Rich, oaky, malty and complex. Named after the golden dragon atop the Belfry of Ghent, this beer pays tribute to the city’s medieval heritage. The dragon is a city symbol with ties to Norse and Byzantine legend — bold and mythical, just like the beer.

St Bernardus Pater 6 – 6.7% ABV: Blond, nutty, with notes of mocha and ripe fruit.

Maredsous 8 Bruin – 8% ABV: Dark, with hints of caramel, coffee and chocolate. Maredsous beers originate from Benedictine monks at Maredsous Abbey, who passed their brewing legacy to Duvel Moortgat. Though now brewed off-site, the recipes stay true to their monastic origins — rich, contemplative beers made for slow sipping.

Floris Chocolat – 4.2% ABV: Chocolate beer! Very sweet, with vanilla and coriander notes.

T’Prison

Set in what used to be part of the old city jail, this bar has a slightly quirky edge and a cosy interior that invites you to stay for just one more. A great place to sip something strong and take in the character of the city.

Westmalle Dubbel – 7% ABV: Malty, dark, slightly sweet with a bit of spice.

Westmalle Tripel – 9.5% ABV: Golden, strong, dry and complex.

Westmalle Abbey is where the world’s first officially named “Tripel” was brewed, way back in 1934. Their Dubbel dates back even further. These beers are benchmarks for the style, brewed by Trappist monks in Flanders and widely respected for their balance and depth.

Food in Ghent

Budget-wise, we kept things balanced in Ghent, mixing up some great meals out with simple lunches on the houseboat. The local food scene leans hearty and traditional, but there are also plenty of light options and international influences. A stew cooked in beer? Yes please. A waffle piled with fruit and cream? Also yes.

Eating in on the Houseboat

Sometimes a simple lunch is the best kind. We picked up local cheeses, charcuterie, salad and fresh bread and ate on the boat. It’s not fancy, but we really enjoy relaxed lunches like this. We also made breakfast most mornings on the boat to save a bit of our budget and start the day slow.

Bier Central

They don’t just do great beer — we had some lovely salads here too. Goat’s cheese and smoked ham, classic Caesar, both fresh and generous.

Brasserie Paradijs

A low-key gem we stumbled across while exploring the quieter streets of Ghent. Friendly service, classic Belgian dishes done right, and an unfussy atmosphere that made it feel like a local favourite.

A stand-out meal: traditional Flemish beef stew, slow-cooked with Gulden Draak beer. The beef was melt-in-the-mouth tender, the sauce rich and slightly sweet from the beer. Proper Belgian comfort food.

The Waffle Factory

Big portions, bright signage, and a queue of tourists pretty much all day — this spot knows what it is. It’s fast, sweet, and indulgent, and sometimes that’s exactly what you want.

Yes, it’s touristy. But the waffles were excellent. We tried one with banana and chocolate, and one with strawberries and cream. Both were massive, sugary, and very satisfying.

What about Belgian chocolate?

We know, it’s iconic — and yes, you’ll find beautifully arranged boxes of pralines and truffles in almost every window around the Grand Place. We steered clear of the more touristy spots selling overpriced selections, but it’s worth noting that there are some genuinely excellent chocolatiers in Belgium, particularly if you venture off the main streets. Whether you’re after delicate ganache, rich truffles, or quirky beer-infused bars, Belgium has the goods — we just didn’t indulge much on this trip.

Bruges (Brugge)

Bruges is impossibly pretty — all cobbled streets, gothic buildings and winding canals. We only had a day here, but it was enough to fall in love with the place. It’s more touristy than Ghent, but it’s also easy to see why. Perfect for wandering, window shopping, and of course, drinking more beer.

Beer in Bruges

Bruges has some of the best beer bars in the country, from historic cafes to terrace spots with views over the water. We only had time for a handful, but the beers we tried here were among the most memorable — served in their proper glasses, as always, often with a great view.

Le Grand Café Belfort

Perfectly located near the Belfry, this spacious café gave us a front-row seat to Bruges’ charm. Classic Belgian café vibes, polished brass details and a good beer list made it an ideal mid-wander refreshment stop.

Kwak – 8.4% ABV
Served in a distinctive glass shaped like a rounded flask perched in a wooden stand — said to resemble a coachman’s drinking vessel — Kwak is warming and slightly spicy with hints of liquorice and coriander. You also get some banana, pineapple and mango on the nose. The story goes that in the 18th century, coachmen weren’t allowed to leave their carriages, so Pauwel Kwak designed this unique glass and stand to allow them to drink while on the job — it hooks onto the carriage. Whether that’s folklore or fact, it definitely made this the most fun glass of our trip; it felt almost ceremonial to drink it!

‘t Voutje

This little bar had a traditional feel with warm lighting and old-world décor. A good place to escape the tourist bustle and enjoy a well-poured local tripel in peace.

Brugge Tripel – 8.7% ABV
A powerful tripel with malt, banana, raspberry sweet (cuberdon), caramel and chocolate notes. Rich, full-bodied with a slightly bitter finish.

The Beer Wall / 2be Bruges

Famous for its wall of bottled beers, this place is half bar, half spectacle. The terrace overlooks a canal and was one of the most relaxing spots we found — great beer, great view, and plenty to browse while you sip.

La Corne du Bois des Pendus Triple – 10% ABV
Sweet, fruity, with a honeyed aroma. Turns slightly bitter on the finish, with a noticeable alcohol warmth. Tasted best sitting out on their terrace watching the boats go by. The glass this one comes in is just as distinctive as the beer — shaped like a large horn and served in a custom wooden stand. It’s dramatic, theatrical, and slightly absurd in the best way — like drinking from a Viking trophy. Another one for the “most fun glassware” list.

The name translates to “The Horn of the Hanged Men” — a reference to a forest in southern Belgium where bandits were once executed. The horn-shaped glass pays tribute to drinking vessels from the Middle Ages, when actual animal horns were used in place of mugs. It’s theatrical, playful, and part of what makes this beer such a memorable experience.

Turbeau Noir – 6.8% ABV
A smooth, dark Belgian ale with roasted malt, caramel and subtle dried fruit. Rich but not too heavy, with a slightly dry finish that made it very drinkable.

Food in Bruges

Just one proper meal here, but what a meal. Deeply savoury rabbit stew cooked in Leffe, paired with more Leffe in various colours. You don’t need many dishes when the one you have is this good. Bruges also had some tempting snacks and bakeries, but this was all about the long lunch.

Brasserie Brugge Die Scone

A beautiful, traditional restaurant tucked into a quiet street near the centre. It had a refined but welcoming feel, with classic Flemish dishes and deep wooden beams that made it feel like stepping into a storybook.

We loved the slow-cooked rabbit in Leffe Dark with prunes. The sauce was thick, rich, slightly sweet from the prunes and deeply savoury from the beer. The rabbit was falling off the bone. A perfect pairing with a glass of Leffe.

Leffe Blonde – 6.6% ABV: Malty, with vanilla and clove.

Leffe Dark – 6.6% ABV: Roasty, slightly sweet with dark malt.

Leffe Ruby – 5% ABV: Fruity and floral with red berries and spice.

Leffe beers trace their roots to a Norbertine abbey founded in 1152. While brewing there was interrupted by floods, revolution and war, the modern version still honours those monastic traditions. Each Leffe has a signature taste profile — smooth, spicy, and a little indulgent.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning your own Belgian beer and food adventure, our advice is simple: embrace the classics, be open to surprises, and don’t try to fit too much into one day. Ghent was our favourite overall, Bruges was picture-perfect, and Brussels had the best seafood. But what really makes Belgium special is the culture around its food and drink. Every beer has a story, every dish has depth, and there’s always something new to try.

Whether you’re sipping a Trappist ale on a sunny square or digging into Flemish stew by candlelight, this is a country that knows how to treat you right. Cheers to that.

The post Belgium Beer & Food Tour: Brussels, Ghent & Bruges Itinerary appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Hotel Adria: A Gem in the Heart of Wenceslas Square

Finding the right place to stay in a city like Prague can make or break the trip, and we struck gold with Hotel Adria. Smack in the middle of Wenceslas Square, it’s the kind of hotel that feels both central and a little tucked away—a rare combo. Wenceslas Square isn’t just a square; it’s more like a wide boulevard buzzing with shops, cafes, and the occasional street performer. From here, we could pretty much wander anywhere we fancied, whether it was down to the Old Town Square or up towards Prague Castle.

The hotel itself was a blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. The rooms had that classic European elegance—think high ceilings, big windows, and polished wooden floors—but with all the mod cons you need after a long day of sightseeing. The best part? You’re a stone’s throw from some of the city’s best food spots, which, as you’ll see, we took full advantage of.

Triton Restaurant: A Subterranean Culinary Delight

Now, let’s talk about a dining experience you won’t forget in a hurry. Tucked beneath Hotel Adria is the Triton Restaurant, and it’s not your average hotel dining room. Imagine stepping into a subterranean cavern, complete with stalactites hanging from the ceiling and soft, ethereal lighting that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into an ancient secret.

The menu was just as impressive as the setting. We opted for the five-course Czech tasting menu, and each dish was a little love letter to local ingredients and flavours. There was a rich, velvety svíčková—beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with fluffy bread dumplings that soaked up every last drop. The highlight, though, was the roasted duck with red cabbage and potato dumplings. It was perfectly crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and paired beautifully with a glass (or two) of local Moravian wine. It’s the kind of meal that lingers in your memory long after the plates are cleared.

Medieval Charm at U Sedmi Švábů

For a taste of medieval Prague, we ventured to U Sedmi Švábů (At The Seven Swabians). The minute you step through the heavy wooden doors, you’re transported back in time. The stone walls, flickering candlelight, and suits of armour in the corners make it feel like you’ve wandered into a scene from Game of Thrones. This atmospheric old tavern, dating back to times when knights and troubadours graced the city’s lanes, transported us to an era where the clinking of tankards and the hearty laughter of revellers echoed through dimly lit halls. A gorgeous open fire provided the perfect backdrop for a hearty meal.

But let’s get to the food. This is the place to go if you want to dive headfirst into traditional Czech fare. We tucked into a hearty bowl of beef goulash, rich with paprika and served with more of those comforting bread dumplings. Then came the pork tenderloin medallions, draped in a creamy cranberry sauce that was both tangy and indulgent.

And the drinks? Well, it wouldn’t be a proper medieval feast without a tankard of frothy Czech beer. They’ve got plenty of options on tap, but we went for the classic Pilsner Urquell—crisp, refreshing, and the perfect way to wash down a feast fit for a king.

Prague’s Street Food Extravaganza

One of the joys of Prague is how easy it is to stumble across incredible food without even trying. The Old Town Square, with its astronomical clock and buzzing energy, is a prime spot for a casual bite. The air is thick with the smell of roasted meats and sweet pastries, and we couldn’t resist diving in.

We started with Old Prague Ham, slow-roasted over an open flame until the edges were perfectly crisp. The meat was smoky and tender, served with a hunk of fresh bread and a generous dollop of mustard. Next up was bramborák, a crispy potato pancake seasoned with garlic and marjoram—simple but seriously satisfying.

But the real indulgence came with langoš. This deep-fried flatbread, topped with garlic, cheese, and sometimes a smear of sour cream, is the kind of street food that leaves you licking your fingers and wondering if you’ve got room for another. Spoiler: we did.

No stroll through the square would be complete without a cup of svařák (hot mulled wine). The mix of red wine, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus warmed us up on the chilly evening, and we followed it with a sweet trdelník—a spiral pastry dusted with sugar and filled with anything from Nutella to ice cream. Tourist trap or not, it’s delicious.

Sample Prague’s Rich Beer Culture

Prague isn’t just about food—it’s a city that takes its beer seriously, and nowhere is that clearer than at Pivovar U Supa. This microbrewery, just a stone’s throw from the Old Town Square, has been perfecting its craft for centuries, and you can taste the history in every sip.

We tried a tasting flight that included their classic lagers, dark beers, and a few experimental brews. The standout was the amber lager—malty, slightly sweet, and with a crisp finish that had us ordering a second round. Pair that with a plate of pickled cheese (trust me, it’s better than it sounds), and you’ve got the perfect afternoon.

Prague Attractions: Places To Visit

Whether you’re visiting Prague for its rich history, culture, food or just to find some hidden gems off the beaten track, this city has it all. Here are some of the main sites you might want to take in when you next visit.

Prague Castle: A Majestic Panorama

If you visit Prague, you must explore the iconic Prague Castle, perched high above the Vltava River. The castle complex, the largest ancient castle in the world, offers a breathtaking panorama of the city. We were enthralled by the intricate architecture, historical significance, and the stunning views.

Inside, St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, left us in awe with its soaring spires and intricate stained glass windows. We recommend taking a guided tour to unravel the rich history and hidden stories within the castle walls.

Charles Bridge: A Walk Through History

Connecting the old town with the Lesser Town, Charles Bridge is a masterpiece of medieval engineering and an absolute must-visit. The bridge, adorned with 30 statues of saints, offers a captivating stroll over the Vltava River. We found ourselves drawn to the lively atmosphere, with street musicians, artists, and vendors contributing to the bridge’s vibrant energy.

For a truly magical experience, we recommend visiting Charles Bridge at dawn or dusk, when the soft glow of the street lamps reflects off the river, creating an enchanting ambiance.

Old Town Square: Where History Comes to Life

Stepping into the Old Town Square felt like entering a fairy tale. Surrounded by colourful baroque buildings, the square is home to the iconic Astronomical Clock. We were fascinated by the intricate details of the clock and the hourly show where the twelve apostles make their appearance.

The square is also a hub of activity, with street performers, markets, and charming cafes lining its cobblestone streets. We took our time exploring the square, immersing ourselves in its vibrant energy and historical charm.

Petrin Hill and Observation Tower: A Natural Retreat

For a break from the bustling city, we ventured to Petrin Hill, a peaceful oasis offering stunning views of Prague. We took the funicular up to the top for 60 Koruna each – about £2.10. At the summit, the Petrin Observation Tower awaited, providing a panoramic view of the city’s red rooftops and spires.

We recommend walking back down through landscaped gardens and charming pathways. The journey downhill was as rewarding as the view itself, with hidden gems like the Mirror Maze and the charming Hunger Wall adding to the sense of discovery.

Josefov (Jewish Quarter): A Tapestry of History

Delving into the history of Prague, we explored Josefov, the city’s Jewish Quarter. Keen travellers will appreciate the rich tapestry of Jewish history preserved in this area. The Old Jewish Cemetery, with its uneven tombstones and layers of history, left a profound impression on us.

Synagogues such as the Spanish Synagogue and the Pinkas Synagogue are architectural marvels that showcase the resilience and cultural contributions of Prague’s Jewish community.

Vyšehrad: The Citadel on the Heights

Venturing beyond the well-trodden path, we discovered Vyšehrad, a historic fort located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River. This lesser-known gem was a real highlight, with its medieval fortifications, landscaped gardens, and the stunning Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul.

The peaceful atmosphere and the panoramic views of the city make Vyšehrad a perfect escape for those seeking a quieter, more contemplative side of Prague.

Prague: An Explorer’s Paradise

Prague, beyond its postcard-perfect facade, conceals myriad anecdotes and treasures that unfold only to those willing to venture beyond the expected. In the spirit of discovery, seek out the obscure galleries, the local haunts, and the unassuming markets where the pulse of the city truly beats. Engage with the locals, whose stories weave into the very fabric of Prague’s cultural tapestry. Let curiosity be your compass as you delve into the less explored districts, where every turn introduces you to a facet of Prague that evokes wonder and intrigue.

Whether you’re tucking into a hearty goulash in a medieval tavern, sipping mulled wine in the Old Town Square, or simply wandering along the Vltava at sunset, Prague will capture your heart and leave you hungry for more.

The post Great Places To Eat In Prague & Our Top Attractions appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Bustling Atmosphere, Bold Ambience

First off, let’s talk atmosphere. Morena’s got it nailed. This isn’t one of those softly lit, hushed dining spots where you feel like you’ve wandered into someone’s romantic anniversary dinner. No, this is a celebration of Mexican cuisine in full technicolour glory. The open kitchen was bustling, the smells were intoxicating, and the energy was infectious. Exactly what you want from a proper Mexican eatery.

The decor is a cool take on your usual Mexican restaurant, with calaveras—those brightly coloured skulls that celebrate the Day of the Dead—a prominent feature. It’s vibrant, fun, and perfectly in keeping with the lively, welcoming vibe of the place.

“We are keeping it simple; good food, good vibe, at a reasonable price,” says owner of Morena, Firat Yildirim. Speaking to him, it’s impossible not to feel his enthusiasm and passion for the restaurant. When I asked about the origin of the name Morena, which means brunette in Spanish, he told me it was a very personal thing.

“The name Morena comes from one of my favourite places in Calpe, Spain, where I used to go regularly. It’s a place where the sun, sea, and good food come together and make you feel really good.” That sense of joy and connection clearly inspires everything about the restaurant, from the food to the atmosphere.

Stellar Service with a Smile

The staff? Exceptional. They hit that perfect sweet spot of being attentive without hovering over you like a helicopter parent. Friendly, warm, and genuinely enthusiastic about the food—it’s the kind of service that makes you feel right at home.

“One thing I am proud of about Morena,” said Firat, “is definitely my staff team, who believed in me to make the business a success, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without them.”

Fantastic Food, Freshly Prepared

Now, let’s get to the food. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little gutted to be dining solo. Mrs FF was off gallivanting at a Christmas party, so instead of being able to sample more dishes and share the load, I had to tackle the menu alone. And believe me, that’s no small feat when everything on it screams “EAT ME NOW.” But someone’s got to do the hard work for Folkestone Foodies readers, right?

I kicked things off with a complimentary bowl of olives (a classy touch, Morena), paired with a bottle of Argentinian Malbec. Now, before you start rolling your eyes at the wine chat, let me just say: this wasn’t some poncey plonk. The Los Picos Distantes had a beautiful depth, with blackberry and blueberry flavours, hints of peppery spice, and a cocoa finish that paired perfectly with the richness of the dishes. Smooth, satisfying, and just what you want to sip on while diving into Mexican delights.

A Start to Savour: Barbacoa Empanadas

For starters, I went with the Barbacoa Empanadas, and ay caramba, they were a revelation! Barbacoa, for the uninitiated, is a traditional Mexican cooking method where meat is slow-cooked over an open fire or in a pit, often with maguey leaves, to achieve tender, flavourful perfection. Typically made with beef, lamb, or goat, it’s rich, smoky, and packed with spices like cumin and chilli.

The empanadas were pure perfection, with a crisp, golden batter encasing a rich and smoky beef filling, served with a clearly homemade tomato salsa that burst with fresh, vibrant flavours, the kind that only comes from perfectly ripe ingredients. You can also choose from beef chilli, pulled pork, chicken and chorizo along with vegetarian and vegan fillings, but I highly recommend the barbacoa beef. A fabulous start!

Mains That Mean Business: Pulled Pork Enchiladas

Next came the pulled pork enchiladas, served with rice, sour cream, and guacamole. This dish was indulgent and beautifully balanced. The pork was sweet, tender, and dripping with flavour, topped with gooey cheese that melted into the rich sauce. I love how Mexican food uses fresh, simple ingredients to balance bold, hearty flavours. The guacamole and sour cream added a perfect touch of freshness and zing, cutting through the richness beautifully. It was one of those dishes where you’re full halfway through but keep going because it’s too good to leave a single bite behind.

Sweet Endings: Churros & Cocktails

But did I stop there? Absolutely not. For the sake of journalism (and maybe just a touch of greed), I pushed on to dessert. The churros were everything you want from this Mexican classic. Light, crispy, and dusted with just the right amount of cinnamon, they came with both chocolate and caramel sauces because why choose when you can have it all? Dipping those golden sticks of joy into the sauces was the perfect finale to an already stellar meal.

And because no meal is truly complete without a cocktail, I rounded things off with a classic mojito. Fresh mint, zingy lime, and just the right amount of rum—it was a bright, refreshing end to the evening. Each sip was like a tiny fiesta in a glass, with all the ingredients popping beautifully.

Final Verdict: Viva Morena!

So, does Morena live up to the hype? Absolutely. It’s a vibrant, flavour-packed slice of Mexico right in the heart of Folkestone. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just someone looking for a cracking night out, this place should be high on your list. I’ll definitely be back—next time with Mrs FF in tow—because there’s a whole lot more on that menu I’m itching to try. Viva Morena!

Booking is recommended, especially at the weekends. You can book online via their website or call 01303 311958 to make a reservation.

The post Morena: Is This Folkestone Favourite Really the Whole Enchilada? appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

One place I heartily recommend for a glass of wine, and some lovely snacks to go with it, is TPS Bodega. Formerly an interiors shop, acting as the cover for the secret speakeasy bar hidden out the back, The Potting Shed is now a trendy wine bar and wine shop.

Sit in and enjoy a glass of wine from their extensive selection, along with some great gourmet deli-style food to go with it, or grab something to take away. I warn you though – if you pop in to pick up a takeaway bottle of wine, you’ll end up staying for a glass or two while you’re there. The place is so charming, you won’t be able to resist.

Last time I was there, David recommended a nice glass of Sfera Rosso, an organic, Sicilian, easy-drinking red. This went beautifully with the food he suggested – a lovely goats cheese and tapenade crostini. With the quirky decor and the classy background music, it’s a fabulous place to be.

I stayed long enough for a second glass of wine, and was tempted by this beautiful Basque cheesecake. Soooo good!

You’ll find The Potting Shed on Rendezvous Street. Just look for the bright yellow building. And while you’re there, you can book a table at TPS Speakeasy for an evening of cocktails from the prohibition era.

The post TPS Bodega: Great Wine & Gourmet Deli Pairings appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

We walked in to an incredibly warm welcome and the super-efficient, friendly staff showed us to our table immediately. The decor exudes a relaxed vibe with a touch of modern class. The buzz of chattering patrons and the bustle in the open kitchen underpinned by just the right amount of background music gave it a chilled but lively feel – it’s a nice place to be.

A Great Selection for Breakfast

Perusing the breakfast menu, served here until 3pm, we were presented with plenty to choose from. There are 3 fry-up options, including a veggie and a vegan version of their meat-eater standard called “Mocka’s Fav.” There’s a variety of things served with sourdough toast (also available gluten-free). These include scrambled eggs and cherry tomatoes or smashed avocado, halloumi cheese and poached eggs.

However, what interested me the most was the Pancake and Waffle Breakfast section. I’m a sucker for an American-style breakfast, and the promise of eggs, smoked bacon, succulent farmer sausages and hash browns to accompany a stack of pancakes or waffles was too much to resist.

Oh Lord, I’m in Sweet & Savoury Heaven!

So I opted for the “Oh Lord” – a stack of sweet, fluffy pancakes served with scrambled eggs, smoked bacon, farmer sausage, hash brown… you get the idea. And oh Lord was it good! Scattered with strawberry slices and mixed berries, this sweet and savoury combo really hit the spot. Those sausages were something else – fat and juicy – a real highlight. The pancakes were light, fluffy and deliciously filling. I absolutely loved it.

Mrs FF had her “Mocka’s Fav” breakfast served in a cast iron frying pan. Now, call me old-fashioned, but I’m more of a plate man myself. With my appetite, I’ll always be scraping the plate clean, and it can go right through you like nails down a blackboard when metal cutlery scrapes against cast iron. But hey, it’s a funky idea and it makes for great presentation. And with a nice side order of sourdough to mop it all up with, Mrs FF was more than satisfied.

Everything came out perfectly cooked with nice, runny egg yolks, tender, crispy bacon, those fabulously fat sausages… superb! It’s definitely up there with the competition if you’re looking for a decent Full English Breakfast in Folkestone. They haven’t scrimped on the quality of their ingredients, and it really shows in the end product.

Extras for Those Big Appetites

The list of add-ons is as long as your arm, so if you’re feeling particularly ravenous, you can always add extras to your meal. We fancied some smashed avocado, but you can add anything from waffles to grilled halloumi and sweet potato fries.

A Dog-Friendly Bistro with Something For Everyone

The menu is a great balance of naughty and nice, with a fabulous looking range of salads available along with an extensive choice of pancake, waffle and croffle-based desserts. There’s plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options too, so whatever your preference, it can probably be catered for. Mocka is also dog-friendly, which is good to know.

Mocka Bistro is licensed to serve alcohol, so, along with their extensive selection of coffees, teas and soft drinks, you can also enjoy a decent range of wines, beers, ciders and spirits.

And it’s Not Just Breakfast

We had a sneaky peak at the evening menu, which we definitely plan on sampling very soon! I particularly like the look of the Korean BBQ Chicken Waffle and the Ribeye Steak. Two surefire winners right there. Mocka Bistro reminds me fondly of a fantastic little place in Amsterdam called Staring At Jacob, a place we liked so much we visited twice on the same trip!

Chatting to owners Hazal and Urgur was a real pleasure. They have a great attitude and were really keen to receive feedback on our experience. I get the sense that Mocka Bistro will be constantly evolving as they get themselves established, and I, for one, am excited to see where it goes.

Mocka Bistro is open 7 days a week, which is great for Folkestone, as many eateries are closed on Mondays and often Tuesdays too. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 9am until 9pm, and Sundays, 9am until 7pm.

Call 01303 905003 to book or try your luck just walking in. And don’t forget to follow @mockabistro on Instagram.

The post Dawn To Dusk Delights At Folkestone’s New Mocka Bistro appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Owners Saurav Chakraborty and Rahul Pancholi first started their journey in Ireland, working for a hotel company. They came to England in 2016, when they established The Holy Pundit in The Hythe Imperial Hotel. In November 2019, they also took over The Bell pub in Hythe, serving traditional British pub fare. Then, in 2023, they moved The Holy Pundit to Folkestone.

We now have access to amazing, authentic Indian food on our doorstep. This is not your average British curry house, dominated by Tikka Masala, Balti and Rogan Josh. This is real, traditional Indian cuisine, and it doesn’t get better than this. So where can you find this secret seaside spice spot?

A Hidden Haven with a Harbour View

Rahul and Saurav have taken over The Mariner, an unassuming little pub overlooking the harbour. Upon entering what appears to be a run-of-the-mill pub, you would never guess that upstairs, there’s a piquant paradise of fabulous flavours carefully concealed, waiting to tantalise your taste buds.

A Symphony Of Spice

Head Chef and Owner, Saurav Chakraborty, meticulously crafts each recipe. His keen attention to detail ensures that every dish, with its harmonious blend of spices, elevates beyond the ordinary. Speaking to him about his food, you can sense his passion immediately.

“At The Holy Pundit, dining is not just about satiating hunger,” says Saurav. “It’s a sensory expedition where spices take centre stage, tantalising taste buds and leaving an indelible mark on the palate. It’s a haven for those who seek the perfect marriage of flavours, where every dish is a testament to the art of spice curation.”

Having tasted the food, that’s no overstatement. Every dish we had was a perfect balance of flavours, each mouthful a wonderful experience.

The Wallet Saver Menu

The great thing about The Holy Pundit is, that whilst they serve Indian food at its finest, it doesn’t have to cost the earth. The Wallet Saver Menu, available Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, was created to make good Indian food affordable. At £32 for 2 people, including an amuse-bouche, starter platter for 2, soup taster, 2 main courses, a side, naan and rice, it’s an absolute bargain.

Amuse Bouche: Lentil Pakora

As there were 4 of us visiting The Holy Pundit this time, we ordered 2 Wallet Saver menus. Our amuse bouche of Lentil Pakora arrived, one for each of us, and it was certainly an excellent start. Lentil pakora is a street food and appetiser commonly found in Indian cuisine that combines mashed lentils like Moong, Masoor, Chana Dal with a mixture of spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside and served with a combination of fragrant sauces that combined perfectly on the palate, they were marvellous little mouthfuls.

Starter Platter For 2

The Starter Platter for 2 includes 4 onion bhaji, 3 Pieces of Kali Mirch Tikka and 2 Kolkata Style Fish fry pieces. Chef Saurav let us in on some of his secrets, giving us an insight into how this is all prepared. “For onion bhaji, imagine thin slices of onions coated with spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, Kashmiri chilli, garam masala and lemon juice and then added to chickpea flour batter, and fried until crispy.” When we tasted them, it was like we had never eaten onion bhaji before. Each bite offered a delightful crunch that gave way to a soft, fragrant interior bursting with the savoury sweetness of caramelised onions.

The Kali Mirch Chicken Tikka was beautifully cooked and delicious too. “Tender chicken pieces are marinated,” Chef Saurav told us, “in a blend of yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and a medley of spices – cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. What sets Kali Mirch Chicken Tikka apart is the generous use of freshly ground black peppercorns.” The outer layer of the chicken carried a beautiful char, while inside, the meat remained juicy and infused with the rich amalgamation of spices.

Next on the starter platter were the Kolkata Style Fish Fry pieces. These were like next-level fish fingers, with succulent pieces of marinated fish in a crispy coating. “The marinade consists of a blend of turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin, fresh coriander, ginger-garlic paste, parsley and a hint of mustard oil, lending a distinctive zing to the fish,” Saurav explained. “Then they are coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown.”

Tomato Jaggery Soup

This little soup taster arrived at the table between courses, acting as a kind of palate cleanser of sorts. The jaggery, a natural sweetener used widely in Southeast Asia, gave the soup a nice sweet flavour. “This soup is made with fresh tomato, fresh coriander and a hint of garlic, and boiled till beautifully thick and is served hot and fresh.”

Goan Fish Curry

The first of the main courses on our table was the Goan Fish Curry. The fish was perfectly tender and meaty, soaking up the tangy spice from the smooth sauce. A beautiful dish. Chef Saurav said: “Our Goan Fish Curry is a celebration of coastal flavours, blending a mix of Indian spices like cumin, ajwain, and coriander with influences from Portuguese cuisine, reflecting the cultural tapestry of Goa. It is cooked with huge King Fish steaks and boiled in coconut milk tempered with curry leaves.”

Murgh Makhani

Often referred to as Butter Chicken and often compared to Chicken Tikka Masala, Murgh Makhani is the traditional dish originating in Delhi. This is one of the signature dishes at The Holy Pundit, and their version has a deliciously rich and flavourful sauce, with a smoky quality to the chicken. “To create our Murgh Makhani, boneless chicken pieces are marinated in a blend of yoghurt, lemon juice, and a mix of garam masala, ginger, garlic, and Kashmiri red chilli powder. After marinating, the chicken is cooked in a tandoor, imparting a smoky essence and tenderness that elevates the dish. The hallmark of Murgh Makhani lies in its creamy tomato sauce. The base sauce is prepared by simmering tomatoes, some onions, cashews, and a spice mix of cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and fenugreek seeds. This simmered mixture is then pureed to create a smooth, rich texture.”

Chicken Pahadi Tikka

Chicken Pahadi Tikka is one of the signature starter items of The Holy Pundit, but is also available as a main dish, which is how we enjoyed it. This flavourful tikka is a fusion of tender chicken pieces marinated in vibrant green-hued spices and herbs, and it was just spectacularly good. “The marinade for Chicken Pahadi Tikka is what sets it apart,” said Saurav. “It’s a concoction of fresh green herbs – coriander leaves, mint leaves – green chilies, ginger, garlic, and a touch of yoghurt for creaminess. These ingredients are blended into a smooth paste, resulting in a vibrant green marinade that’s as visually appealing as it is aromatic.” Their Pahadi Tikka stays true to its roots, with the Pahadi region being known for its lush greenery and serene landscapes.

Lamb Madras

It’s always good to try an old favourite in any Indian restaurant for a bit of comparison, and to see if they add any special twists to the dish. We went for the Lamb Madras, and it was stunning. You can taste the care and attention that is put into every dish here, and the Madras was no different. Worlds apart from your average curry house Madras, the authenticity shone through in the flavours and spices that permeated every mouthful.

“The spice mix includes coriander, cumin, mustard seeds, fenugreek, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and dried red chilies,” said Saurav, sharing his secrets enthusiastically. “We toast and grind them to create a base that infuses the dish with its distinctive flavour profile. The lamb pieces are cooked low and slow in this fragrant and spicy sauce, allowing the meat to absorb the intense flavours while becoming tender and succulent. Alongside the spices, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger contribute to the sauce, adding depth and richness to the dish.”

Superb Side Dishes

To complement our incredible main dishes, we ordered Mumbai Potato, more commonly called Bombay Potato, and the Pundit Special Dal, a gorgeous curried lentil dish. As you would expect, these were bursting with flavour, and were both outstanding.

Lovely Leftovers For Lunch

With so much delicious food, and the naan bread and rice too, we couldn’t eat it all! So the staff let us take it away with us, and it was an absolute mountain of food to enjoy for lunch the next day. Overall, it was incredible value for money.

When Saurav came out of the kitchen to chat and check everything was ok with our meal, it was to a table of happy faces and satisfied bellies. His grateful, humble demeanour was charming but his passion was evident in the way he spoke to us about the food, and it really shows in the end result.

We think the team have brought something special to Folkestone that the town hasn’t seen before. The Holy Pundit is most definitely the most authentic Indian restaurant in Folkestone, and many people don’t even know it exists!

You can find The Holy Pundit upstairs in The Mariner, 16 The Stade, Folkestone. Visit their website for more details. To book a table or to order takeaway, you can go online or call 01303 627771. Don’t forget to follow @theholypundit on Instagram and like their Facebook Page too!

***EDIT: Sadly, The Holy Pundit, and The Mariner, are now closed for good. You can, however, find Saurav’s amazing food at his new restaurant in Cheriton – Saurav Ki Rasoi.***

The post The Holy Pundit: Seaside Spice & All Things Nice appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

If you were to make a list of the best Sunday Roast in Folkestone, for example, The Langhorne would likely be near the top, if not number one. And the fine dining, small plates menu on offer the rest of the week is phenomenal. So trust me when I say, if you don’t know where it is, it’s worth finding out.

The Langhorne restaurant is located downstairs from Skuba Bar, on the corner of The Leas and Langhorne Gardens.

The Langhorne’s New Autumn / Winter Menu 2023

As a long-time fan of chef Jack Williams’ food, I was excited to come along and taste test his new menu for this Autumn. He has kept his small plates concept, with dishes from The Land, The Sea and The Field. As always, the menu is a smorgasbord of local produce, expertly put together with thoughtful and interesting flavour combinations.

As we sipped our drinks and nibbled on our Toasted Docker Sourdough with whipped butter, it wasn’t long before our “From The Land” dishes arrived. We dove straight into the Lamb Cannon, which was irresistibly pink all the way through. This lean cut of meat from the loin of the lamb was melt-in-the-mouth tender. Placed atop a gorgeous potato terrine and smothered in buttered broad beans and peas, there was plenty to go around. The addition of crumbled local goats cheese from Ellie’s Dairy is a nice touch, and works nicely with the mint jus. We were both big fans of this dish.

Another favourite was this delicious dish of duck done two ways. A beautifully cooked, tender duck breast was paired with two crisp croquettes with a duck leg filling, a silky carrot puree, sorrel and a blackberry jus – a perfect plate of textures and flavours. I could eat this again and again, it was just spectacular.

This “From The Field” beetroot dish came out of the kitchen next, perfectly timed to freshen the palate. Buratta is an interesting cheese, much like mozzarella. In fact, it’s made into dumpling shapes that are filled with strips of mozzarella, giving it a fabulous texture. It works wonderfully with the earthy beetroot and the mild anise undertone of the lovage. Highly recommended.

I was intrigued to try this combination to see how well the Nduja paired with the cod. Nduja is a spicy spreadable sausage made from cured meats and red chillies. I’ve had it in a sauce with pasta in Naples, but never with fish. This Nduja cream worked tremendously well with the cod, with just the right amount of spicy kick – we really enjoyed this one. With the fancy potato galette on the top, it was like posh fish and chips with curry sauce, but much, much better!

After the spice from the Nduja cream, this refreshing dessert was a fabulous end to the meal. Layers of filo pastry, pineapple slices and coconut-covered mango sorbet popped with flavour, and we were wiping the plate clean with our fingers at the end of it. Delicious!

Another great selection of Kentish Fare

This new menu from chef Jack is yet another home run. It takes a lot of thought and consideration to put together a menu of such elegance, that has something for everyone, with all the produce being locally sourced in Kent. Jack came out of the kitchen to speak with us about the food, and it’s clear to see how passionate he is about what he does, and it shines through in the end result.

This is the second time we have written about The Langhorne, (read our first article here) and there’s only so many ways to say how good it is. But we really can’t say it enough, and it remains our favourite place to eat in Folkestone.

To book a table at The Langhorne, call 01303 251444

Follow The Langhorne on Instagram @thelanghorne
Follow Jack Williams on Instagram @chefjackwilliams

The post The Langhorne’s Exciting Menu For Autumn/Winter 2023 appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Folkestone does not disappoint when it comes to places to go for breakfast, but if it’s a view you’re after, the town has a couple of absolute gems nestled up on the top of the cliffs.

Little Switzerland

This cute little spot is a caravan park and campsite café open to residents and the public. Ok, it doesn’t sound great on paper, but it has some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find in Folkestone.

Located a little out of town up on Wear Bay Road, it’s reachable by car in a few minutes or if you fancy a scenic walk, you can get there in around half an hour from the harbour.

Serving all your classic breakfast options, this traditional little café reminds me of simpler times on caravan holidays as a child, with its no-fuss, no-frills approach. It seems as though you enter a time warp when you visit Little Switzerland, but that’s part of the charm.

It even has a small bar, and it’s a fabulous spot to enjoy a cool, crisp pint of lager looking out from the clifftops over the Warren and out to sea.

My Full English Breakfast and a cup of tea was less than a tenner, so it’s one of the few places to eat in Folkestone where you don’t pay a premium for a good view.

The Clifftop Café

This popular breakfast and lunch spot is a little further afield on the clifftops of Capel-Le-Ferne, but it’s worth the trip out. It’s less than ten minutes by car or, for those who like a hike, you can get there on foot in an hour and ten minutes, and the panoramic views are unrivalled.

While you’re filling your belly with a delicious breakfast, you can look straight out over The English Channel to France, glance left to the White Cliffs and look over to the right to see the Warren Country Park and Folkestone Harbour in all it’s glory.

It’s a stunning place for a spot of breakfast or lunch on a clear day. It also has a small bar they’ve named “The Edge Bar”, serving beers, ciders, cocktails and ice-creams. Perfect on a sunny day!

Capel-Le-Ferne does have it’s own micro-climate however, so you might find yourself shrouded with sea mist if you’re unfortunate enough to visit on the wrong day.

You should also be aware that The Clifftop Café is cash only, so make sure you’re prepared before you go.

You can find The Clifftop Café on Old Dover Road in Capel-Le-Ferne.

Breakfast In Folkestone

Of course, there are lots of great places for breakfast in Folkestone if you’re not bothered about a stunning view. The Bouverie Tap in the West End comes highly recommended, along with Gourmet Kitchen for some fabulous breakfast and brunch.

In town, Django’s On The Corner is a must-visit. Or another cracker next door is The Market Square. If you fancy a good old-fashioned greasy spoon, The Hillside Café is the go-to place.

Marleys on The Old High Street is a belter for brekkie and brunch. Further down to The Harbour, Sailbox can offer you a great view over the water, the next best thing to a clifftop view.

The post Folkestone Breakfast With Stunning Views: Little Switzerland & Clifftop Cafe appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

A breathtaking view

As the sun began its slow descent towards the horizon, its warm glow painted the sky in strokes of gold and pink, bathing the White Cliffs in intense orange hues. The salty breeze carried whispers of the sea as the waves lapped against the harbour wall and the distant calls of seagulls added a layer of seaside enchantment.

As we took in the breathtaking view, the soft buzz of conversation and laughter, and the clinking of glasses and cutlery gently enveloped us, infused with the tantalising sound of sizzling meats from the open kitchen. The fragrant smell of Argentine cuisine cooking on the traditional charcoal and woodfire grill beckoned the senses.

The evening held the promise of not just a meal, but an experience. So when a perfectly grilled Argentinian steak adorned with a medley of vibrant vegetables was placed before us, and the sunset pink began to give way to fiery reds in the summer sky, we were captivated.

Ok, so I might be romanticising things a little, but the view is spectacular, especially on a warm summer evening. The viewpoint is fabulous from The Harbourside because you can take in Sunny Sands and the White Cliffs on one side, with views of France and The Harbour Arm on the other. Throw in some good Argentinian food and a few glasses of Malbec and you’ve got a thoroughly pleasant evening.

The restaurant itself is constructed entirely from repurposed shipping containers, as are all the units on The Harbourside area of Folkestone Harbour Arm. Inside is a bright, quirky space characterised by a medley of mismatched furniture, with artefacts from Argentina adorning the walls. The vista is superb from the inside, great for those windy days, but if you are to truly appreciate the views, a table outside on a warm evening is unbeatable.

A love letter to Argentinian Cuisine

The menu, a symphony of Argentinian flavours, reads like a love letter to the country’s cuisine. Expect traditional empanadas, chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage) and chimichurri to jump out at you from its pages.

The star of the show, of course, is the steaks. Beef from Argentina is arguably the best in the world, and a full page of the menu is dedicated to explaining exactly where your steak comes from. Argentine cattle graze on nutrient-rich grasses, resulting in meat that is not only exceptionally tender but also imbued with a distinct depth of flavour.

We started with beef empanadas – pockets of pastry filled with beef mince, olives, boiled egg, peppers, onion, raisins and herbs – and they were divine. A crisp golden crust gave way to a flavourful meaty filling, and they were gone within seconds.

This was very good. Provoleta is a provolone-style cheese that is firm and can hold its shape when grilled. Here it is cooked directly on the hot grill and seasoned with chimichurra. Crisp on the outside and gooey soft in the middle, it was a gloriously indulgent starter.

And now for the ultimate showstopper – this absolute meat fest! We are not in the least bit ashamed to admit that we ordered the Mixed Grill for 4 between the two of us. Gluttonous as it seems, I don’t care! It was epic!

The Mixed Grill for 4 comes with a 10oz Prime Sirloin Steak, 10oz Prime Ribeye Steak, 2 Chorizos (Argentine-style sausage) with chimichurri on top, a Morcilla (Argentine black pudding), mixed grilled vegetables and 4 portions of fries.

They had to bring out an extra table to hold the pan full of grilled meat and vegetables, which gives you an idea of the size! The steak was to die for, and I’m salivating as I write this. The bbq grill really imparts a beautiful smokey flavour to the meat, which was perfectly seared on the outside and juicy tender on the inside.

One thing to note – instead of using the global standard for how you would like your steak cooked, i.e. rare, medium-rare, medium, well done etc, at Portenio they have gone with their own scale of doneness, namely “bloody, juicy or cooked”.

In most parts of the world, it is generally accepted that medium-rare is a perfectly cooked steak. In Argentina though, the preferred ideal for a steak is medium. So if you order a “juicy” steak at Portenio, it will be cooked medium. We ordered “juicy” without knowing this, and whilst they were beautiful and gorgeously tender, I have a feeling we would have enjoyed them even more if we ordered them “bloody”, so don’t be put off by the description if you prefer a medium-rare steak.

Whilst the food here is top-notch quality, it’s not cheap. The lowest price steak here is a 10oz Sirloin for £30.95, with a 10oz fillet steak priced at £39.95. Our Mixed Grill for 4 was an eye-watering £98.95, so when you order, make sure you talk to the friendly staff to make sure they know exactly how you want your steak cooked.

We really enjoyed the Argentinian Chorizo sausage topped with chimichurri. This is not to be confused with your more typical Spanish Chorizo sausage. Argentinian Chorizo is much meatier and more delicately seasoned, and the flavours are beautiful. These were butterflied and grilled for a satisfying crispier exterior and perfectly cooked meaty interior.

The Morcilla was deliciously fragrant, very similar to black pudding with a slightly different flavour and texture. With all this meat right in front of us, I could not have been happier.

And not to forget the wonderfully flavoured grilled vegetables – the tender green beans with a satisfying, crisp bite, the sweet and lightly blackened peppers and a huge hunk of seared butternut squash all topped with more chimichurri – it was gorgeous. Along with a mountain of fries, we were glad we arrived hungry!

You would think after that absolute mountain of food that we would refrain from dessert. Whether it was the beautiful sunset, the charming waitress or the need for something sweet after all that meat, I don’t know. But we couldn’t resist ordering a portion of Churros each.

I ordered mine with the traditional Dulce de leche (creamy Argentine caramel), and Mrs FF decided on a chocolate sauce. Both were a sweet cinnamon sensation, and the perfect way to round off a wonderful evening.

We enjoyed some delicious Argentinian Malbec with our steak of course, but we were also tempted by some other national favourites. Quilmes is similar to a German-style pilsner and has a light, refreshing flavour.

Fernet Branca is an Italian herbal liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestif. Mixed with coke, it becomes a popular Argentinian cocktail. It has a menthol and liquorice flavour that brings out the spice in the coke – an interesting concoction that’s well worth a try.

I almost felt sad to leave Portenio, but after all that indulgence we needed a good walk. The picture above was the view we were greeted with as we left, and it reminded us of how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful town.

You can book a table at Portenio via their website or by calling 01303 656065. Don’t forget to follow them on Instagram @portenio_argentine_grill

The post Portenio – Harbourside Heaven For Amazing Argentinian Steak appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

I was incredibly lucky to have had such a fabulous introduction to traditional Italian cuisine from an early age, revelling in the thin-based pizzas and the myriad of different pasta dishes at first, before moving on to more adventurous plates like Seafood Risotto, Gnocchi with Italian Sausage or beautifully tender Veal Steak.

A Sense of Nostalgia

At Bella Pizza & Pasta, I was immediately transported back to those days, a nostalgic feeling I had hoped for on many occasions but had only ever recreated by actually travelling to Italy. Walking through its doors, you’re greeted by a charming, old-fashioned ambience that exudes a timeless appeal. The dated decor may not be cutting-edge, but it’s precisely this vintage charm that lends the restaurant an authentic, cosy atmosphere that’s not always easy to find in today’s modern dining scene.

The ambience here is a beautiful fusion of nostalgia and genuine warmth, encouraging me to slow down and relish each bite. The seasoned waiters in their crisp white aprons are attentive yet unobtrusive, old veterans oozing decades of experience ensuring your every need is met without unnecessary fanfare, all adding to the restaurant’s authenticity and charm.

Traditional, Authentic Italian Food

The food is an absolute delight, showcasing the culinary prowess that comes from generations of dedication to the craft. The presentation of the dishes may not be designed for the perfect Instagram shot, but that’s part of the restaurant’s appeal – zero-fuss, genuine Italian cuisine that focuses on taste rather than aesthetics.

The menu here has been the same for years, and while other eateries may strive to constantly reinvent their offerings, there’s something comforting about finding a restaurant that steadfastly sticks to what it does best.

The mussels were a fantastic start, generously portioned and lusciously full of flavour from that gorgeous Provençale sauce.

The fried whitebait was also a good-sized portion for a starter, and expertly cooked to perfection, setting the tone nicely for what was to come.

We also enjoyed a couple of classic prawn starters. These were King Prawns with garlic, olive oil, dry chilli and parsley – a meaty hit of garlic butter goodness – and an all-time favourite of mine from back in the day, Avocado with Prawns.

Whilst the vast selection of pizza and pasta dishes on offer did look tempting, we opted for something different to the restaurant’s namesake. The second page of the menu held delights such as classic Italian Steak, Veal, Chicken and Fish dishes.

We went for Pollo Alla Contadina – strips of chicken cooked in olive oil, mushrooms, white wine, Marsala and tomato sauce, served on a bed of rice, which was rich and flavourful.

The charcoal-grilled fillet of beef was as tender as you’ll get anywhere. I often find steak reveals a lot about a restaurant and its chef, serving as a benchmark dish. Here, the steak was sublime and definitely worth the visit for this alone. The veal, cooked with white wine, asparagus and cream, was a succulent masterpiece, tenderly cooked to melt-in-the-mouth perfection. Paired with sides of seasonal vegetables and fries, these dishes made for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Disappointingly, despite hankering for one of the desserts from the trolley (I especially fancied the Tiramisu), we couldn’t have eaten another bite – next time I will make sure I save some room.

Find Bella Pizza & Pasta at 124 Sandgate Road (not to be confused with Bella Vita on The Old High Street). Call 01303 210225 to book a table.

The post Bella Pizza & Pasta – Timeless Italian Charm appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

And if you want a meal with a view in Folkestone, there is no place better than Rocksalt. Nestled in pride of place on the harbour wall, the panoramic views are unrivalled in the town and it makes for a wonderful experience.

Once the jewel in the crown of Folkestone, the Rocksalt Group’s flagship restaurant has seen some turbulent times recently. 2021 saw the departure of celebrity head chef and owner Mark Sargeant due to “unresolvable differences of opinion” with business partner and co-founder Josh De Haan. More recently, Rocksalt has lost its coveted spot in the 2023 edition of the Michelin Guide.

So, after more than a decade of success, has Rocksalt fallen from grace or are the critics too harsh? We thought it was time for a return visit to the once-revered restaurant to see for ourselves if it still lives up to the high standards it once set.

Fine Dining in Folkestone

For many, a visit to Rocksalt is saved for those special occasions when you really want to treat yourself. As one of Folkestone’s high-end restaurants, a three-course meal with wine is likely to cost anything from £75 per head upwards. Main dishes hover around the £30-£35 mark once you’ve added the necessary sides. Luckily, we were celebrating our anniversary, so we had a good excuse to freely indulge in the delights on offer.

We visited on a temperate Friday evening in June, and the restaurant was teeming with diners. Nonetheless, we were shown to our table within minutes. Walking into the restaurant you can’t help but be amazed at the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows looking out across the harbour. We sat inside on this occasion, but on those warm, summer days, the outdoor terrace is a beautiful place to be.

The first of our starters was the Hastings Smoked Haddock Fishcake. Its crispy exterior delivered a satisfying crunch, before yielding to reveal the succulence within. The fishcake was thoughtfully accompanied by a delightful curried mayonnaise, perfectly enhancing the flavours and textures of the smoked haddock. A lovely dish to start.

We absolutely had to try the Rye Bay Scallops. For the price of this dish, the portion size was small, but the flavour was massive. The delicate scallops stood up surprisingly well to this taste explosion and were not overpowered by the warm sweetness of the date and tamarind chutney.

We also couldn’t resist having some Folkestone Crab, served relatively unadulterated here with just a smidge of brown crab ketchup, a few slivers of crisp, tart, Granny Smith apple and a slice of toasted sourdough. The crab was deliciously fresh, as you would expect, and we were left wanting more.

For our main courses, despite the fabulous selection of fish on offer, we went for dishes from the butcher section. A perfectly cooked, tender, medium-rare rib-eye adorned our table, well-marbled with a perfect golden brown exterior, with crunchy roscoff onion perched on the top and a classic béarnaise sauce on the side. Mrs FF wouldn’t share much, but I managed to steal a bite or two, and it was gorgeous.

I favoured the locally-sourced Braised Pork Belly and was not disappointed. The pork was melt-in-the-mouth tender, to the point you could eat it with a spoon. Beautifully paired with some grain mustard and cider sauce and a cracking bubble and squeak, it was pretty special, and I too was reluctant to share.

Of course, you absolutely have to order sides to accompany your main here, and Rocksalt offer a delicious selection. We decided to go for Spiced Carrots, Creamed Potatoes, Seasonal Greens and Skin-On-Fries.

On the recommendation of our waitress, I decided to go for the baked cheesecake with passion fruit and mango sorbet. This is a delight, and as good as you’ll get anywhere. Despite being absolutely stuffed from the main course, I did my best to squeeze this in. I managed, because I couldn’t get enough of it. It was the sweetness I needed to round off an exceptional meal.

Mrs FF decided she hadn’t had enough savoury, so she ordered the British Cheese Board. So generously portioned as to require 2 boards, it’s enough to be a sharer. In fact, the staff were kind enough to box up what we couldn’t finish so we could take it home. This beast of a cheese platter came fully loaded with a nutty, hard cheddar, a gooey brie, some creamy goat’s cheese and a wonderfully pungent blue stilton to enjoy with a selection of crackers, grapes, celery and chutney.

Still one of the Best Restaurants in Folkestone

We had a wonderful experience at Rocksalt. Has it lost its charm? Not at all. The view is just as spectacular. The service is just as friendly and attentive. The food is still locally-sourced, expertly prepared, beautifully presented and as tasty as ever. Their commitment to quality has not wavered, and it still thoroughly deserves to be considered one of the best restaurants in Folkestone.

Rooms at Rocksalt

If you want to make a night of it, there are some stunning rooms available at Rocksalt, so you can continue to enjoy the view even after your meal is over. You can book your stay at Rocksalt here.

The post Rocksalt 12 Years On: Is It Still Worth A Visit? appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

There can be no bigger accolade for a pub or restaurant than for us as patrons to choose it as our “local”. More often than not, it’s a choice of preference rather than location. After all, this will be the place where you go to catch up with friends, relax after a long day at work, and enjoy some good food and drink. So it’s not a decision people make lightly and most are willing to forgo the convenience of the nearest pub or restaurant to spend time somewhere they would rather be.

And with so many great options in Folkestone right on our doorstep, we are spoilt for choice. Whether you’re looking for an old-fashioned boozer with a cosy atmosphere, or somewhere modern with craft beers and live music – you’ll be able to find it in Folkestone.

The Lure Of The Local

But what makes us choose to spend our precious time at some places over others? What are the magic ingredients that draw us back time after time? There’s one place in Folkestone that seems to have mastered that recipe for success – The Bouverie Tap.

For me, there’s something about The Bouverie Tap that just feels like home. The regulars are friendly, the staff are fantastic, the atmosphere is just right, and the quirky interior full of war memorabilia, old maps and flags sets it apart from your average pub restaurant. It’s dog-friendly and family-friendly, and there’s always a warm, welcoming vibe to the place.

The Pub / Restaurant Dilemma – A Perfect Balance

But one of the most impressive things about The Bouverie Tap is how it manages to effortlessly shapeshift from pub to restaurant, and vice versa. It’s whatever you want it to be, and that’s no mean feat. All too often, pubs feel the need to separate their dining experience from the bar, which is often to the detriment of the atmosphere.

The Bouverie Tap strikes the perfect balance, as if bar and restaurant exist in a symbiotic relationship, each enhancing the other. Whilst the majority of meals are served in the areas furthest from the bar, you are free to eat and drink at any table, and diners and drinkers intermingle happily.

Whether it’s intentional or a happy accident, it works brilliantly. And that’s why people return time and time again, whether it’s for an after-work pint, a cosy meal, a few drinks at the weekend or a Sunday roast with the family, it’s the perfect place.

Reliably Good Grub

The menu here is classic pub grub done well. The food is always reliably good, and the restaurant’s popularity speaks for itself. With regular weekly specials, Burger Wednesdays, top notch breakfasts and their famous Sunday roasts, there is something for everyone.

Our most recent visit was just after Burns Night, and we couldn’t resist ordering Luke’s Homemade Haggis Sausage Roll to start, a variation on the usual mammoth sausage roll you might find as a regular on the menu. Served with a red onion chutney, it makes a great bar snack – perfect with a pint of Bouverie Pilsner, the Tap’s own label lager.

We also went for a firm favourite of ours, the Salt and Pepper Squid with Sweet Chilli Mayo – classic pub fare and always delicious.

And you can’t get better than the Homemade Meat Pie Of The Day with lashings of gravy, served with mash and peas. We had a beautiful Steak and Ale Pie on our last visit. This is a proper pie, not a meat stew with a puff pastry lid masquerading as a pie like so many pubs insist on serving. The filling is generous, the meat is meltingly tender and the pastry is golden and crisp.

One of the menu highlights is the ever-popular Beer Battered Fish and Chips with Homemade Mushy Peas and Tartare Sauce. Light and crispy beer batter, meaty fish and proper chunky chips – what’s not to like?

Heavenly Highlights And Sumptuous Specials

The ½ KG of Mussels in White Wine, Cream and Garlic, the 8oz Dry-Aged Rump Steak and any of the sizeable and tasty burgers on the menu also come highly recommended.

And it’s often well worth a visit for the specials alone – we have never been disappointed. You can expect anything from Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank to a glorious Bacon-Topped Mac & Cheese or Minted Lamb Burger, and it’s always delicious. Their recent Beef Short-Rib cooked in Krombacher Dark Beer was sublime.

Desserts With A Twist From The Tap

Desserts here are every bit as good as you would expect. You’ll find all the old favourites on the menu, often with a little Bouverie Tap twist. My Cheesecake Of The Day was a homemade Black Cherry and Amaretto Cheesecake – very, very nice.

And the Bouverie’s own Homemade Sticky Toffee Pudding and Custard was a hit with Mrs FF – as good as you’ll find anywhere in Folkestone.

A Sunday Favourite

The Bouverie Tap is well known for its incredible Sunday Roasts. Make sure you book early if you want to grab a table – their roasts are very popular, and for good reason. Even if we don’t make it for a roast dinner, our Sunday afternoon pint is often accompanied by some of the free leftover roasties that are handed around by the staff. Yum!

Nostalgic Nosh

What I love about the food here is you get a real sense of nostalgia, as if you’re sitting down to a home-cooked meal, just like your mum used to make. It’s just good, honest food. We love it, and it makes us return time and time again.

To book a table at The Bouverie Tap, you can call them on 01303 255977 or email info@thebouverietap.co.uk

And don’t forget to follow The Bouverie Tap on Facebook & Instagram

The post The Bouverie Tap – Folkestone’s Favourite Local appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

If you enjoy a good walk, we recommend heading up Wear Bay Road, past the glorious views over The East Cliff and Warren Country Park. Follow the public footpath up the hill, making sure you take in the views of the harbour behind you as you go, and you’ll end up at the perfect place to reward yourself with a drink and some gorgeous, home-cooked food.

Perched right at the top of the hill, The Valiant Sailor offers a welcome respite for those who have managed the walk. But there’s plenty of parking for those who prefer to take the short drive out of town. This cosy country pub is situated 567 feet above sea level in the village of Capel-Le-Ferne, known as the “village in the clouds” due to the frequent, low-lying cloud that rolls in and out, shrouding the village in an eerie fog.

A pub with a playful poltergeist

The pub dates back to 1782, and is steeped in history. They even have their own resident ghost, who they have named Rosie, who likes to hide and throw things at the staff. She is thought to be a child due to her mischievous nature, and they believe she died in the underground cellar which has since been closed. Rumours of smugglers’ tunnels from The Warren to the pub cellar are also rife, so she may have been the victim of an untimely collapse.

Comforting Portion Sizes

The food here really suits the environment. It’s everything you want from a cosy pub, serving high-quality, home-cooked pub grub with comforting-sized portions and a real sense of indulgence. And there’s nothing more indulgent than a starter of Breaded Deep-Fried Camembert. Here, it is served with rosemary, thyme and garlic oil, sourdough toast and onion jam. This was a starter for two, and rightly so. We broke through the crisp breadcrumb casing and lapped up the gooey cheese inside. The sweet, onion jam went beautifully with the creamy camembert, and we devoured the lot. A beautiful start!

And we couldn’t resist the Crispy Salt And Pepper Squid, served with lime aioli. Gorgeously crispy bites of squid went down nicely dipped in the aioli (which I had to remind Mrs FF how to pronounce when she referred to it as areola sauce. No dear, it’s not nipple dip!).

You can’t go wrong with good old-fashioned steak and chips, as long as it’s cooked properly. And this was a perfect medium-rare, exactly how we like it. The Steak Of The Day is served with chunky chips or fries (fries pictured), roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and a choice of sauces.

One of the highlights of our meal was the Pan-Fried Sea Bass. We really enjoyed this dish. The fish was cooked to perfection and was flavoured beautifully with caper butter and caramelised lemon. The crushed new potatoes were a delight, crisped in the pan for a nice bit of crunch. A lovely plate of food.

Sunday Roasts at The Valiant Sailor

The Valiant Sailor does a mean Sunday roast too. It’s worth the short drive in the car, or if you combine it with a picturesque walk, you can make a day of it.

We recommend paying a visit to The Valiant Sailor. To book a table, visit their website or call 01303 250737. And don’t forget to follow them on Instagram.

The post The Valiant Sailor – A Homely (& Haunted) Hilltop Hideaway appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Or perhaps you are searching for somewhere in Folkestone to host your work Christmas party over the festive period. Don’t worry, we’ve got it covered. Here is our roundup of the best places to have Christmas dinner in Folkestone in 2022.

Which is the best restaurant for Christmas dinner in Folkestone?

Folkestone has so many great restaurants, it’s difficult to choose just one. But Christmas dinner is a big deal. You don’t want to be disappointed, so choosing the right place for you and your family is an important decision. And if you’re going to make a fool of yourself at the Christmas work do, you want to at least enjoy the food. So here are our top picks for the festive season.

The new restaurant everyone’s talking about – Brasserie MS

If you are looking to really treat yourself to a fine dining experience this Christmas, why not head over to Mark Sargeant’s new restaurant, Brasserie MS.

Mark Sargeant and the team have been working hard to create a Christmas menu with a difference, mixing a British tradition with a classic French twist.

Throughout the whole of December, Mark and the team will be creating an array of delicious dishes using the best of the festive season’s fantastic ingredients.

Mark, a resident of Folkestone for the last 10 years, said there was nowhere else he’d want to live and has loved every second of watching his dream come to life. The restaurant, described as being comfortably elegant, is designed by Mark himself. Diners can experience art deco features, original black and white prints on the walls, sleek marble table tops, classic French jazz and stunning original walnut parquet floors. The restaurant is thriving as Mark introduces the food of his halcyon days to his hometown, and he is really looking forward to welcoming diners this Christmas as they experience what The Brasserie MS has to offer.

With menus studded with classic French flavours and that unique Mark Sargeant flair, you will find elegant dishes to inspire and delight. Christmas flavours are sprinkled through the menus, with tastes of smoked ham, bronze turkey breast, braised beef, cinnamon and oranges paired with Champagne and cheese. 

“For our first Christmas at The Brasserie MS I’ve chosen a stunning 10 course tasting menu with some real treats” said Mark, “We will be starting off with Champagne and canapés and a selection of dishes that will make this a Christmas feast to remember. I’ve even squeezed in my favourite Montgomery Cheddar as a cheese course and all rounded off with chocolates and macarons.”

Take a sneak peek at the Christmas Menu Here >>

Why not make your festive celebrations even more unique by taking the ‘Chef’s Table’ any time through the festive season. This unique experience includes a tour of the facilities before diners are seated inside the kitchen. The bespoke menu will be served by the chefs themselves, creating a truly special experience that is one of a kind in Kent. Take your seat overlooking the kitchen team hard at work whilst you enjoy the bespoke menu Mark creates for you as his guests.

“I love Christmas and for the first time in about 15 years, I will be back behind the stoves cooking, instead of at home! I really want to make it an occasion for all our guests, as Christmas is a really special time of year for most families, and they are putting this once-in-a-year celebration in my hands. I’ve come up with a festive menu but with a bit of a difference, and one that I hope my customers will love. I also really look forward to being able to interact with all the customers and make this a fun day for both customers and staff. We are looking forward to welcoming you all.”

Celebrate The Brasserie MS’ first Christmas with Mark and the team to experience something truly unique.

To find out more or to reserve a table, please call 01303 761761 or visit https://www.the-brasserie-ms.co.uk/

Christmas Lunch overlooking the harbour at Rocksalt

One of Folkestone’s best-known restaurants is the fabulous Rocksalt. If you want great food and spectacular views, Rocksalt could be for you. Their 7-course Christmas Day Lunch menu includes a choice of Roast Norfolk Turkey, Confit Orchard Belly of Pork or Braised Folkestone Cod.

Whether you are planning your work’s Christmas do, a special family gathering or simply want to take the stress out of Christmas Day then Rocksalt has it covered. To make Christmas Day as special as possible this year, their Executive Chef and Head Chefs have put together a set Christmas Day menu and a delicious Festive Party Menu, which will run from November 24th right up to Christmas Eve.

Call 01303 212070 or visit https://www.rocksaltfolkestone.co.uk to book.

A touch of Christmas class at The Bay Tree Bar & Grill

Enjoy a 6-course feast on Christmas Day at The Bay Tree Bar & Grill, kicking the festivities off with a classic Bellini cocktail and canapés upon arrival and ending with coffee and warm mince pies.

As part of The Burlington Hotel, The Bay Tree can also play host to your Christmas Party celebrations with work or family. They are able to cater to large groups, with exclusive use events or shared party nights. View their flyer here.

To book at The Bay Tree Bar & Grill, call 01303 255301 or visit their website.

A cosy atmosphere with an open fire at The Radnor Arms

A recently renovated Victorian pub in the old Bouverie district of Folkestone, complete with a roaring open fire, The Radnor Arms really is the perfect setting for your work Christmas function or special family occasion. And their festive party menu is available from mid-November until Christmas Eve.

The real highlight however has to be their stunning 6-course Christmas Day menu, designed to make Christmas Day unforgettable for all the family. Make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.

Take a look at the festive menu here >>

To book The Radnor Arms this Christmas, call 01303 254435 or visit https://www.radnorarmsfolkestone.co.uk.

Best For Christmas Work Do’s and Festive Celebrations

If it’s a traditional roast turkey Christmas dinner you’re after for your festive get-togethers and work Christmas Parties, you can’t go wrong with The Bouverie Tap. Well known for their excellent Sunday roasts and warm, welcoming atmosphere, you can be sure to have a perfect Christmas shindig at The Bouverie Tap. Call 01303 255977 to book your celebration.

Another restaurant that is highly rated for its Sunday roasts is The Langhorne (click here to read our article). If you want to treat yourselves to some festive fine dining for Christmas this year, The Langhorne could be for you. Chef Jack Williams is used to serving up one of the best Sunday roasts in Folkestone, so you’ll be in good hands. But this year Jack is offering his own twist on a traditional Roast Turkey. Over the festive period at The Langhorne, you can enjoy Sage & Cranberry Stuffed Turkey Breast wrapped in Smoked Bacon with Fondant Potato, Parsnip Puree, Glazed Brussels & Jus.

Festive Menu at The Langhorne

Starters

– Pumpkin Velouté with Toasted Hazelnuts, Crème Fraîche & Pumkin Seed Oil
– Pan Seared Scallops with Burnt Pear Puree, Black Pudding Croquettes & Perry Compressed Pears
– Guinea Fowl Rillette with Date Gel, Pickled Walnuts & Toasted Docker Sourdough

Mains

– Skate Wing with a Brown Shrimp & Caper Butter with Samphire, Burnt Lemon & Buttered Pink Fir Potatoes
– Sage & Cranberry Stuffed Turkey Breast Wrapped in Smoked Bacon with Fondant Potato, Parsnip Puree, Glazed Brussels & Jus

Desserts

– Homemade Christmas Pudding with Cointreau & Blood Orange Cream
– 70% Dark Chocolate Cremeux with Espresso Mousse, Smashed Blackberries & Milk Ice Cream
– Selection of Kent & British Cheeses with Frozen Grapes, Crackers, Celery & Spiced Fruit Chutney

The Langhorne is now taking bookings for the festive period. To find out more or to reserve a table, please call 01303 251444 or visit https://www.thelanghorne.co.uk.

Christmas Parties on The Beach at Little Rock

If it’s fish that takes your festive fancy, why not book your celebration at Little Rock (read our article on Little Rock here).

Set on the beachside near Folkestone Harbour, celebrate the Christmas season this year with Little Rock’s festive menu. Available Friday to Sunday, get together with family and friends for a fantastic three-course sharing feast. This seaside gem makes a memorable and unique venue for a Christmas party, with private hire available from Monday to Thursday.

To book Little Rock for your Christmas get-together, call 01303 762565 or visit https://www.littlerockfolkestone.co.uk

For a continental style Christmas

Folkestone has plenty to offer. If you want your Christmas party in a more continental style setting, you have lots of choice. The Gourmet Kitchen is available for private hire functions, and Django’s On The Corner can host a Christmas cracker of a party.

Merry Christmas from Folkestone Foodies

Wherever you choose to celebrate Christmas, we hope you can support our local eateries in some way. We know times are tough, but if there is one time of year that you might push the boat out a little, it’s Christmas. We hope you enjoy yourself, whatever you do.

Have a wonderful Christmas, from everyone at Folkestone Foodies.

The post The Best Christmas Dinner in Folkestone in 2022 appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

A frustrating time

Covid has messed with his plans so far, but now he is finally able to get going with his vision for the restaurant. Frustrating as it was for Jack, for the past couple of years The Langhorne has not been able to run full steam ahead. After closing during the pandemic, the restaurant reopened for Sunday roasts in Autumn 2021, and concentrated on lighter food during the summer months of 2022. They have now been open for their famous Sunday roasts again for the past couple of weeks, proving as popular as ever. And for good reason – the roasts are amazing.

The launch of the Autumn / Winter menu 2022

But now, finally, Jack can really showcase his skills with his new fine dining menu. And the man has some serious talent. I’m not exaggerating when I say that we had some of the best food we’ve ever eaten at The Langhorne. And we’ve eaten in a lot of great restaurants, in Folkestone, and around the world. Jack’s food is up there with the best.

From the land, from the sea and from the field

Jack’s new menu has 4 “small plate” options from each of these 3 categories. A brilliant concept that effectively allows you to create your own taster menu. This is exactly how we love to eat, and it just works. We ordered 7 different dishes from the mains, along with a couple of desserts. And don’t be fooled by “small plates”. Not only is each dish rich and full of flavour, the portions are generous enough to share, which is what we did.

Slow-Braised Pork Cheeks

Our first dish was the Slow-Braised Pork Cheeks. Wow! The first mouthful of melt-in-the-mouth meat had us making eye contact across the table with that knowing look – damn this is good. What ensued could only be described as a cacophony of mmmm‘s and oh my god‘s. It was just exquisite. And we were only on the first dish. I was excited. The sweet apple taste of the cider jus with the tender pork was sublime, and the delicate texture of the carrot puree along with the red cabbage worked perfectly. We really, really enjoyed this one.

Seared Scallops with Burnt Pear Puree

This dish is all about the caramelisation. Except that it’s also about the flavours. And the textures. Everything was great! The scallops were seared with a perfect golden crust, and the caramelised sugars in the pear puree gave it that browned appearance and deep flavour. The genius addition of black pudding croquettes gives texture and works very well with the delicate flavour of the scallops. A winner for us.

Kentish Blue Cheesecake

This interesting plate captivated us both. It was like a classic cheeseboard made into a dish. A great concept. Kentish blue cheese is whipped up with cream cheese and folded with cream to produce something really special. This light, mousse-like cheese has all the flavour of a strong blue without the density. Imagine the flavours of blue cheese and pear compote on an oat cracker, washed down with your favourite red wine, and you might be somewhere close. Beautiful.

Pumpkin Velouté with Toasted Hazelnuts

This fabulous dish is a real autumn comfort. The pumpkin and hazelnut are a match made in heaven, with the hazelnut and pumpkin seeds bringing texture to this velvety velouté. Topped off with a dollop of crème fraîche for extra creaminess, it’s beautifully decadent. Jack says the simplicity of this is the key. Unadulterated pumpkin flavour with only a few simple ingredients to make it sing. Amazing.

Pan-Roasted Skate Wing

The skate wing was beautifully cooked. We were picking the bones on this dish, it was divine. The shrimp and caper butter sauce was so good, it’s hard to put into words, but I’ll try. Buttery and flavoursome with the right amount of zing from the capers, really bringing the fish to life. And of course, the samphire and charred lemon were the perfect accompaniment. Definitely recommend this dish, it was glorious.

Rabbit & Pancetta Pie

What could be better than pie, mash and gravy on a cold autumn evening? This was a real belly-filler. The homemade shortcrust pastry encased the beautifully tender rabbit and pancetta filling, and it tasted heavenly. Perfect with the wholegrain mustard mash and buttered black cabbage. All smothered in gravy, we devoured it all. At this point, we were a little in awe of Jack. The home runs kept on coming. Was there nothing he couldn’t do?

Venison Loin

God this was good. I’m actually salivating whilst I write. The gorgeously rare venison loin was soft and tender, perfectly punctuated by the pickled blackberries. The pink fir apple potatoes, a heritage variety, done Hasselback for added texture, were superb. We loved the flavour of the caramelised cauliflower puree. I thought this was a showstopper dish, one not to miss when you visit.

Popcorn Panna Cotta

The Popcorn Panna Cotta is one of Jack’s real triumphs. I wish more chefs would make panna cotta more interesting. This is a banana panna cotta, topped with glazed banana pieces, toasted miso marshmallow and popcorn. The miso marshmallow is a great touch, adding a little extra interest to the dish. And the popcorn adds some texture to the mix. A cracking dessert.

70% Chocolate Cremeaux

The Chocolate Cremeaux was luxuriously rich and right up my street. The espresso mousse is a delicious touch of genius, and the smashed blackberries add freshness to this decadent dessert. I tried not to share this one, but Mrs FF was having none of that idea.

A Terrifically Talented Team

The service here is spot on, something that not every restaurant gets right. We ordered our main dishes at the start, all in one go. Everything is cooked fresh and is brought out when it’s ready. But it was perfectly executed, and they made sure we had dishes from the land, the sea and the field that went together. It was all so well thought out, and we were really impressed by the whole evening.

We were even lucky enough to meet chef Dan, who came out to chat after working so hard in the kitchen. It was an absolute joy to eat here and we could not fault anything. From the food to the decor, even down to the music playing softly in the background, Jack has thought of everything.

All locally sourced produce

As you would expect from a restaurant like this, all the produce comes from local suppliers here in Kent, which is great to see.

Where is The Langhorne?

It isn’t obvious where The Langhorne is located. You will find the restaurant below The Portland Hotel. Access to the restaurant is via The Skuba Bar. It’s as if you only know if you know, and it has a vibe of exclusivity to it. When you are accompanied down the stairs into the restaurant by a member of the team, it’s like you’re being let into a little secret.

This article was written in 2022. See our thoughts on Jack’s new Autumn / Winter 2023 menu here.

To book a table at The Langhorne, call 01303 251444

Follow The Langhorne on Instagram @thelanghorne
Follow Jack Williams on Instagram @chefjackwilliams

The post The Langhorne – Our New Favourite Restaurant appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Django’s has spanned three decades

We spoke to Dean, who has owned Django’s since 2000 with his wife Angie. In the last 22 years, a lot has changed in the town, and Dean has seen it all. “When we first opened, there was nothing else around. This part of town was almost derelict. We actually first started Django’s as a tea room with some business partners, but when they decided after a few months that it wasn’t for them, we changed to a café bistro. I’m a chef, so it made a lot more sense.”

And if you ever wondered where the name Django’s actually came from, the café happens to be named after the Romani-French jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, whose image adorns the window above the entrance.

A European influence

If you visit Django’s, and you certainly should, you will see Jägerschnitzel on the menu. This cheese and herb crusted pork loin escalope, topped with a creamy garlic and chive mushroom sauce, is a nod to Dean’s early years spent in Germany training as a chef. And, of course, the Moules Frites with a Django twist is another European style dish. Here, the mussels are cooked with garlic and white wine, chorizo, asparagus, scallions and tomatoes.

Though Dean has taken a step back from working as the chef at Django’s due to his health, he still makes the decisions about what goes on the menu, including the range of drinks that they serve. While we chatted in the afternoon sunshine, he offered us a few glasses of his new find, a French brut cider from Normandy called Sassy L’Inimitable Cidre. This full-bodied, sparkling tipple was delicious. Not too dry, not too sweet and at a pleasant 5.2%, it will be a great addition to the menu.

A lavish lunch

After a couple of glasses, our lunch arrived, and we were very impressed. Exclusive to Django’s is the Gambas Rojas. These are colossal Argentinian wild red king prawns with herbed garlic butter, served with spiced couscous, side salad and garlic and rosemary ciabatta. “Colossal” refers to the size category of the prawn. They are classed as colossal when they are under 15 prawns per pound of weight, meaning they are absolutely huge.

And they were meaty and delicious, cooked to perfection and flavoured beautifully. All placed atop a generous portion of gently spiced, roasted vegetable couscous. The herbed garlic butter was to die for. This is the butter the prawns are cooked in, containing all those wonderful juices and flavours. It’s served in a ramekin for dipping rather than poured over the dish. But you can’t help spooning some over the couscous too. Pure butter-soaked gorgeousness. Highly recommended.

Homemade and heavenly

The homemade chilli beef and bean bowl was served with soured cream, guacamole, a ramekin (we asked for extra and got a huge bowl!) of three cheeses and charred garlic French bread. Dean recommended adding melted mozzarella and chilli flakes to the garlic bread, which the chef did for us, and it was fabulous. And the chilli beef itself was particularly good. It was a deeply flavoured, generous portion with the perfect balance of beef and beans. A hearty lunch indeed.

A great place for breakfast too

Django’s also serves a great selection of breakfast dishes. These include some unique twists on some classic dishes, such as Tuscan Beans On Toast and Django’s own interpretation of Omelette Arnold Bennett. For those with a larger appetite, there’s Django’s Colossal Breakfast, a full English that’s not for the faint-hearted.

It’s bigger than you think

Django’s has a great outdoor space to dine in the sunshine in the morning and through to the mid-afternoon. And, along with the indoor space, there is a downstairs area that’s not easy to spot at first glance. You might think that all the tables are full when you peer through the windows, but it’s worth asking if they have a table free downstairs. Because, whilst a lot of restaurants treat these areas as last resort, overflow tables, that’s not true for Django’s. The basement is a beautiful space, with a quirky, continental charm, and a delightful place to be. There’s absolutely no need to feel disappointed about dining downstairs.

Django’s On The Corner

If you’re a resident of Folkestone, you’ll know Django’s. It’s that one on the corner at the bottom of the high street. Having repeated so many times to those who asked, that Django’s Café and Petit Bistro was “that one on the corner,” Dean has decided to rename his eatery Django’s On The Corner. If you want to pay a visit, it’s advisable to book, as it’s a popular spot. We love it here, for breakfast and for lunch. And if Dean’s plans work out, Django’s On The Corner might soon become your new favourite evening spot too. You heard it here first.

To book a table, call Django’s On The Corner on 01303 256556
Follow Django’s on Facebook.

The post Django’s On The Corner – The “Colossal” Corner Café appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

Neuron: Smart Wellness Made Easy

Dr. Julia Jones, a.k.a. Dr. Rock, is the author of Neuron: Smart Wellness Made Easy. The book entered the Amazon Bestseller list after she appeared on Steph McGovern’s Channel 4 show, Steph’s Packed Lunch. In the book, Julia draws attention to the shortcomings of previous diet and fitness approaches. She then details how her 12-month experiment, using only simple bio-hacking techniques, transformed her health. Julia is in her fifties, but used these techniques to return to the same weight she was in her twenties.

The first book in her Smart Wellness Health Trilogy is titled The Music Diet. In it, she explains how to use music as a bio-hack for wellness. Her latest book, F-Bomb, was released in 2022. It charts 6 million years of health evolution and simplifies the latest longevity science to show how we can live longer and healthier lives.

Julia has a deep connection to Folkestone and the surrounding areas. She first moved to Folkestone in 1993 and has been involved in various projects, including setting up the Hythe Imperial health club, which was pivotal in the hotel’s success. She also launched the Folkestone Music Town project back in 2017, leading to Folkestone being announced as the first official music town in Britain in 2019.

Neuron: A space for the community

Julia hosts regular events and educational talks at Neuron. Be sure to visit the Neuron website to sign up for the newsletter and follow Neuron on social media to keep up to date on these. Aside from this, the bar is a space for anyone to come along to hang out and relax. It has various designated areas, each relating to one or more of the Smart Wellness Wheel techniques Julia teaches in her books and courses.

Board games, books and musical instruments are dotted around the space for people to use. And there are dedicated work spaces with free WiFi and a standing desk for when you are working from home and need a change of scenery.

The bar

Neuron serves a selection of live bacteria drinks. These improve gut health by repopulating your digestive system with a diverse range of bacteria species. According to Julia, our modern lifestyle and processed food culture have wreaked havoc inside us and our gut bacteria have suffered as a result. At Neuron, you can enjoy live bacteria Kombucha in all different flavours, even CBD infused. I had a Coconut Water Kefir which was delicious. There are vegetable juices, including sauerkraut and kimchi, and things like turmeric or ginger shots to boost immunity.

Neuron is also working in partnership with local veggie restaurant Dr Legumes, to provide a range of “Smart Sushi”.

A room for smart meditation

If meditation is your thing, Neuron is where you need to go to take it up a level. Here, they use smart technology to boost the effectiveness of your meditation. You are provided with a BrainTap Headset that plays a guided meditation. The headset uses light pulses and sound to deepen your meditative state. Over time, you can train your brain to reduce stress, get better sleep and increase performance. Your heart rate variability is also monitored in real time, indicating how your nervous system is responding.

Carol, the A.I. exercise bike

At Neuron, you can even get in your workout for the day. Carol, the A.I. exercise bike is a next generation fitness machine, and it blew my mind. After entering your vitals, Carol talks you through some guided imagery as you slowly pedal, mimicking a relaxing walk through a prehistoric jungle. She has you breathe in a specific pattern to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the “rest and digest” mode.

After a few minutes, a sabre-toothed tiger is on your tail, and 20 seconds of ultra high intensity sprint cycling ensues to escape from it. This activates your “fight or flight” sympathetic nervous system, initiating a cascade of hormonal responses. It mirrors how our prehistoric ancestors used their bodies, as opposed to the more unnatural forms of exercises we have today.

The upshot of this is that after a couple of 20 second bursts, and the guided breathwork in between, you have put your body through the equivalent of a moderate intensity, 45 minute cycle. I can vouch for its effectiveness. I had to lay on the floor for an embarrassing length of time to recover.

Carol monitors your heart rate throughout, and you can see how you did on the results screen. Regulars who sign up to a Neuron Membership can use a login to track their progress over time.

Tests for gut health and biological age

If you want to know more about the state of your health, Neuron offers a test for gut health, which shows you your current gut function status. The report also gives you some simple suggestions showing how to improve and maintain it. You can also purchase a test that reveals your biological age including the age of your immune system. Test kits are available at Neuron and on the Neuron website.

Looking after your health

Whilst we at Folkestone Foodies mainly focus our attention on good food and drink in the town, there is most definitely a place for Neuron too. Anyone who wants to eat out regularly and enjoy life also needs to look after their health. It’s great to indulge now and then, but balancing it out with healthy habits can make all the difference. So having a place like Neuron on your doorstep can only be a good thing.

Interested in learning more? You can purchase Julia’s books here:

The Music Diet: The Rock & Roll Route To A Healthier, Longer Life
Neuron: Smart Wellness Made Easy
F-Bomb: Longevity Made Easy

The post This Bar In Folkestone Serves Live Bacteria & Tests Your Poo appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

We sent the email to book our table, and received a response straight away to confirm the booking. Then, on the day, an email arrived in our inbox with the secret password, along with instructions on how to enter the bar. It was all very cloak and dagger.

But of course, there’s nothing illegal going on here. This bar is inspired by the speakeasy bars from the Prohibition era in 1920s America, when alcohol was made illegal. These were private, unlicensed barrooms, nicknamed ‘speakeasies’, so called because of the bartenders’ requests for the patrons to ‘speak easy’ (speak quietly) inside the venue, so as not to draw any unnecessary attention to it. The illicit bars ranged from fancy clubs with jazz bands and ballroom dance floors, to dingy backroom basements and rooms in the back of general stores and inside apartments. A password would be given to you to gain entry, which would be quietly spoken so as not to be overheard by law enforcement.

The secret location

If you wanted to find out where this fantastic little Folkestone venue is hidden, you would have to look in the most unexpected of places. If you happen to wander past the antiques shop called The Potting Shed on Rendezvous Street after hours, you might notice the occasional group of people ringing the doorbell, despite the closed sign that’s clearly on display. Just saying.

We were greeted at the front door by our waitress, dressed in her 1920s attire, with an inquisitive look on her face, wondering why we were ringing her doorbell. But when we spoke the password, her face broke into a wry smile. With a surreptitious glance out on to the street, she ushered us inside. It was all part of the theatre of this wonderful idea, and it really adds to the experience.

Classic cocktails from the period

The bar itself has a cosy, intimate feel, with a dim pool of light cast from each table lamp, and obviously, no windows. You really feel like you have stepped into a different world. They have done a great job of creating just the right atmosphere. The bar is full table service, and you can peruse the cocktail menu full of classic concoctions from the 1920s and 30s, whilst you nibble on the complimentary nuts. And the aromas of fresh citrus and all sorts of other wonderful scents that drift over from the bar are simply glorious.

We decided to try a wide selection of drinks from the menu, and they were all delicious. The Old Fashioned cocktails were especially good. Traditionally a whiskey drink, mixed with sugar and bitters, the brandy Old Fashioned was Remy Martin v.s.o.p., Maraschino Liqueur, Maraschino, Juice and Cherry Bitters. Mixed perfectly, it was sour and sweet, and the flavour of cherry balanced beautifully with the hit of brandy.

An intimate, unique environment

This is a place for a quiet drink. The house rules emblazoned on the wall state that you must not disturb the other guests, you must enter quietly and leave silently. And there are a host of other rules, all in keeping with the spirit of the speakeasy. It is not a party bar. It’s a place to enjoy a well mixed drink in an intimate, unique environment. The sound of low-level chatter and the jazz music emanating from the speakers fills the space. When you sip your cocktail and take in your surroundings, you are transported back to a simpler time, and it’s wonderful.

A moment of inspiration

This fantastic idea is the brainchild of owner, David Holden. David moved to Folkestone from London, opening The Potting Shed in the spring of 2019. He told us his story, and how the idea came about for the speakeasy.

“My background is in men’s fashion, which I worked in for 25 years,” recalls David. “When I moved to Folkestone, I was still commuting to London to work for a menswear brand. I’d had the idea of opening an interiors shop down here but I knew it wouldn’t make much money. Then, one day I was up in Birmingham doing some training for my menswear job, at a shop called The Liquor Store. The shop is set out over two levels and you go downstairs and it’s all racked out in clothes as you would expect to see in a shop. And then they’ve got three hooks on the wall, where you’d hang your jacket, and you pull the middle hook and a little door opens, and you go through into a speakeasy.”

And that was the moment of inspiration that David was looking for. “I thought, that’s it! That was the lightbulb moment. That can be the second string to the bow.”

The perfect location

When David found the unit that eventually became his shop, he realised that the layout lent itself perfectly to having a secret bar at the back. “It’s quite big at the front, and quite big at the back and then it naturally narrows in the middle. And because I’d already thought of the name for the business, The Potting Shed, I thought – genius idea, I’ll build a shed in the middle of the shop, and that can be the secret entrance through to the cocktail bar!”

The birth of the cocktail

David has never worked in a bar before, so I wondered how he learned to mix such fabulous tasting cocktails. “I wanted to do a proper speakeasy. So I wanted classic cocktails from the prohibition era from 1920 to 1933. I started researching into it all, and it’s fascinating when you delve into it. Alcohol was banned in the states during that time, so people had to bootleg it. They used to make it at home, hence bathtub Gin – that’s where that name came from. And so it tasted disgusting, and they started mixing it with things to take the taste away, hence the birth of the cocktail. I wanted the drinks to be as true to that period of time as I could. I found a mixologist down here, and together we came up with a drinks list of classic cocktails from that period of time. And he taught me, essentially. I’ve got it all in my head now, but there’s so much to learn, it’s ongoing really. It’s about educating your palate to know how the drinks should taste, which takes time.”

And there’s more

And if that wasn’t enough for David, there’s even more to add to the list of creative ideas, with TPS Overnight. “Yeah, we’ve got the overnight, which was a lockdown project. I used to travel to Paris during fashion week. At one of the shows that we used to go to, there was a food wagon outside, and it was one of these old Citroen vans, the corrugated iron ones that you see. I had this idea that it would make a great Airbnb. During the first lockdown, I said to my girlfriend about getting one of these Citroen vans. She said, “Yeah, I don’t really think you ought to spend your money on that!” I said, “oh, well I’ve seen one on eBay, so I’ll just put a like cheeky little bid in, I won’t get it.”

But it turned out David won the van. A friend fitted it out for him whilst he set about landscaping his garden and installing a toilet and shower block. It’s now available for a unique overnight stay. Perfect after a night of cocktails at the speakeasy.

We highly recommend you book a visit to the bar. It’s a unique experience right here in Folkestone, and the cocktails are delicious. To book a table, email David at info@tpsfolkestone.com, or call him on 07967 006 696

Follow The Speakeasy @tps_speakeasy, The Interiors Shop @tpsfolkestone, and The Overnight @tps_overnight on Instagram. And be sure to visit tpsfolkestone.com too.

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They have a great menu, including burritos, burrito bowls, nachos and quesadillas, along with oodles of side portions of deliciousness, such as pulled pork, coriander lime rice, refried beans and homemade guacamole. They also have a fully stocked bar and plenty of beers on tap. Perfect for a sunny afternoon on The Harbour Arm.

I decided to go for the Big Buoy Carnita Burrito. It was huge! What an absolute feast. It almost defeated me, but I just about managed it! This huge tortilla wrap was stuffed full of succulent pulled pork, refried pinto beans, lime and coriander rice, cheese, sour cream, salsa, pickled jalapeños, black olives, salad and garnish. I chose an additional salsa verde to drizzle over it too. The flavours were incredible – a real taste of Mexico in every bite, with a spicy kick that’s just right.

I washed it down with an ice cold pint of Yeastie Boys Bigmouth IPA. With beautiful views across the harbour, out to Dover and all the way to France, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon.

Follow Burrito Buoy on Instagram – @burrito_buoy

The post Burrito Buoy – Mexican Spice And All Things Nice appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

After a long wait, Cocomee finally opened in July 2021. To open at the tail end of a pandemic, and have your first month or so affected by staff having to self-isolate would not have been the dream start for them. But they have let the food speak for itself, and I have seen the restaurant become more and more popular as their reputation spreads. This happens to be the closest restaurant to where I live in Folkestone, so I walk past frequently, tempted by the delicious smells wafting from the kitchen. Craning my neck to look in, it never seemed very busy. But I was being deceived. It wasn’t until I actually came for a meal that I remembered how huge the space was. The number of covers that might have filled other restaurants to capacity left Cocomee with plenty of empty tables. But not for long. If you plan to come to Cocomee these days, I would recommend booking. The word is out.

Food of an Asian persuasion

I can’t overstate how good the food is here. It isn’t just the fact that the menu is diverse, and allows you to sample cuisines you rarely see elsewhere. It is the taste and the quality that stand out. And the authenticity really shines through. The family that run the restaurant are Malaysian-Chinese, but have also taken influence from countries throughout South-East Asia, using cooking techniques inspired by Indonesian and Thai cuisine to create unique dishes.

Japan, Korea and China in one course

We started with a Japanese street food classic of Takoyaki – deep fried octopus balls topped with katsuobishi bonito flakes, Kewpie mayonnaise, and tonkatsu brown sauce. An explosion of flavour. I could eat these all day.

The Korean Fried Chicken Wings, known in Korea as Dakgangjeong, were a sweet, sticky delight. Double-fried for crunch, and coated in a sweet soya garlic glaze, they were finger-lickin’ good.

The Duck Bao was soft and fluffy, perfect with the moist, sweet duck meat. And of course, we had to try their Dim Sum. We chose the prawn. So good, we almost ordered more. But we knew what else was to come.

The showstopper from the starters was the intriguingly named ‘Dragon Whisker’ Prawns. These are king prawns decorated in a finely shredded pastry, served with a mango sauce. A great mix of texture and flavour, they look great and taste amazing.

A feast from the East

The choice of main courses is astounding. We have been a few times and still have more to try. This time we went for the Kakuni Pork Belly, Kung Pao Chicken and Seafood XO Sauce Fried Rice. The pork belly was rich and tender, slowly braised in soya sauce and stout according to a Japanese recipe from Kyushu. It melted in the mouth, with a sweet/savoury balance and the kick of the mustard sauce.

The Kung Pao Chicken was utterly moreish, stir-fried with ginger, garlic, mild chilli and a sweet sauce. The chefs here have added their own Malaysian twist to this Sichuan Chinese dish with the use of lemongrass.

We ordered the Seafood XO Sauce Fried Rice to go with our mains, but this is a main in itself. The rice is stir fried with marinated king prawns and scallops, and topped with tobiko flying fish roe. It’s served with Cocomee’s home made XO sauce, a highly prized, mildly spicy seafood condiment in the Far East, consisting of an umami rich combination of dried scallop, shrimp, cured ham and aromatics. We couldn’t eat it all, but absolutely had to take it home. Phenomenally good.

A Small Spend in Folkestone’s West End

Have I mentioned the food at Cocomee is amazing? It’s consistently good every time we visit, with exceptional service and a warm, friendly welcome. Service charge is not included in the bill, so do leave a tip if you think they deserve it, which you certainly will. The prices are very reasonable too (one reason why we tend to over order when we come here), so you won’t begrudge a generous tip. Cocomee is most definitely a welcome addition to the Folkestone food lineup, and we look forward to plenty more visits in the future.

Visit their website at cocomee.co.uk to book, or call 01303 248880.

Follow Cocomee on Instagram: @cocomeerestaurant

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But it occurred to me just how lucky we are to have places like this right on our doorstep. As I nibbled on the delightful homemade bread, freshly baked by the chef earlier that day, listening to the music gently playing on the vinyl deck, my mind slipped into a daydream montage of past meals we’ve enjoyed in Folkestone, each as incredible as the next, resulting in my partner looking at me, puzzled at my vacant expression and mild drooling. And it was only when our fabulous host, Polly, came over to talk to us about the wine, that I was able to pull myself firmly back into the present.

The perfect glass

Based on our choice of food, she recommended a beautiful French rosé from the Fronton region – Plaisance Penavayre, Le Rosé. All the wines have been carefully curated by the team here, and this one was a gem. As a bottle, it paired perfectly with the range of food we ordered. Of course, there is a wine for every dish on the menu, so if you want the perfect glass to go with each course, you can do that, and the front of house staff will advise what would work best. 

A concise menu

The menu here is changed frequently, based on what’s good locally that day. And it’s reassuringly small, offering only two mains – usually one meat and one fish (vegetarians and vegans can advise the restaurant in advance and the chef will create dishes for that evening). There are usually a few starters and a couple of desserts on offer too, along with a fantastic cheese board and nibbles like the homemade bread and butter or Gordal Olives.

We chose the Brown Crab Risotto and Sevenscore Asparagus to start. The risotto was sublime, full of intense flavour, creamy and perfectly cooked. The asparagus was also beautifully cooked, with a perfectly emulsified hollandaise sauce – a heavenly match.

I was particularly excited to try the duck breast, sourced from Longland Farm in Elham, near Canterbury, with blackcurrant and geranium. I was certainly not disappointed. You can taste the quality in the duck, crisp skin, firm meat, tender and pink, atop a bed of wilted spinach, and the excellent pairing with the sweet tartness of the blackcurrant worked wonderfully.

The Local Seabass Fillet was the perfect texture, again, lazily resting on a bed of wilted spinach, bathed in intense lobster bisque, and complemented with the flavour of sliced fennel. Absolutely divine.

We ordered the Charlotte Potatoes to go with our meals, the crisp, buttery skin breaking to reveal the soft, fluffy interior. It’s not often you rave about a side dish, but these deserve equal acclaim.

Desserts included the decadent Chocolate Marquise served with raspberries and Ottinge Court cream, which was rich and fabulous, and a plate of fine cheeses, including a two-year-old Gouda, Cashel Blue, Tunworth and Golden Cross served with quince jelly, a beautiful end to the meal.

It works brilliantly

With only Head Chef David Hart in the kitchen, the menu is well designed to allow for efficient use of the fresh local produce from that day’s haul, and it works brilliantly. And if you are thinking that a restaurant such as this is likely to be expensive, you will be pleasantly surprised. For the quality of the meal, the prices were very reasonable indeed. We were certainly impressed with the Folkestone Wine Company experience, and we can’t wait to return time and again to sample what new, seasonal delights the chef has come up with, or just pop in for a quality glass of wine.

Follow The Folkestone Wine Company on Instagram @thefolkestonewinecompany.
Visit their website at folkestonewine.com.
Book a table via email – info@folkestonewine.com or call 01303249952

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Just thinking about one of these huge burgers can get your juices going. These are certainly not junk food however – they are a cut above your average burger, using quality bacon and beef that’s cooked to a juicy, pink perfection, one bite and you’ll be in a cheesy, meaty heaven. This Bacon Double Cheeseburger is made with two aged beef patties, applewood smoked bacon, that beautifully melted American cheese, ketchup, mustard, onions and pickles.

Expect to get messy! The cheese oozes it’s gooey gorgeousness everywhere. I ended up resembling a toddler, with cheese and sauce all over my hands and face. But it was so worth it!

And the Truffle Cheese Fries add a nice twist compared to your average portion of chips, which resulted in me wiping up the residue of salty, truffle cheese from the empty basket with my fingers. A voracious affair but without even the slightest hint of guilt!

And if you head down on a Wednesday, you can choose from one of their range of cocktails for only £5 each. 

Follow Lucky Chip on Instagram – @lucky_chip_folkestone

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It wasn’t until I began taking some short breaks in Europe that I really began to understand this wonderful way to enjoy food. Hopping between the many bars and cafés that line the streets in every European city, you start to appreciate the small plates of cheese and charcuterie as an accompaniment to the drinks. A far cry from our British culture of binge consumption, where waistbands are loosened as the waiter brings over the dessert menu, and you start to perspire and struggle to breathe.

Tapas is a different kind of indulging, where the focus is on flavour, experience, conversation and atmosphere. Done well, it’s an occasion, a festival of merriment where the pleasure keeps on coming. And how glad I am that, not only did I learn to appreciate the spirit in which tapas should be eaten, we are lucky enough to have a fabulous place to enjoy it right on our doorstep.

A Traditional Spanish Tapas Experience

The first thing you notice about El Cortador is the atmosphere. The lighting is perfect, something many restaurants fail to get right. You get that sense of occasion, as if surrounded by a relaxed hubbub of celebrations and get-togethers. And the smell coming from the cooking station just feet from where you are sitting is sensational. The open kitchen really brings it all together, and you feel like more plates of food are only moments away, should you fancy choosing extras from the extensive menu. Just as traditional tapas should be, you don’t have to order everything at once.

Tapas Frias

We started with a few cold tapas dishes to enjoy with our wine – a Spanish organic Malbec from the La Mancha region. The charcuterie and cheese transported us back to our European city breaks – a good start, and delicious. The Ensaladilla de Garbanzos was also good, a creamy, fresh chickpea and goats cheese salad. And the simple Pan y Alioli (bread and garlic mayonnaise) was just perfect to nibble on while we perused the rest of the menu.

Tapas Calientes

One of the favourites of the night was the Gambas al Ajillo – peeled sizzling king prawns with garlic and chilli. Be prepared to be calling the waiter over to order more of these, especially if you have a large table. The juicy, plump prawns were a substantial mouthful, oozing with beautiful garlic and chilli flavours. The Paella Mixta was another stand-out, marrying together perfectly cooked chicken, chorizo, squid and mussels in a very generous portion. This dish had the personality of a full main course, and the flavours were just right, a real Spanish treat.

Both the Chicken Breast skewers and the Calamari were also beautifully cooked, a testament to the chef whom despite the busy evening, never faltered. And we absolutely had to try the specials that were on offer – a spicy pork mince served with lettuce cups, and fish and prawn croquettes. The pork was devilishly spicy, with a lovely soft texture to go with the cool, crunchy lettuce. And the croquettes were deliciously decadent, an eyes closed, groaning mouthful of pleasure.

Spain on The Cobbles

This popular spot on the cobbles of The Old High Street is well worth a visit. The service is friendly and efficient, the food is fabulous and the value for money is phenomenal. Whether it’s a special occasion, a big group celebration, or an intimate meal, El Cortador is the perfect atmosphere for sharing great food.

Follow El Cortador on Instagram @elcortadortapas. You can book a table via their website or by calling 01303 243974.

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So, how has all of this impacted our favourite places to eat and drink in Folkestone? What are they doing now to encourage customers to return? And how do they feel about the future? We spoke to some of Folkestone’s most popular spots to find out.

Forced closures and the ripple effect

“Covid stopped all trade dead, of course, and for us the effects lasted late into last summer,” said Chris and Liz Smith from The Chambers. “Our venue layout is basically made up of all the things that the government warned the public they shouldn’t do or should be wary of. Namely small corridors, lots of doorways and pinch points, no natural light or ventilation. That combined with the laws of the time not allowing folk to congregate together, sing, watch live bands (who also couldn’t even meet), dance & shout and so on, meant we were only able to operate when all regulations were dropped fully.”

The food operation at The Chambers stopped completely and their core team went down to three members – Chris, Liz and their daughter Rosie, then later their manager Thom brought the team up to four. Whilst some establishments offered a food takeaway service, The Chambers decided against it.

“When we looked at takeaway options, the media hysteria (justified & sometimes uncontrollably exaggerated by others) surrounding covid made us very reluctant to place Rosie in the sole position of customer facing service, even with full PPE,” said Chris. “Liz and I would’ve been the catering team, and Rosie was the only option for customer facing service. We decided very quickly we weren’t going to potentially feed our daughter to the lions just for a few takeaway meals.”

And the after effects of the pandemic are still very much in play for Chris and the team. “Our food operation still isn’t back as our catering team has left or been reskilled within the business. Chefs are currently an absolute premium, if indeed you’re lucky to find one. We’ve been advertising constantly since before we re-opened and have been unsuccessful in finding a chef. It’s the first time since June 1999 that we’ve not been regularly offering a full menu…it’s enormously frustrating as a business!”

However, it’s not all doom and gloom for The Chambers. As one of Folkestone’s top music venues, they have been doing everything they can to come out of covid fighting. “Our business is built on four corners – Bar, Music, Coffee Shop and Food. Food is the only thing we’re unable to fulfil currently, but the other three aspects we’ve gone hell for leather on and are definitely moving in the right direction.”

A huge financial impact

The lockdowns were financially catastrophic for many industries of course, and the restaurant sector was hit hard. Christian Sangiuseppe of The Bay Tree Bar and Grill explained how his business was affected. “During the lockdowns, we retained our entire team, securing up to 80% of their salaries with the help of the furlough scheme, at a time when venues were forced to close with no income, and still plenty of outgoings, such as equipment leases, IT services, cancellation refunds, admin staff, employers’ contributions and utility bills, and we took out loans to cover these. At the same time, the government encouraged those furloughed to take second jobs and when the scheme concluded and restaurants were finally allowed to reopen, many chose not to return to their primary job in hospitality. Most of our suppliers were also impacted when we weren’t able to trade, and they’ve since faced similar challenges with their workforces which has caused prices to rise.

“This exodus of skilled workers from the hospitality sector and the supplier price increases have been compounded by other factors such as Brexit, which has added red tape to what was once a frictionless process of importing food and drink from the continent, as well as closing our doors to skilled foreign workers; our energy bills spiralling out of control since businesses aren’t protected by the caps that domestic customers are; our VAT rate returning from 5% to 20%, the fear of further lockdowns as we experienced in December which wiped out most of our Christmas and New Year’s trade; havoc on our motorways thanks to events like the P&O debacle, which triggers traffic management “solutions”, the war in Ukraine, etc. All of these have contributed to increased costs and the staffing issues have inevitably also increased our payroll, squeezing the already tight margins that we operate on. We’ve all seen reports in the mainstream media about the £10 pint being on the horizon and unfortunately, if things continue the way they are, this could become a reality sooner than we think.”

Even after the reopening of restaurants and the lifting of many restrictions, covid is still having an effect. We spoke to Hassan Dogan of Bella Vita. “The current prices on imported items are extremely high compared to before the pandemic. And we’ve had to shut the restaurant for a couple of days due to lack of staff caused by covid-19 staff illness on a regular basis.” 

Whilst everywhere has suffered to some degree due to covid, some restaurants have fared better than others. Full service has resumed at The Bouverie Tap, with the restaurant as busy as ever. But it hasn’t been an easy ride for the pub restaurant, now in its sixth year of trading.

“Obviously we were pretty much closed down overnight with no knowing what was to come when the first lockdown was announced,” said owner of The Bouverie Tap, Luke Blown. “It was worrying for me but also my staff, and the weight of responsibility to make sure they were okay too, was hard. I just followed all the guidelines with furlough and grants etc and hoped it would all be ok in the end – which, touch wood, so far it seems to be. I took a couple of weeks to work out what we were going to do once it was apparent the lockdown wasn’t going to be short, and then set up a takeaway offering. It wasn’t overly profitable, but it kept me busy!”

The Bouverie Tap has always been a popular spot amongst locals and tourists alike since opening its doors in 2017, offering a fantastic selection of local ales, lagers, ciders and wines along with an incredible food menu, regular specials and a fabulous Sunday roast. And it’s popularity certainly hasn’t dwindled since reopening. “We have been lucky we have lots of loyal customers who have returned, so haven’t suffered too much. Many people appreciated that we followed all the covid guidance to the letter, and making people feel safe was a priority.”

Bringing back the punters

It seems that getting customers back in the doors has not been too difficult. The people of Folkestone have been flocking to restaurants since restrictions were relaxed, a good sign that one of our favourite pastimes is here to stay. “Attracting customers hasn’t been as much of a challenge,” said Christian Sangiuseppe, “because up until now, the demand from people wanting to go out and socialise with friends and family whilst enjoying decent food and drink has been high, with the months of interruptions we’ve all experienced. What’s been more of a challenge has been servicing that demand due to depleted workforce and disruptions in our supply chains.”

And the Folkestone restaurant scene is definitely buzzing at the moment, with everyone putting their best foot forward to keep up with the competition. “At Bella Vita, we have added 20% discount during our lunch menu Monday to Friday,” says Hassan.

While at The Bouverie Tap, they are booking to capacity with their famous Sunday Roasts, specials and offers. “Due to rising costs, we haven’t been able to do the same offer nights as before covid, but we have some lovely burger and steak night offerings. We have concentrated on quality food and local produce. It also really helps when our customers leave us lovely reviews on all platforms as this definitely entices more new customers in.”

So, what does the future hold?

“The future is a bit of an unknown for bars and restaurants, especially with everyone’s cost of living going up as it is,” added Christian. “The concern is that people will cut back on what they consider to be luxuries and that this could include wining and dining out. Whilst this might sound like more doom and gloom, the good news is that even though the Bay Tree Bar & Grill was relaunched a few years back mainly as an offering to the residents of Folkestone, it also has a symbiotic relationship with the Burlington Hotel and its hotel guests, so whatever happens, our doors will be open, and we’ll be doing our best to offer fantastic experiences to all of our clientele. We’re also looking to reinstate our special events with live music and food and drink brand pairings soon.”

Liz from The Chambers added: “The future is, I feel, a good year away even in this climate. People will need a definite summer, autumn and winter without the effects of covid before it becomes a distant enough memory to be filed away as something that ‘happened’. We anticipate summer 2023 will be here before the trade can honestly say ‘Okay, so this is what we’ve got to work with’.”

Whilst Luke at The Bouverie Tap is feeling positive about the years ahead. “Although costs are rising everywhere, we are concentrating on providing quality (food, drink and service!) and therefore value for money. Hopefully we will have many new customers through our doors!”

As long as we all keep supporting our local cafés, restaurants and bars, and the tourist trade continues to grow, our local eateries will thrive, and we will all reap the benefits. We have some incredible places to eat and drink in Folkestone. So, head to The Chambers for a bit of live music or pop down to Bella Vita for a midweek lunch at 20% off. Be sure to keep an eye out for events at The Bay Tree Bar and Grill on their social media. And I can thoroughly recommend the fabulous Burger Night burgers at The Bouverie Tap, held every Wednesday.

The Chambers – 01303 223333
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Bay Tree Bar & Grill – 01303 255301
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Bella Vita – 01303 255141
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The Bouverie Tap – 01303 255977
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The post Are Folkestone’s Eateries Bouncing Back After Covid? appeared first on Folkestone Foodies.

A Sunset Breeze

We enjoyed a few glasses of wine outside as we watched the sun disappear over the horizon. Then, because the wind picked up, the staff kindly allowed us to move inside, where we enjoyed a fantastic selection of seafood. Housed within a shipping container, Little Rock serves fresh, local and seasonal fish and seafood, supplied straight from The Folkestone Trawlers operating out of Folkestone Harbour and the surrounding Hythe Bay area. Our starter was Grilled Local Scallops, wonderfully presented on the shells atop a bed of decorative seaweed, with garlic and herb butter and fish batter scraps. A lovely start to the meal, and the batter scraps added a lovely bit of crunch. But the pièce de résistance was yet to come.

Fresh From The Sea

This incredible selection of fresh, local seafood blew us away. Oysters, Folkstone Crab, Whipped Cod’s Roe, Prawns, Mussels, Langoustines, Marinated Whelks, and Cockles, served with Docker Sourdough & Salted Butter. And it’s great value at £39.50 for a platter for two.

The service was friendly and fast, which made for a perfect, sunset evening dining on the beach. If you like your fish, Little Rock has it all. Great local food in a fantastic location. You’ll find them just off the boardwalk, next to the Pilot Bar, another spawn of the iconic Rock Salt Restaurant.

Follow Little Rock on Instagram @littlerockfolkestone.

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We saw the queues at Lobster & Burgers (Sunray burgers) and knew we had to try some. And the food was well worth the wait.

The Lobster Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, with a generous portion of lobster that works incredibly well with the rich cheese sauce. We added bacon to ours to make it even more of a treat. The flavours in the Mac and cheese were just gorgeous, definitely some garlic in there, some red onion and chives, as well as some crispy onion bits to give it some crunch. I’m salivating just writing about it.

We also ordered a Lobster Double Burger with Maple Bacon, and of course we added the optional mac and cheese to it for extra filth. You can’t help getting messy eating one of these, but it’s worth it. So, so good. It has two 28-day aged, locally sourced, smashed beef patties, Sunray’s own special seasoning, a generous pile of lobster meat, cheese, pickles, burnt butter and tarragon mayo all loaded on a toasted bun. Amazing!

You can find Sunray Burgers on Instagram @sunray.burgers

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The Warmest Of Welcomes

Sotirio’s is a family-run restaurant in the true sense of the phrase, with several members of the family playing key roles. And this is a family that knows how to do it right. The service here is just perfect. You get the sense you are being welcomed into their home, and their enthusiasm and passion for what they do is remarkably evident. Unlike many establishments, you are not assigned a waiter for the evening. The whole team look after you, and it really works.

Fabulous Fish

The menu offers a fabulous mix of cuisines, including Greek and Mediterranean, as well as some British classics. We chose to start with Coquilles St. Jacque, a decadent dish of king scallops, served like a fish pie, a gloriously generous portion for a starter. The classic deep-fried brie is always a winner and was cooked beautifully. And we just had to sample the Moules Sotirio – the garlic and white wine sauce was so thick and rich it made me want to lick the bowl clean – absolutely to die for. Our final temptation from the starters was a special of monkfish cheeks served with chorizo, another fantastically flavourful dish.

Sauces For Courses

Each of the main courses were superb. The Belly of Pork was wonderfully tender with a satisfyingly crispy crackling, as good as you will get anywhere. But it was the Kentish Cider and Apple sauce that really excited the palate, complementing the dish perfectly. The Magret Duck was tender and pink, and again, paired with a red wine, mushroom and shallot sauce, it delivered on flavour. We also devoured the special of Slow Roasted Lamb Shank served with creamy mash and mint gravy, falling off the bone and utterly delicious.

Just Enough Room For Dessert

Despite the satisfyingly generous portions, of course we powered through and ordered dessert. The Apple and Caramel Pie and the Toffee and Honeycomb Cheesecake were both excellent. And we were even treated to a drink from the bar on the house – a nice touch.

Decisions, Decisions

So often at restaurants, you peruse the menu and end up being drawn towards the same kind of thing, mentally eliminating most of the offerings and arriving at the only thing that really stands out to you. A word of warning – at Sotirio’s this will not happen. You will struggle to choose, and you’ll definitely require multiple return visits to sample everything on the menu that takes your fancy, so just resign yourself to that fact.

For us, the menu is still a work in progress and we will be returning to have a go at the Prime Blackgate Beef section, including Fillet, T-Bone and Rib Eye steaks, a Roast Chateaubriand, a Côte Du Boeuf, and Tornedos Rossini – a prime cut of fillet served on a duck liver pâté crouton and topped with a red wine reduction.

And if you fancy going full-on Greek, there is plenty to choose from, especially on a Friday night when they offer their Greek Mèze selection. Previous visits for us have involved the incredible Lobster Thermidor, simply divine. Costas, the owner and a fabulous presence in the restaurant, offered to serve the lobster however we wanted, even chopped into a salad.

And this is the ethos of the entire team, willing to accommodate any request they can to ensure you have an enjoyable experience. I can’t praise the staff enough for their generous hospitality, the unparalleled level of service and the quality of the food. This is up there with the best in Folkestone, and we will certainly be returning on a regular basis.

You can find Sotirio’s on Bouverie Road West, open Wednesday to Sunday.

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Off the beaten track

While the Harbour Arm and Harbourside might be getting all the attention at the moment for its food and drink offerings, if you were to take a stroll along Tontine Street, you might be in for a surprise. Yes, it certainly has a more “downtown” feel to the area, and you would be forgiven for feeling like you should turn back and head instead for the more welcoming cobbled stone of The Old High Street, but for those who persevere, a hidden gem awaits. A little way up the street, you will usually find a couple of tables adorning the pavement, continental style, outside a rather unassuming bar called The Old Buoy.

Belgian culture right here in Folkestone

The Old Buoy is an authentic Belgian Bar, boasting a large selection of Belgian beers and a popular menu of Flemish food. Stepping over the threshold, a few things hit you at once – the cosy, relaxed atmosphere, the understated décor and the delicious smell wafting from the kitchen – and it immediately pulls you in. Mrs FF and I usually start with a firm favourite of ours, a dark draft beer from Antwerp called Bolleke (pronounced bo-lekky – easy to slip up if you’re not careful, especially when you ask for two!), served in the correct glass of course – very important. There is just something about the feel of this place that instantly transports you to the continent, and within the first few mouthfuls, we are already planning a trip to Belgium.

An incredible selection of beers

Next, we peruse the extensive beer menu for something with a little more kick, and we certainly find it. I opt for a bottle of the Westmalle Tripel, the strongest on the menu at 9.5%, described as a world class Trappist beer, amber in colour with notes of banana and clove. Mrs FF favours the Geuze Boon at 7%, a bottle fermented, unfiltered Lambic beer (brewed without yeast), characteristically sour and refreshing. Both are delicious, and dangerously moreish. You can enjoy these beers a little too much, and it takes some restraint for us not to work our way through the entire menu. We do manage to try a couple more however, including a Kriek Boon at a much more restrained 4%, a cherry beer described by the staff as breakfast beer. Now that’s a concept I can get on board with! There are wines and spirits on offer too of course, as many as you would expect a bar of this kind to have, but for us, it’s all about the beers when we visit here.

An authentic Belgian menu

After sinking a good few of Belgium’s finest, it’s the perfect time to order some of that food that smells so good, to soak up some of the alcohol. A quick glance at the blackboards on the wall shows us the entire, beautifully simple menu of six dishes. There is a Croque Monsieur for a mere £5, Spaghetti Bolognese at £8 and Moules Mariniere with Frites at £10. But we both go for the Flemish Beef Stew with Chips and Salad (£13), and are not disappointed. The beef is melt-in-the-mouth tender, served in a rich, flavourful sauce, and is the perfect complement to the beer. Clean plates all round. On previous occasions, the aroma of the mussels has been too much to resist, and we have devoured them. This is a Belgian classic done well, simply the best mussels in town and the most authentic.

The owner, Thierry, is an impeccable host, offering a warm welcome whilst still managing to cook and serve the food, and be on hand to share his extensive knowledge of the beers on offer. 

The Old Buoy is well worth the short walk away from the main bustle for a taste of Belgium, a café bar that could easily have been brought over from the continent brick by brick and reassembled in our little town. But if you do happen to wander up there, try not to shout about it. Let’s keep this place our little secret.

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