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.

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.

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.***

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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.

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.

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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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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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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