Stark is rapidly making its mark as one of the must-visit venues in the quintessential English coastal resort of Broadstairs on the Isle of Thanet. Located in a former sandwich shop on Oscar Road, the restaurant is a short stroll from the golden sands of Viking Bay. It's the first solo venture from Ben Crittenden, the former Head Chef of the Michelin-starred West House in Biddenden Kent, where he sharpened his knives alongside the esteemed chef-patron Graham Garrett. The restaurant seating just twelve diners has been refurbished by Ben and his father prior to its launch in December 2016, creating a simple setting with a relaxed ambience.

Diners can look forward to meticulously crafted modern food in the shape of a six course tasting menu, inspired by the highest quality seasonal produce it can also be paired with carefully selected wines. Menus simply list the components of the dishes resulting in artfully displayed food that tantalises the taste buds. The line-up might begin with salmon, beetroot and herb crème fraiche before moving onto chicken liver parfait served with onion marmalade and brioche. Next up is a seafood dish of hake, seaweed and dashi followed by venison, celeriac and walnut. Proceedings conclude in style with desserts of coconut, mango and chilli as well as a delicious muscavado tart paired with rhubarb.

The setting may be diminutive but the food aims high, and service by Ben's wife Sophie ensures that there's a friendly warmth to proceedings. Stark was delighted to receive a prestigious Michelin star in the 2020 edition of the Guide.

Stark is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Hardens

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Modern British

Ben Crittenden

Dinner: 6.30 - 9.30pm Wed-Sat

Visa, Master Card

• 12 covers