Review on Dering Arms
The Dering Arms at Pluckley is one of the most impressive looking pubs in the south east, this handsome stone manor was originally constructed as a hunting lodge for the Dering family in the 1840s, and it look more like some baronial manor than a local hostelry. Curved Dutch gables and distinctive mullioned windows set the tone, and the interior is all high ceilings, flagstone floors and oak panelling.
Long-serving owner Jim Buss runs the kitchen personally, undertaking the main cooking himself in order to maintain the high standards. Over the years he has gained a love of fresh fish and seafood, which he now specialises in. Every meal is prepared to order, using only the finest of fresh produce often supplied locally. Jim says 'I am not prepared to take short cuts and everything is home-made on the premises, even down to the marmalade offered to residents at breakfast.'
Seasonal seafood is the kitchen's forte and the regular menu is boosted by daily blackboard specials like moules marinière and monkfish with bacon, orange and cream sauce. Dering Ale (the house beer) is brewed especially for the pub by Goacher's of Maidstone, and Jim Buss is also keen to promote real ales from other independent breweries. The wine list is broad enough to cater for all tastes and there are some very reasonably priced gems to be discovered.
Dering Arms is also featured in: AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Seafood / European
Chef
Jim Buss
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 - 2.30pm Tue-Fri (12.00 - 3.00pm Sat & Sun)
Dinner: 6.30 - 9.00pm Tue-Sat
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express
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