Review on Fordwich Arms
The Fordwich Arms, a 1930's Kent boozer with a charming redbrick exterior has been given a new lease of life by an accomplished team of ex-The Clove Club alumni. Located a few miles from Canterbury in the UK's smallest town of Fordwich, it is reaping the endeavours of it's three new owners, chef Daniel Smith, his fiancée Natasha Norton-Smith pastry chef and Guy Palmer-Brown, sommelier and front of house, culminating in a prestigious Michelin star as well as three AA Rosettes.
The re-invented Fordwich Arms may still behave like a pub, but its restaurant trappings, food and wine list has established itself as a foodie landmark. Featuring an oak panelled dining room complete with roaring open fires, the seasonal food is delivered in a warm and relaxed ambience, with first-class produce sourced from trusted local farmers. During summer months the riverside location is also a big draw, when guests take in the views of the River Stour from the terrace.
Daniel who was the winner of the Observer Young Chef of the Year 2016 has created a tantalising menu, kicking off with starters such as slow poached quail, Jerusalem artichoke, semolina and Chanterelle mushroom or from the sea poached Maldon rock oyster, caviar and apple. When it comes to main courses, carnivores are in for a treat with Chart Farm Fallow venison, celeriac, damson and smoked bone marrow or for fish fans there's Cornish hake, chestnut, golden raisin and vin jaune. Natasha who climbed the culinary ladder in restaurants such as Michelin-starred Chapter One in Kent and One Leicester Street in Covent Garden makes a superb latte pumpkin pie, which is definitely worth saving room for, otherwise opt for the cheese trolley showcasing the best of British cheeses.
Guy has curated an innovative wine list to support the food including some lovely choices by the glass.
Fordwich Arms is also featured in: Michelin Guide, AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Gastro pub / Modern British
Chef
Daniel Smith
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 - 2.30pm Tue-Sun
Dinner: 6.00 - 9.30pm Tue-Sun
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card