Celebrity chef Richard Phillips is introducing a five-course “honesty menu” at his restaurant.

Diners can try out new unique dishes at Thackeray’s in Tunbridge Wells and then pay what they think they're worth.

The experiment will launch on January 14 and run through to March.

It will be limited to 20 customers every weekday evening from Tuesday to Friday.

TV chef Mr Phillips, who is the restaurant's executive chef and co-owner, said: “I think it will entice new diners as well as our loyal regulars to try something completely new and exciting.

“We really want to challenge our guests to see food in a new light. Our faith in our guests and confidence in our work will ultimately be the driving factors behind this refreshing venture.

"We wanted to try something truly innovative in 2020, to take away the traditional boundaries and challenge the way our guests experience food. This definitely isn’t a test – it’s a treat. We want you to pay what it is worth to you.”

Thackery’s Kent-born head chef Patrick Hill has dubbed the dishes a "menu without boundaries.”

He said: "There are no rules. We will be pulling out all the culinary stops with an experiential sensory journey.

"It’s a very exciting proposition for the kitchen team. All ideas are on the table.

"I don’t want to give away too much, nor can I, since the menu will be changing every night but it’s certainly going to get people talking.”

Michelin-starred Thackeray’s is based in Victorian author William Thackeray's Grade 2-listed former home at 85, London Road.

It claims no restaurant with its prestige has done anything like this before and says it is challenging guests to "see food in a new light."

The restaurant boasts a "relaxed form of fine dining free from pretension" and applies "classic European culinary philosophies to modern dishes."

Richard Phillips, who went to the Howard School in Rainham and studied at Thanet Catering College, lives in Hollingbourne.

He also runs the Pearson’s Arms on the seafront at Whitstable and The Windmill at Hollingbourne.

The Honesty Menu is open for pre-booking on 01892 511921.

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