A Michelin-starred chef has launched his second Indian restaurant in Kent.

Essence by Atul Kochhar is now open to customers in The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells.

Ahead of the opening, the 54-year-old attended Sankey’s Harvest Food Festival in the town in September.

The twice Michelin-starred chef from Jamshedpur already runs Indian Essence in Petts Wood, Orpington, alongside restaurateur Jitindar Singh.

Atul is known to blend traditional Indian flavours with modern techniques.

He has produced cookbooks, appeared on a number of television shows and continues to inspire aspiring chefs worldwide with his expertise.

The Grade II Listed building was formerly home to Woods Restaurant & Bar.

A spacious bar area can accommodate up to 28 people, with the restaurant itself seating up to 60 on the ground floor and spilling out onto a terrace for around 60 people in the summer months.

It also features a mezzanine private room with custom menus for groups of up to 26 people.

Local business owners and influencers were invited to a soft launch which was held last Wednesday (February 7).

Guests enjoyed canapes and sample tasters, as well as cocktails and drinks from the new menu.

In a post on Facebook Atul said: “Thank you to all who came to @essence.pantiles yesterday evening to celebrate the opening of our new restaurant.

“We are delighted to be part of the Pantiles and Tunbridge Wells community.

“Our aim is to create restaurants for the families and be part of your lives in all occasions.

“Today, we look forward to take our first step as a restaurant in this beautiful town.

“Your blessings and best wishes are essential. I look forward to see you all soon again.”

Weekday set lunch menus will start from £22, with weekend set lunch menus starting from £26 per head.

For gastronomes, there is a seven-course tasting menu starting from £74.95, or £114.95 with paired wine flights.

The bar serves a tapas-style menu of light bites and the restaurant will operate a takeaway service as well.