Food and drink secrets from across Kent
Published: 12:00, 28 September 2016
The Alma, Painter’s Forstal
In a small village close to Faversham, the Alma is the perfect country pub. Inventive, tasty dishes are served up seven days a week with the combination of Kent-sourced produce where possible and home cooking skills that can’t be faulted. Favourites include sizzling chicken and steak and kidney pudding. The dessert menu keeps in tune with the season – this month, for example, there’s apple and blackberry crumble. So, whether you’re enjoying the late summer sun on a family walk or exploring in the car, be sure to drop in. The white weatherboarded pub is in the heart of the village.
For more information, visit almafaversham.co.uk
Haguelands Village Farm Shop, Burmarsh
It may be better known for its pack of alpacas but Haguelands Village has shelves heaving with jams, cakes, biscuits and plenty of other Kentish treats. There’s also a bistro that is worth the trip alone. As the Haguelands slogan says – they really are worth finding! Just set the sat nav for TN29 0JR and head towards Dymchurch.
For more information, visit haguelandsvillage.co.uk/farm.aspx
The Fudgery, Gillingham
There’s a fudge for everyone at The Fudgery thanks to a section that ranges from smooth and traditional to totally out there. Fruity favourites include cherry, orange and chocolate, nutty tempters such as coffee and walnut or pistachio and almond. There’s even a couple of alcoholic appetisers such as Kent cider. The Fudgery is at Elm Court Village and Garden Centre but it’s strictly by appointment only – you’re far better off picking up their wares at venues such Canterbury Cathedral and Chatham Historical Dockyard or you can buy online.
For more information, visit thefudgery.co.uk
Hinxden Farm Dairy, Benenden
Doorstep milk rounds do still exist! Based close to Cranbrook, Hinxden Farm Dairy delivers three days a week across the very south of the county, with an extended list for wholesale. On the nutritious dairy line-up are milks, creams and yoghurts, all produced at the dairy. There are 200 Guernsey and Holsteins living on the farm that are outdoors in summer and loose housed in the winter. Call 01580 240685 for more info on the delivery rounds.
For more information, visit hinxdenfarmdairy.co.uk
Moor Organic, Teynham
Moor make some of the finest apple and pear juices around. Using a variety of apples and pears from their farm between Sittingbourne and Faversham, Moor juices are pressed and bottled on site. The lip-smacking range includes russet and discovery apples and conference pears. Stocked at a range of eating places and farm shops across the county, there are 14 juices to pick from.
For more information, visit moororganicjuice.co.uk
Peter’s Produce, Herne Bay
One of the Kent coast’s best-kept secrets, the Taste of Kent 2016 Local Food Retailer of the Year has you covered for your fruit and vegetable needs. Offering a range of seasonal produce, it is open seven days a week with the added plus of free parking. Peter’s Produce is not purely fruit and vegetables, it also stocks Kentish drinks, jams, chutneys, nuts, crisps and pet food. A home delivery service is also available bringing fresh produce direct to your door. The shop is at 42 William Street.
For more information, visit petersproduce.co.uk
The Street Pantry
Catering for gluten-free, vegans, vegetarians or high protein diets, the Street Pantry serves up high quality street food that does not pile on the pounds. Criss-crossing the county in a 1957 Citroen H Van called Ettie, the Street Pantry can be easily spotted at lots of different festivals and events. Of course, carnivores are catered for too with the likes of free-range chicken and a bacon sammich.
For more information, visit thestreetpantry.com
Tonbridge Farmers’ Market
Fancy something super fresh? Head down to the Tonbridge Farmers’ Market, held on the second Sunday of every month. It’s a chance to support some of the county’s best producers and get your hands on some real seasonal delights. Stall holders include the Kingcott Cheeses from Staplehurst, Thomas Cookie and vegan and vege food specialist the Fat Carrot. There’s a range of stalls on offer and the market takes place whatever the weather. The next market is on Sunday, October 9.
For more information, visit tonbridgefarmersmarket.co.uk
Rosie Lea Tea, Broadstairs
Hand-blended in Thanet, Rosie Lea Tea has everything from South African rooibos to Kentish breakfast tea. This quirky company is a family-business based in Broadstairs, offering more than 70 different teas. There’s also a new range including superhero favourites Thor and Loki – the perfect gift idea for Marvel comic lovers. The teas are mainly sold online, but look out for Rosie Lea at farmers’ markets and food festivals.
For more information, visit rosieleatea.co.uk
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Katie Davis