The Folkestone Wine Company
Folkestone, Kent
Entry
Compact. Economical. Quirky. This former two-roomed tea shop may feel homely with its vintage crockery and handful of tables, but it suits the unfussy food on offer here. Everything coming out of Dave Hart's kitchen is a joy, the approach distinguished by reassuringly skilful cooking and a crisp, clear view of what it wants to be. The scene is set by a short, ‘fabulously thought-out’ blackboard menu listing French-inspired dishes built around local and seasonal produce. There are no pretensions or unnecessary garnishes – flavours are direct and enjoyable, whether classic rose veal kidneys with grain mustard on toast, a risotto primavera or guinea fowl with French-style peas and bacon. As one regular admitted: ‘I always get a naughty urge to lick every plate clean because I can’t bear the idea of a single flavour wasted.’ Start, perhaps with a dish of green beans, peach and jamón, strewn with hazelnuts, then move on to a perfectly timed wild sea bass fillet with tomato butter sauce, courgettes and tapenade. As for dessert, ‘out of this world’ crème brûlée is as good as it gets, and the chocolate mousse with griottine cherries and cream will guarantee a happy ending. Many reporters have praised Polly Pleasence, the charismatic co-owner who runs front of house, and there is plenty of love for the impressive wine list which has been meticulously selected with an eye on the quality-price ratio. A decent selection is offered by the glass, and suggested wine pairings are posted on the blackboard. All in all, just the kind of local 'worth moving to Folkestone for.’
Dining Information:
Counter seating, No background music, Dog friendly
5 Church Street, Folkestone, Kent CT20 1SE
01303 249952
