The Poet at Matfield “Exquisite food in a relaxed setting”

Set in the heart of the Kent countryside in a beautiful 16th century building steeped in English history, The Poet at Matfield is at first sight the most unassuming looking village pub, yet you step inside and you immediately get the feeling that you are in for a unique experience. Staff are dressed immaculately and adorning black waiters gloves, something that is rarely seen now, but adds another sense of magic and mystery. As I peruse the wine menu I get a glimpse of the kitchen from my seat, the flash of pans and smoke creates even more suspense, as every dish that is bought out is immaculately presented and smells heavenly. I choose an Italian Gavi, and a basket of home baked bread is placed on our table along with a tomato humous and charcoal butter and olives. We sample an amuse en bouche, brie with caramelised onion chutney which was a beautiful combination of flavours to start with. I then tried possibly one of the best starters I have ever had, Nutbourne tomato with truffle whipped feta, complimented by an apple and celeraric dressing. The dish is put together so precisely and perfectly you can tell that hours of works has gone into the development and preparation of every dish. For main I choose the stone bass, which was perfectly cooked and complimented well with mussels and ‘Bagna Cruda’, an Italian blend of garlic, anchovies and olive oil. Dessert was a chamomile panna cotta, with strawberries, rhubarb sorbet, honeycomb and aerated white chocolate. This is a must visit restaurant in Kent, and worth travelling to if you are not local , it is simple exquisite food in a relaxed but professional setting. Maidstone Rd, Matfield, Tonbridge TN12 7JH, 01892 722416,

thepoetatmatfield.co.uk.