Four Kent pubs named in the Top 50 GASTROPUBS IN BRITAIN

The Sportsman at Seasalter makes the Top 10 for a seventh time

Four Kent pubs have been named in the Top 50 Gastropubs in Britian, with an incredible three making it into the Top 10 at the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs Awards.

The Sportsman in Seasalter took 4th place in the list which is voted on by industry experts including food critics and writers, gastropub chefs and other food influencers.

The Kentish Hare at Tunbridge Wells took 5th, The Fordwich Arms near Canterbury is number nine and The Dog at Wingham, also near Canterbury, is 29th.

The Sportsman, which has held a Michelin star since 2008, has previously topped the list in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021 and last year, when it came sixth.
Judges praised Head Chef Stephen Harris’ menu for being sourced almost exclusively from the land surrounding the pub, with seaweed picked from the beach, homemade salt from the sea, and meat from ‘bountiful’ local farms.

His slip sole grilled in seaweed butter is a “must-try for any visitor”, and despite his dislike for ‘signature dishes’ this would be his, judges said, adding: “It’s the purest expression of what makes The Sportsman fantastic: simplicity, thoughtfulness and, most importantly, it is delicious.”

They said: “The Sportsman is also remarkably affordable for an eatery of its standing and now offers one menu – a five-course tasting menu – celebrating small, seasonal dishes that showcase the local environment,” adding: “Be warned, however, it remains a tough pub to get a seat in because the popularity of its cooking stretches the world over, so plan before visiting.”

Stephen Harris said: “It is a really strong list – there are so many great places on it, so we are really pleased to go back up to fourth place. It is down to the hard work of the people here: we do it because we love it and we love the place.

“I do feel like we have got better this year. If you have got high standards you try not to let them drop. We have been at this pub 23 years and we have built up a regular trade. Yes we are booked up several months in advance, but it means you can plan.”

He added: “I am very aware that it is a tricky time for a lot of businesses at the moment and we are just thankful that we are in a good position.”