The Kentish Hare - Culinary Excellence in Tunbridge Wells

Nestled in the charming village of Bidborough near Tunbridge Wells, The Kentish Hare offers an inviting escape for food lovers seeking a blend of traditional British flavors and creative culinary craftsmanship. This stylish bar and restaurant is renowned for its innovative menu and warm, relaxed atmosphere that effortlessly caters to families, groups, and intimate diners alike.

A Flavorful Journey from Starter to Dessert

Diners rave about The Kentish Hare’s chef-driven dishes packed with bold, fresh flavors. Standout plates include the divine yellowfin tuna tartare, perfectly balanced with watermelon, avocado, and orange ponzu, and the succulent roast beef accompanied by a selection of expertly cooked vegetables. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to offer both elaborate and fuss-free dining options, satisfying adventurous palates and traditionalists alike.

Ambiance and Amenities for Every Occasion

The Kentish Hare boasts a beautifully designed dining area that comfortably accommodates large groups and couples without intrusive noise levels. Guests admire the open kitchen concept, allowing diners to watch skilled chefs at work. With outdoor seating options, free off-street parking, and a welcoming environment for children and pets, it’s an ideal destination for any occasion—from casual lunches to celebratory dinners.

Is The Kentish Hare family friendly? Yes, the restaurant welcomes children and offers a dedicated kids’ menu to delight younger diners.
Can I bring my dog to The Kentish Hare? Yes, the bar area is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy a meal or drink.
Are reservations needed? Reservations are accepted and recommended especially for groups larger than six.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours of The Kentish Hare? The Kentish Hare operates from Wednesday to Saturday, serving lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 5:45 PM to 9:30 PM. Sundays offer extended lunch hours from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. The bar opens at 11:00 AM daily, closing at 11:00 PM Wednesday through Saturday and 5:00 PM on Sundays.
Is there parking available at The Kentish Hare? Yes, there is ample free off-street parking available for guests, making it convenient for those driving to the venue.
Does The Kentish Hare accept reservations? Yes, reservations are accepted and recommended, especially during busy periods. For groups larger than six, contacting the restaurant directly is advisable.

What Visitors Say

Positive community sentiment : The Kentish Hare is celebrated for its exquisite dishes, attentive and friendly service, and its stylish yet comfortable ambiance. Many guests highlight the freshness and creativity of the menu, and appreciate the relaxed atmosphere where they can watch chefs in the open kitchen. Occasional minor delays during peak times are noted but overall, diners consider their experience exceptional and look forward to returning.

The Kentish Hare: A Celebrated Kent Gastropub History Overview

Nestled in the charming village of Bidborough near Tunbridge Wells, The Kentish Hare has swiftly emerged as a culinary gem since its inception. Established in May 2014 by the visionary Tanner Brothers, Chris and James, this gastropub has become synonymous with innovative dining and exceptional quality within Kent's vibrant food scene.

A timeline of milestones

From its outset, The Kentish Hare set out to craft a unique gastropub experience that blends traditional British ingredients with modern culinary flair. Here’s a look back at its key achievements:

2014 Opening The Kentish Hare opened its doors in May, quickly gaining attention for its inviting atmosphere and carefully curated menu.
2016 Acclaim The pub was celebrated as Best Newcomer of the Year in the prestigious Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastro Pubs, marking its rapid rise in the gastro pub community.
2021 Distinctions Awarded the highly regarded Bib Gourmand, highlighting its consistent excellence in delivering top-tier food at great value.

What makes The Kentish Hare stand out

The Kentish Hare's reputation is built on a foundation of culinary craftsmanship and a welcoming setting that caters to various occasions. Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a festive gathering, guests experience:

Artisan menus Featuring locally sourced Kent produce, the seasonal dishes showcase both creativity and respect for tradition.
Warm hospitality Friendly and attentive staff ensure every visitor feels valued and well cared for, enhancing the relaxed dining atmosphere.
Accolades and recognition Consistent awards like AA Rosettes and the Bib Gourmand affirm the quality and innovation that diners can expect.

In less than a decade, The Kentish Hare has not only become a beloved spot for locals but also a destination for food enthusiasts exploring Kent’s culinary landscape. Its story illustrates how dedication to excellence and community roots can create a lasting legacy in the hospitality world.

Plan your visit

Located at 95 Bidborough Ridge in the picturesque Kent countryside, The Kentish Hare offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern dining. With ample parking, outdoor seating, and a menu that caters to diverse tastes including children’s options, it’s an ideal spot for a memorable meal any time of year.

Discover more about this culinary treasure and experience why The Kentish Hare continues to captivate food lovers across the UK.

Discovering The Kentish Hare in Tunbridge Wells, UK: A Balanced Overview of This Charming Dining Spot.

Nestled in the picturesque locale of Bidborough Ridge within Tunbridge Wells, The Kentish Hare offers an inviting retreat for food lovers seeking a memorable dining experience in Kent. Known for its delicious food crafted with creativity and care, this establishment combines a stylish ambiance with warm, attentive service that makes every visit feel special. Visitors praise the elaborate, flavor-packed dishes alongside a thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail menu that complements each meal exquisitely.

Highlights That Make The Kentish Hare Stand Out

Stylish ambiance with a beautifully designed dining area that perfectly balances comfort for both intimate dinners and larger groups, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere without overwhelming noise.

Delicious food that showcases chef-driven, elaborate dishes like yellowfin tuna tartare with watermelon and avocado, roast lamb, and deer, all prepared with a focus on exceptional quality and flavor.

Attentive service that is friendly, efficient, and accommodating, enhancing the overall dining experience and ensuring guests feel well cared for.

Ample free parking options including a parking lot and street parking for convenient access.
Ability to accept reservations, making it easy for visitors to plan their visit and avoid wait times.

Considerations Before Your Visit

While The Kentish Hare excels in many areas, some guests have noted minor service delays during peak times. This suggests that although the staff is attentive and friendly, busy periods can slightly impact the speed of service. Planning your visit during quieter hours or making advance reservations can help mitigate this.

Overall, The Kentish Hare offers a refined yet welcoming setting with a focus on creative, high-quality cuisine and excellent hospitality. It remains a treasured spot for locals and visitors alike looking for a memorable meal in the heart of Kent.

4.6

British

95 Bidborough Ridge, Bidborough, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0XB, UK

01892 525709

Open Now - Closing 11:00 PM

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

11:00–23:00

Thursday