Canterbury, a historic city in the county of Kent in Southeast England, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and charming streets. But one thing that often gets overlooked is its diverse and delicious food scene. With a mix of traditional English dishes, international cuisine, and modern twists on classic favorites, there is something for everyone in Canterbury. In this blog post, we will explore where to eat in Canterbury and what to eat while you’re there.
Where to Eat in Canterbury
When it comes to finding a place to eat in Canterbury, you won’t have to look far. The city is filled with restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences. Here are some of the top places to eat in Canterbury:
Traditional English Pubs
No trip to England is complete without a visit to a traditional English pub, and Canterbury has plenty to choose from. These cozy and welcoming establishments offer a taste of local culture and serve up classic pub fare such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie. Some popular pubs in Canterbury include The Old Buttermarket, The Parrot, and The Unicorn Inn.
The Old Buttermarket
Located in the heart of Canterbury, The Old Buttermarket is a traditional pub with a warm and inviting atmosphere. It offers a wide selection of beers, ciders, and spirits, as well as a menu featuring hearty British dishes. Their Sunday roast is a must-try, with tender meat, crispy roast potatoes, and all the trimmings.
The Old Buttermarket is a traditional pub in Canterbury you should stop by
The Parrot
For a more modern take on a traditional pub, head to The Parrot. This stylish gastropub serves up elevated versions of classic dishes, using locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, but you can always expect to find delicious options like slow-cooked lamb shoulder, pan-seared sea bass, and sticky toffee pudding.
The Parrot serves up elevated versions of classic dishes, using locally sourced ingredients
International Cuisine
Canterbury is a diverse city, with a large international student population, which means there is no shortage of international cuisine to choose from. Whether you’re craving Italian, Indian, or Thai food, you’ll find it in Canterbury.
The Ambrette
For a taste of India in the heart of Canterbury, head to The Ambrette. This award-winning restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Indian dishes, using local and seasonal ingredients. Their tasting menu is a great way to sample a variety of their flavorful and creative dishes.
Pinocchio’s
This family-run restaurant has been serving up authentic Italian cuisine for over 30 years. From homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, everything on the menu is made with love and care. And don’t forget to save room for their famous tiramisu.
If you’re in the mood for Italian food, look no further than Pinocchio’s.
Modern Dining
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Canterbury has plenty of options as well. These restaurants offer innovative menus, top-notch service, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Deeson’s
Located in a historic building in the city center, Deeson’s in Canterbury is a fine-dining restaurant that focuses on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, but you can always expect beautifully presented dishes bursting with flavor. And for a truly special experience, try their tasting menu with wine pairings.
Deeson’s in Canterbury is a fine-dining restaurant
The Goods Shed
Housed in a converted Victorian railway shed, The Goods Shed is a unique dining destination in Canterbury. It features a farmers’ market during the day and transforms into a restaurant at night. Their menu is constantly changing based on what’s available at the market, ensuring fresh and delicious meals every time.
The Goods Shed is a unique dining destination in Canterbury
What to Eat in Canterbury
Now that you know where to eat in Canterbury, let’s take a look at some of the must-try dishes while you’re there. From traditional English fare to international delights, here are some of the best things to eat in Canterbury:
Canterbury Pudding
No trip to Canterbury is complete without trying the city’s namesake dessert, the Canterbury Pudding. This rich and decadent pudding is made with layers of bread, butter, sugar, and spices, topped with a creamy custard sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food on a chilly day.
Kentish Ale Pie
For a taste of Kent, try the Kentish Ale Pie. This hearty dish features tender chunks of beef cooked in local ale and topped with a flaky pastry crust. It’s a classic British comfort food that is sure to warm you up.
Gypsy Tart
Another traditional dessert from the region is the Gypsy Tart. This simple but delicious tart is made with just three ingredients – evaporated milk, muscovado sugar, and pastry. The result is a sweet and creamy filling with a crispy crust, making it the perfect ending to any meal.
Thai Green Curry
Canterbury has a thriving Thai food scene, and one dish that stands out is the Thai Green Curry. Made with fragrant herbs and spices, coconut milk, and your choice of meat or vegetables, this curry is bursting with flavor and will transport you straight to Thailand.
Sunday Roast
As mentioned earlier, the Sunday roast is a must-try when in Canterbury. This traditional English meal consists of roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that is typically enjoyed with family and friends.
My Opinions
Having lived in Canterbury for four years as a student, I have had the opportunity to explore its food scene extensively. And I can confidently say that it is one of the best in the UK. The city offers a perfect mix of traditional and modern dining options, catering to all tastes and budgets.
One thing that stands out to me about the food in Canterbury is the emphasis on using local and seasonal ingredients. Many restaurants source their produce from nearby farms, ensuring freshness and supporting the local economy. This also means that menus change regularly, offering diners something new and exciting each time they visit.
Another aspect that I appreciate about the food scene in Canterbury is the variety. As a vegetarian, I have never had trouble finding delicious options at any restaurant I’ve visited. And with the growing trend of plant-based eating, more and more restaurants are offering vegan and vegetarian dishes on their menus.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Canterbury?
A: The best time to visit Canterbury is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
Q: Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Canterbury?
A: Yes, there are two Michelin-starred restaurants in Canterbury – The Fordwich Arms and The Sportsman. Both offer exceptional dining experiences but require reservations well in advance.
Q: Is it necessary to tip in restaurants in Canterbury?
A: Tipping is not mandatory in the UK, but it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip if you are satisfied with the service.
Conclusion
Canterbury may be known for its history and architecture, but its food scene is equally impressive. From traditional English pubs to international cuisine and modern fine-dining, there is something for every palate in this charming city. So next time you find yourself in Canterbury, be sure to explore its culinary delights and indulge in some of the best food the UK has to offer.
