With Valentine's day fast approaching, discover some excellent restaurants in your local area...
Eastwell ManorEastwell Park, Boughton LeesAshford TN25 4HRTel: 01233 213000Choose from an extensive range of French and modern English dishes such as twice-baked Winterdale Cheddar souffl� followed by breast of Eastwell pheasant then warm rice pudding with poached plums, all complemented by an excellent cellar. The award-winning Manor Restaurant is formal but intimate, with its dark wood panelling and silver service, and there’s a resident pianist to serenade you and your loved one.Open: Mon-Fri 12pm-2pm and 7.30pm-9,30pm, Sat and Sun 12.30pm-2.30pm and 7pm-10pm
Culpeppers at Chilston Park HotelSandway, Lenham, near Maidstone ME17 2BETel: 01622 859803The spacious restaurant at this elegant hotel boasts antique furniture, an ornate ceiling and framed oil paintings, giving a definite sense of occasion. Chef Gareth Brown serves traditional favourite dishes with a modern twist, such as his signature starter of smoked venison, tarragon croquette and a juniper berry dressing. Open: Sun-Fri 12pm-2pm, Sun-Thu 7pm-9.30pm, Fri and Sat 6.30pm-9.30pm. Closed Sat lunch
Thackerays Restaurant85 London Road, Tunbridge WellsTN1 1EATel: 01892 511921Set back on a green, Thackeray’s occupies a Grade II listed building with ancient floorboards and low ceilings. In 2010 a lavish refurbishment created two cool, modern dining rooms; two further private dining rooms, a lounge and bar await upstairs. Richard Phillips, chef and co-proprietor creates an intelligent modern French menu which explodes with flavour. The meticulous preparation and presentation reflects the elegant atmosphere and surroundings to provide a truly special dining experience.Open: Tue-Sat 12pm-2.30pm and 6.30pm-10.30pm, Sun 12-2.30pm
