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Hide and Fox

Kent, Hythe - Modern British - Restaurant - £££

A treasure trove of harmonious seasonal flavours

Overall Rating: Exceptional

Uniqueness:Does the establishment stand out in the context of the local area? Very Good

Deliciousness:How delicious is the food? Exceptional

Warmth:How warm is the service and the hospitality in general? Exceptional

Strength of recommendation:How enthusiastically and widely would you recommend the establishment? Exceptional

Locals are in complete agreement that this smart neighbourhood restaurant at the heart of a pretty Kent village not far from Hythe is worth knowing about if you are going to be in the area. Allister Barsby has been carefully nurturing Hide & Fox since 2019, gradually refining his version of modern British cooking. It helps that he is ably supported by his wife Alice Bussi, a perfect host who brings charm and engaging warmth to the approachable dining room. Together, they make eating here a rare and inestimable pleasure. There’s a pleasing seasonal rhythm to the five-and eight-course tasting menus, but what appeals about the cooking is that there is no needless experimentation, just a collection of fine ingredients, all sensitively prepared and working in harmony. Our autumnal lunch produced a gorgeously fresh combination of Cornish crab, elderflower gel and redcurrants, the anise-like flavour of chervil granita working particularly well, while a silky raviolo yielded a magni...

Locals are in complete agreement that this smart neighbourhood restaurant at the heart of a pretty Kent village not far from Hythe is worth knowing about if you are going to be in the area. Allister Barsby has been carefully nurturing Hide & Fox since 2019, gradually refining his version of modern British cooking. It helps that he is ably supported by his wife Alice Bussi, a perfect host who brings charm and engaging warmth to the approachable dining room. Together, they make eating here a rare and inestimable pleasure.

There’s a pleasing seasonal rhythm to the five-and eight-course tasting menus, but what appeals about the cooking is that there is no needless experimentation, just a collection of fine ingredients, all sensitively prepared and working in harmony. Our autumnal lunch produced a gorgeously fresh combination of Cornish crab, elderflower gel and redcurrants, the anise-like flavour of chervil granita working particularly well, while a silky raviolo yielded a magnificent amalgamation of girolles, Parmesan and slivers of Welsh autumn truffle, bound with a runny, golden egg yolk.

These were outriders for principal dishes that tended towards the boldly simple – from translucent salt cod with cauliflower, black garlic and bouillabaisse to a thick slice of tender, pink, Creedy Carver duck breast alongside a fig ‘tarte fine’, slices of fresh fig, pickled shallots and a rich, glossy sauce. The bread is irresistible, and an inspired 64% Manjari chocolate mousse with passion fruit, miso caramel and cardamom proved to be a treasure trove of sensations. Alice Bussi’s personally chosen wine selection is notable for its eclectic grape varieties, impeccable producers and all-round excellence.

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T McAra

26 March 2025

The eight course tasting menu is simply sublime, a real adventure and we can hardly wait until next time even although travelling in from London. Service is brisk, friendly and understated. Brilliant all round and within walking distance of Sandling station (about 15 mins but taxis are reasonable cost too).

VENUE DETAILS

The Green, Saltwood
Hythe
Kent
CT21 4PSGB

01303 260915

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OTHER INFORMATION

Wheelchair access, Credit card required

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