Having been told by a foody friend in glowing terms of this restaurant overlooking the sea at Minnis Bay a friend and I hastened along for lunch to try it for ourselves.
Housed in what was once a domestic property it has been well converted for its current use, including the addition of a light, new conservatory. The room is bright and very simply decorated. One wall is adorned by framed photographs, some autographed, of many leading figures from the culinary world. This provides the main dining area, although outside tables are available when the weather permits.
The chef/patron, Jason Freedman, is clearly a very talented young man. I gather that the menu is constantly changing and evolving, but the emphasis is on the use of the freshest possible ingredients sourced as locally as possible. One other speciality of the house is the home curing and preservation of meats and fish, which adds an interesting dimension to the menu.
When we visited the house menu was priced at £12 for two courses or £18 for three. Quite light and simple, but it included vegetarian options. The à la carte choices were more extensive with starters ranging from £5 – £10 and mains from £11 – £20 (the top price being for a rib-eye steak). Again, the vegetarian diner is catered for. The menu also features a ‘Soup and Fish of the Day’ – Sea Bream on our visit, which was delicious. Deserts were priced between £7 and £8, or a sharing mixed platter for £11. Wine list prices are fair with the house wines at £12.45.
For me Minnis has been a well-kept secret, but I gather it is extremely popular with locals, as well as with people from further afield. I can understand why. It apparently gets pretty busy at weekends so reservations are recommended. I shall certainly be returning! B.K.W.
The Minnis Bar & Restaurant, The Parade, Birchington, Kent. Tel: 01843 841844. www.theminnis.com