The Granville

Restaurant discussions in Kent invariably lead to a conversation about the well known Sportsman at Seasalter. www.thesportsmanseasalter.co.uk/ and very good it is too.

My favourite though is The Granville at Lower Hardres on Stone Street not far from Canterbury www.thegranvillecanterbury.com. Run by the sister of The Sportsman family this place is superb from the welcome, the friendly and efficient service to the spacious airy interior and of course the food.

I first visited the Granville in the early 80s and found a perfectly pleasant country pub notable most for its location situated at the end of Chartham Downs Road which has one of the most breathtaking views in the county. Returning almost three decades later I discovered something of a transformation.

I have been meaning to write about this restaurant for some time however enjoying myself so much resulted in finishing all my food before remembering the photos. Not this time though.

It all started well with pre dinner drinks and chat relaxing on comfortable leather sofas then making our selection from the varied but not overwhelming menu board.

To start delicious home made bread with butter and roasted pumpkin seeds

Home Made Bread

Starters included smooth chicken liver parfait served in individual jars alongside homemade chutney and plump local mussels with garlic and thyme

Local Mussels

Chicken Liver Parfait

Service at the Granville is relaxed with perfect judgement so just when you are ready for your next course it arrives. There is always a great atmosphere in this popular place with carefully timed bookings resulting in a very smooth operation.

The locally sourced dishes for our main courses also lived up to expectations and included beautifully presented confit of duck and roast pork belly. Both complete with perfectly cooked vegetables and creamy mashed potato.

Crispy Pork Belly

Confit of Duck

Desserts like other courses come with a selection of six all mouthwateringly tempting. Sometimes a selection of three in small sizes is on offer. This time the options we chose included lemon posset and creme brûlée. With great quality coffee to round off an exceptionally good meal. We have introduced many friends to The Granville which is certainly up there with the best of Kent restaurants.