I initially planned to write a blog post about five of my favourite places to go for a romantic meal around Tunbridge Wells, but it was too difficult to fit them all in! So here are seven of my top picks for that extra special night out…
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#1 Tallow
Up in Southborough, Tallow is the place to go for a sophisticated yet laid-back evening. The award-winning British restaurant is now a draw for people all over the UK who come to try its amazing food.
The ever-changing menu serves up delicious seasonal combinations, with inventive twists. Think a confit-duck doughnut for starters, perhaps followed by pan-fried cod and a cheese bread and butter pudding. It’s fancy without being fussy. Tallow is somewhere I like to go for an extra special meal – perhaps for a big birthday or a cherished anniversary. Book ahead for this one, as it’s popular.
#2 Soprano Tapas & Wine Bar
Since it opened in 2011, I have been back many times to Soprano’s both for romantic meals with my (now) husband, gatherings with some girlfriends and more recently, I took my Mum there after a busy day of shopping. Located in the heart of the Royal Tunbridge Wells High Street, Soprano’s is small but perfectly formed!
There’s a super selection of tapas on the menu and if you are a meat eater like me, then you must try the Chorizo al Vino Tinto – Spanish sausage cooked in red wine. Diners can choose to have a small selection of tapas washed down with a tipple from the international wine list or go for a full ‘Tapas Mains’ menu – the choice is yours. Also make sure you try at least one of their cocktails / mocktails if you visit. My favourite is the one with candy floss on the side. So fancy!
#3 The Hidden Well
This Asian restaurant in St Johns is a tucked away gem. Once you try it though you’ll go back again and again. Their starter bites are so delicious, with wantons, bao and tempura all featuring on the menu often.
The main dishes include Sambal noodles and king prawn udon. The food is authentic and the restaurant family run. It’s perfect for a laid-back date, as it’s cute and cosy. You can then pop into one of the many pubs nearby for a night cap or why not be extra adventurous and book into an Escape Rooms challenge with Clue Cracker. This was way more fun than I expected it to be!
#4 The Beacon
Located on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells on Tea Garden Lane, The Beacon has some of the most stunning views across the countryside. Set on 17 acres with three beautiful lakes, it could be the perfect place for a day-time date so you can take advantage of the gorgeous garden and terrace.
Since The Beacon was bought by Pete Cornwall and the ‘I’ll be Mother Group’ brand in 2015, it has had a complete overhaul and is tastefully designed with lots of quirky additions throughout. Look out for The Beacon’s changing weekly, which highlights the locally sourced ethos that it is proud of. If you visit during the day, perhaps combine it with a walk down through Happy Valley and to Tunbridge Wells Common?
#5 Cantuccio
So popular is this authentic pizza place in Tunbridge Wells, they’ve extended down the street in Camden Road to keep up with demand. The original restaurant has cute little candle-lit tables in the window, and an open kitchen at the end.
Cantuccio serves up proper Italian-style pizzas with loads of different, exciting toppings. I recommend the nduja pizza – sweet and spicy. They also do a Nutella calzone, which I am keen to try…
#6 The Warren
The Warren is a firm favourite and one of my go-to places to recommend when anyone asks me to suggest a local restaurant with a slightly more ‘fine dining’ feel to it. The Warren is known for serving the freshest, highest quality food with a focus on game and seasonal produce – a well-deserved reputation, which I’m sure will continue to increase.
Much of the food is farm to table and the restaurant’s iconic orangery windows overlook Tunbridge Wells High Street and Station, perfect for people watching. The overall vibe seems to be sophisticated with a creative twist! Top tip? Arrive early and enjoy a cocktail or glass of bubbles at the beautiful bar before your meal.
#7 Sankey’s Old Fishmarket
Sankey’s Old Fishmarket is the place to visit in Royal Tunbridge Wells if you enjoy seafood. It is perfect for a romantic meal and being located in the heart of The Pantiles, it is also well placed for exploring some of the cocktail bars nearby. Why not try a tipple in Charlotte’s before or after?
This super seafood brasserie offers up sophisticated dining in the most historic part of our town. With wines from around the world and the freshest, most delicious seafood in Tunbridge Wells, check out the oyster menu and let the romance begin!
Your local guide
Clare Lush Mansell
Founder & Editor
Meet Clare Lush-Mansell, the creative force behind My Tunbridge Wells. Having spent a decade working in PR and communications, Clare founded My Tunbridge Wells in 2015. Clare enjoys sharing her experiences & local life exploring the beauty of Tunbridge Wells and beyond while she navigates parenting three children!
A globetrotter at heart, Clare grew up in Ireland and lived in Australia and Russia before settling in sunny Kent. These experiences have infused her passion for travel, and she also loves meeting new people, singing and her cats.
© Portrait image by Mollie Manning
