Business Details
Michelin-Starred Dining at The Fordwich Arms
The Fordwich Arms, nestled in England's smallest town, Fordwich, Kent, has evolved into one of the country's most celebrated dining destinations since its acquisition by Daniel and Natasha Smith in 2017. Our Michelin-starred establishment combines the charm of a 1930s bar and oak-panelled dining room with open fires, offering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. We specialize in seasonal menus showcasing Kentish ingredients sourced directly from local farms, reflecting our commitment to provenance and sustainability. Chef Patron Daniel Smith brings decades of experience from top-tier restaurants, including The Clove Club, while Pastry Chef Natasha Smith's expertise elevates our dessert offerings.Our dedicated team, led by Guest Relations Manager Sam-Marie, ensures every guest experiences exceptional service, whether dining in our historic building or on our riverside terrace. With accolades such as Daniel being named The Observer's Young Chef of the Year 2016, we maintain rigorous standards of excellence across all aspects of our operation. Our wine list, curated by sommelier Max, features an extensive global selection, including our award-winning house vintage. We pride ourselves on balancing culinary innovation with approachable hospitality, making fine dining accessible without compromising quality or authenticity.
Services
Fine Dining
Seasonal Menus
Wine Pairing
Private Dining
Riverside Terrace
Accommodation
Gift Vouchers
Special Events
Catering
Cigar Lounge
Highlights and features
- Michelin-starred culinary excellence since 2017
- Seasonal menus featuring hyper-local Kentish ingredients
- Award-winning chef team with national recognition
- Historic riverside setting with multiple dining spaces
- Extensive global wine list with expert sommelier service
Associations and certifications
- Michelin Guide
What people say
Michelin-starred excellence
Exceptional service
Creative tasting menus
Beautiful riverside setting
Outstanding wine list
Services
Fine Dining Experience
Our Michelin-starred fine dining experience showcases seasonal British cuisine with a modern twist. Chef Daniel Smith crafts tasting menus that highlight local Kentish ingredients through innovative techniques. The seven-course journey includes wine pairing options curated by our sommelier team, with dishes presented as edible works of art in our oak-panelled dining room.
Seasonal Menus
Menus change with the seasons to reflect Kent's agricultural bounty. We work directly with local farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients, from coastal seafood to regional cheeses. Our a la carte options allow guests to create personalized dining experiences while maintaining our commitment to sustainability and provenance.
Wine Pairing
Our extensive wine list features over 300 selections from global vineyards, with particular strength in Burgundy and Champagne. Sommelier Max has developed a dynamic pairing program that complements each dish's flavor profile. The wine list has received multiple awards, including recognition for our fortified wine collection.
Private Accommodation
The Arms Cottage offers luxury self-catering accommodation in a 15th-century building just ten minutes from the restaurant. This three-bedroom property combines period features with modern comforts, including an open fireplace and fully equipped kitchen. It's ideal for guests wanting to explore the Kent countryside while dining at our Michelin-starred establishment.
Special Events
We host seasonal culinary events like our White Alba Truffle Dinner, featuring rare ingredients paired with specially designed menus. These communal dining experiences showcase our chefs' creativity through multi-course tasting menus. The events often feature guest wine producers and provide educational components about ingredient sourcing and preparation techniques.
People
Daniel Smith
Chef Patron
Award-winning chef Daniel Smith, named The Observer's Young Chef of the Year 2016, brings extensive experience from Jason Atherton's group and The Clove Club. He has led The Fordwich Arms to Michelin recognition since 2017.
Natasha Smith
Pastry Chef
Pastry Chef Natasha Smith has worked at Michelin-starred establishments including Chapter One and Rocket. She oversees dessert creation and contributes to the restaurant's overall culinary vision with her expertise in confectionery arts.
Sam-Marie
Guest Relations Manager
Sam-Marie manages reservations and guest experiences, ensuring smooth service operations. With six years at the restaurant, she represents the establishment's welcoming ethos and coordinates the front-of-house team effectively.
Max
Sommelier
Wine expert Max curates our award-winning wine list and provides floor service. He works directly with international producers to develop our extensive collection, which includes rare vintages and fortified wines that complement our tasting menus.
CeCe
Head Waitress
CeCe progressed from commis waiter to head waitress in a year, demonstrating exceptional service skills. She holds a WSET qualification and contributes to staff training while managing daily dining room operations with infectious enthusiasm.
Questions
How do I make a reservation at The Fordwich Arms?
Book online through our website or call us directly at 01227 286690 during pub opening hours (Tuesday-Saturday 12:00-23:00, Sunday 12:00-18:00).
What dining options are available?
We offer tasting menus (from £110 per person), a la carte options Tuesday-Friday, and Sunday lunch menus. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with 48 hours notice.
What are the cancellation policies?
Reservations cancelled with less than 48 hours notice incur a £40 per person fee. No-shows will be charged the full amount for reserved seats.
Does the restaurant have a dress code?
Smart casual attire is recommended. Jackets are not required but encouraged for evening dining in our formal dining room.
Can I purchase gift vouchers?
Yes, we offer gift vouchers for dining experiences. Extendable validity available for 6 months with a £50 fee.
Reviews (7)
Rob McGarry
Dec 28, 2021
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Glad we came to this fine establishment. We had the 4 course tasting menu and it didnt disappoint. We would definitely come here again and highly recommend, even if it is on the pricey side.
Leo Goodchild
Dec 19, 2021
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We visited as a joint birthday treat and have to say that it absolutely lived up to the expectations that we both had, not cheap by any stretch of but absolutely fantastic. The meal was stunning, we had the a la carte menu which was complemented beautifully by the extras that were provided. The bread that was bought out was amazing - you could have done with that on every course to mop up all the fantastic sauces. The only good that we felt was not up to the level of the rest was the mince pie beignet served at the end of the meal. We both felt that this was a little doughy, with the mincemeat
Cathy Chuck
Dec 13, 2021
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Fabulous NYE at the Fordwich Arms. The food as always was exquisite. The sommelier was amazing, and the flight choice was a delight. Just wonderful!
Charlotte Reid
Oct 19, 2021
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We had an absolutely fantastic meal here last night. The staff were so friendly and welcoming and the food was wonderful. We had some lovely wines picked for us by the sommelier which paired beautifully with each course. The building itself is beautiful too. Highly recommend if you are wanting a special treat. We will definitely be back!
Gdrew
Oct 17, 2021
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This is not so much a meal but more an experience. The service and food are on par with some of the best I've tasted. I know it's good when they're able to make a vegetarian dish appealing!
Matt Cross
Oct 07, 2021
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Without doubt, one of the very best restaurants, with bar attached, around... magnificent menu, tasting or otherwise, superb friendly service and a tantalising wine list... cheap it ain't, but if you want the best, look no further...
Lindsay Williams
Sep 29, 2021
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All round one of the best meals Ive had in a very long time; at least 4 of the tasting menu courses were truly exceptional but the raw Orkney scallop was the stand out dish for us and one that Ill remember for a very long time. Also highly recommend the wine pairing which was of a very high quality with generous pours.
