On our continuing quest to uncover the best Sunday lunch in Kent, we recently had the unexpected pleasure of visiting The Barn Restaurant. Hidden away in what is undoubtedly one of the older parts of Rainham in Kent, the Barn sits on a narrow stretch of the Lower Rainham Road. Previous owners had the original structure moved timber by timber from its original location in Essex, and fits in perfectly adding a little extra character to the area. It’s a wonderful story, and to add yet more charm, it’s said to be haunted too!
Upon arrival, we are greeted by friendly, happy staff who immediately show us to our table. Filled with character, it’s rustic yet stylish and elegant inside the restaurant. Tables are not so close together that one feels they cannot have a private conversation! Great attention to detail is clear here, with beautiful table linens, shiny cutlery, table decoration and condiments perfectly positioned!
As we look around the restaurant it’s clear that presentation is of prime importance. Other diners are receiving their meals and I have to say they look absolutely incredible. This is definitely a restaurant for the food connoisseur!
The Sunday Lunch Menu is offered as 2 or 3 courses. A wonderful variety of appetisers, main courses and tasty desserts are featured on the menu, and my mouth waters as I review my options! We are offered a basket of 3 different freshly baked slices of bread, all made on the premises, including fresh herbs, spices and grains. They are soft, light and delicious.
Sunday lunch starters
For appetisers, my partner selects the Mutton Risotto, and I choose the Spiced Potted Crab . The presentation is fabulous for both. The crab is delicious, served with seafood remoulade, and deep fried tomato polenta, a great combination and amazingly vibrant flavours – a large appetiser too! The Mutton Risotto is sublime – creamy, flavourful and cooked to perfection. I could see myself eating this as a main course – it’s exquisite.
I have to say something I love, and for me what makes a restaurant that step above the rest is the attention to detail, providing the customer with those additional touches to really enjoy the meal, without having to ask for them. What I’m referring to is the accompaniments, i.e. gravy, sauces, etc. Well, that’s something that shines true here at The Barn. Whilst awaiting our main course, mint jelly, and horseradish are brought to the table, again beautifully presented.
The main event – roast
We order the Roasted Rump of Lamb, and the 28 day matured Roasted Sirloin of Beef – WOW! Both the Lamb and the Beef are cooked to a perfect pink! Full of flavor, tender to cut, juicy, and with the addition of mint jelly / horseradish, the flavor is exemplary. (Only gripe here would be that the horseradish isn’t quite as hot as my partner believes it should be!). Again here, presentation is of the highest order as you find nestled inside a large home-made Yorkshire pudding, a handful of crunchy roast potatoes (cooked in goose-fat), soft on the inside, crispy on the outside – they are just divine. Additionally, an individual cauliflower cheese – presented in a tiny copper saucepan on the plate (a lovely touch) and a cheese sauce that’s to be reckoned with – full of cheesiness! Delicious seasonal vegetables of carrots, flavor-some red cabbage, and roasted onions, a yummy herby mash, and add to this a generous helping of Thyme Jus and you have yourself one truly exception Sunday Roast.
Local fruit crumble
We finished it all off with an ample helping of Local Apple & Plum Crumble, topped with Buttermilk Ice Cream – you just can’t go wrong with a crumble, and The Barn come through here with an exceptional dessert… full of fresh fruit, topped with crunchy sweet cumble!
Honestly, I can’t fault this place. The owners, and staff at The Barn have thought of everything, and aim to offer you the very best dining experience as well as excellent customer service. There are few Kent restaurants that rank as high on quality food, great décor and service. If you want to give your family and friends an extra special treat then you definitely have to make the trip to Rainham to experience the fabulous all-round experience you’ll enjoy at The Barn Restaurant.
Selection of menu’s
The Barn also offer a variety of menu’s including a Vegan menu, and on Wednesday evenings two can dine for the price of £25, with a selection of 4 appetisers and 4 mains. Or enjoy a weekday lunch, 2 courses for £15, 3 courses for £18, or the piece de resistance has to be the Barn Signature Menu, where diners get to enjoy an incredible 9 courses – definitely something for a special occasion!
There’s also a private room available for special events and private parties, and upstairs at The Barn there’s a cozy bar area filled with comfy sofa’s and armchair in which to relax and let the stresses of the day slip away.
So, next time you want treat someone to a special dining experience, or if you want to make a great impression, why not make a reservation at The Barn Restaurant in Rainham. If you’re a real foodie, I promise you won’t be disappointed!
Sunday Lunch at The Barn
2 courses, £20.95
3 courses, £24.95
Where to find The Barn Restaurant
The Barn Restaurant
507 Lower Rainham Road,
Rainham,
Kent,
ME8 7TN
Telephone: 014634 361363
