insideKENT Magazine Issue 29 - August 2014 | Page 65

FOOD+DRINK FOOD FIT FOR A SIR AT THE White Lion, Selling In the hunt for a fabulous pub lunch on a lovely summer’s afternoon, my guest and I embarked on a leisurely country drive from Ashford towards Faversham to visit local favourite, the White Lion. A 16th-century pub nestled in the hilly village of Selling, this Kentish gem proved the ideal afternoon retreat. BY ADAM READY Under the new management duo of Vicky Hawkins – previously the general manager at The Wife of Bath in Wye – and her partner, head chef Adam Davis – who has worked at the likes of Eastwell Manor and Reeds – it's little wonder this village local is already the talk of the town. What's more, located on the Selling Road, the White Lion sits in the middle of what is almost a triangle between Ashford, Faversham and the west of Canterbury, making it a great location for passing trade and foodies. And with a restaurant that can seat around 80 covers, with outside seating to the front and rear, it is sure to attract both. Seated in the front restaurant beside one of the old open fireplaces, my guest and I were welcomed by Vicky, who arrived with our drinks, plus a serving of large Sicilian olives and fresh bread with the most delicious home-smoked butter. As we browsed the daily specials board, lunch, and à la carte menus, my guest and I could not believe how many top dishes were on offer. From the à la carte, the sea bass fillet, Kentish lamb and beef fillet stood out, and will certainly help to spread the word about just what the White Lion will go on to achieve. As the restaurant began to fill up, our mains – picked from the impressive lunch menu – arrived. Looking amazing, at £9.95, my handmade prime steak burger was served with triple-cooked chips and homemade ketchup. Cooked to perfection and filled with melted cheese, red onion, lettuce and tomato, even my guest was glancing her eye over the tower. And it's no wonder, as it was one of – if not the best – burger I have had in a long time. brûlée dish was served on a piece of slate with a homemade cinnamon shortbread finger. We finished off our visit with coffees and a good chat with Adam and Vicky, who are both excited about their new venture at the White Lion and more so, looking forward to put their fantastic food and hospitality on the map. My guest’s choice was a pub lunch classic: beer battered cod. At £9.50, it was served with triplecooked chips, minted crushed peas and a generous helping of tartar sauce. The chunky, tender pieces of cod were delicious, finished with a wedge of lemon and parsley garnish. With ketchup served in small glass jars, main courses on wooden boards and delightful chip baskets, the culinary presentation at the White Lion is second to none. Not only did we immediately feel at home with the good food and drinks on offer, but we'd even heard that we were in the company of a sir at the table behind – who seemed to enjoy his meal also! We finished our lunchtime dining with the vanilla crème brûlée from the reasonably priced dessert menu. Easily big enough for two, our shared 65 Selling Faversham ME13 9EQ 01227 752