insideKENT Magazine Issue 39 - June 2015 | Page 45
FOOD+DRINK
FAMILY FRIENDLY FARE AND A FEEL GOOD VIBE AT
Bill's Restaurant
Never has the saying 'when life gives you lemons, make lemonade' been more superbly
demonstrated than by Bill's founder, Bill Collison. When his Lewes-based greengrocers was
devastated in the floods of 2000, he regrouped and reopened, this time with a cheeky little
addition of a café ... Fast forward 15 years, and his namesake restaurant – with its straightforward
concept of serving really good food whilst ensuring every customer has a really good time –
has taken the country by storm. BY SAMANTHA G
One of the latest additions to Bill’s nationwide
portfolio is the Maidstone branch. Opening its
doors in February, the former camping supplies
shop near Fremlin Walk has been transformed.
Whilst the tents may be long gone, the quirky
staircase and mezzanine levels have been
retained, and the result is an urban, yet rustic
dining experience with a great ambience.
Bill's has a no-nonsense approach to using great
produce and serving tasty, hearty meals in a cool
and relaxed atmosphere; this is a concept that
is instantly demonstrated by the warm, welcoming
waiting staff. Having been shown to our cosy
booth, and with a beverage of Bill's pink lemonade
and a strawberry daiquiri (made with Bill's
homemade strawberry jam) in hand, my guests
and I began to peruse the main lunch and dinner
menu. Bill's also offers breakfasts, specials,
afternoon tea, a