Franc

We were regulars at Dave Hart and Polly Pleasence's amazing Folkestone Wine Company. Their latest venture, Franc of Canterbury, is a little bit further afield for us but definitely worth the journey every time. The owners have smashed it again. Our latest visit was to treat my brother who hadn't eaten at the FWC or Franc before. We booked upstairs for the fine dining lunchtime experience. The lamb, chicken and scallop mains we had were each out of this world. Cooked to perfection. Dave's sauces as ever made you want to lick the plate clean (which we had to try hard to refrain from). And my brother's face when he tasted Dave's chocolate marquise was priceless. Service was great and the staff were really friendly, as always. The wine list is excellent too and unbelievably priced compared to so many places in Kent. In fact, overall, for the amazing quality of the food and wine compared to many other restaurants we've visited, it's such good value. (We've paid more in some gastropubs for lesser quality!) Dave's menu is nice and simple with a selection of small plates and 2-3 mains specials with a variation of prices. Perfectly cooked chips and salad (with an amzing french dressing) can be ordered extra. It's definitely worth leaving some room in your tummy for Dave's outstanding desserts. Franc is in a very old and beautifully cosy building on Northgate - typical of Canterbury properties - with a fabulous 'view from the loo' over beautiful gardens. In the evening especially, the colourful downstairs wine bar and busy tables create a vibrant buzzy atmosphere that looks like it must be the place to be when you're passing by outside. Dining upstairs for a very French 'pris fixe' lunch is an altogether different experience with crisp white table linen in a small, but relaxed and intimate, light and airy room. Night and day, both experiences offer something a bit different in very much Dave and Polly's unique and homely style. This is a winery and eating place that Canterbury has been crying out for for decades. Highly recommend!