A recent addition to Canterbury's culinary scene is Franc, a charming neighbourhood restaurant that boasts an impressive menu crafted by chef Dave Hart and his elegant front-of-house counterpart, Polly Pleasance.
It was not the first time I had the pleasure of dining at this duo's establishment; in fact, their previous venture, the Folkestone Wine Company, left me in awe seven years ago. The Folkestone Wine Company was renowned for its outstandingly good dishes with a French twist. A piece of pan-fried hake fillet topped with luscious squid and zesty gremolata still makes my heart skip a beat.
Fast forward to Franc, their new venture, which promises to deliver the same exceptional culinary experience. And I am thrilled to report that they do not disappoint.
Set in the timber-framed premises of the St John's hospital almshouses' Tudor gatehouse, Franc is a beautiful and historic location that adds an extra layer of sophistication to the dining experience. The higgledy-piggledy room with mismatched crockery only adds to its charm.
Chef Dave Hart, who has worked for renowned chef Stephen Harris at The Sportsman near Whitstable, has crafted a menu that boasts delicious dishes such as roast lamb with flageolet beans and turbot stuffed with chicory served in a lobster bisque.
However, what truly makes Franc shine is Polly Pleasance's exceptional hospitality. She effortlessly combines elegance and charm to create an atmosphere that is both intimate and inviting.
We recently had the pleasure of dining at Franc on a Saturday lunchtime and were treated to a tiny set menu that offered slices of fried duck breast with caramelised chicory, a vast bowl of brilliant homemade chips, and a gorgeously dressed salad. The duck arrived all pink and luscious, while the chicory was sweet yet still deliciously fibrous.
Franc's commitment to using only the freshest ingredients is evident in every dish that leaves their kitchen. No fancy gimmicks or over-the-top presentation here – just exceptional cooking done with love and care.
While Franc may not be the most visible dining destination in Canterbury, it certainly should be. This hidden gem deserves far more attention than it currently receives.
It was not the first time I had the pleasure of dining at this duo's establishment; in fact, their previous venture, the Folkestone Wine Company, left me in awe seven years ago. The Folkestone Wine Company was renowned for its outstandingly good dishes with a French twist. A piece of pan-fried hake fillet topped with luscious squid and zesty gremolata still makes my heart skip a beat.
Fast forward to Franc, their new venture, which promises to deliver the same exceptional culinary experience. And I am thrilled to report that they do not disappoint.
Set in the timber-framed premises of the St John's hospital almshouses' Tudor gatehouse, Franc is a beautiful and historic location that adds an extra layer of sophistication to the dining experience. The higgledy-piggledy room with mismatched crockery only adds to its charm.
Chef Dave Hart, who has worked for renowned chef Stephen Harris at The Sportsman near Whitstable, has crafted a menu that boasts delicious dishes such as roast lamb with flageolet beans and turbot stuffed with chicory served in a lobster bisque.
However, what truly makes Franc shine is Polly Pleasance's exceptional hospitality. She effortlessly combines elegance and charm to create an atmosphere that is both intimate and inviting.
We recently had the pleasure of dining at Franc on a Saturday lunchtime and were treated to a tiny set menu that offered slices of fried duck breast with caramelised chicory, a vast bowl of brilliant homemade chips, and a gorgeously dressed salad. The duck arrived all pink and luscious, while the chicory was sweet yet still deliciously fibrous.
Franc's commitment to using only the freshest ingredients is evident in every dish that leaves their kitchen. No fancy gimmicks or over-the-top presentation here – just exceptional cooking done with love and care.
While Franc may not be the most visible dining destination in Canterbury, it certainly should be. This hidden gem deserves far more attention than it currently receives.
. I'm so glad you've finally discovered them! Chef Dave Hart and Polly Pleasance are a match made in heaven, their dishes are like a warm hug for your taste buds 
. The fact that they're using fresh ingredients and cooking with love is what sets them apart from all the other restaurants out there. And can we talk about the atmosphere? Timber-framed premises and mismatched crockery? 
It's like stepping into a beautiful, old English home. I'm so glad you got to experience it on a Saturday lunchtime, that tiny set menu sounds divine! Franc needs more visibility, for sure 
. I mean, if it's so good, why isn't it mobbed with people? Isn't that what makes a place popular? And what's up with the fancy presentation? Don't get me wrong, it sounds nice and all, but sometimes you just wanna eat something delicious without feeling like you're at a formal dinner party 
. Plus, I'm not sure I buy into this whole "fresh ingredients" thing - doesn't that sound like a marketing buzzword to you? 
Anyway, I guess Franc might be worth checking out, but only if you can handle a more laid-back vibe than the average dinner spot 
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. The thing is, Franc isn't just about the food (although let's be real, it's a huge part of it), it's about the whole experience - from the historic location to Polly Pleasance's warm hospitality 
. I'm so glad you've given them some love and now I feel like I have to plan a trip down to Canterbury ASAP!
... And Polly's customer service is top-notch! She makes you feel like you're part of this historic place 
. I'm actually kinda sad they don't have more attention from tourists and locals alike - it's like a secret gem that not enough people know about 
. It's almost... rehearsed. I'm starting to think that Franc is more than just a restaurant... it's an experience 
. And that setting, timber-framed and all, it feels like they're trying to create a certain vibe or atmosphere. Like, what if the whole place is designed to distract us from something else? 
. And don't even get me started on the prices – £40 for a set menu? No thanks!
and don't even get me started on the lack of paper napkins 