Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and if you’re desperately seeking a romantic restaurant we’ve got it covered.

It doesn’t matter if you’re loved up or heading out on a first date, we’ve a selection of
Kent restaurants that will leave you (and your partner) cooing.

Unfortunately, a romantic date is rarely a cheap one so do be prepared to splash the cash.

ON THE KENT COAST

Barringtons, West Terrace, Folkestone: A hidden gem of the town, Barrington’s Italian menu also offers French and English inspired dishes. The service is impeccable, the restaurant is beautifully decorated and the food is exquisite. ££ More info here

Cliffe Restaurant, The Leas, Folkestone: The recently refurbished restaurant and hotel offers a beautifully high-end dining experience for a reasonable price. The menu is varied and delicious, the cocktails are brilliant, the service is flawless and the view across the Channel from the front terrace is priceless. £££ More info here

Ferry House Inn, Harty Ferry, Sheppey: It doesn’t get more romantic than the Ferry House Inn. The 16th century pub has far-reaching views over The Swale and a good choice of food and drink. It can be found in the quiet hamlet of Harty at the eastern end of Sheppey and is well worth the drive. Accommodation available. ££ More info here

Sands Hotel, Margate: This boutique hotel is a stone’s throw from Margate main sands with stunning views across the sea and skies, famously depicted by JMW Turner. The Bay Restaurant has two AA Rosettes and shortlisted for the Luxury Travel Guide Global Awards, there is more than just a beautiful view to persuade you through its doors. £££ More info here

The Oxford, Whitstable: The Oxford offers a mouth-watering menu serving modern British food in a relaxed environment. There are just a small number of tables, making the restaurant feel very intimate and giving a guarantee that you’ll have devoted service throughout your visit. Their menu includes a range of delicious dishes, from steamed mussels with roasted garlic and cream to lamb cutlets with mint salsa and white bean.
££ More info here

EAST KENT

Amici, North Street, Ashford: Its name might mean ‘friends’ but this Italian restaurant in the heart of Ashford has a cosy, low-lit atmosphere perfect for couples. The authentic, family run restaurant has a delicious home-made menu and the service is excellent. ££ More info here

Blue Pigeons, Worth, near Sandwich: This family run restaurant is hidden in the pretty village of Worth. The beamed brasserie opens from Wednesday to Sunday but will make an exception on Tuesday, February 14. A six-course meal includes a bellini cocktail and a champagne sorbet palate cleanser. This menu is also available on Friday, February 10 and Saturday, February 11. £££ More info here

Corner House, Minster, near Ramsgate: Named Restaurant of the Year in the Taste of Kent Awards in 2015, the Corner House has proved a popular spot for lovers of quality cuisine and a great atmosphere. The team works with independent suppliers to celebrate simple quality Kentish ingredients and the menu changes regularly to embrace seasonal flavours. They even make their own breads, pasta and ice cream. The restaurant has a relaxed, friendly vibe and guests can even stay the night as it has rooms too. £££ More info here

Pinocchio’s, Canterbury: The Italians definitely know how to do ‘romantic’. Join the friendly staff at Pinocchio’s for authentic dishes from Naples and the Amalfi Coast. All of their ingredients are sourced in Kent or imported from the south of Italy. As well as pizza and pasta, there are fresh fish and meat dishes and homemade desserts. £££ More info here

The Bench at Mersham Le Hatch: This tucked away wine bar, cocktail bar and tapas restaurant is the ideal place for couples looking for somewhere away from a busy high street. There’s plenty of choice and they also do some fantastic alcohol-free cocktails for drivers if you ask nicely. ££ More info here

The Yard, Faversham: The Yard has made a name for itself for its hearty lunches, vegetarian and vegan treats and trendy vibe, but on Valentine’s night, they will be serving up a special evening. There will be a fixed menu and even a live DJ to set the mood. Expect candlelight and a foodie heaven. £ For more info, find The Yard on Facebook

NORTH KENT

Fighting Cocks, Horton Kirby, near Dartford: With plenty of awards, customers return here time again. Its four-course Valentine’s menu is £24.95 per person and includes a seafood platter, filet de boeuf and champagne and raspberry posset. The restaurant overlooks the river. Tempted? Book early. ££ More info here

Powder and Magazine, Lower Upnor: North Kent’s newest gastro dining experience Powder and Magazine is offering a special Valentine’s menu on Tuesday, February 14 and Saturday, February 18 which includes lobster and venison. It costs £35 per person. The restaurant is in a historical old magazine used by the Navy and Army which has been tastefully converted to keep the character of the building. ££ More info here

Ship Inn, Southfleet, near Gravesend: If you’re after roaring fires, a menu packed with hearty food but with a few modern twists thrown in, and some great beers, this is the place for you. The main pub has a traditional vibe, but there is also a modern orangery for dining. Private dining is available too. ££ More info here

White Horse, Borstal, near Rochester: This village gastro pub has a traditional atmosphere. It is offering a special Valentine’s Day menu on Tuesday, February 14 only. The choices include scallops and truffle mash, lobster thermidor and grilled pigeon. The six-course menu includes an assiette of desserts for couples to share. It is £39.95 per person which includes a free glass of prosecco each and truffles for the ladies. Booking essential.
££ More info here

MID KENT

Frederic Bistro, Market Buildings, Maidstone: French food has always been associated with love and this gem is in a buzzy part of Maidstone. With a focus on quality, rustic cooking, the atmosphere is like stepping into a little slice of life on the continent. It in Market Buildings, next to the Hazlitt Theatre and has recently been expanded. ££ More info here

Plough Inn, Lewson Street, near Sittingbourne: Once a blacksmiths, this historic inn can be found nestled in the countryside east of Sittingbourne. It serves a modern take on traditional pub food in its large restaurant and there are always a range of specials and vegetarian options. ££ More info here

Thai Orchid, Maidstone: At first glance this Thai restaurant shadowed by the Crown Court in The Broadway, might not scream romance. But if you’re lucky enough to secure a window table upstairs, the rewards are lovely views of the River Medway at night. The food has authentic Thai flavours and lots of little sharing dishes can be ordered. The waiting staff are also some of the friendliest to be found in Maidstone. ££ More info hereTickled Trout, West Farleigh: If a cosy country pub is your thing, then check out the Tickled Trout. It has the added benefit of being run by a team from the Staplehurst’s Hush Heath winery, so you know your wine choices are likely to slip down well. If you really want to make a night of it, there’s six boutique hotel rooms. ££ More info here