Stressed out by the Christmas supermarket food shop? Fed up with the queues at the checkout? If you live in Canterbury, you can actually enjoy the experience – by heading toThe Goods Shed. This is a beautifully converted railway goods storehouse which now houses a foodhall where you’ll find everything from locally reared turkeys and game to fresh vegetables, cheeses made by Cheesemakers of Canterbury (pictured), and Kentish wines. Part of the fun is speaking with the stallholders and enjoying the magical atmosphere. It’s also satisfying knowing that you are getting the freshest produce while helping a range of small producers.
If you’ve done your shop, or want a break, head upstairs to the bare-floor-boarded restaurant, pictured, whose talented chef Rafael Lopez produces a fabulous range of seasonal dishes that draw on the ingredients downstairs. So you’re talking food yards, not miles. The focaccia is so good, it’s a meal in itself. Can’t wait to go back!
To find out more, read my review for Olive magazine here. And let me know when you visit, as I’d love to hear how you got on.
The Restaurant at The Goods Shed © Clare Hargreaves
Asparagus mousse with fresh langoustine © Clare Hargreaves
Cheesemakers of Canterbury © Clare Hargreaves
Tempura courgette flowers with herb salad © Clare Hargreaves
