Who'd A Thought It

The story

Who'd A Thought It, Maidstone: 2 Rosette British Dining and Champagne

A sixteenth-century foundation for classic cooking.

Who'd A Thought It occupies a restored sixteenth-century pub in Maidstone, where the kitchen prepares classic British dishes using fresh local ingredients. The establishment has earned two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, reflecting careful preparation and attention to detail across a menu that shifts with the seasons.

Seasonal menus and signature preparations.

The la carte menu showcases English classics, ranging from light lunches to three-course dinners featuring a low-and-slow cooked lamb jerk curry and generous portions of succulent steak. The seafood Plateau Rouge serves as a showpiece for celebrations, while the Sunday roast continues to draw steady crowds. An oyster bar sits alongside the main dining area, adding fresh shellfish to the repertoire.

Champagne culture and distinct dining spaces.

A formal dining room features white linen and silverware for an opulent setting, while the adjacent bar offers a relaxed environment for those preferring a pub-style meal. The restaurant houses the largest collection of Champagne in Kent, drawing travelers and local regulars to the wine bar for extensive selections. Outdoors, a sun trap terrace provides a popular spot for afternoon drinks during warmer weather.