The Redstart — Restaurant in Maidstone

Great food....time for new ovens?

The wife and I went for a 1:30 Sunday lunch, it was busy and noisy, or you might say vibrant, depending on your point of view. The staff were attentive, the food was hot, well presented and tasty (if a little over seasoned) , the cost was mid-range.

The downside on this occasion, was that I found a sizable chunk of metal and plastic in my food. Luckily I saw it before trying to eat it! Or it could have been an expensive and painful trip to the dentist or A&E.

Accidents happen, we've eaten there before, and probably will eat there again, probably...maybe.

Upon showing the waitress the intruding metalwork on the plate, she was nonchalantly apologetic and took the plate and offending article away to show her colleagues. She came back a minute later and said a colleague said it probably came from the oven. She offered free desserts as an apology.

In hindsight, I think this was a disappointingly poor apology given what COULD have happened; but at the time we were so shocked we didn't really push-back.

As their own staff think the lump of metal and plastic came from their oven, perhaps an inspector needs to pay the kitchen a visit to see if their equipment is fit...

Parking on arrival was appropriate to Park our larger disabled vehicle. A disabled access ramp is available for wheelchair friendly access. The whole garden is wheelchair friendly which is always a welcome bonus. There is a children's play area in the corner so you can still enjoy a cold refreshing drink here if you have little ones to keep an eye on while they play. Inside this venue was clean and bright and friendly service with smiles so felt welcome as a first time person popping in to this public house. Staff were presentable in uniform and nothing seemed too much trouble. We enjoyed a few hours here although we didn't have a meal, we would certainly consider eating here on...

The Redstart Inn, tucked away on North Street, offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a cosy log fire in winter and a spacious beer garden complete with a covered patio and children’s playground—ideal for sunny days or events. Staff are friendly, attentive and community-focused, consistently winning service awards . The menu features tasty pub classics and European dishes beyond typical “pub grub” . Sunday roasts are popular and generous, though opinions vary on consistency  . The interior feels smart and well-kept—some might call it glitzy—with charming decor, though not to everyone’s taste . Overall, it’s a lively,...