The Counter by Robin Read — Restaurant in Tunbridge Wells

The Counter Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN1 Hot Hardens newcomer, so had to visit as it was pretty close. Arrived as first customers of the day. The venue has only been open for two weeks, but it’s unquestionably getting there. Nice greeting and offered our choice of table. We had opted for the ten course taster, although we didn’t know the price. 8 courses was £95. As it’s a changing menu, I won’t go through the minutiae of each course. The courses generally started of with interesting milder flavour and builds as the meal gos on. We did enjoy the majority of the courses. On the positive side my friend loved the Brill. I thought the vegetable broth was quite sensational. Both desserts were stunning, but for very different reasons. Chocolate Cremeaux had a whole selection of sensational flavours, both our favourite course. The sweet tower was a great surprise, won’t spoil it by giving it away. On the “needs a tweak” side 1. Bit more bread would be nice. 2. The palate cleanser (granita) needed a little more flavour, and ice pieces slightly smaller. 3. Personally I like my beef pinker. On the basis that it’s still early days, I wouldn’t be surprised to see it attain one Michelin star after the tweaks. A nice experience, only surprise was the two extra courses seemed to add £30 (to £125) which, for a non Michelin starred new venue seeme a bit steep. Non alcoholic Blackberry sour was very nice but at £11 and quite...

It’s not often you go to a restaurant and the tunes are as good as the food. It’s all about the menu obviously but the way Robin and the team go about their work is so chilled, it helps create this wonderful atmosphere in which to enjoy it all.

We had the 10 course all-in counter experience and I’m so glad we did. I love a bar and Robin was engaged and informative. I’m not sure my words will do the food justice, other than to say I can’t see how anyone would be disappointed here. They did a great job of accommodating my wife’s no red meat request.

We’re going back as soon as the menu changes next month. TW is pretty lucky I think to have a place like this. The pudding wine menu looks well worth exploring for those that like this...

I went to The Counter as a surprise for my birthday last week. We had the 5 course menu and as expected the food was both interesting and sublime.

Nothing was too much trouble and the menu was adjusted for individual needs and wishes.

The atmosphere was relaxed throughout and the timing between courses was just right. We chatted, laughed, ate and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

We were served by various staff including Robin. Rosie was our main point of contact and she was a complete delight, personable, funny and professional .

If money was no object I'd be there every month so instead at home now we have a 'The Counter' savings jar and we will be back ASAP. Thank you for a...