The clouds ran briskly across the sky allowing small glimmers of winter sun to shine through, a bright golden hue flickered across the ocean as we drove through Dover to our destination. It was mid-February and we had decided to treat ourselves to a quick night away as a way to break up the dark winter months. Praying for the good weather to last long enough for us to take a stroll down the coast we wrapped up warm as we got out of the car and walked towards our stop for the night; The Rose. A small cosy boutique hotel within 2 hours from London.

Food + Drink 4/5

As we were there for Valentine’s night away the restaurant was offering a set menu special. I am always torn between loving the idea of being pushed to try new dishes but also not wanting the feeling of disappointment when nothing on the menu really catches my fancy. Luckily within this case, it exceeded my expectations.

The set menu started with a gorgeous gin and basil-based pink cocktail to sip on while fresh Oystered arrived at the table. A freshly torn and runny piece of burrata lay on a bed of sourdough and pureed beans alongside the second dish of roasted and charred fennel. As olive oil dripped off the side of the cheese we tucked in. This was then followed by a newly caught piece of turbot served with Cavolo Nero and to end the meal a fruit-based dessert.

Breakfast is ordered on a small menu card, which is included in the room rate, and allows guests to select two items, a juice and a hot drink. I really enjoyed how the food was made to order compared to a more traditional buffet as everything with fresh and warm. This also added to the overall dining experience as we could sit back and sip our teas as opposed to bustling around the room carrying plates.

Overall I loved the food and style of dining. Everything feels fresh, considered and the flavours are a perfect balance of classic combinations with a contemporary twist. No bland pub or average grub served here.

The Area

Deal is a small town so an afternoon is all that’s needed to hit up the best spots. We arrived in the early afternoon before check-in, had a really great casual lunch at Pop-up café and a walk around the high street to find the lovely homeware stores Dunlin + Diver and Hoxton Store. Being so close to France we found a charming wine bar/shop so stopped in to share a bottle of French red. The staff at Le Pinardier were very cheerful and engaging while explaining the different wines; it felt like we had stumbled across a bar down a cobbled road in Paris. If you plan on staying longer I would also check out Frog and Scott as another dinner option.

If you are looking for a quick escape within two hours outside of London and are looking for good food and a cosy atmosphere then The Rose is for you. It is important to note that this is more of a pub with boutique rooms than a hotel but the service and relaxed seaside feel is perfect for a couples night away.

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All opinions are my own and I base my ratings on comparison of price compared to overall stay.