Number Eight is a restaurant and bar in the heart of Sevenoaks. We had the chance to take a trip down to into Kent to review this awesome restaurant owned by experienced chef and restaurateur Stuart Gillies and his wife Cecilia.
The menu is a mix of modern European cuisine and traditional British favourites. Which rotates and refreshes with the seasons. For their latest a-la-cart offering, check their website. The space is beautifully fitted out with a classic cosy corner bistro and a large, bright, vibrant bar, offering cocktails, draft beers and a great selections of wine.
Picture this: winter nights and made for warm and cosy dinners. The atmosphere at Number Eight is romantic and stylish, making it the perfect spot to snuggle up with your date. The ambiance seamlessly blends with the season, creating an intimate space that feels like a foody haven.
Come summer, and Number Eight transforms into a bright, airy escape. The alfresco space offers a relaxed setting where you can soak in the sunshine while enjoying your favourite dishes. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind with friends, sipping on wine and indulging in delectable dishes, all under the open sky.
The Food
We decided to kick things off with the small plates, the Toasted Focaccia was like a warm hug – crispy outside, fluffy on the inside. The Padron Peppers brought a sassy kick, and the Crispy Fried Calamari? Chef’s kiss! That Sriracha Mayo was the perfect sidekick.
The Aubergine & Tomato Zalouk with Zhoug Yoghurt took us on a Middle Eastern joyride. Roasted aubergine, zesty tomato, and that cool zhoug yoghurt – we couldn’t get enough.
For the mains, we sailed into seafood bliss. The Oak Smoked Salmon with Pickled Shallots, Soft Boiled Egg, and Horseradish was a flavour fiesta. The Tempura Prawns with Harissa Mayo? Crunchy, juicy, and that mayo. Yum!
The Crab Tagliatelle stole the show totally. NO word of a lie, it had us licking our plates! As for the hint of chilli? An excuse to order more drinks, of course.
To Drink
You are in safe hands with both the cocktail and the wine list. With the waiting staff happy to talk through the menu and offer recommendations both from the alcoholic and non alcoholic sections. The menu boasts big hitting favourites and classics, mixed with some delectable well paired, eclectic wine choices. We choose The Picpoul which was like sipping on summer. Big notes of Melon, lemon zest, and apple – a total perfect match for our menu choices.
The Service
The staff are knowledgeable and attentive. They are a real credit to the restaurant and really help to elevate the dinning experience at Number Eight. What truly stands out is their friendliness. It’s like being welcomed in as a regular. Comfortable, warm, and utterly delightful. The staff’s genuine passion for what they do adds an extra layer to the already enchanting ambience. They play a crucial role in making your visit not just a meal but a celebration of great food, surrounded by a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
If you are looking for somewhere still South East but a little closer to London, why not check out Bank House in Chislehurst or check out some of our other restaurant reviews.
Happy dining,
Team Nonchalant x x
Last Updated on 27th January 2024 by Nonchalant Magazine
Nat is a London native currently living and working in South East London. After a six year stint in Asia Nat is enjoying all the fun London has to offer. Nat is Most likely to be found taking photos, cooking, exploring London’s galleries or spending too much money on food. (Also on a constant quest to find the best Chinese food in London)
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