Hildenborough Restaurants

Congratulations to all involved in the creation of this wonderful new restaurant in Tunbridge Wells. Essence elevates the Indian fine dining experience with its exquisitely crafted flavours and premium levels of service and comfort. I had the pleasure of visiting the restaurant on a Sunday evening with my extended family. Although quiet, the dining room exuded a warm frequency that allowed for an instantly relaxed vibe. The menu is, as you would expect, not your traditional British Indian fare, but a showcase of regional authentic cuisine, given the full Atul Kochar treatment. There is also a great children's menu which was great for our purposes. Essence also offers a tasting menu with wine pairings for a more immersive experience, definitely something to enjoy next time! Essence is a wonderful addition to the Pantiles and I hope it can become a go-to destination for years to come for the privileged diners of Tunbridge Wells and beyond..

This was my second visit to this wonderful restaurant. Now under new ownership and after a lovely refurbishment they are really working hard to bring clientele back by serving beautiful dishes, cooked to perfection. You can choose from set menus or A La Carte. Thee is an extensive wine list to meet all tastes and budgets. Stunning cocktails, warm, friendly but non intrusive staff. I can recommend steak, scallops, crab meat/smoked salmon from the brand new current menu. I love their mock tails too, great if you’re driving. This restaurant is great for everything from romantic meal for 2, going out with friends or family to business lunches. They can accommodate group bookings and there is a free car park. The food is of the highest quality and reasonably priced. If you haven’t tried it yet, you are missing out.

Excellent as always. Though the prices have gone up a fair bit since my last visit.

Lovely starters and pudding but main course disappointing. I had roast beef but the Yorkshire puddings were overcooked and beef difficult to cut. I also prefer to add my own gravy as it smothered the plate. We hoped to add Salomon's to our shortlist for wedding venues but the food unfortunately did not have that extra special quality. However the staff were very good and helpful in letting us look at the wedding areas.

We very much enjoyed a delightful meal with attentive service. Perfectlyn located for attending events. Well done to all the young staff too:)