A new dining establishment has quietly opened in Canterbury, bringing a refreshingly simple yet masterful approach to food. Franc, located within the historic timber-framed setting of the city’s old almshouse gatehouse, is the latest venture from a chef and front-of-house manager with a proven track record in Kent.
The restaurant’s strength lies in its confident, uncluttered cooking. On a recent Saturday lunch, the concise menu featured a slice of fried duck breast, its fat perfectly crisped and the meat beautifully pink, served alongside caramelised chicory that balanced sweetness with a satisfying texture. A side of homemade chips was exemplary, and a salad was dressed with a sharp, gorgeously balanced vinaigrette.
The meal began with fresh baguette and butter, followed by a plate of leeks vinaigrette, zinging with mustard and topped with chopped egg, shrimps, and parsley. For dessert, a bowl of fresh raspberries in a rich coulis was paired with a scoop of freshly churned verbena ice cream—a straightforward yet profoundly satisfying conclusion.
The ambiance is enhanced by the historic setting, with an upstairs dining room offering views of the almshouses’ gardens. The service is notably polished and capable, contributing to an atmosphere where the proprietors’ genuine passion for hospitality is palpable.
Franc operates with a set menu for lunch in the main restaurant and offers a more casual, small-plates menu in the wine bar downstairs during the evening. While it may still be something of a local secret, its combination of a historic setting, impeccable service, and truly great cooking suggests its renown will not remain contained for long.
