Canterbury's Hidden Gem: Franc Review
Perched inside a stunning timber-framed Tudor gatehouse, Dave Hart and Polly Pleasance's new venture, Franc, is a deliciously understated addition to the city's culinary scene. While Hart's cooking has always been on point, it's his elegant counterpart, Pleasance, who truly shines as the brains behind this beautiful restaurant.
As I stepped into Franc, I was immediately won over by its charming atmosphere and impeccable service. The mismatched crockery may not be the most stylish touch, but it adds a homespun warmth to the dining room that's hard to resist. And when you consider the wine bar downstairs offers an equally enticing set menu at a fraction of the price, this is a restaurant that truly understands the value of quality over flash.
Hart's cooking, meanwhile, has reached new heights since its Folkestone Wine Company days. A recent lunchtime visit revealed a menu that was both bold and elegant – think pink duck breast with luscious chicory, fresh homemade chips, and a sublime salad that would put even the most seasoned French chef to shame. Every bite was an exercise in restraint, yet simultaneously overflowing with flavor.
As I watched Hart expertly plate up each dish, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for his craft. This is cooking that's been honed over years of experience, tempered by a deep understanding of the simplest, most timeless ingredients. And it's this kind of nuanced approach to food that truly sets Franc apart from its competitors.
Of course, no review would be complete without mentioning Pleasance – the unsung hero behind Franc's success. A stalwart presence at the helm, she brings a level of warmth and authority to the dining room that's impossible to ignore. Whether she's updating the bookings system or charming an entire table of eight with her infectious laugh, it's clear that she's the real driving force behind this restaurant.
In short, Franc is a triumph – a deliciously understated restaurant that will leave even the most jaded foodies weak in the knees. With its stunning setting, impeccable service, and Hart's sublime cooking, this is a must-visit destination for anyone passing through Canterbury.
**Rating:** 5/5 stars
**Price Range:** £36 for two courses, £42 for three (set menu)
**Recommended For:** Foodies, special occasions, romantic dates
**Will I Return?:** Absolutely – and with great enthusiasm.
Perched inside a stunning timber-framed Tudor gatehouse, Dave Hart and Polly Pleasance's new venture, Franc, is a deliciously understated addition to the city's culinary scene. While Hart's cooking has always been on point, it's his elegant counterpart, Pleasance, who truly shines as the brains behind this beautiful restaurant.
As I stepped into Franc, I was immediately won over by its charming atmosphere and impeccable service. The mismatched crockery may not be the most stylish touch, but it adds a homespun warmth to the dining room that's hard to resist. And when you consider the wine bar downstairs offers an equally enticing set menu at a fraction of the price, this is a restaurant that truly understands the value of quality over flash.
Hart's cooking, meanwhile, has reached new heights since its Folkestone Wine Company days. A recent lunchtime visit revealed a menu that was both bold and elegant – think pink duck breast with luscious chicory, fresh homemade chips, and a sublime salad that would put even the most seasoned French chef to shame. Every bite was an exercise in restraint, yet simultaneously overflowing with flavor.
As I watched Hart expertly plate up each dish, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for his craft. This is cooking that's been honed over years of experience, tempered by a deep understanding of the simplest, most timeless ingredients. And it's this kind of nuanced approach to food that truly sets Franc apart from its competitors.
Of course, no review would be complete without mentioning Pleasance – the unsung hero behind Franc's success. A stalwart presence at the helm, she brings a level of warmth and authority to the dining room that's impossible to ignore. Whether she's updating the bookings system or charming an entire table of eight with her infectious laugh, it's clear that she's the real driving force behind this restaurant.
In short, Franc is a triumph – a deliciously understated restaurant that will leave even the most jaded foodies weak in the knees. With its stunning setting, impeccable service, and Hart's sublime cooking, this is a must-visit destination for anyone passing through Canterbury.
**Rating:** 5/5 stars
**Price Range:** £36 for two courses, £42 for three (set menu)
**Recommended For:** Foodies, special occasions, romantic dates
**Will I Return?:** Absolutely – and with great enthusiasm.
its review is so on point!!! i mean, who wouldn't want to dine at a timber-framed tudor gatehouse? the atmosphere must be insane! and dave hart's cooking sounds like a dream come true, especially with that pink duck breast dish 
i've been meaning to try out new restaurants in canterbury, this is defo on my list now 
cant wait to go back for more! 
. The way they balance elegance and warmth is perfect. And can we talk about Polly Pleasance? She's like the glue that holds the whole operation together 
. The food is amazing, of course, but it's not just about the taste – it's about the experience. You can tell they've put their heart into creating a space that feels special. I'd love to go back and try more of the dishes. Maybe next time I'll even convince my partner to join me 
. Franc is definitely going on my list for when I'm in Canterbury! 
Franc is honestly a total gem! Dave Hart's cooking is on another level, I mean, that pink duck breast is a GAME CHANGER 
. And Polly Pleasance is like the real MVP behind the scenes - she's got this warm energy that makes you feel so welcome 
. The fact that they're not trying to be flashy and over-the-top just makes it all the more impressive. I mean, who needs fancy decor when the food speaks for itself? 
Plus, that wine bar downstairs is a total steal! 5 stars isn't enough, they need a whole new rating system to handle how amazing Franc is 
totally agree with the review! dave hart's cooking is insane i went there last month and had the most amazing pink duck breast with chicory, it was literally to die for 
The culinary world is indeed abuzz with the emergence of Franc, a veritable gem nestled within Canterbury's historic heart 
. As an ardent food enthusiast, it warms my heart to see Dave Hart and Polly Pleasance's harmonious collaboration yielding such resounding results. 
. From the meticulously curated wine bar to the delectable set menu offerings at a fraction of the price 
, it becomes patently clear that this establishment understands its audience's value system.
. Each bite is an exercise in delicate balance – bold yet elegant, flavors expertly tempered by a deep understanding of fundamental ingredients.
. Franc has earned its place among Canterbury's culinary elite, and it will undoubtedly leave even the most discerning palates thoroughly enchanted.