In the heart of Kent’s so-called Garden of England, The Curious Taproom in Ashford proves that breweries can be every bit as stylish as they are spirited. Home to the award-winning Curious Brewery, the space brings together craft beer, great food and sleek design in one unexpected setting. The brewery itself was established in 2011, with the simple ambition to make beer that tastes better, crafted with the same care and curiosity you’d expect from a winemaker. That curiosity has since paid off, earning the team Brewery of the Year at the International Beer Challenge in 2019.
Their restaurant and taproom sit directly above the brewery floor, so you can watch the tanks and gleaming pipes in action while enjoying a pint poured straight from source. The glass-fronted dining room is light and contemporary, seating up to 120 guests, making it ideal for both laid-back lunches and larger gatherings. The menu celebrates the same local ethos as the beer itself, mixing British comfort with refined touches. Dishes might include burrata with Nutbourne tomatoes and black olive, sea bream with samphire and Curious Brew sauce, or a juicy British beef burger stacked with bacon, cheese and house pickles. For purists, the Scottish 9oz sirloin with chimichurri is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What makes The Curious Taproom special is the balance between craft and comfort. You can pair your meal with a Curious IPA or Curious Apple Cider, both brewed on-site, or linger over a flight of seasonal brews while watching the brewery team at work. For a fuller experience, tours and tastings run throughout the year, inviting guests behind the scenes to learn how curiosity becomes craft. Equal parts brewery, restaurant and gathering space, The Curious Taproom captures the essence of modern Kent - inventive, welcoming and full of flavour. A must-book spot for beer lovers, foodies and anyone who likes their dining experience served with a little curiosity.