Tipped

Style over substance?

August 28, 2007

A super stylish boutique hotel in the middle of Rye, The George is owned by Alex and Katie Clarke. Alex is the brother of Sam Clarke of acclaimed London restaurant Moro, and katie is a former film set designer. Together they have transformed this 16th century coaching inn into a chic and luxurious haven.
Food, which can be eaten al fresco in the courtyard or in the dining room is modern European with much of the ingredients sourced locally. Crab from nearby Winchelsea, fish from Rye bay, lamb from Romney Marsh, wine from nearby Sedlescombe Vineyard etc.
I had a two course set lunch here (£13) and found the food-sea bass a la provencale and a green bean and parmesan salad- exceptionally flavourful and well cooked but the portions were measly! While the starter came immediately, there was a huge wait for the main and by the time it came I was wilting with hunger. Service was sporadic, bordering on neurotic with about four different waiters confusing the issue. Desperately needed a basket of fresh bread or some olives to fill the gap. Definitely worth a visit but opt for a coffee and cake in the comfy lounge, or grab a pint at the wood pannelled bar.

Tags: modern, European, botique