A WEEKEND AWAY
Rediscover the beautiful Kent coastline
Hard to believe, but just a couple of years ago, this pretty seaside pub was one of the most rundown in town. that all changed when newlyweds christopher Hicks and alex Bagner took on the property, with the vision of transforming it into a stylish melding of pub, restaurant and guest accommodation. the rose’s new incarnation, unveiled last year, proved an instant hit with both locals and holidaymakers discovering Deal for the first time. With staycations on the rise and the kent coastline reclaiming its reputation as a beautiful holiday spot, the rose is a good address to have tucked up your sleeve for a weekend away.
FASHION FORWARD the rose’s interior design was a joint effort by london-based fashion and decor stylist michelle kelly and design studio Harding & read (who previously oversaw the interiors at the luxury Beaverbrook Hotel in Surrey). the results are delicate, feminine and joyfully colourful, with a palette of pink, mint green and ochre running throughout. kelly’s influence can be seen in the slightly retro look, with vintage furniture, accessories and textiles bringing a cool, offbeat vibe. the rose also has an artistic streak, with pedigree wall art sourced by margate’s carl Freedman Gallery. Bite to eat Deal’s hottest ticket for brunch, lunch and dinner, the rose’s restaurant is now the beating heart of the operation. rachel o’sullivan is the head chef – formerly of london’s Polpo, a restaurant noted for its exceedingly yummy, unpretentious italian food. the enticing menu includes favourite comfort food dishes such as mac and cheese and chicken schnitzel, as well as some more inventive options, such as lamb shoulder with olives and pickled lemon. you won’t want to leave without trying a bacon sandwich either – it comes with the rose’s delicious signature rhubarb ketchup. Out AND about Deal, much like margate and ramsgate, has seen a period of regeneration, and its quaint streets are now filled with wine bars, antiques shops and laid-back cafés. the cobbledtogether fisherman’s cottages give the town a picturesque, chocolatebox atmosphere, and the beach is only a few minutes walk from the heart of the pretty old town. the rose, 91 High Street, Deal, Kent Ct14 6ed, 01304 38127 therosedeal.com