About Us
Get to know the Owners
Leading chef and restaurant professionals, Natalie and Andrew Hennessy took over this landmark pub in the iconic seaside town of Whitstable in 2018.
After 15 years of Natalie working in Australia and setting up her own bistro, the couple relocated to Kent – together they have lovingly introduced a fresh, warm and relaxed ambience to create a thriving establishment. The East Kent now proudly reflects the history and credibility of the remarkable building and location with an Aussie twist.
Meet our Head Chef
Zac is the leading force behind our two kitchens – The Wood-Fire Kitchen and the EK Bar Kitchen. Zac has always had a passion for food but after 2 years of a weekend job at The Sportsman whilst at school and working in the kitchen at The Dog at Wingham, he knew he had a calling to be a chef. Following his training at Westminster College he worked at Kin in London before returning to his home town of Whitstable to join the EK team in 2020. Zac is happiest when serving delicious food to guests at The East Kent.
The East Kent Team
Our perfectly formed, loyal and united team offer expertise and skills in a wide range of areas to make The East Kent a special dining experience. The energising and fun atmosphere reflects that of the wonderful team we have on board.
Be sure to say hello to Chris, Whitstable’s top Pizza Chef, when you take a sneak peek at our wood-fire kitchen on your next visit.
Our support for local partners
Located on the Kent coast, we are proud to support local. Here are some of the partners we work with:
Jim’s of Whitstable
Family butchers who supply all of our succulent meat
Grain & Hearth
Providing the best sourdough bread
Granny Smith’s
For the freshest fruit and vegetables
The Boathouse Fishery
East Kent fishmonger supplies locally caught fish
Shepherd Neame
Britain’s oldest brewer, based in Faversham, provide the ales and lagers
Highwood Farm
Dunkirk farm with a heritage apple orchard producing apple juice and honey.
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