Have you herd

herd. opened earlier this year at the iconic, Art-Deco building in St Peter’s St formerly occupied by GBK (and originally, The Electric Cinema). Founder Adam Ready tells us about how he came to Canterbury, and his vision for herd.

What can we expect if we visit and dine with you?

Guests should expect to fall down the rabbit hole or rather the cattle grid to discover a reimagined art-deco building complete with a secluded hide lounge perfect for indulging in herd.’s acclaimed cocktails, a restaurant-sidebar, and a decadent dining room decorated with glinting metallics and calming green, that delivers refined grazing and elevated sides alongside choice cuts of steak.

How did you end up in Canterbury and opening herd.?

I attended Canterbury College and university before finding my first job in the city, so it felt very apt that all these years later my first restaurant endeavour should be launched in Canterbury. Me and my wife, Sam, are keen foodies and have a passion for quality, local ingredients and produce; many of our experiences and knowledge of Kent and Canterbury have influenced our choices at herd.

What have you done with the building? It’s such an interesting and historic address.

Originally opening in 1911, the building was the Canterbury Electric Cinema, and we have kept subtle nods to this fascinating history. We have two amazing antique porter’s chairs draped in cowhide at centre-stage when you first walk through the doors, and the former cinema box-office is now a speakeasy bar where guests can grab a drink while waiting for their table. We wanted herd.’s interior design to feel opulent and inviting. Rich in tealcoloured leather, with lots of natural wood and flashes of gold, the choices pay homage to the building's history, highlighting the beautiful period features - including a floor-to-ceiling window that we uncovered during the renovation. Textured wallpaper in tones of gold complement the very contemporary but comfortable look.

What’s your restaurant's signature dish?

herd. signature choice cut steaks – which include Prussian black (diamond grade) and Irish wagyu (chocolate fed). Every dish on the menu is designed to elevate the senses. Our bespoke signature cocktails are very popular and handcrafted by our herd. mixologists.

Where else would you like to open a branch of herd.?

it’s hard to imagine anywhere other than Canterbury. It’s Kent’s most iconic city, but it would be fantastic to branch out, perhaps to another Kent location (or abroad in a city with a warmer climate).

What will you be doing this Christmas?

herd. is an independently-owned, familyrun business. We believe our staff should spend the day itself at home celebrating with their families! We will, however, be running a Christmas menu that promises to be a festive foray into culinary delights, exquisite wines and delicious cocktails. Our new offering, Christmas at herd. - with new festive cocktail lists and a special seasonal menu begins on 30 November 2022.

Why should new customers come to herd.?

herd. is a destination restaurant that brings a London-style dining experience to Canterbury. There’s something for everyone - diners can enjoy pre-theatre or lunch menus as well as dinner in the dining room, or a tempting weekend brunch and Sunday lunch menu like no other. And, where there is top quality steak, there has to be top quality wine. herd. is proud to offer an extensive New World wine list alongside acclaimed Kentish sparkling and still wines. We also have a bespoke expert-mixologistdesigned cocktail menu which can be enjoyed tableside or in the intimate ‘hide’ lounge.

So, if you are seeking an incredible dining experience in the heart of Canterbury, follow the herd. to fine dining, fine cocktails, fine wine, and good-time grazing.

49a St Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BE. 01227 937467. info@herdcanterbury.co.uk | www.herdcanterbury.co.uk @herd.canterbury #followtheherd