It’s not unusual for a farmer’s market to have food outlets intermingled with the farm produce stalls but a more unique approach is taken by The Goods Shed in Canterbury, a wonderful space combining farmer’s market, food hall and a dedicated sit-down restaurant. Sited adjacent to Canterbury West station, The Goods Shed occupies a Victorian railway coal storage shed. The majority of the main hall is occupied by food stalls and it is possible to buy snacks from these vendors. However, the mezzanine level on the side overlooking the London to Ramsgate railway contains a restaurant space that runs over lunchtime when the market is in full swing. It also has an evening sitting starts as the market goes quiet. The emphasis of the menu is on fresh seasonal ingredients sourced within the market and the menu changes twice daily. In keeping with the tone of the shed the platform restaurant uses farm style furniture giving each table setting a rustic feel.

The available drinks are sourced locally too. One of the cider options was Pawley Farm sparkling cider from Painters Forstal near Faversham. The cloudy medium cider was a great accompaniment for my food.

My chosen starter on the day I visited was smoked cod chowder. The hearty soup was brimming with coarsely chopped leeks and potatoes. The mild smoky fish flavour of the chowder was lovely. The soup was served with a cold core of classic accompaniments for smoked fish of chopped egg and parsley that blended into the soup as it was eaten. The whole soup was thoroughly satisfying. The accompaniment of the bowlful of crusty bread was great for mopping up the broth.

My chosen main course was John Dory with garlic, parsley and anchovy dressing. The fish was served with kale, carrots and roast potatoes. The punchy garlic scent was extremely strong but it was much more mellow in the actual dish. The wonderfully cooked John Dory played really well with the garlic and parsley with no hint of it being overwhelmed. This dish confirmed the cider as a good drink choice as the refreshing apple cut through the rich flavours of the dish. 

I passed on dessert.

Overall verdict.
I really liked the restaurant setting and the hearty food was perfect for lunch in autumn. The dishes were well-balanced and bursting with flavour

Would I revisit The Goods Shed?
Definitely. It’s not a special occasion restaurant but the food definitely justifies a repeat visit.


Overall Rating - 3.5/5