Michelin-starred pub relaunches with new owners and chef

After more than four years running The Bridge Arms in Kent, Dan and Natasha Smith - the husband-and-wife team behind the Michelin-starred Fordwich Arms, have announced the closure of the pub in its current form.

The pair have handed the lease to long-time friend and former colleague Elliot Hewitt, who will relaunch the venue with head chef David Gadd on August 15.

The Bridge Arms served its final dishes under Dan and Natasha on August 10th, drawing the curtain on a chapter that saw the 16th-century inn earn a Michelin star just ten months after the couple took over in May 2021.

While they will step away from day-to-day operations, the Smiths will remain involved as part owners, working closely with Elliot during the transition.

Under its new leadership, The Bridge Arms will take a more relaxed approach while retaining a commitment to seasonality and Kent’s exceptional local produce.

The opening menu blends comforting pub favourites with refined touches, from wild mushroom sausage rolls, monkfish scampi with curry sauce, and smoked short rib with horseradish cream to harissa-cured mackerel with summer radish, roast scallop with smoked bacon butter, and summer squash soup with courgette fritters.

Dan said: "It’s been a wonderful journey, and we are deeply grateful to all our loyal customers, staff, and supporters who have been part of it. Given the current economic climate, however, it is important to be versatile and adjust to people's wants and needs. Elliot has been a friend and colleague for many years and is a true professional. We just know he is going to excel at the Bridge Arms and create a truly special place that will no doubt be a huge success.”

Elliot, who has spent recent years as general manager of The Rose, The Blue Pelican, and The Zetland Arms, is no stranger to the venue - he was previously restaurant manager at The Fordwich Arms. 

He said: “It’s a beautiful pub with cosy fireplaces for the winter and a huge garden and outdoor bar for summer. It’s a vital part of the village and local community and whether you’re dropping in for a drink or planning something special, my family and I can’t wait to welcome everyone soon.”

written by abi kinsella