insideKENT Magazine Issue 50 - May 2016 | Page 86

FOOD+DRINK the art of FOOD cont. GRAHAM GARRETT OF the west house Formerly a rock drummer, Graham has worked for and alongside some of the biggest names in the business, including Nico Ladenis and Richard Corrigan. These days, you’ll always find him in the kitchen at his Michelin-starred restaurant, The West House, in Biddenden. Graham has cooked privately for the Queen and even caused restaurant critic AA Gill to spend a night on the couch. Many of his favourite dishes are inspired by his childhood and touring the world. His influences are drawn from American, British, Indian, Japanese, Russian and Thai cuisines – an amalgamation of cultures in the kitchen. Graham tells the story of his journey from an East End childhood to 80’s rock star to acclaimed chef in the book, Sex & Drugs & Sausage Rolls. 86 Graham Garrett and his partner Jackie bought The West House in Biddenden in 2002 in order to create their own dining room, and allow Graham to pursue his own vision. His food has gained the restaurant multiple awards including holding a Michelin star since 2004.