Island Life Magazine Ltd June/July 2017 | Page 103

Food and drink
Brothers give traditional
pub a modern twist
It was the realisation of
a dream for Island chef
Tom Axford when he took
over a run-down pub in
Brading with his brother
Matthew two years ago.
With help from their family, the
pair enthusiastically set about
reviving the fortunes of the former
Darkhorse pub, which had been
lying empty and unloved for 18
months until they took on the
lease in 2015.
Now, with its bright new décor, a
modern gastro pub menu, and a
brand new name, the Kynges Well
is steadily building a reputation
as a great place to eat, as well as
to enjoy a relaxed drink, or an
amiable evening of music, poker
or quizzing.
Tom, 29, had previously worked
as a chef at a number of popular
Island venues including the
Bargeman’s Rest, the New Inn,
Shalfleet, and more recently as
head chef of The Fighting Cocks,
but says he’d always wanted to
have his own place and feature his
own style of menu – classic dishes
with a modern twist.
Going into partnership with his
older brother Matthew, who lives
on the premises and runs the bar
side of the operation, proved to be
an ideal solution for both of them.
They’ve also had practical help
from their parents, as well as from
Tom’s wife Amy and Matthew’s
partner Jenny.
They chose the Kynges Well
name in honour of Brading
village’s old name – Kynges Towne
– and the ancient well that is a
quirky feature of the bar area.
The character pub appeals
equally to tourists and locals, with
its changing menu featuring local,
seasonal produce, and its local real
ales. With full table service, it has
all the ambience of a restaurant,
but with the relaxed buzz of a pub.
There’s also a busy programme
of events, from the regular poker
nights and pub quizzes to live
music weekends.
Tom also collaborates with other
chefs on the Island circuit, to host
‘guest chef’ taster nights at the
Kynges Well.
As he says, that gives regulars
the chance to occasionally enjoy
a different kind of cuisine - but
without even having to leave their
favourite pub!
Find Kynges Well at 10 High St,
Brading or call 01983 408776.
www. visitilife.com
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