Some hidden gems…
As the sun decided to show itself this weekend I was raring to get out and go off the beaten track and ended up in two very different establishments…
The first was 7 Hotel & Diner which is a 1950’s inspired American Diner complete with classic cars parked outside which can be found on the London Road between Sevenoaks and Orpington. As well as the diner it also boasts of 26 custom designed hotel rooms – although I did not get a chance to see these. When approaching the Diner it is not obvious that there is also accommodation available, as the entrance to the hotel is through a side door. On entering the diner through the main door there was a very informal casual atmosphere and the staff were friendly enough although I did feel a little too relaxed. They were offering an all day Full English Breakfast for £4.95 with tea or coffee so that had to be the menu choice. In the diner there was full view of the open kitchen and the food was delicious. The diner had a jukebox on show although this was not working and it had a notice informing customers not to touch it, this could perhaps have been worded more eloquently, and judging by the amount of floating helium balloons and promotional fliers they catered predominantly for families with children. An unusual establishment that is unique, and if anything the all day breakfast is very good value for money and it is worth visiting just for that.
The next establishment I visited was tucked away by the O2 Arena. The Pilot Inn is a Fuller’s pub which also has accommodation, albeit just 5 rooms. This secret hideaway has a small car park and a lovely back garden which was very popular with the sun shining. I only popped in here for a quick drink although they have a great menu which is based on fish bought fresh from Billingsgate Market. So if you are ever visiting the O2 Arena this is definitely worth exploring.
What struck me about these two establishments is that you really need a car to get to them, and if you have not heard of them before, you could easily drive straight pass. So at times it is worth having the heads up as they say and I will be on the look out for other hidden gems that may have escaped your notice, so keep following to find out what else hospitality has to offer you.