There was a warm atmosphere of celebration on Cinque Ports Street on Monday May 18 evening as friends, family and local businesses gathered at No 50. to mark the restaurant’s first anniversary.
The occasion was not only a celebration of a successful first year but also a tribute to chef patron Matt Drinkwater, praised on the night as “a culinary genius, a brilliant boss and a fabulous friend.”
With glasses raised and heartfelt words shared, the message was clear: No. 50 has firmly established itself at the heart of Rye’s thriving food scene, and many believe the next
chapter is only just beginning.
Many of the local businesses support Matt by sending their customers to dine at No 50. This recommendation is given easily as those who recommend him are all regular diners at the restaurant themselves.
Doris and Chris from Jeake’s House said, “We love going to No 50 as we always have fantastic food and the seasonal changes are really innovative. Also we are always happy to support businesses that source ingredients locally. It is easy for us to recommend the restaurant to people who stay with us because we know what they will be experiencing and they always come back singing the praises of the chef.”
Graeme and Cathy from Rye Fine Wines also commented, “Matt has been one of the finest local chefs for a number of years, and since he launched No 50 a year ago, the food has been nothing short of exceptional. His dedication to quality and seasonal dishes is apparent, and I cannot recommend eating there highly enough. No 50 is a fantastic addition to Rye’s restaurants, and in my humble opinion….it is the best.”
The owners of the lovely Windmill B & B, Toby and Kat, summed it up:
“It was lovely to be invited to Matt’s celebration last night. We are in awe of what he has achieved in such a short space of time.
“About eighteen months ago months ago there were rumours circulating in Rye of a new restaurant opening. Many of us had had the joy of eating food created by Matt at Fletchers and Webbe’s, so the arrival of No 50 was eagerly anticipated. Just one year on, it has established itself as a firm favourite for locals and visitors alike. We have had no hesitation in recommending it to our B & B guests and it has proved, every time, to be one of the highlights of their visit to Rye. Matt’s food at No 50 is tasty, vibrant and showcases his enviable talent in the kitchen.”
The Rye Chauffeur regularly drops off his customers to No 50 and collects them. All he hears in the back of his black cab is praise for the sumptuous food. He said, “It is one of my recommendations to guests of The Rye Chauffeur to visit. They always remark on how good the service is, and the quality of the dishes.”
Lucy Couves, a friend, a work colleague and a keen listening ear added, “Matthew is an amazingly talented chef whose food and thoughts come from the heart. I have known him several years and he is, as a friend, always there for you. No matter how busy, he will always pick up the phone to help. He is someone who is always reliable and always there. Everyone needs a Matt in their lives.”
Matt does not do this on his own: his front-of-house staff are warm and welcoming and his family all in their turn help out and support in so many ways. No 50 is a collaboration of culinary skills, local produce and a team ethos and this all adds up to a perfect experience time and time again.
Image Credits: Lt bruce , Kt bruce .