
The Cook’s Tale – A Journey Through Flavour
Journey with us to The Cook’s Tale, a contemporary Odia dining experience in the heart of Canterbury, just moments from the Cathedral. Here, every menu tells a story — of Odisha, a region of eastern India where food is rooted in tradition, shaped by the seasons, and enriched with gentle spice and fresh, vibrant flavours.
Our lunch, dinner, and tasting menus are inspired by centuries-old cooking practices, reimagined with care and creativity. Each dish honours its origins while embracing a thoughtful, modern presentation — a celebration of culture, heritage, and flavour shared with you at our table.

The Experience at The Cook’s Tale
Journey with us beyond the ordinary. From the moment you arrive, your experience begins with a handcrafted welcome drink and delicate tasters — little glimpses of what lies ahead. As you move through the courses, carefully paired wines and beverages highlight and elevate the flavours of each dish, while thoughtful accompaniments create a sense of balance and generosity on every plate.
But our journey together doesn’t end with dining. We invite you to step into the heart of Odia culture through our cookery classes and curated culinary tours. These experiences open a door to the traditions, stories, and artistry behind the cuisine. At The Cook’s Tale, we offer more than a meal — we offer a journey of discovery, connection, and joy.
Our Menu
Journey with us through a menu that celebrates the seasons, inspired by Odisha and enriched with the full breadth of flavour — from vibrant vegetarian dishes and fresh seafood to hearty, comforting meat plates. At The Cook’s Tale, every dish is part of a story: born from childhood memories, guided by tradition, and crafted with creativity.
Drawing on Chef Dev Biswal’s roots, we use time-honoured ingredients such as mustard oil, tamarind, jaggery, sun-dried mango and black pepper, each chosen for its ability to bring brightness, warmth and depth to the plate. Alongside refined dishes, we also honour the lively street-food culture of Odisha, with specialities often served on banana leaves or bronze plates, echoing the authenticity of dining in India itself.
Sustainability and craftsmanship are at the heart of our kitchen. Almost everything is made in-house — from yoghurt, paneer and butter to freshly rolled papadoms — ensuring purity, freshness and integrity in every element. By avoiding processed or packaged products wherever possible, we keep the journey true to its origins, offering an honest and memorable taste of Odisha here in Canterbury.

Vegetarian cookery class

vegan, vegetarian, meat and seafood cookery class

Cookery class for 2 in canterbury

Vegetarian cookery class

Canterbury Punting Tours

Bulkhead statue canterbury tours

Canterbury food tours by chef dev biswal

Canterbury Punting Tours
Awards
Winner at the House of Lords – Asian Curry Awards 2024
Best Asian Chef (Outside London) & 2nd Best Chef Nationally
Kent Life Food & Drink Awards 2024
Best Fine Dining Restaurant
Featured in British Indian Good Food Guide Top 100
Best Restaurants Britain 2024​
Travellers Choice Award Winner 2024
Top 100 Asian Restaurants in the United Kingdom 2025 – Awarded by the Asian Catering Federation, presented at the House of Lords, Westminster Palace, on 17 July 2025


