John Dory Wine

The story

John Dory Wine, Folkestone: Award-Winning International Wine Bar

The cellar and the guides

Louisa Walls and Zeren Wilson curate an international portfolio of wines at John Dory Wine in Folkestone, earning recognition from the Good Food Guide 2026 for this balanced approach. The team presents bottles from Burgundy, the Rhône, Germany, Piemonte, Tuscany, the Loire, and grower Champagne, supplemented by offerings from Georgia, Italy, South Africa, and Spain. A small inventory of orange wines and rosés adds texture to the reds that dominate the shelves, while the website details click-and-collect logistics and delivery zones covering the surrounding postcodes.

Kitchen rhythms and seasonal menus

Food runs parallel to the wine programme, avoiding any hierarchy between drink and plate. The kitchen serves onglet steak and chips on the first Wednesday of every month, while regular pasta nights invite collaborations with visiting chefs to introduce rotating techniques. On days when the kitchen is closed, the counter stocks locally made pies, sausage rolls, and croquettes for immediate enjoyment. Summer Wednesdays expand the scope with tacos, fried chicken, and Guatamalan hot dogs, reflecting the broad culinary influences present in the international menu.

Atmosphere and neighbourhood spirit

The room prioritises conversation over ceremony, furnished with rickety wooden tables and chairs that reinforce the casual ethos. Enthusiastic devotees value the affable service provided by the core team, which keeps the atmosphere warm and accessible. Private tastings accommodate groups of six or more, offering tailored sessions led by Louisa Walls and Zeren Wilson for those seeking a deeper exploration of the cellar. Whether visitors drop in for cheese, olives, and a glass of wine or arrange a booking for a milestone event, the venue operates as a steadfast neighbour on Sandgate High Street.