Paul Smith
Partner / Owner

Paul, a successful businessman in a wide variety of fields has been involved with Thackeray’s since he and Richard began the company back in 2001.

The perfect foil for Richard their partnership has withstood the test of time and the pair continue to forge new and exciting ventures in the catering field. A Kent resident Paul is passionate about delivering the complete customer experience, ensuring all elements are perfectly packaged.

Watch out for future initiatives from the Perfect Group stable as the team strive to deliver ever more opportunities to consume the finest quality products available.

Kevin James
Partner / Owner

Luciano Arcuri

As an Italian Luciano has always been passionate about both Food and Wine, coupled with his natural flair and style Luciano is exactly what the Hengist needs to enhance the reputation of an already established restaurant.

He has worked for Richard Phillips at Chapel Down as the Assistant manager proving himself to be able to encourage those around him with his work ethic and innate flair. Luciano was therfore the logical choice when the position arose at the Hengist.

Since taking over, Luciano has not only embrased the role, but excelled in taking the restaurant to a new level. His evident passion for the job and insistence on going the extra mile, coupled with his natural and friendly personality has proved to be a winning formula.

After going to catering College in Italy Luciano has worked his way up within the industry in various Award Winning Restaurants from Italy and Switzerland to finally England where he has now been for the past 8 years. He has worked in some of Kent's finest establishments always showing attention to detail and ensuring first class service.

With 15 years of experience and Luciano's natural continental style you can be assured of a warm and friendly welcome, great service in a relaxed and comfortable environment every time you visit as if it is your first time...

Daniel Hatton
Head Chef

After a spell as Sous Chef at Hengist a couple of years ago Daniel has come back to take up the mantle of developing Hengist into one of Kent's leading dining establishments. In recent years Dan has spent his time honing his skills under great chefs such as Marco Pierre White, Gordon Ramsay and our very own Richard Phillips.

With an address book of great suppliers he has developed locally, he translates his passion directly onto the plate, with great seasonal food presented with an inspirational twist. Dan is relishing the opportunity to showcase what he and the local area have to offer.