Indian Essence’s Reservations Policy Petts Wood Restaurant Kent

At Indian Essence, we aim to make every visit memorable. For special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, deposits of £30, £20, £20, £50, £35, and £50 respectively apply, while the Holi Festival requires a £15 deposit. Cancellations for Christmas Day and the second seating on New Year’s Eve require one week’s notice; all other occasions require 48 hours’ notice for refunds or credit.

All reservations must be secured with a valid credit or debit card. No payment will be taken at the time of booking, but if a cancellation or reduction in numbers is not made at least 48 hours in advance, a charge of £15 per person will be applied for “no show.”

How is my credit / debit card data stored?
All credit and debit card details are stored securely by an external, fully PCI-compliant company. Details are held temporarily and deleted once the booking has taken place, in full compliance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Can guests visit our restaurants without making a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome, but due to high demand—particularly on weekends, bank holidays and special occasions—tables are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and we recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment. Reserved tables are held for up to 30 minutes from the booking time, after which they may be released without prior notice.

Can I make a change to the number of guests joining?
If your party size changes, please notify us at least 48 hours in advance so we can try to accomodate any changes. Please note that any substantial increase in numbers are subject to availability.

CANCELLATION AND REFUNDS

How can I cancel my reservation?
Cancellations can be made by clicking the “Cancel My Booking” link in your confirmation email or message, by calling the restaurant on 01689838700 or by emailing info@indianessence.co.uk. Failing to cancel the reservation with at least 48 hours’ notice will incur a charge of £15 per person.

TIMING

How long is my reservation?
Reservation times are set at two hours for parties of 1 to 3 guests, two and a half hours for f4 guests, three and a half hours for 5 to 8 guests, and up to four hours for groups of 10 or more. During peak periods such as Fridays, Saturdays, bank holidays and special occasions, these times may be reduced at the manager’s discretion.

CHILDREN

Are there specific timings for children?
Children are welcome at all times, but please inform us in advance if high chairs or buggy space are required, as these are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Children under six are welcome until 6:00 PM and would be requested to vacate the table by 8PM, and on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Our children’s menu is available for guests up to 12 years of age.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Guests with allergies are advised to inform a member of staff so that we can accommodate their needs; however, as some dishes may contain traces of nuts or other allergens due to shared preparation areas, we cannot guarantee the complete absence of allergen traces. We offer a wide range of vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian options.

Do you serve Halal meat?
Our chicken and lamb are always Halal, while some game meats are not—please check with your server.