Best Restaurants In Essex

From snazzy dining destinations flaunting upmarket fare to local gastropubs nailing home comforts, there's a never-ending choice of awesome eateries here. Not sure where to go? Whether you're on a group night out in Romford, fancy a birthday dinner in Chelmsford or looking for slinky date options in Colchester, explore our guide to the best Essex restaurants.

Last edited by Lauren Cole

Last updated on 12th June 2025




Slug and Lettuce Chelmsford

🌸 Kids Under 12 Eat For £1 on Sunday's ❤️ and 1 other offer

Slug and Lettuce is a top date night or group dining location, known for its well-priced cocktails and extensive menu of international dishes. Snuggle up on the beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the river and chow down on tasty grub with impressive views that are hard to beat.

What's more, at Slug and Lettuce Chelmsford, weekend warriors can soak up the sun with two hours of bottomless brunch, complete with classic dishes and cocktails that keep the good vibes flowing. Choose your brunch, your bevs, and your slot - then let the prosecco poppin' begin.

Aurum Restaurant

Aurum in Southend pairs sweeping sea views with refined British dining, set within the sleek surrounds of The Seven Hotel. The menu champions seasonal produce, from Mibrasa-grilled steaks to elegant seafood and vegetarian dishes, with monthly tasting nights for the culinary curious.

Guests can sip rare wines or signature cocktails on the sun-drenched terrace, making it a standout for stylish coastal dining.

The Bull Romford

Offering affordable dishes and cracking drinks deals, The Bull is a local Romford boozer with a quintessentially British feel. From grilled goodies to stacked burgers, full English brekkies to Sunday roasts, this joint is the place to go for delicious eats.

ASK Italian Southend

Located close to the pier in Southend-on-Sea, ASK Italian is a laid-back, affordable restaurant serving up scrumptious Italian fare. Expect stylish, modern interiors like neon signs and fairy lights, with simple wooden furnishings.

They offer a great range of classic and spritz cocktails, which you can pair with innovative dishes - we're talking aubergine parmigiana ravioli, mushroom and truffle calzone or slow-cooked beef pappardelle. Not in the area? Check out their Lakeside or Chelmsford venue instead.

Anchor

Home to a beautifully manicured garden and boasting riverside views, Anchor is ideal for alfresco eats. Venture over to this countryside haunt to chomp on charcoal-grilled steaks, home comforts and sumptuous Sunday roasts, with classic cocktails or bubbles to pair.

Mowgli – Chelmsford

Located in the heart of Chelsmford, Mowgli is a gorgeous Indian restaurant owned by TV personality and restauranteur Nisha Katona. You can expect an authentic Indian menu inspired by traditional street food markets, featuring dishes like gunpowder chicken, tea-steeped chickpeas and sauteed paneer.

As for the venue itself, you won't find many more beautiful places - think rope swing seats hanging from the ceiling, pretty plants and plenty of golden fairy lights.

Sark

Sark is up there as one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Essex. Not only is it totally gorgeous, toting plush, velvet booths, tropical trees and unique artwork, but its menu has us drooling at the thought. Think Mediterannean munch, with a focus on tantalising Turkish bites.

The Flitch Of Bacon

On the hunt for Michelin star restaurants in Essex? The Flitch of Bacon is a hot contender as one of the best. Nestled in Dunmow, this cosy dining destination slings out elevated British cuisine, made using the finest local produce. Our favourite dish? The ricotta tartlet is divine.