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 Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 3rd July 2024




GBK Lakeside

One of the top places for a lip-smacking burger, GBK is a great dining destination. Along with stylish yet casual interiors, the venue flaunts a plethora of delicious beef, chicken and plant-based patties, alongside sides such as halloumi fries and onion rings.

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.

Yuce’s

A cool and contemporary Turkish restaurant spread over two floors, Yuce's invites you to devour delicious Mediterranean cuisine paired with refreshing cocktails throughout the week, with its second floor transforming into Zone Essex, an exclusive lounge and members bar that's open on Friday and Saturday nights. Visit the chic and pretty eatery to tuck into plates of hot mezz, falafel, halloumi and houmous, plus doner kebabs before flaky baklava for dessert. 

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.

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.

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.