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 updated on 21st August 2023
On the hunt for the best Essex restaurants with entertainment? Golden Fleece is a bit of an all-rounder, showcasing live music, comedy nights and sports screenings. This Chelmsford favourite also boasts a mega beer garden that's ideal for summery sips.
For the best restaurants in Essex and Suffolk, we recommend making your way to The Travellers Friend. The quaint venue may be known to knock up a good pint, but it also supplies scrumptious grub, from rosemary camembert and chicken wings to salt-baked celeriac katsu curry.
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.
After one of the best restaurants in Essex for dinner? Check out Zizzi, an Italian beaut slinging out excellent eats - think garlic pork meatballs, spicy calzones and classic carbonara. Pair your meal with a pinot noir or pineapple punch. Not in the area? There's a Loughton site as well.
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.
After a beaut eatery? The Chequers Matching Green is a rural dining venue situated on the border of Hertfordshire. With its rustic, country feel, the restaurant serves an equally homely menu of hearty British classics alongside grilled fish and steaks.
After the best Italian restaurants in Essex? Wildwood Brentwood has a menu that leans towards the Med, boasting everything from pasta to pizza, burgers and grill plates. At dessert, you can even find tiramisu and more.
If you're looking for fine dining in Essex, Church Street Tavern is serving a range of British dishes that sound too darn good to turn down. From steamed mussels with white wine to lamb chops accompanied by aubergine, there's plenty to explore at this Colchester spot.
This Billericay favourite has a friendly atmosphere throughout the week, whether you're popping in for a roast or a pint of real ale in the beer garden. Food here is simple, affordable and effective, with dishes such as chicken salads, burgers and a Yorkshire pudding wrap.
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.
A quirky haunt adorned with living walls, exposed-brick walls and fairy lights is, of course, Revolution. Found in Southend-on-Sea, this pretty perch rustles up all kinds of lip-smacking nosh, including buffalo chicken pizzas, blue cheese and truffle fries, plus crispy calamari.
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.
