Searching for a restaurant in Essex? There are lots to choose from in Harwich, Southend, Brentwood and throughout the county. With a range of cuisines from British to Italian or Indian, the variety of places to eat in Essex with its restaurants and pubs is vast. Find the right place to eat in Essex with Sugarvine.
Visited for a midweek lunch. Lovely warm feel to the place. Staff were friendly and smiling. We both had the steak and ale pie, which was delicious and served with plenty of gravy and a selection of veg. Very enjoyable visit.
The Ship Gidea Park – RomfordHaven't been for a long time due to time slots and time limits etc but it was beautifully decorated as usual. We had cakes and drinks. Cheesecake was lovely. Bit chilly - they could do with having some additional heating. Some of the waiting staff were very pleasant, one a little brusque.
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – ColchesterWe had the roast dinner which was really delicious. However a couple of minor issues. Next time I visit I shall ask for the food to be served on a warm plate, especially on a cold day and the gravy served in a separate jug, our food came swimming in gravy
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – ColchesterMy family and I visited the restaurant for a birthday breakfast and, upon arrival, I mentioned that we had a reservation but asked whether it would be possible to add two additional guests or, alternatively, be seated at two nearby tables. The restaurant was not busy at the time, so I did not expect this to be an issue. However, the staff member who greeted us responded in a very rude manner, stating that we should have called in advance. Unfortunately, this is not the first time I have encountered unprofessional behaviour from the same individual. On several occasions, she has been consistently discourteous, unfriendly, and visibly unpleasant in her demeanour. Her conduct, including an apparent smell of smoke, reflects poorly on the overall standard of the restaurant. It is disappointing that such behaviour detracts from what would otherwise be an enjoyable dining experience.
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – ColchesterA lovely place and great atmosphere. Had a lunch. Food was tasty but for the price of the lunch I felt the portions were rather small.
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – Colchester5 star!
Skylark Social – ColchesterHad a most pleasant afternoon at the Owl for a birthday. Had a nice table surrounded by decorations for Christmas that created a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The food selection is good and well priced. We had several roasts and think they may need larger plates to accommodate the Yorksire. Service was attentive and very friendly. Been here a number of times over the years (when dont get lost) and always a pleasure, especially outside in the summer. Certainly will be returning soon.
The Owl – LoughtonFantastic breakfast as usual BUT lady serving them had the worst cough ever maybe not a good idea to have her serving food and drinks unable to put her hand over her mouth because of tray carrying. A better idea would have been send her home or give her a mask to wear. Dreadful she coughed into our coffees and breakfast which is totally disgusting did not want to cause a scene so paid and left. Expensive empty tummy’s but such a shame as we love your breakfast but having a chest infection for Christmas is not an option for us thankyou.
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – ColchesterExcellent bottomless brunch. Great atmosphere, food was good and was never without a drink! Great choice of drinks on the bottomless menu. Added to that was a good DJ who had us dancing the afternoon away. Would highly recommend
The Ship Gidea Park – RomfordHad lunch on 3rd December - turkey (of course). Food was fabulous. Service slick and unobtrusive. Highly recommend.
The Dukes Head – Bishops StortfordLovely evening at the owl very festive cosy ambiance and delicious food… We weren’t rushed and all thoroughly enjoyed the evening Thank you!!
The Owl – LoughtonService was excellent. The food delicious and generally goid value for money. The atmosphere is so much better, you can hear each other now. Chairs are a bit hard.
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – ColchesterHave met friends here many times over the last few years but we were all disappointed with the lunch menu this time. Expensive and poor choice
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – Colchesterlovely breakfast and service from the team, it has become a regular venue for a business breakfast.
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – Colchesteraverage service. cake quality fine. other food poor, overcooked and dry. expensive considering the overall quality. will think twice before returning.
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – ColchesterWe had a large party of 22 and we were looked after so well . The staff were lovely and so obliging. The turkey was very good but a couple of ladies did not enjoy the beef. Tough and full of sinew
The Dukes Head – Bishops StortfordLovely food, lovely staff, wonderful setting. My second visit in two weeks both times couldn't fault it! Thank you
The Barn Garden Centre Cafe – ColchesterSpoon World is fantastic! The customer service is warm and attentive, making you feel truly welcome. The food is delicious, fresh, and beautifully presented. Everything about this place is just very nice — I highly recommend it!
Spoon World Buffet and Bar – BasildonBuy one main course and get the second one for a quid. Offer available all day Monday-Friday from 5 January 2026.
Get a glass of Prosecco for £3 every Friday between 5pm and 7pm.
