Updated on 18 July 2023
In the last few decades or so, Essex has been put on the map not just due to reality TV and outdated stereotypes, but also thanks to its developing culinary scene. Nowadays, Essex has quite the reputation as a foodie hub, and the best places to eat in Essex include everything from cosy gastropubs, farm-to-table restaurants and glitzy fine-diners. The ever growing list of restaurants in Essex boasts a great variety of choice, whether you are looking to splash some cash on a lavish dinner out or would prefer an authentic taste of global cuisine in a more laid back setting.
Fancy a taste of the high-life? You’re probably best off visiting the likes of Brentwood and Chigwell, where glamorous restaurants are ten-a-penny and the likes of Wagyu beef and lobster frequent the menus (as well as plenty of opportunities for Instagram content). Or head to Tendring or Tilbury for a more budget friendly meal out.
If you are more interested in the Essex of old, head further out where you will find cosy pubs complete with roaring fires that serve hearty dinners and Sunday lunches. Why not make a weekend of it and opt for a restaurant/hotel for a spot of luxury?
Whatever kind of dining experience you’re after, our pick of the best restaurants in Essex will have something that you’re looking for. So, get started by browsing our definitive list of the best places to eat in Essex. If you're planning on visiting Essex or are a local looking to mix up your regular spots, why not have a look at our total rundown of British restaurants in Essex for a properly traditional affair.
153 High Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4LF
Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex, CM11 2UD
Marygreen Manor Hotel London Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4NS
2 Maldon Road, Maldon, Essex, CM9 8NH
The Seven Hotel, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1DT
55 High Street, Romford, Essex, RM1 1JL
The Street, Little Dunmow, Essex, CM6 3HT
This warm and welcoming Little Dunmow serves up comforting, seasonal British fare, with most of the produce sourced from the local area. There are rooms too, so you can enjoy a proper dinner and collapse into a bed afterwards without arguing over a designated driver.
High Road, Horndon-on-the-Hill, Stanford-le-Hope, Essex, SS17 8LD
Stratford Road, Dedham, Essex, CO7 6HW
Main Road, Howe Street, Great Waltham, Essex, CM3 1BG
Crown Hill, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 2HA
Whyken Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4QT
Pig & Whistle, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 4SZ
Fyfield Road, Ongar, Essex, CM5 0AL
Layer Road, Essex, CO2 0HS
Queens Street, Ongar, Essex, CM5 0RY
High Street, Unknown, Essex, CO7 6DF
13 Brook Street, Essex, CM14 5LZ
130 London Road, Essex, SS7 5SQ
Down Hall, Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Hertfordshire, CM22 7AS
Still hungry for more? If you've not found that perfect fit, venture into the capital and check out all of the best restaurants in London, where you are bound to find something right for you. If you have a special occasion coming up, browse through the capital’s many private dining rooms in our directory of private dining rooms in London, and find a place for you and your guests can enjoy an evening of true luxury.
Collect points, worth at least £1, every time you book online and dine at a participating restaurant.
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