Updated on 31 January 2020
What’s the first thing anyone mentions as soon as the word ‘Essex’ is brought up? Yep, it’s the cliché stereotypes of white stilettos, fake tan and a general lack of intelligence. While ITVBe’s enduringly popular The Only Way Is Essex may not have done much to better Essex’s reputation, it certainly helped put the county back on the map.
There’s far more to Essex than reality television cameras and tanning salons though. In fact, Essex has quite the reputation as a foodie hub, thanks to its wealth of cosy gastropubs, farm-to-table restaurants and glitzy fine diners. If you are after 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 are on the menu (as well as plenty of opportunities for Instagram content).
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. 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 Essex restaurants below – after all, it’s the only way.
Down Hall, Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Hertfordshire, CM22 7AS
37 New London Road, Essex, CM2 0ND
Pig & Whistle, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 4SZ
High Street, Unknown, Essex, CO7 6DF
153 High Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4LF
111 Bell Common, Epping, Essex, CM16 4DZ
Main Road, Howe Street, Great Waltham, Essex, CM3 1BG
Queens Street, Ongar, Essex, CM5 0RY
159 High Road, London, London, E18 2PA
Whyken Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4QT
55 High Street, Romford, Essex, RM1 1JL
High Road, Horndon-on-the-Hill, Stanford-le-Hope, Essex, SS17 8LD
Crown Hill, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 2HA
Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex, CM11 2UD
130 London Road, Essex, SS7 5SQ
Stratford Road, Dedham, Essex, CO7 6HW
37 Station Road, Essex, CM13 3TL
92-94 Brentwood High Street, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4AP
Fyfield Road, Ongar, Essex, CM5 0AL
Marygreen Manor Hotel London Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4NS
219 High Road, London, E18 2PB
13 Brook Street, Essex, CM14 5LZ
High Road, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6QA
The Seven Hotel, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1DT
2 Maldon Road, Maldon, Essex, CM9 8NH
Layer Road, Essex, CO2 0HS
If you want to explore the UK’s food scene beyond Essex, check out our pick of the best restaurants in Winchester.
Collect points, worth at least £1, every time you book online and dine at a participating restaurant.
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