Fine Dining & Top Restaurants in Essex 2024

Fine Dining in Essex

Recently, Essex has exploded in popularity. Though it might seem like a rural community from a distance, complete with stunning views and impressive monuments, Essex can be just as bustling as any other city. In particular, there is an abundance of fantastic diners, restaurants and eateries.

Let’s take a look at some of the finest places to eat throughout Essex, where you can sample regional delicacies and local foods alike.

What's On in Essex Places to Eat & Drink in Essex Attractions in Essex

The Angel Inn | Stoke by Nayland

Fine Dining at The Angel Inn in Stoke by Nayland, Essex, is a culinary experience that transcends expectations. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, this establishment offers a refined menu featuring locally sourced ingredients prepared with precision and artistry. Guests savor exquisite dishes in an elegant, historic setting, making every visit a memorable gastronomic journey in the heart of Essex.

The Hare and Hounds

The Hare and Hounds located in Braintree has been voted in the top 10 of the cosiest pubs in Essex! This is no normal pub grub, this is a true gastropub, with their emphasis being on high quality food that is freshly prepared by their own onsite chef.

They offer an enticing and varied seasonal menu to suit all tastes. You can also enjoy classic ales, fine wines and a wide range of cocktails in the bar or outside in the beer garden.

Luigi’s Al Fresco

Based at The Limes by Luigi’s Al Fresco House in Maldon, Luigi’s Al Fresco is a restaurant specialising in authentic Italian cuisine, quality food and great service.

Surrounded by a charming rustic setting to give you an Italian holiday vibe that transports you to the South of Italy. Using locally sourced ingredients including those from abroad, they serve healthy Mediterranean homemade cuisine that has something to cater to all tastes. Having a wide variety of dishes to choose from including Italian favourites such as Pasta and Pizza as well as burgers, risotto, and several specials accompanied by a broad selection of wines.

Luigi’s Al Fresco features a range of distinctly different menus. Guests can choose from A La Carte, Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch, and their usual Set Menu as well as a delicious dessert menu and a vast wine list. Children also have a wide range of choices from their Kids Menu.

Find out more and view the menus here.

Pig & Truffle

Pig & Truffle, The Street, Little Dunmow, Dunmow CM6 3HT

https://www.pigandtruffle.co.uk/

When dining at Pig & Truffle in Little Dunmow, you can expect a delightful culinary experience. Their menus are thoughtfully crafted, featuring modern, vibrant, and seasonal dishes that showcase the freshest local ingredients from Essex and beyond. Whether you’re there for lunch or dinner, Pig & Truffle prides itself on friendly service and high-quality food. The dining room is open seven days a week and can exclusively seat up to 14 people. Additionally, Pig & Truffle offers private chef experiences, where locally sourced seasonal menus, handpicked wines, and carefully selected cocktails create a memorable dining affair.

The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to unwind with friends or loved ones. One of their signature dishes, belly pork on French toast, is a true culinary delight. Attentive and friendly service ensures that your dining experience at Pig & Truffle is both enjoyable and memorable. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, prepare to indulge in exquisite flavours and a cozy atmosphere at this charming establishment in Little Dunmow.

Rubino Kitchen at Chigborough Lodge

Kelvedon Road, Inworth, Colchester, Essex, CO5 9SP

https://rubinokitchen.co.uk/

Rubino Kitchen, nestled within the picturesque Chigborough Lodge in Inworth, offers an exceptional dining experience.

Let’s delve into what awaits you:

Culinary Excellence: At Rubino Kitchen, dining is an art form. The menu showcases a blend of European and British flavours, emphasizing contemporary cuisine. Guests can savour dishes like Guinea Fowl with Mushroom and Marmite Pearl Barley Risotto and Braised Lamb with Potato Fondant and Broccoli. The tasting menu, meticulously crafted, promises an excellent culinary journey. Pair your meal with selections from their well-priced wine list. Whether you choose the charming outdoor veranda or the cozy indoor setting, Rubino Kitchen ensures a memorable dining affair.

Private Dining: For those seeking an intimate experience, Rubino Kitchen offers private dining options. Gather with friends or family in an elegant setting, where attentive service and exquisite food come together. Whether it’s a special celebration or a business gathering, the restaurant’s ambiance sets the stage for delightful conversations and gastronomic delights. Rubino Kitchen invites you to savor every moment, surrounded by the beauty of Chigborough Lodge

Haywards

111 Bell Common, Epping, Essex, CM16 4DZ

https://haywardsrestaurant.co.uk/

Haywards is a seasonal restaurant that consistently tops travel charts and food guides – and with good reason, too. Fronted by the well-travelled and extremely talented chef, Jahdre Hayward, guests can expect European dishes with an innovative (and diverse) approach.

Using locally sourced foods, Haywards provides outstanding meals at more-than-reasonable prices. Not only is Hayward’s the recipient of 3 AA Rosettes, but it has featured in the Michelin 2020 Guide AND the iconic BBC show ‘Taste of Britain’.

Due to the immense popularity of Haywards, anyone considering visiting will need to book in advance!

Aspera Restaurant

130 London Road, South Benfleet, Essex, SS7 5SQ

http://www.asperarestaurant.com/

It’s uncommon to find a restaurant with a diverse menu that can still deliver amazing, high-quality dishes. Aspera is just that.

Serving as a Mediterranean grill bar, complete with steaks, salads and seafood, Aspera is a gorgeous restaurant with a cosy ambience, colourful cocktail menu and a wonderful wine selection. Using traditionally-inspired ingredients, authentic spices and true Mediterranean meats and fish, you’ll be part of a truly genuine experience.

Aspera is the winner of the Food Awards England in 2018 – a testament to the delicious meals and friendly atmosphere you can expect to find.

Olio on The Green

12-14 The Green, Writtle, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 3DU

https://olioonthegreen.co.uk/

Olio on The Green, located in Writtle, offers an authentic taste of Italian cuisine. When dining at Olio, you can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family. Their food is prepared with the finest natural ingredients, cooked in the traditional Italian way. Whether you’re there for lunch or dinner, the menu features a delightful blend of European and British flavours. From Guinea Fowl with Mushroom and Marmite Pearl Barley Risotto to Braised Lamb with Potato Fondant and Broccoli, each dish is a culinary masterpiece.

For those seeking an intimate dining affair, Olio on The Green provides private dining options. Whether it’s a special celebration or a business gathering, their elegant setting sets the stage for delightful conversations and gastronomic delights. Please note that children under the age of 10 are not allowed on Friday and Saturday evenings from 7:30 pm onwards. The restaurant encourages a smart/casual dress code, ensuring a pleasant and refined experience for all guests. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, indulge in amazing meals and create lasting memories at this charming Italian gem in Writtle.

Galvin Green Man

Main Road Howe Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 1BG

https://galvinrestaurants.com/restaurant/galvin-green-man-chelmsford/

A gorgeous 14c acts as the setting for the Galvin Green Man, located on Howe Street. With a modern extension as well as a stunning riverside garden, it’s the perfect setting for the traditional British food on offer.

Though it might specialise in local favourites and pub-grub, don’t let this put you off: the menu is seasonal, subject to change based on what locally sourced ingredients and meats are available.

Headed up by talented restauranteurs Chris and Jeff Galvin, the Green Man has been a staple of Essex dining since its grand opening in 2016. Since then, it’s found a (well-deserved) place on the Michelin Restaurant guide 2020 and has been the recipient of 2 AA Rosettes and a Bib Gourmand.

The Cricketers, Clavering

The Cricketers, Clavering, Nr Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4QT

https://thecricketers.co.uk/

The Cricketers in Clavering, Essex, is a delightful culinary haven that beckons food enthusiasts with its locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Here, dining takes center stage, and every plate is a symphony of freshness and flavour. Imagine fish arriving daily, vegetables harvested by friendly locals, and bread baked fresh each morning. The meat is expertly butchered on-site, and the pasta—crafted using an authentic Italian pasta machine—guarantees excellence. The seasonal menu tantalizes taste buds, complemented by daily specials and Sunday roasts.

As you savour your meal, explore the extensive wine list that changes regularly, or sip on cask ales, artisan gins, and single malt whiskies from the well-stocked bar. Whether you’re a guest or a passer by, The Cricketers promises a memorable dining experience where quality and locality intertwine.

The Mistley Thorn

The Mistley Thorn, High Street, Mistley, Essex, CO11 1HE

https://www.mistleythorn.co.uk/

Mistley is a traditional seaside town found alongside the coasts of the River Stour – so it’s only fitting that they offer some of the finest, organically sourced and locally caught fish across all of Essex.

With two AA Rosettes and an established spot on the 2020 Michelin guide, it’s an inviting and fun-filled location for a fabulous evening of high-quality fine dining – complete with deep, rich wines to match your meal.

The menu does change throughout the year – Mistley Thorn adheres to use seasonal ingredients to add a distinct freshness to every dish, providing a consistently amazing experience.

The Pier

The Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3HH

https://www.milsomhotels.com/the-pier/

Despite its small stature, The Pier in Harwich is an exquisite eatery with some of the highest quality meats and fish to be found. Serving primarily seafood, though with locally sourced (seasonal) meats on offer, too, it’s a great restaurant for any food-lover to try.

The pier has been awarded a TripAdvisor certificate of excellence as well as two AA Rosettes. It also boasts truly spectacular ocean views as it overlooks the working docks, harbour and ships.

All fish are caught from the estuary every day, ensuring only the freshest ingredients are used to prepare your meals.

Milsoms

Stratford Road, Dedham, Colchester, Essex, CO7 6HW

https://www.milsomhotels.com/milsoms/

Milsoms is another restaurant run by Milsom Hotels – much like the Pier. They clearly know just what it takes to deliver an outstanding meal, as they’ve made our list twice!

The restaurant focusses primarily on modern-British cuisine, with a noticeably delicious European twist. A varied menu, perfect for any guest, ensures that you’ll be greeted with a fantastic dining experience that would leave you craving for more… if you had any room left!

The laid back nature of the eatery, along with its incredible food, means that it quickly fills out. Hopeful diners absolutely must book in advance.

Mulberry House

Chelmsford Road, High Ongar, Essex, CM5 9NL

https://www.mulberry-house.com/restaurant/

The Jubilee Restaurant lies at the forefront of Mulberry House, a renowned wedding venue in Essex. Catering to more than just loved-up couples, the Jubilee is the best example of fine dining, serving a range of high-quality dishes using only the finest, freshest ingredients.

Visitors can expect a seasonal A La Carte menu, so the food on offer does change sporadically – don’t let this put you off though, as it’s some of the best dinings to be found in all of Essex.