Food & Drink

Essex is a foodie’s paradise. If you’re looking for great restaurants serving local produce, classic fish and chips by the sea, or even a tour of a local vineyard, then Essex is the perfect place for your next day trip or short break in the UK.

Restaurants & Eating Out 

Whether you're looking for high end restaurants with a great atmosphere or somewhere family friendly for you to enjoy delicious dishes, Essex is home to many restaurants to suit every taste palate. Head to Milsoms in Dedham (one of our Top 50 Icons of Essex) for a decadent meal by the river, or The Three Horseshoes in Fordham, Colchester, for an outstanding meal in what has been named Pub of the Year by the East of England Tourism Awards. If you're staying in sunny Southend with the family, the Feelgoods Diner is bound to put a smile on everyones faces.

Local Produce

Being a county with great coastal and rural locations, it’s easy to come across local produce in Essex, from locally caught seafood to fruit and vegetables grown on our farms in the countryside. Head to restaurants such as The White Hart Inn to enjoy native Mersea Oysters or enjoy an afternoon tea in one of many Tiptree Tearooms for sweet locally produced jams and preserves. There’s nothing better than enjoying a hearty meal of fish and chips by the sea – especially when seasoned with Maldon Salt.

Vineyards

Did you know that Essex is the driest county in the UK? This makes it ideal for growing and harvesting grapes, which is why we are the home to many outstanding vineyards that produce award-winning wines. Our county has been producing wines since the Roman times, and today there is around 50 vineyards spanning across Essex, including Saffron Grange, Tuffon Hall, and Crouch Ridge. Many of these vineyards offer tours and wine tastings, as well as sit down meals and accommodation.