FOODIES in Colchester have named the best meals they have ever eaten in the city.

The Gazette asked our loyal readers to share their experiences of the best meals they have enjoyed in Colchester.

Here's some of the top-tier restaurants and hidden gems which were mentioned the most.

Bella Pais 

Gazette: Restaurant - Bella Pais voted by most Gazette readers as their favourite restaurantRestaurant - Bella Pais voted by most Gazette readers as their favourite restaurant (Image: Google Maps/ Dipak Mistry)

Dominating the voting above every other restaurant, Bella Pais takes first place with its multiple steak and Greek dishes. 

The restaurant, which is located on Centurian House Street, received high praise, with its surf and turf also commended alongside its steak.

Karen Sheerin, a Gazette reader said: "Bella Pais 100 per cent, never been disappointed. They do the best steaks ever!"

Another reader, Sebastian Ignacak, who loved the Greek restaurant's dishes said: "Steak at Bella Pais. Absolutely scrumptious!! Couldn't recommend it more!"

Kintsu

Another very popular restaurant is Kintsu, which is clearly loved by Gazette readers. 

The restaurant, which opened two years ago, was launched by an experienced chef who raised more than £28,000 through a Kickstarter campaign.

The inside of the premises has been designed by Mr Wendholt's wife Laura.

Gazette reader, Joanne Summers, who was intrigued by the modern restaurant said she would choose "Kintsu for something special".

Fiona Wallington has also recommended the restaurant.

She said: "Currently, Kintsu is by far and away the best place to eat in Colchester."

Read more:

Greyfriars Gazette: Trending - Greyfriars among Gazette reader's favourite restaurantsTrending - Greyfriars among Gazette reader's favourite restaurants (Image: Google Maps)

Going head to head with Kintsu, Gray Friars has also become a much-loved spot for Gazette readers to have a meal. 

The restaurant is situated in a former Georgian townhouse built in 1755 and offers a range of cocktails alongside appetising bites.

Andy Millward, Christina Freeman and Chris Deal were among those who said they loved the restaurant's menu.

Noodle Bar

Last but not least, North Hill Noodle Bar is also a fan favourite.

The eatery offers a unique eating experience with a range of oriental dishes, including Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Malaysian.

Formerly the home of The Times Bar, the premises has undergone a transformation, giving the interior a trendy minimalist Japanese feel.

Tasha Nicholls, one of the Gazette readers said that the Noodle Bar is "smashing". 

Rosemary Double said that the restaurant's dishes are delicious.

She said: "Noodle bar is my favourite. Chilli prawns and butterfly prawns are just delicious!"


For news updates straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.


Gazette: Mirra - some readers voted for Mirra as their favourite restaurantMirra - some readers voted for Mirra as their favourite restaurant (Image: Google Maps)

Wooden Fender, Mirra, The Seige House, Pavilion, and Aburi were also mentioned as some of our readers' favourites.