FROM delightful dinners beneath dashing daylight to buttery bagels on the balcony and luscious lunches lakeside, we check out 20 of Essex’s hottest outdoor dining spots.
Pig and Whistle Restaurant, Chelmsford
Must Try: The lemon curd with beeswax ice cream, bergamot gel, lavender honey and honeycomb tuile.
Nestled in the Chelmsford countryside, the Pig and Whistle offers unique views of the valley below which glows gold with cereal crops during summer. Awash with green blooms and trickling water features, their outdoor dining room provides stunning vistas across the surrounding fields. During the golden hour, you can watch the sun setting across the hills and in the hottest months, soft gentle jazz and low-lit table lamps provide an unforgettable evening dining experience. The restaurant holds two AA Rosettes and was voted Best for Fine Dining by you, our beloved readers in 2024. pigandwhistlechelmsford.uk
The Three Horseshoes, Fordham
Must Try: Their host of seasonal dishes showcasing locally reared meat and locally caught fish.
This family-run country pub and restaurant offers a delightful menu featuring internationally inspired dishes and using the best local and British seasonal produce, some of which is grown in their kitchen garden. Outside, the enchanting, secluded garden and terrace is framed by traditional English blooms and a backdrop of Fordham church, making it an idyllic spot to sip drinks in the sunshine. If you fancy a tasty meal in the shade, their 36sqm parasol has you covered. Embrace summer’s warm vibes by sampling one of their locally produced beers, sparkling wines or seasonal cocktails! 3hs.pub
Fête Grays Yard, Chelmsford
Must Try: The Caesar salad paired with a chilled glass of Provence rosé.
Though small, their charming outdoor dining area is a real sun trap and a place that people flock to when the weather’s good! During the daytime, they serve a delicious brunch and an eclectic small menu on Friday and Saturday evenings. Owner and head chef Tobias takes inspiration from Asian and Middle Eastern flavours to create an exciting, unique menu. The restaurant is tucked away in one of the beautiful grade II listed buildings of Grays Brewery Yard, an area that’s very much the historical heart of Chelmsford High Street. fetegraysyard.co.uk
The Wild Table, Colchester
Must Try: The tortellino, slow-cooked beef brisket, and lobster bisque served with burnt lemon butter.
This unique woodland dining experience is like nothing you’ve experienced before. Browning Bros partnered with The Laundry Brixton to deliver a four-course, fire-cooked woodland feast in a hidden glade at Teybrook Orchard. Diners relished culinary delights prepared by chef and sommelier Melanie Brown that celebrated bold, uncomplicated flavours and ingredients sourced from the local landscape. Encapsulating the down-to-earth nuances of the woods, it was an inspiring weekend for all those who attended in May. It was the first Wild Table event, and the team are eagerly looking forward to hosting the next one either towards the end of summer or next year. browningbros.co.uk
The Osea View Cafe
Must Try: The seafood platter or delicious Maldon oysters.
Nestled on the banks of the Blackwater Estuary, the cafe has been relaunched with a fresh new look and feel. Reimagined as a destination bistro-style cafe, it offers a menu which reflects its leaders’ - husband-and-wife duo Janie and Wilf Robinson - love for local, seasonal and foraged ingredients. The cafe boasts what many acclaim as ‘the best view in Essex,’ delivering breathtaking panoramas of the East Anglian coastline. Expect dishes that highlight local seafood, all-day brunches and more, alongside expertly brewed local coffee, wines and drinks. The spacious outdoor terrace is perfectly positioned to soak up the estuary views and provide the ultimate summer escape. oseaview.com
The King William IV, Chigwell
Must Try: The new signature Sunday sharing roast featuring the finest cuts of meat and all the traditional, delicious trimmings.
Catch some rays in the beautiful beer garden at The King William IV. A stone’s throw from Epping Forest, this stylish pub, bar and restaurant brings a vibrant energy to the weekends and creates a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere during the week. Its courtyard and garden deliver ample opportunity to take in the picturesque Chigwell, making it one of Essex’s best alfresco dining spots. They’ve recently unveiled a new menu, serving a range of nourishing salads, tantalising vegan delights and sumptuous sharing boards, alongside elevated pub classics. thekingwilliamiv.co.uk
The George and Dragon, Epping
Must Try: The tender 30-day-aged 10oz rib-eye steak.
From leisurely lunches with friends to lavish dinners marking milestone moments, The George and Dragon ensures every minute is special. Enjoy a midweek treat soaking up the sun or raise a glass during the magic hour on a Friday eve. Located on Epping’s bustling high street, this beloved local is known for its relaxed, community vibe. Its two lovely, spacious outdoor patios, regular events and new vibrant menu make it a hit with all the family on a warm summer’s day. After all, when temperatures rise, there’s nothing better than enjoying a cool pint and a delicious bite to eat in the sun. georgeanddragonepping.co.uk
Hamford View Tea Room, Harwich
Must Try: The hot buttered crumpets with sweet or savoury toppings and cream tea.
Nestled along the scenic Hamford Backwaters this family-run vintage tearoom offers one of Essex’s most charming culinary experiences. Set on six acres of unspoiled countryside, it provides stunning views of the backwaters and beyond, creating the perfect backdrop for a traditional English cream tea. Their simple yet satisfying menu and commitment to homemade quality is what makes the tearoom so special. During summer, guests can choose between the shaded gazebos, and outdoor benches or borrow one of their blankets for an impromptu picnic on the field. For those seeking a moment of tranquility, Hamford View offers the perfect escape. hamfordview.uk
![Listen as the waves crash upon the shore while sipping sangria at Billy Hundreds. Photo: Courtesy of Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas]()
Listen as the waves crash upon the shore while sipping sangria at Billy Hundreds. Photo: Courtesy of Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas
Must Try: The bang bang hake – battered hake in a sticky honey, coriander and sriracha sauce with jalapeno and coriander mayo.
This small family and friend-run tapas restaurant is located right on the beach along the sensational Eastern Esplanade. Listen as the waves crash upon the shore while sipping on sangria and snacking on soft-shell crab or the restaurant’s various other fish tapas delights. Incredibly laid back but with a splash of cheekiness, the team likes to serve their customers as if they were invited around their house for dinner. It’s the ideal place to share a laugh and spend some quality time with your loved ones. billyhundreds.com
The Paper Mill Lock Tea Rooms, Little Baddow
Must Try: The delicious cheese, chorizo and jalapeño toastie and refreshing pomegranate nitro iced tea.
Watch the world go by and make the most of a lazy summer’s day at The Paper Mill Lock Tea Rooms in Little Baddow, all while enjoying a refreshing drink and a tasty slice of cake. Established in 2003, the tea rooms are a family-run business located halfway along the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation. The tea rooms are a welcome rest stop, where guests can dine canalside and revel in the area’s serenity and charm. Delivering seasonally changing menus, there are always treasures to be discovered and new memories to be made. papermilllock.co.uk
The Anchor, Hullbridge
Must Try: The British 6oz burger with all butter brioche bun, gem lettuce, pink pickled onions, Cheddar cheese, smoky jam, Bloody Mary burger sauce and Koffmann’s thick-cut chips.
Deep amid Essex’s countryside lies one of the county’s most picturesque dining destinations, The Anchor in Hullbridge. Its bewitching waterfront location offers spectacular views of the River Crouch and the surrounding undulating hills. The alluring garden and large decked terrace are ideal for dining alfresco, while the garden’s canopy provides ample shade if you need to cool off. Following a stroll along the river, it’s a magical place to while away a sunny afternoon. theanchorhullbridge.co.uk
Waterfront Pizza, Mersea Island
Must Try: The Ripieno Piccante folded pizza with spianata, 'nduja, chilli and parmesan.
The ultimate pairing: crisp, salty seacoast air with a bite of mouthwatering artisanal pizza. It’s Essex’s own little slice of heaven. The sights from the restaurant’s covered deck include sweeping vistas of the Blackwater estuary, the gentle jaunts of sailing boats as they pass by and daily picture-perfect sunsets. Share a toast with one of their indie craft beers, classic cocktails or fine wines and leave your troubles far behind. Their pizzas are all handmade from scratch and freshly crafted every day using only premium natural ingredients. It’s the perfect recipe for a splendid summer day! waterfront-pizza.com
The Magic Mushroom, Billericay
Must Try: The caramelised seared king scallops with celeriac puree, pickled walnuts and apple dressing.
Whether meeting friends for lunch or seeking a pleasant spot to enjoy a delectable afternoon tea as we’re graced by the beautiful weather, The Magic Mushroom’s open-air terrace is the place to be. Offering an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, guests can enjoy alfresco fine dining at its best, savouring first-class, freshly cooked, contemporary dishes. The restaurant was even featured earlier this year on Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash’s new BBC One reality TV show when the couple went out for a date night. With the celebrity seal of approval, who can resist calling by to check it out firsthand? magicmushroomrestaurant.co.uk
The Little Book Cafe, Halstead
Must Try: The LBC cooked breakfast.
You’ll fall head over heels in love with The Little Book Cafe’s paradisal courtyard. One of Halstead’s best-kept secrets, it’s a beguiling location to take a break and reminisce. No one can resist the allure of this friendly, quaint cafe situated in a lovely 17th-century cottage. It’s certainly all sunny side up when it comes to their scrumptious array of breakfast offerings, hearty lunches and freshly brewed tea and coffee. It’s the ideal venue when planning that long-overdue catch-up with friends or family. Or if you need a little time to yourself, the cafe’s selection of used books will provide ample entertainment. littlebookcafe.co.uk
The Pier, Harwich
Must Try: The Pier classic fish pie.
Set on the first floor of a renovated 1860-listed building in Harwich, The Pier is a top foodie destination much beloved by locals and tourists. From the balcony, diners can relish breathtaking views of the water, ships and working docks below. An invigorating menu celebrating modern classics, amazing grilled dishes and succulent fresh fish landed on the harbour opposite, guarantees satisfaction. Scenes of the sun setting over the Stour estuary are reason enough to visit, and the best way to take full advantage of the light displays on offer is to book a stay in one of their 14 exquisite, individually styled rooms. milsomhotels.com/the-pier
The Lion Inn, Boreham
Must Try: The classic large line-caught beer-battered haddock, chunky chips and tartare sauce.
Using some of the region’s finest ingredients, The Lion Inn fuses modern pub classics with speciality dishes, delivering exceptional cuisine that will linger on your taste buds long after you visit. New and exciting dishes from their daily specials board await your discovery, while their menu featuring everything from irresistible steaks to crispy fish and chips, ensures there’s something for every taste. Their ravishing, sun-drenched courtyard, bordered by elegant pleached lime trees and teeming with vibrant flowers, provides a mesmerising backdrop for an unforgettable alfresco dining experience and brings the poetry of the season to life for all to enjoy. lioninnhotel.co.uk
Oliver's on the Beach, Westcliff-on-Sea
Must Try: The seared salmon teriyaki or the smoked haddock cannelloni.
You’ll certainly want to stay a while when it comes to visiting this beachfront eatery. Breakfast is superb and we hear the brownies are to die for. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, though the reel (see what we did there) main attraction is the sinfully delicious seafood. Transcendent views of the Southend estuary make it appear as if the sea and sky stretch on forever. If you’re lucky you may even spot a seal! A highlight of a day in Westcliff, the cafe delivers every element of a fantastic summer escape, without the need to travel much further than your doorstep. I: @oliversonthebeach
The Chequers Matching Green
Must Try: The roasted breast of Gressingham duck served with braised peppers, courgettes, aubergines, tomatoes and red wine jus.
Overlooking the village’s picturesque cricket green, The Chequers’ welcoming atmosphere, envious location and great food have made it a hotspot for rural dining. Rain or shine, the terrace with its retractable roof is a blissful setting to enjoy an alfresco lunch or dinner. You can also savour the surroundings from their resplendent garden. The picnic benches complete with cosy cushions and shaded parasols are one of the best places to appreciate the Essex countryside in all its glory. Teamed with the restaurant’s stunning high-quality dishes, you’ll find all the ingredients you need for a special day out. thechequersmatchinggreen.co.uk
Scott’s Kitchen, Rochford
Must Try: The Parma ham and goat’s cheese fresh salad.
From when the sun’s first rays hit to when they begin to soften in the sky as teatime draws near, there are plenty of culinary sensations to discover at Scott’s Kitchen. The treasures are never-ending, from decadent breakfast classics to heartening lunchtime favourites, extraordinary handmade cakes and delightful seasonal afternoon teas. All can be enjoyed from the comfort of their handsome garden awash with fresh blooms, summer colour and rustic charm. Since opening in 2021, it’s been their vision to deliver a range of enticing classic dishes that all ages can enjoy. scottsofsouthend.co.uk
The Oysterfleet, Canvey Island
Must Try: The Oysterfleet special pizza made with tomato ragu, oregano and mozzarella, chicken, pepperoni, bacon, red onion, mushroom and sweetcorn.
Standing next to Canvey Island’s captivating lake is the Oysterfleet’s unique beer garden. A haven on any sunny day, the pretty lake views and endearing wildlife provide a calm and peaceful nook to natter, nibble and sip. The space is ideal for casual meetups and special occasions, offering a pleasant ambience to spend some quality time with your nearest and dearest and savour their diverse and varied menu offerings. Whether trying their array of light bites, sharer boards, stone oven pizza bread, or gourmet burgers, you won’t be disappointed! oysterfleethotel.com
