Best Restaurants in Essex

In total, there are 28 award winning restaurants in Essex, based on the combined awards from the leading UK restaurant guides.

Were you expecting to see more restaurants in Essex? Remember at Leading Restaurants we only list restaurants holding awards from major restaurant guides; currently less than 3% of all restaurants in the UK and Ireland hold an award from a major guide.

The best restaurant in Essex is The Three Horseshoes in Colchester (based on our unique combination of the leading UK restaurant guides) where the kitchen team serves up award winning Modern British Cuisine. The Three Horseshoes currently holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand and 3 AA Rosettes.

There is currently a single listed Michelin Star restaurant in Essex which holds 1 Michelin star. There are also 2 restaurants holding a Michelin Bib Gourmand and 7 restaurants holding a standard Michelin Guide listing.

There are currently 24 listed AA Rosette restaurants in Essex consisting of 2 restaurants holding 3 AA Rosettes, 16 restaurants holding 2 AA Rosettes and 6 restaurants holding 1 AA Rosette.

Essex, nestling towards the Eastern coastline of the United Kingdom, is renowned for its fascinating amalgam of history and culture. Steeped in food tradition, this county has been crafting its culinary identity for centuries, effortlessly blending old and new to offer a delightfully palatable culinary landscape. From rustic pubs serving traditional fare to stylish dining rooms presenting innovative methods, the gastronomic scene of Essex is as diverse as the county's landscape itself. The steel-willed seafarers of the old times might have brought in the first taste of exotic flavours, but today's Essex is home to a dizzying array of cuisines, all grounded in the fresh, locally-sourced produce that the region is known for. The bustling towns of Essex are steeped in a rich restaurant history that tells tales of culinary daring and innovation. Historical landmarks like Colchester, known as Britain's oldest recorded town, coexist with trendy dining destinations such as the city of Chelmsford, creating a vibrant food culture that takes pride in its roots while constantly evolving. Pub culture remains a cornerstone, with restaurants sometimes residing in buildings that were built centuries ago, providing an atmospheric backdrop for meals that often feature traditional British dishes. However, the restaurant scene is not confined to its history; it is increasingly pushed into the modern age by innovative chefs who are eager to put their own spin on the region's cuisine. Whether it's Michelin-starred establishments putting a contemporary twist on beloved classics, or cosy cafes serving up vegan delights, Essex truly offers a taste for every palate.