Location: Chelmsford
Top Restaurants in Chelmsford
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Where to Eat in Chelmsford: The Best Restaurants and Bars
Chelmsford (/ˈtʃɛlmzfərd/) is the principal settlement of the City of Chelmsford district, and the county town of Essex, in the East of England. It is located in the London commuter belt, approximately 32 miles (51 km) northeast of the notional centre of London at Charing Cross and approximately 22 miles (35 km) from Colchester. The urban area of the city has a population of approximately 120,000, whilst the district has a population of 168,310.
Things to do in Chelmsford
1. The Compasses Inn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 131 reviews
Come and enjoy life in the slow lane at the traditional Compasses Inn. This charming pub is situated in the hamlet of Littley Green which lies in the heart of the underated Essex countryside.This dog and child friendly Victorian pub, formerly known as the Ridley's Brewery Tap, is steeped in history and tradition. It offers warm Guest Accommodation rooms and serves local food, including the famous Essex Huffer, alongside some of the best real ales in Essex, prizing itself on its traditionally well kept cellar. So if you are looking for a relaxing time with a pint of real ale whether it be in the garden on a sunny day or some hot traditional pub food by a warm open fire in the depths of winter, The Compasses welcomes you.We look forward to seeing you soon.Joss Ridley.
Reviewed By Laura H - Essex, United Kingdom
Booked this b&b on booking.com as we were attending a wedding reception nearby that evening. As we pulled into the country roads and found the compasses inn we were pleasantly surprised at how quaint it looked. We had no problems checking in and were promptly shown to our room. The staff on the bar were very nice and helpful. We had a couple of drinks in the pub before we went to the wedding which was nice. I only wished we'd had more time to have enjoyed a meal. We will definitely be going back.
2. The Cuckoo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 492 reviews
Reviewed By Julie B - Chelmsford
Our first visit to The Cuckoo yesterday was perfect! The chorizo scotch eggs were to die for and the herb crusted cod was superb. My husband, not a fish eater, ate every last bit of it. The staff were very friendly, making our experience perfect.
Would definitely go back and highly recommend a visit!
3. Horse & Groom
Overall Ratings
4 based on 686 reviews
Reviewed By heliwood - Chelmsford, United Kingdom
Went for a catch up with friends on a Monday night. We were left a long time before we were asked if we wanted drinks, then left again before we were asked for our order. Drinks came quickly, starters were a little while. Seemed slow. Main course arrived and we were given the dessert menu. The next thing we knew our waitress has her coat on and was leaving. No-one then came and asked us if we wanted a dessert. Went and ordered coffee and ten our bill had additional charges on it so we asked for a new bill. An apple juice and lemonade was charged at 4.15! It was a small one!!! That to me was a huge charge for a drink. Queried it with a waitress and she said yes it was the charge! Staff not helpful and we didn't feel we were looked after. Normally go to restaurants in town - will carry on with restaurants in town. Food was lovely, hot and great value. Service not good :(
4. Zenxi
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 877 reviews
Zenxi brings together the very best of Oriental fine-dining to Chelmsford. The design of ZENXI has been meticulously thought of and planned, the layout of the restaurant being set over 2 floors and uses modern materials, soft lighting, Italian furniture along with traditional visual impacts such as Waterfalls and a grand piano which all harmonize to create a luxury setting, for you to enjoy at lunch or dinner. Attention to detail is of primary importance at ZENXI which is also carried through to our menu; Consisting of over 150 dishes, including many classic favourites to the very NOW dishes; Every dish is freshly prepared as ordered using the finest quality products, this ensures fresh and detailed flavours, something we know you appreciate. Our handpicked wine list is also vast with over 70 wines from around the world, champagnes and cocktails for all occasions to compliment your fine-dining experience.
Reviewed By naomiam - Essex, United Kingdom
We have picked up takeaway for collection twice since moving to the area seven months ago and both times it was excellent. Everything very fresh, not oily, and not too sweet. Fantastic prawn dishes. Good value. After living and working in China for two years we have missed Chinese food and while strictly speaking this is mostly Cantonese style it's as good as any we had in Shanghai/Beijing. We can't wait to come and eat in the restaurant.
5. The Blue Strawberry Bistrot
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
The Blue Strawberry Bistrot, situated just off the A12 in the village of Hatfield Peverel with its mainline railway station, is ideally located for both the busy executive wishing to enjoy a quality meal without travelling far off the beaten track as well as those who wish for a relaxed & memorable dining experience at a pace to suit. This highly successful restaurant, one of the finest in Essex, has built its enviable reputation over the last 20 years, concentrating on quality food & service whilst still representing exceptional value for money.
Reviewed By Carrie_S1987 - Chelmsford, United Kingdom
Love this place! I have been there numerous times and the food and service is always outstanding! Looking forward to coming back already!
6. Bartellas
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 618 reviews
Reviewed By Stephen M - Hockley, United Kingdom
Had a midweek Groupon offer evening meal.
Fantastic service with excellent menu.
A special thanks to the Lady in charge of the restaurant who went out of her way (as usual) to assist with my Wife's garlic allergy dealing with he kitchen!
7. The Gurkha Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 884 reviews
Reviewed By Robert F - Southend-on-Sea, United Kingdom
Have visited theGurkha a number of times now with friends, sometimes in a small group but other times with 12/14 people. I have never experienced a disappointing meal here and would go as far as saying it gets better each visit. The staff are always friendly and have good knowledge of all items on the menu. On our recent visit the restaurant was particularly busy but our food was served after a short time. Have no hesitation in highly recommending the Gurkha as a cut above the rest
8. Lek's Thai Food
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 152 reviews
Authentic Thai Food in Chelmsford, we offer good value and friendly service. There is Seating outside on the Market Square. Come along and try our food we believe you will be surprised at how good it is. We also offer Take Away and outside catering services. Lek's Thai Food is located on the corner of Chelmsford's retail market next to Bellmead (opposite central park)
Reviewed By Mark B - Rayleigh, United Kingdom
This is a little unknown place for a great authentic Thai meal...
Simple and typical street food stall, this will not disappoint! Service is quick and the food was great. This is a Non Fancy, No Frills great eatery - you can't complain at the service, food and cost; Portions and taste are on par with eat in restaurants.
9. The Restaurant at Pontlands Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
Reviewed By dmarti32 - Chelmsford, United Kingdom
Attended a function here. Plenty of parking, food very good, room very well laid out and helpful staff.
10. The Windmill Chatham Green
Overall Ratings
5 based on 77 reviews
Situated in the charming hamlet of Chatham Green, The Windmill is a beautiful, real drinking pub, combining outstanding food with a selection of real ales, cocktails and an extensive wine list. Now in the care of Mick and Lydia Binnington, The Windmill has been sympathetically refurbished to maintain its character and original features including the lovely floor to ceiling oak beams. A seasonal menu in our relaxed, cosy restaurant offers elegant, simple food sourced from the best produce from around the local area, paired with a friendly and efficient service.
Reviewed By AWBOB - essex
Pleasant surroundings, friendly staff.
Smoked haddock omelette, soufflé? Excellent.
Home made scotch egg, a meal in itself.
Beetroot and goats cheese salad, very good but very small, and diner left with an empty plate while the rest of us continued to eat.
Roast beef, excellent and rare, other dishes ok, roast potatoes average, vegetables served on plate, much prefer a tureen, the fish dish required vegetables at extra cost, given the 3 course lunch is £27.50 not good.
Desserts good, wine list good, and reasonably priced wine.
No salt and pepper on the table, ok for cheffy dishes but needed with a Sunday roast.
Will return but not for Sunday lunch.
