Best restaurants in Colchester

With a British streak running through, tasting menus at Kintsu are ingredient-led, eye-catching, and always contemporary. Although unassuming from the outside, this is fine dining at its best, so save this one for special occasions.

A premium steakhouse located in the city centre, Middleton’s serves up British Norfolk steaks grilled to perfection alongside burgers, fish, and vegetarian dishes. It’s a family-friendly spot that also comes with a carefully selected wine list.

A long-treasured feature of Constable Country with views of the River Stour, Talbooth restaurant has served British and internationally inspired dishes since 1952. This is a spot for extra special occasions deserving of equally special food.

An independent and family-run café bistro, Sip & Tuck is known for its inviting atmosphere. Enjoy speciality coffee, tea, breakfast, brunch, and lunch in a cosy setting with a log burner for winter warmth and a heated courtyard for summer

Located within a restored 500-year-old grade II listed barn in the hills surrounding Colchester, is The Barn Brasserie. Under exposed rafters and original timbers, you can indulge in British and international dishes, afternoon tea, and satisfying breakfasts.

Contemporary, modern, and just minutes from the heart of Colchester - Green Room Restaurant is a relaxed and comfortable restaurant that prides itself on modern British dishes made with the very best top-tier ingredients.

On the outskirts of Colchester, The Brasserie at Wivenhoe House Hotel has struck the French nail on the head. But amongst the continental classics, expect award-winning Sunday roasts, brunches, and all-day dining complete with idyllic views.

High-quality maki, nigiri, and gyoza, what’s not to love? This centrally located Japanese restaurant is a favourite among locals, suited to casual lunches and long dinners sharing sake, sushi, and authentic Japanese small plates.

The Company Shed is as fresh and local as it can get. Serving seafood delicacies and fish sourced directly from its doorstep, along with local wines from Mersea Island vineyard, its a destination restaurant well worth your time.

The go-to spot for plant-led breakfasts, brunches, and lunches, Patch has made its mark on Colchester. Menus feature produce from their own kitchen garden, served in a relaxed and creative cafe environment. Think seasonal risottos, soups and sourdough.

Milsoms is one of those few places offering fine dining without the fluff and frills. It’s a casual spot, operating on a walk-in-only basis, that comes with all the culinary hallmarks of an international Michelin-studded restaurant.

The Sun Inn has been a Dedham favourite for centuries, these days it’s a pretty five-star hotel. The recipe is simple, a rustic but modernised dining room serving highly seasonal menus with a Mediterranean tilt.

Set within a 500-year-old exposed brick and beam dining room, The Angel Inn reflects seasonality and sustainability. Whether for Sunday roasts, elegant dinners, or a casual lunches, each dish is marked by bold flavour and classic technique.

This modern British restaurant comes with Sunday roasts, quirky artwork and the best British produce. Top tip: go for a midweek set menu. A three-course meal with fresh focaccia, coffee and a glass of wine included? We’re sold.

A 15th-century building named for The Siege of Colchester, this bar and brasserie serves French and European dishes with English influences. It's a charming restaurant suited to afternoon tea, intimate dining, and family lunches.