Best restaurants in Hornchurch

Hornchurch, a suburban East London town, has so many incredible restaurants within its confines. For those of you who thought that London was full of countless big-name restaurants that cost an arm and a leg to visit, with not much in between, we've got news for you. Some of the very best restaurants in Hornchurch are remarkably accessible and show great diversity in cuisine, dining style, and setting. So whether you’re in the mood for authentic Italian dishes, quintessentially English pub grub, or modern European innovation you’re pretty much guaranteed to find some inspiration on this list.

Updated on 25 June 2024

It’s easy to pigeonhole the town as a ‘nearly-London’ suburb where you might expect to find local pubs and chain restaurants and very little else - but Hornchurch’s restaurants tell a different story. There’s much to see in the area from plays and operas at The Queen’s Theatre to rambling walks through the Hornchurch Country Park - and that’s before we turn our attention to the dining scene. Hornchurch’s best restaurants are a fixture of the local community, and though overlooked offer some truly remarkable dining experiences.

And if you’re in the know, you’ll find there’s much history to explore too. During the Battle of Britain, the old airfield at Hornchurch played a pivotal role as a station for Spitfire squadrons. But it goes deeper than that, beginning as a small village in the mid-12th century, by 1159 King Henry established a hospice here. The Dell - a slowing bowl area - was a popular spot for sporting events and wrestling matches. Up until the development of the railways in 1885, Hornchurch had become a hotspot for artisans and dealers. With extensive redevelopment from the 1960s onwards, the area has transformed into the thriving London suburb we know and love.

Zizzi - Hornchurch

41-43 Station Lane, Hornchurch, London, RM12 6JT

Known as one of the best restaurants for casual Italian dining, Zizzi is a sure win for impromptu lunches, midweek catch-ups, and child-friendly birthdays. Plus, with a good choice of vegetarian options you’re bound to find something for everyone.

Under £30

Pizza

Italian

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Marley's Hornchurch

17-19 Billet Lane, Hornchurch, London, RM11 1TS

Known as one of the best brunch spots in the local area, this glamorous and glitzy joint brings Instagrammable interiors, creative cocktails and indulgent photo-ready dishes to Hornchurch. Cameras at the ready…

£30 - £49

Modern European

Brasserie

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Giggling Squid Hornchurch

168 High Street, Hornchurch, London, RM12 6AF

A stone’s throw from both Hornchurch and Upminster Bridge stations, Thai chain Giggling Squid is a reliable option for a relaxed and reasonably priced meal out. You can expect brilliant service and even better food which caters to a range of dietary requirements.

£30 - £49

Thai

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Sutton Arms Hornchurch

14–16 Station Lane, Hornchurch, RM12 6NJ

If you’re taking out a sports fanatic this is the spot for you. With a top selection of craft ales, screens in every corner, and a menu of loaded jacket potatoes, pub classics, and tasty bar snacks - you can’t go wrong with the Sutton Arms.

£30 - £49

British

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Onyx Restaurant and Bar

48-50 Station Lane, Hornchurch, London, RM12 6NB

Onyx, an Italian bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, has something for everyone - be it a weekday set lunch menu, an elegant dinner, a fabulous Sunday roast or something which is child friendly.

£30 - £49

Modern European

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Stay Restaurant and Bar

53 Butts Green Road, Hornchurch, London, RM11 2JS

Stay Restaurant has one simple mission: to serve the very best British food, complete with a welcoming atmosphere. They’ve succeeded - expect affordable set menus, satisfying roasts, and a selection of seasonal small plates.

£50 - £79

Modern European

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Fatling Hornchurch

109 High Street, Hornchurch, Essex, RM11 1TX

The Fatling is a popular local hub for great beer, British pub classics, and a lively atmosphere. Relax for an afternoon in the beer garden or settle in for an evening of cask ales and bar food.

£30 - £49

British

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Da Vinci's Italian Restaurant

13-15 Station Lane, Hornchurch, London, RM12 6JL

Chef and owner Craig is putting his 26 years of experience to work with this neighbourhood Italian joint in Hornchurch. Ultra-fresh ingredients are used to create a line-up of traditional dishes, from polpette to penne arrabiatta.

£30 - £49

Italian

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While we hope our list of Hornchurch’s best restaurants has given you some food for thought. If you’re planning a celebration dinner we’ve got plenty of options for private dining near Hornchurch - after all, nothing is more special than dining in your own exclusive space.

Alternatively, given that London is at your fingertips, why not explore some of the most Instagrammable restaurants in London? And if you’re in the mood for something a little more intimate, just take a peek at our round-up of London’s most romantic restaurants for your next date night.