Best restaurants in Leigh on Sea

Known to locals as just Leigh, Leigh-on-Sea is a charming town in the county of Essex. A fishing village for hundreds of years, many of Leigh’s best restaurants are centred around the day’s freshest catch with locally sourced ingredients that pair beautifully. But, life in this Essex town isn’t all about fish, seafood and seaweed side dishes. Many of the spots included on our list of the best restaurants in Leigh-on-Sea are known for international cuisine and great affordable dining. If you find somewhere you like the look of, just click through to book now.

Updated on 25 June 2024

Narrowing down the best options for the restaurants in Leigh-on-Sea is no easy task - there are some incredible choices. However, we’ve managed to sift through all the top restaurants out there, from the glamorous and luxurious fine dining stops to affordable hole-in-the-wall eateries. So whether you’ve got your wellies on at lunchtime, searching for cockles and crabbing in a rockpool or you’re dressed to the nines for a special occasion, one of Leigh’s best restaurants is sure to fit the bill.

There are plenty of things to do in Leigh-on-Sea, from cosy cafes to artisanal shops and independent galleries showcasing local artists. Lovers of the great outdoors can explore nearby nature parks such as Belfairs Wood. But as the best restaurants in Leigh demonstrate, this is a town characterised by its relationship with the sea. By the 16th century, it was a fairly large and prosperous port trading with the Netherlands and France, and is even said to be the location where The Mayflower was built in the 17th century.

The Boatyard

8-13 High Street, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 2EN

Fancy cocktails with a view? Head up to The Boatyard’s mezzanine bar which overlooks the water. This spacious venue is also home to a large restaurant area where you can enjoy seasonal dishes, while at weekends it hosts live music too.

£30 - £49

Modern European

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Oakwood Leigh on Sea

564 Rayleigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 5HX

A family-run pub with two pool tables and a relaxed restaurant area, Oakwood is a favourite for family lunches and live band nights on the weekend. Expect classic pub grub, bar foods, and plenty of vegetarian options.

£30 - £49

British

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Sara's Tea Garden

64 High Street, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 2EP

Nestled among the cobbled streets of Old Leigh, Sara’s Tea Garden is the perfect spot for all occasions, be it a special birthday or a casual catch up. Promising a homely atmosphere, tuck into locally-sourced fishes, traditional cream teas and homemade cakes.

Under £30

Modern European

Afternoon tea

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The Peterboat

27 High Street, Leigh-on-sea, Essex, SS9 2EN

Located in the historic heart of Leigh-on-Sea, The Peterboat is a family-run restaurant, pub and bar. With a vast outdoor terrace, you can enjoy delicious fish dishes, or veggie and vegan alternatives, while overlooking the sea.

£30 - £49

Modern European

Fish and Chips

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The Sand Bar

71 Broadway, Leigh-On-Sea, Essex, SS9 1PE

Reflecting the cultural character of Leigh-on-Sea, The Sand Bar marries the finest local seafood with live entertainment. It’s a relaxed but lively dining experience with versatile menus for small plates, lunch, dinner and Sunday roasts.

£30 - £49

British

International

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Magic Monkey

119 Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 1PG

Located on Leigh Broadway, Magic Monkey is an international small plates and cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and Instagrammable interiors. It’s best for boozy brunches and evening small plates with a glass or three.

Under £30

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La Sirena

101 Leigh Road, Leigh-on-sea, Essex, SS9 1JL

From romantic dates to casual family dinners, La Sirena is a charming spot in Leigh-on-Sea serving authentic Italian dishes by a team who are passionate about what they do. From hand-rolled pasta to freshly made sauces, a lot of love goes into every plate.

£30 - £49

Italian

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Leigh Bistro

Leigh Bistro 123 Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 1PG

Charming and unpretentious (two things every bistro should be), Leigh Bistro is a contemporary restaurant offering superb European dishes in the heart of the town. Think pan fried fish and deep bold sauces.

£30 - £49

Modern European

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If you’re on the hunt for a restaurant that can host an important celebration, why not check out our interactive collection of private dining rooms in Leigh-on-Sea and kick up the glamour just a little? Alternatively, if you’re on the hunt for the most impressive restaurants in the county, just head over and flick through our list of the best restaurants in Essex.

Or, if you’re looking for something that involves a little more fun, without the stuffiness of upmarket restaurants we’ve got that sorted too with a guide to the best brunch in Essex - including some spots just round the corner in Southend-on-Sea.