It all began in a quaint spot at Chelmsford market, where the owners initially offered only coffees and a selection of tapas, however, in a turn of events the team embarked on a quest for a new location and unexpectedly stumbled upon this current home. Operating as a family run business, the team at El Chigre takes pride in creating an atmosphere that feels like home. As a family, they aim to extend the warmth and comfort of a home cooked meal, ensuring that every moment you spend with them is relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable.
Welcome to El Chigre, a delightful eatery bringing the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine to your table. Our focus is on creating an authentic experience, delivering a range of tapas and larger dishes that showcase the rich tapestry of Spanish culinary traditions.
Start your meal with a selection of cold tapas, featuring marinated olives that you’ll instantly want more of, alongside an enticing selection of bread paired with various dipping sauces. Dive into the ocean's bounty with salted anchovies and enjoy the velvety texture of 6 month matured traditional Manchego. The hot tapas selection invites you to indulge in the irresistible crunch of deep fried patatas bravas and aioli or enjoy the deliciousness of roasted red peppers stuffed with cod loins in a creamy sauce. The restaurant’s gambas al ajillo and croquetas, brimming with bechamel sauce and assorted fillings, promise you an unforgettable dining experience.
For heartier appetites, the menu extends to dishes beyond tapas. Try the vegetable paella, a delicious and classic Spanish rice dish that can be built up with your choice of chicken, chorizo, or king prawns. Enjoy the unique blend of flavours in the seafood paella, enriched with squid ink and a hint of alioli. The coca york, a crusty flatbread topped with melted cheese and roasted ham, offers a satisfying combination of textures for those a bit more hungry.