My month in food
Hollie Allen of Essex Foodies (@essexfoodies) is a food blogger reviewing restaurants across the county and beyond. This month, she shares her favourite Valentine’s Day eateries
Giggling Squid, Brentwood
Thai cuisine
One restaurant that I think is absolutely beautiful is Giggling Squid. The food is out-of-this-world fantastic, and it’s the ultimate venue for a date night or romantic evening thanks to its stunning interiors. My top tip to make it an extra-special dining experience would be booking one of its gorgeous bird cage booths – they make for the perfect pictures. I popped down to the Brentwood branch recently and tried a new addition to the menu, Herby Lamb Cutlets – they were delicious. However, I think my favourite thing to eat here is the Yummy Duck Spring Rolls – it's not just a clever name!
gigglingsquid.com | 01277 203 563
Pub grub
This new pub in Witham has only just come on my radar, and when I visited, I was pleasantly surprised. It is more of a cheap and cheerful restaurant, but don’t let this put you off. I enjoyed some incredible cheese bites followed by a huge roast – ideal if you’d prefer to celebrate Valentine's Day on a Sunday or if you want to invite the whole family along. I’ll definitely be back in the warmer months as the beer garden looked really inviting – the perfect setting for a glass of wine or two in the evening!
saxonarmswitham.co.uk | 01376 515 218
American diner
This restaurant is a Chelmsford icon! Established 37 years ago in 1986, it’s a place I’ll never tire of. The menu is simple and straightforward but has everything you could possibly want from an American-style diner: steaks, fajitas, chilli, burgers and veggie options all washed down with a sundae, cookie sandwich or a cheesecake. I love all of the food here, but my favourite has got to be the ribs; they fall straight off the bone and they’re perfectly saucy. I’d recommend this as more of a quirky or fun date-night spot – something a little out of the ordinary.
backinntime.co.uk | 01245 269 983
Turkish cuisine
Serving up yummy and authentic Turkish food in Hutton, Brentwood since 2017, The Mesken is a real eye-catcher thanks to its glimmering exterior (it’s well and truly Essex!). Here you will be brilliantly looked after – just what you want for a romantic dinner – the service is impeccable and prompt, and the food is stand-out. I recommend the garlic mushrooms; they are so creamy and delicious. Although on second thought, they may not be the best idea for a date night!
themesken.co.uk | 01277 210 255
