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Food & Dining

Essex’s Best Sunday Roasts: Where to Go for Comfort Food

Discover Essex Team6 January 20263 min read
Essex’s Best Sunday Roasts: Where to Go for Comfort Food

A proper Sunday roast in Essex is about hearty portions, lashings of gravy, and that warm, comforting feeling of spending a relaxing afternoon with loved ones. From pub classics to surprising gourmet twists, here’s a curated list of top spots in 2026 that won’t disappoint.

1) The Duke’s Head, Billericay

This recently renovated country pub has earned attention for its “bottomless gravy” and generous portions. Choose from half roast chicken, 21-day aged sirloin beef, slow-cooked pork belly, or a trio roast (£24.75). There’s also a shared experience for two (£53.95), complete with crackling, cauliflower cheese, and apple ketchup. Little ones get their pick from chicken, beef, or sweet-potato options from £9.50 [1](http://legratapandkitchen.co.uk/)[2](https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/25624030.essex-pubs-named-among-best-sunday-roast-dinners-uk/).

Roast Dinner Yorkshire Puddings

2) The Jobber’s Rest, Upminster

Here you’ll find not just bottomless gravy, but bottomless Yorkshires and roasties too. Roast options include British beef rump, pork loin, chicken or a creative cauliflower steak. Sides include cauliflower cheese and seasonal veg. Starters and desserts are available for £6 each when ordering a roast, while kids enjoy smaller portions at half-price [1](http://legratapandkitchen.co.uk/)[2](https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/25624030.essex-pubs-named-among-best-sunday-roast-dinners-uk/).

3) Chin Chin, Leigh-on-Sea

This Pan-Asian eatery surprises with a stylish roast that features glossy parsnips, shallots, perfectly cooked beef and “ginormous Yorkshires”. It’s one of those rare spots where you get roast comfort with a twist [1](http://legratapandkitchen.co.uk/)[3](https://uk.news.yahoo.com/9-best-places-top-notch-110000286.html).

4) The Windmill Tavern, East Hanningfield

A village gem, this small pub offers generous roasts featuring beef, lamb, pork or turkey. The so-called “Super Sunday Roast” includes all four meats, served with fresh vegetables and excellent service in a cosy, friendly atmosphere [4](https://www.msn.com/en-gb/foodanddrink/other/the-warm-and-welcoming-essex-pub-that-serves-the-perfect-sunday-roast/ar-AA1OKkbw).

Pub Bar Pouring Beer

5) Galvin Green Man, Chelmsford

Run by the acclaimed Galvin brothers, this picturesque countryside pub near Chelmsford serves beautifully presented roasts with dishes like loin of Great Garnetts pork, duck-fat roasties, and seasonal vegetables. The historic venue and award-winning flavours make it stand out [5](https://essex.muddystilettos.co.uk/eat-out/best-essex-sunday-roasts/)[6](https://travelfromessex.com/best-sunday-roast-in-essex/).

6) The New London, Chelmsford

Bringing a bit of London flair to Chelmsford, this stylish spot is perfect for a dressed-up roast. Think quality cuts, luxe interiors and a broad drinks menu — ideal for a Sunday lunch that feels special [6](https://travelfromessex.com/best-sunday-roast-in-essex/).

7) Kings Arms, Colchester

In central Colchester, Kings Arms positions the roast as “an art form”. Expect tender meats, golden roasties, fluffy Yorkshires and rich gravy, with vegetarian and vegan options that don’t compromise on taste [7](https://www.greeneking.co.uk/pubs/essex/kings-arms/sunday-roast).

Roast Beef Joint Being Carved

Why These Roasts Stand Out

  • Generous portions: hearty meats, roasties, veg and Yorkshire puddings.
  • Distinctive touches: bottomless gravy, shared feasts, veggie options.
  • Atmosphere: from cosy village pubs to refined dining experiences.
  • Family-friendly: affordable kids’ portions and communal-style meals.

Top Tips for Your Sunday Roast Adventure

  • Always book ahead—great roasts fill up fast.
  • Ask about bottomless extras like gravy or Yorkshires.
  • Check for vegetarian/vegan roasts—some pubs now offer these.
  • Seek out places offering shared plates or duo experiences if dining as a pair.

Final Thoughts

Essex’s Sunday roast scene is a celebration of tradition and creativity. Whether you prefer classic pub charm or something a little more refined, these seven spots offer reliably delicious and comforting roasts. Be sure to book early and leave room for Yorkshires and gravy!

Essex
Sunday Roast
Comfort Food
Pub Grub
Family Dining
Essex Eats

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