MY TOP 5 RESTAURANTS (ESSEX & LONDON)

To truly know me is to know that there's nothing I love more than going out for food.

I always joke that it's my favourite hobby... but honestly, where's the joke?

It's safe to say that when it comes to Essex and London, I've become quite the connoisseur of finding the good spots.

Whether you're looking for somewhere boujee for a special occasion, a cute lil brunch spot, or just some good old grub, I probably have a recommendation for you.

Narrowing this list down to just five wasn't easy, and they're in no particular order, but these are the restaurants I find myself returning to time and time again. 

The food, the service, the atmosphere... these places just get it right.

So, if you're wondering where to book next, here are my favourites…

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Meyra Brasserie (Billericay)

As far as my local restaurants go, this is definitely my favourite.

I still remember the first time I visited, I couldn't believe how good it was.

At first glance, it's your classic modern brasserie with something for everyone. 

Pasta, burgers, seafood, steaks... even a Sunday roast.

But what keeps bringing me back is the quality.

Every dish feels like it's been made with genuinely good ingredients.

The first time I tried their burger I was honestly blown away by the quality of the meat, and everything else I’ve ordered there has been just as good.

They also serve one of my all-time favourite Pinot Grigio Blush wines, which somehow ends up on my table almost every visit.

The service is always great, the food arrives quickly and tastes amazing, and I’ve just always enjoyed my experience there.

The décor and overall vibe strikes the perfect balance too. 

It's elegant enough for birthdays or date nights, but equally somewhere you could wear a cute co-ord and trainers for lunch without feeling overdressed.

If you're local to Billericay and haven't been yet, please pay a visit!

Palm Bay Caribbean (Loughton)

Now, I am incredibly fussy when it comes to Caribbean food.

I didn't grow up eating loads of it, but my St. Vincentian roots definitely come alive whenever I do, and I know good Caribbean food when I taste it.

Palm Bay is hands down my favourite.

It's not somewhere you visit because the interiors are extravagant, and to be fair most Caribbean restaurants aren't trying to be that.

It’s somewhere you go because the food is exceptional, and when you want that meal that feels familiar for all all the right reasons.

Everything about it feels authentic but still very much fresh and modern, and that’s why I love it there.

My absolute favourites have to be the ‘Jerk Salmon’ and the ‘Curry Goat’... and don't even get me started on the fried plantain (pronounced plan-TIN, thank-you!)

Their rice and peas is also one of the best I've had, which is definitely saying something.

Whether you're popping in for lunch, celebrating a birthday or grabbing a takeaway, it  just never disappoints!

If you've never tried Caribbean food before, definitely start here…

Novikov (Mayfair)

The boujiest restaurant on this list... but worth every single penny.

I've visited both the Asian and Italian restaurants now, and I honestly couldn't choose a favourite.

Yes, the food is incredible, but what really sets Novikov apart for me is the service.

The staff are so knowledgeable, attentive and genuinely passionate about creating an amazing experience. 

Nothing ever feels like too much trouble.

It's the kind of place where you instantly notice the difference between eating at a nice restaurant and having a true fine dining experience.

One thing I really love is that once you've finished dinner, you don't just have to call it a night.

Downstairs is their own cocktail bar and nightclub and it’s such a vibe down there!

It’s perfect place to carry on your evening without having to wander around Mayfair looking for your next stop and I love places like that.

Oh and the cocktails?

Expensive... yes.

Worth it? 100%.

If you're celebrating something special or simply fancy treating yourself, Novikov is probably top of my list.

The Roslin Beach Hotel (Thorpe Bay)

This place is honestly one of Essex's most special gems.

Located right on the seafront, The Roslin genuinely feels like a little escape without leaving the country.

It's one of my favourite places in the summer to sit outside with lunch or drinks overlooking the beach, but it's equally perfect during the colder months for dinner.

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, enjoying a family Sunday roast or treating someone to afternoon tea, it somehow suits every occasion.

Not to mention the interior and décor is stunning - colourful, elegant and perfectly captures that seaside feel.

It’s literally the cutest place ever and once you’ve been you’ll be itching to go back.

Six by Nico (Canary Wharf & Fitzrovia)

This is probably the most unique restaurant on the list, and one I don't think gets anywhere near enough hype.

The concept is simple: every six weeks, the entire menu changes.

Instead of choosing from a traditional à la carte menu, you're taken on a six-course tasting experience, with each course inspired by a different creative theme or story (hence the name Six by Nico).

One visit might transport you to New York, while the next could be inspired by childhood nostalgia or a famous novel.

Each dish ties into the story, making the whole meal feel immersive rather than just “dinner”.

And I think that's exactly why I keep going back - every visit feels completely different and you never know what you’re gonna get.

The food is beautifully presented, incredibly creative and you can tell so much thought has gone into every single course.

I've visited both London locations now and both have been fab.

The staff are always so knowledgeable about the menu, the wine pairings and the inspiration behind each dish, making the whole thing feel even more special.

I've taken G, my Mum and Dad, and recommended it to so many people.

If you're looking for a memorable birthday, anniversary or simply want to experience fine dining that's fun and exciting, Six by Nico should be at the top of your list.

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These are the restaurants I recommend over and over again because they've never let me down. 

If you end up trying any of them, I'd love to know what you think!