Last updated on October 18, 2022 by Wandering our World
You won’t be stuck for things to do in Billericay! From the fantastic Imperial Bird of Prey Academy based at Barleylands Farm to walking at the beautiful Hanningfield Reservoir where you can take in the fresh air and see wildlife. There’s plenty of things to help you work up an appetite here, and luckily there’s some great restaurants in Billericay to visit when those hunger pangs set in.
As we’ve visited this place many times, we have compiled the nine best restaurants in Billercay for food and dining experiences. So whether you’re after classic English pub grub, a DJ with your brunch (!), or some fine dining, we’ve got options for you. Bon appetit!
The Nine Best Restaurants In Billericay
1. The Duke of York
Want somewhere lively to go in Billericay? Then you need to visit The Duke of York – a wonderful gastropub in the heart of town. From the outside we were curious to see what was on offer, and we were sure we could hear music….. we weren’t wrong. There’s often live music here.
On entry you’ll notice the low ceilings and wooden beams that are so typical of traditional pubs. But it’s not dark and dingy here. Big windows to let in that sun coupled with a lovely bright open bar area, makes this a warm and homely place to dine and drink.
Out the back there is a large well decorated beer garden which often has DJs and bands playing. With that going on, expect tables filled with people having fun and a good time!
To the menu! It’s seasonal & British, so is filled with plenty of favourites like impressive burgers, steaks, several desserts and of course some great options for vegetarians and vegans.
And don’t be surprised if your bill seems low. The prices are competitive, the portions hearty, and kids can sometimes eat for as little as £1! Plus almost every night of the week there are 2 for 1 offers depending on the day (Friday it’s 2 for 1 cocktails!)
Address: Southend Road South Green, Billericay, CM11 2PR
2. Urban Fresh
Fresh is in the name – and fresh is the game at this South American restaurant.
We love eating somewhere with character and Urban Fresh is oozing with it. There are two dining areas, one with spray painted walls which gives that urban feel they’re going for – it’s bright but not overwhelming. The other area is calmly lit with white and blue lights which creates a nice ambience to relax and enjoy your meal. No matter which room you are seated in, you’re bound to grab that camera to savour the memory.
Of course you’re going to savour the food as well, which will take you on a journey to South America. We found the mains were just the right amount: enough to keep you full, but not so much that it’s overwhelming. We’d recommend the Skewers with Peruvian Chicken or the Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burger.
The steaks here are one of the popular favorites here and we recommend trying their Chuleton Ribeye, prepared with a South American twist.
Plenty of the menu is vegetarian and vegan friendly so everyone should be happy. The wine menu is good too, so grab a glass, relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Address: Heath Road Ramsden Heath, Billericay CM11 1NA
3. The Magic Mushroom
Let’s clear one thing up. No, they are not on the menu. It’s just the name of this fantastic restaurant in Billericay. You’ll find a cross of British and European cuisine at The Magic Mushroom, all with a contemporary twist. It’s definitely one of the restaurants in Billericay, and one that deserves to be on your must visit list.
The high ceiling with wooden beams and wall to floor windows creates an airy feel, while the outside terrace is a wonderful place for al fresco dining.
All the food here is freshly cooked, which we’re sure you’ll agree is the best way. So there may be a slight wait for food. Although this gives you ample time to enjoy a glass of the house red.
So what do we recommend food wise? Well the Pan Fried Duck and Miso Glazed Cod were our favourites, but other dishes looked just as good. Another popular favourite is the Poached Scottish Salmon served with new potatoes, samphire, lemon and caper.
You’ll notice there is a dedicated vegan and kids menus available too, so everyone is catered for.
With plenty of desserts to choose from, we still think it’s good to go heavy with the Sticky Toffee Pudding! Or for something lighter choose the Homemade Apple Sorbet.
The decor, service, and food all give The Magic Mushroom a fine dining feel, but at far more affordable prices. This is easily one of our favorite restaurants in Billericay.
Address: Barleylands, Barleylands Road, Billericay. CM11 2UD
4. The Giggling Squid
If you’ve been out shopping and need some lunch, pop into The Giggling Squid. Conveniently located on the high street, this place is where you can try the best Thai and Asian food we could find in Billericay!
Every direction you look in this restaurant is bright and vibrant, with tables for sitting in groups or booths for a more intimate feel. If you’re lucky enough you’ll be able to sit up on the stunning mezzanine with low hanging antique lanterns.
Each dish is lovingly prepared and has been created using natural ingredients available from Asia. And if you want to try out a few different things, then why not grab the sharing platter – then you may discover a new favourite dish!
The Salt and Pepper Squid is one of the best selling meals here, and you’ll see it on a lot of tables. That’s exactly why we ordered it, and we weren’t disappointed. There’s a whole range of meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan dishes too, from curry to stir fry to seafood classics. If you’re like us, the first thing you’ll ask yourself once you’ve finished eating is – when can I return?
Address: 120 High Street, Billericay, CM12 9BY
5. The King’s Head
You’ve been out walking your dog and let’s face it, you both need a rest. The King’s Head is a lovely country-looking pub from the 18th century that has room for you both. Your 4-legged friend will be given water and treats in the bar area as this is one of the most dog friendly restaurants in Billericay.
The interior of the bar has that classic English pub look, and the dining area is completed with a fireplace that makes the place a little brighter in winter and cosy. There is, of course, a large beer garden which is great for enjoying the sunshine in summer.
The menu is filled with hearty British favourites. But we thought the Slow Cooked Pork and Beer-Battered Fish were standouts. The Moving Mountains Burger or Lemon and Thyme Halloumi is perfect if you’re vegetarian.
Children, Brunch and Sunday’s all have their own special menus to choose from too. Of course as it’s a pub it’s a great place to grab a local ale, and if you happen to be a member of the Campaign for Real Ale, you’ll receive money off each one you buy!
Address: Southend Road, Billericay CM11 2PS
6. French Martini
Who doesn’t like brunch?! Hopefully no one, and with that being the case it wouldn’t be fair of us to keep French Martini from you.
Cascading lights and well-placed seating gives this narrow restaurant a sense of space and a lovely ambience. In the morning you’ll find people enjoying brunch and coffee here, and there’s a definite café vibe. Grab one of the breakfasts on offer such as their All-Day Breakfast, although they have lots of sandwiches and other brunch and breakfast options too.
And if you want something a bit different, then book ahead and ask for the ‘Premium Brunch’. With that you’ll receive 2 courses, bottomless prosecco and even a DJ for entertainment!Â
The atmosphere changes with evening, where people around you will be enjoying cocktails and having lively conversation. The evening menu brings up classic French cuisine, and there’s much to enjoy.
The Garlic Bread as a starter is always a winner, then consider following that up with the Ribeye Steak or Butternut Squash & Goats Cheese Risotto.
It’s very easy to spend quite a lot of time here, and you’ll want to on Friday and Saturdays as there is live entertainment! With a mix of DJ’s and singers to entertain, you’ll have great food and great fun.
Address: 2 Western Road, Billericay CM12 9DZ
7. Pasha
If you’re a big football fan then maybe you’re going to see a Billericay FC match when in town. Well if you do then Pasha is one of the restaurants in Billericay closest to the stadium, and one of the best too.
Situated in a lovely brick building, Pasha offers the best Turkish food around using a combination of Turkish ingredients and locally sourced ones to create a fresh taste of Turkey!
Downstairs is focussed on the restaurant and dining, but upstairs you’ll find a lively lounge which often has a DJ playing in the evening.
If visiting in the afternoon there’s a 2-course set menu with plenty of options, and you can’t go wrong with the Flatbread and Special House Doner. The evening menu is more extensive and filled with Turkish classics direct from the grill; lamb, chicken, burgers and veggie options – they’ve got it all!
On top of that Pasha has created a carefully built wine list to ensure there’s a perfect match for every meal.
Address: 138 High Street, Billericay CM12 9DF
8. The Shepard & Dog
A little outside of Billericay, just past Barleylands Farm, you’ll find The Shepherd & Dog – a gastropub that goes the extra mile when it comes to food!
Inside there’s cosy furnishings and gentle background music to make you feel right at home. Whilst outside there’s a large beer garden complete with warm lighting which creates the perfect ambience as the sun dwindles.
This is a gastro pub so you will get plenty of British classics here, but there’s also lots of international dishes on the menu too. Try out the Garlic and Chilli Prawns or the Garlic and Soy Pork Bites to begin with. Then grab yourself some classic Fish & Chips or Sausage & Mash for a main. Or if you fancy something less traditional there’s the delicious Pad Thai. There’s a lot on the menu to get excited about, including the breakfast option which runs all day on Saturdays.
So if you’re looking for a wide range of food options, a large beer garden and a laid back atmosphere, The Shepard & Dog will be one of the best restaurants in Billericay for you. It’s also one the most dog friendly restaurants in Billericay too and often has live music!
Address: London Road Crays Hill, Billericay, CM11 2XY
