The Bluebell Restaurant - Chigwell

The Bluebell Restaurant, a lovingly restored 400-year-old cottage is a real godsend and has done much to put Chigwell on the gastronomic map. The restaurant is owned by brother and sister team Tony and Daniela Cormano, who are passionate about delivering excellent food and service to ensure that diners have a memorable experience. Inside there are two comfortably decorated dining areas decorated in pastel shades, with woven leather chairs and Roman-style wall lights. It makes for a cosy, intimate and welcoming ambience.

Weekday set lunches and the full Sunday works – complete with a trio of traditional roasts – are perennial favourites, but the kitchen shows its real worth in the evening. Pan fried scallops on a caramelised endive tart tatin with a sweet carrot jus, while roast loin and braised haunch of Highland venison might be paired with poached pear and parma ham and boulangere potatoes. There's an array of tempting desserts to finish, try the trio of miniature crème brulees, vanilla, Baileys and white chocolate accompanied by sable biscuits or maybe a baked caramelised banana and rum cheesecake served with homemade toasted coconut ice cream. The food is supported by a carefully chosen wine list with some very attractive prices.