Pipe of Port

If you're looking for an atmospheric eatery in the centre of Southend-on-Sea, look no further than the Pipe of Port. With Dickensian candlelit dining rooms and dark-wood furniture setting the scene, this restaurant and wine merchant offers a mixture of traditional and modern British food and world-beating wines in a homely environment. Marinated herring with stilton dressing would be a fine choice to start, and as for the main course, the award-winning pies and sumptuous steaks are hard to beat. To finish, you won't be able to resist a homemade pudding - choose from chocolate truffle torte, lemon meringue pie and many more. In addition, the menu helpfully includes a wine recommendation for each dish. Informal wine evenings take place every two to three weeks (booking necessary) and tasting suppers can be organised for groups