Alec's Restaurant

Genuine 5 star experience! Plus the menu is really affordable, gorgeous decor and the staff were so friendly and attentive! Had the best time celebrating my birthday!

It is a beautiful restaurant with excellent food but it is the service which always draws us back! The same staff and always so lovely ❤️! I look forward to our next visit soon.

We booked at Alec's to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary! It was first time there, but definitely we'll go back again. The food was awesome, delicious. The staff was very friendly, especially our server Izzy. Lovely atmosphere, beautiful sunset view! Thank you for making our evening so special! From Lilia and Eugeniu.

I couldn't fault my visit, Waiting staff where impeccable. The welcome as we came in felt genuine. Food was incredible and the ambience was relaxing.

What can I say but wow… From the moment we entered we felt ever so welcome , the staff were attentive helpful and lovely…. We decided to go to Alec’s as we finally got an evening away from all our children and it was amazing, the food was beautiful and tasted amazing.. We arrived and were greeted by friendly hosts and was seated to our amazing comfy booth, the staff wasn’t in rush to make us decide on our orders , we had a long look at the wine list and ordered Albariño, for starters we ordered tiger prawns with garlic chilli paprika and lime , the sauce in the bottom was really tasty with the bread and the prawns were on point, We decided to go for fillet and lobster and it didn’t disappoint , I went for mine rare I tried my partners and she absolutely killed it by going well done (although she thoroughly enjoyed it) . We got a few sides of green beans , cabbage with bacon , carrots and fries. All the sides were seasoned very well and I liked the cabbage with bacon it was in a creamy base I normally use honey with mine but it was delicious so will definitely try something like this my self….

Beautiful ambiance, lovely food and the service was top tier. Will definitely be back and would highly recommend

We were there as a party of 10 to celebrate a birthday. Food was excellent - I had the fried squid - batter was light, followed by the skate which was delicate and cooked to perfection. My husband had the lobster soup and salmon, both were absolutely delicious! Enjoyed the pairing of flavours, well balanced and well executed. Staff were attentive without being overbearing, our server in particular was just lovely and really made it a memorable lunch!

Honestly couldn’t fault the place! The food was superb, the restaurant is spotless and decorated so elegantly, while the service was also top tier! We went in a Saturday lunchtime to take advantage of the Set Menu, and was incredible value that was as well, still with easily 8 options for each of the starter and main, followed by around 5 for desert. And don’t think they hold back, options like lobster and scallops can also be on there! Just bear in mind that the menu changes monthly.

Very impressive restaurant, friendly professional staff. The food was terrific I would highly recommend it. You are not squashed in on top of each other like other similar restaurants.

We booked for a Friday evening was made to feel very welcomed as soon as we arrived. Although a bit of a mix up with the wine we requested at first it was rectified immediately with a De Martino Chilean Merlot, smooth, rich, blood red and extremely drinkable. The service was extremely slick but not overbearing, warm and friendly as if we had been regulars. The bread, which was warm and crusty, was great and we could have just sat and ate that all night, (it’s a bread thing). No starters for us as we prefer just a main and dessert. OH had scallops & prawns with a Thermidor sauce, (which was presented in a Mauviel pan, gorgeous in its own right), I had Guernsey skate with brown butter & capers, both beautifully cooked and well seasoned. We had dauphinois potatoes which was the best we’ve ever had in a restaurant, really thick cheesy and creamy and savoy cabbage with bacon. For dessert I had the sumptuous brioche bread & butter pudding, with a light vanilla custard, OH had the special which was profiteroles. When it came, it was huge single profiteroles with a salted caramel ice cream. He just about finished it. We have never visited before and based on that visit we will be happy to return. Would recommend to anyone who loves beautifully cooked, well presented food and the service to back it up. Compliments to both the chef and service.

Was the first visit, will not be my last. When I've been to any other fish restaurant, I am a little apprehensive as I usually come out still feeling hungry. Not at Alec's. Portions were ample and sides were much larger than we expected. Service was unbelievably good, in fact, exceptional. Couldn't fault anything. A fantastic way to celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary.

Another wonderful experience. Food superb, service excellent. Went for our 44th wedding anniversary and the staff were excellent. We so recommend you to spoil yourselves!

Had heard many recommendations about Alec's so when a client suggested we meet there for lunch I was more than happy. Friday lunch looked like they had 25 covers and was offered a seat on veranda? This is covered by a powered roof, which was partially open due to hot weather. In summary it's got the wow factor when you walk in and the food was good but not special or memorable, for me there was no love given to the mains (scallops and prawns) or the 4 sides. Bread and snacks as well as the complimentary prosecco? were delicious Good bits Decor View from table Menu Service, our guy was natural and efficient (see bad bits though) Starters Bad bits Roof kept dripping water onto us and even into drinks Service was simply annoying. While having conversations we were topped up by 3 different servers about 6 times. Some may like this but it was simply too much and we needed to stop talking each time Food seemed unsophisticated and although good wasn't special or memorable Car park gravel. Personal hate, get it covered with tarmacadam Others could easily have given 2 stars for a 2 person £144 lunch but the look. Service (of one waiter) and ambiance puts Alec's in a league of its own in Essex

We were there for team dinner. Very nice food and fantastic service. Also nice beautiful sunset view. The lobster and scallops was fresh. The portion of tiramisu is big and taste really good. There also served a good range of cocktail. Quite a pose and pricey restaurant but our company paid the bill so I don't mind.

My wife and I only visit on a special occasion but we always love the way the staff interact and talk to you about their food or their passions. I've never had a bad dish and although expensive, it's fantastic food paired with good service. We sat in the conservatory bit which get chilly in winter, so be warned.

Another visit June 2025 Another great visit Usual great food experience, from a delicious amuse bouche of beautifully flavoured salmon . Superb perfectly cooked and slightly spicy octopus to a great quality surf and turf. Accompanied by delicious vegetables. For me the highlight is always the superb pavlova that always delights, looks huge but is so light it just sort of melts as you eat it. As usual a great experience topped only by chatting with the owner at the end of the meal. Highly recommended Return visit to check on mixed last visit It was almost as if the whole ethos had changed! We were welcomed appropriately, we arrived very early for our booking. Utilised the spotless well-appointed toilets, up a spiral staircase, but there is a disabled toilet on the ground floor. Extensive varied menu. I started with an exceptional squid dish beautifully cooked with delicious dressing. Also served with Chorizo "bites" amazingly flavoured with perfectly cooked bread. Main was a very generous roast beef sirloin Sunday lunch. Perfectly cooked beef plus all expected trimmings with well cooked Yorkshire stunningly presented plate. Owner gave us some extra potatoes and some amazing short rib as extras. Staff are brilliantly choreographed to the highest but non fussy michelin standard. Desserts were beyond description I returned to my stunning pavlova, but owner bought us an extra Royal Banoffee profiterole which gave me a huge challenge, the starter and main were very filling then to be presented with three perfect desserts left us devastated that we couldn't finish them!! So so much better than my last visit. Owner had expressed significant concern as to the detail of my last visit. This visit was frankly as good as any restaurant visit gets. Owner has a real passion and it shows in all aspects of the experience. So worth visiting, but **make sure you book**.

Amazing! Our favourite restaurant of all time. We always love to come here and it never disappoints. It's a 40 minute journey from Kent but worth it. Food is so good and service always on point. We always have food envy of each other's food so end up sharing everything. Can't wait to come back!

Love this place. Always plenty of room for parking. Beautiful views out the back. Staff are friendly, welcoming and professional. Food is divine. Cocktails are delicious. Been here a couple of times and will be back again. It is relatively pricey but justified in my opinion

Booked this restaurant for my wife's birthday, and we highly recommended this place. The restaurant was easy to book, and the food was exceptional. Absolutely would come back here.

Had the most delicious birthday dinner here. Lovely venue. The sticky beef salad is the best starter, I could have ordered more. They also added a lovely touch to celebrate my birthday.

The atmosphere shouts elegance. All the staff were incredible and lots of food options which change regularly. I would definitely recommend and can't wait to return.

Visited her for the first time for 30th birthday celebrations. We had the set lunch menu. It was lovely! The atmosphere was great and the staff were super friendly. I’ve already booked to come back and try their Sunday roast

AJ and his team were amazing yesterday. It was my good friends 40th birthday ( approx 30 guests) food was delicious. Staff were friendly , attentive and welcoming. A good selection of cocktails. I am now thinking of having my birthday gathering there now ! Thank you

Alec’s, recommended by my Uncle. He goes there every now and then since the food is exceptional. But tonight Alec’s had an unexpected turn of events. The fuse went. However this doesn’t stop us from having a lovely evening. The restaurant is set in a open field. As you enter the restaurant, you are greeted by the kind waiter/waitresses and are escorted to your table. (Note, some of the waiter/waitresses are foreign so do take in some understanding if they do not understand some words but I find that amusing).The table that we settled in for was at the patio. Here, it gives us customers access to the marvellous view of the sunset across the horizon. Granting that, you too, are taken to a table sitting on the glass patio. Now, lets talk about service, Alec’s will make you feel like you’re at a friends house. Thats all of what I can explain of their, its warm and welcoming. Simply fantastic. Finally, food. I ordered the 3 course dinner menu. I chose the Mussels & Tiger Prawn with smoked paprika, chilli and garlic broth. It has a strong umami flavour and the chilli is there to give it an extra kicked. Then I am told by the waiter to get some of their freshly baked bread and dunked it in the broth. The flavours are undeniably terrific. For the mains, I ordered from the chefs special weekly menu, the Scottish halibut with Smoked hollandaise & a wedge of hispi cabbage. The halibut is cooked to perfection, flaky and moist. Finally dessert, I ordered the Raspberry Pavlova, it is one of the favourites in the restaurant and its popularity speaks for itself. Crunchy, Tangy and light. Great way to end the evening. Thank you Alec’s for having us tonight. Its been a pleasure.

I came here with friends on Tuesday for lunch. I’ve been to Alec’s several times over the years so know what to expect and what the standards should be. I am pleased to say that this remains the go to restaurant in Brentwood and possibly Essex. A particular mention to our waiter Alan who was incredibly attentive, extremely personable and really made our lunch enjoyable. He really did make us laugh. Keep it up Alec’s and thank you Alan!

We recently dined at Alec’s Restaurant in Essex and I had scallops as a main with prawns, which were absolutely delicious. To share, we chose one dessert — the blackberry pavlova which was spot on and the perfect way to finish our dinner. The absolute highlight of the evening, though, was our server. I believe her name was Vanessa. She was so jolly, bubbly, and full of personality, and she truly made our evening special. Her warmth and energy really stood out.

Wonderful evening! Great service from Vasi and the other gentleman (didn’t catch his name) we came to Celebrate valentines as we are both working and they both made it feel very special! Will Definitely be returning.

We recently went to Alec’s Restaurant Bar & Grill in Navestock Side near Brentwood for a garden party, and it was absolutely excellent! The venue is contemporary and stylish, perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. The food was outstanding – so much of it, beautifully prepared, and everything tasted amazing. We were especially impressed that we could even choose three different desserts from the menu to try, which was such a treat! The portions were very generous at every stage – from pre-starters to starters, mains, and desserts – nobody left hungry. The service was excellent too: friendly, professional, and attentive without being intrusive. The staff really made us feel welcome and well looked after. Adding to the experience was the lovely live music, which created a warm and inviting atmosphere. Overall, we were very impressed. Alec’s is the perfect mix of delicious food, top-class service, and a stylish setting. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Essex.

I was concerned upon first arrival as the car park was full and my husband is a wheelchair user. I had to park up and ask inside as to where I could park. The FOH went above and beyond to assist, moved his car so that i could park in front of the restaurant and escorted us to our table. We had a lovely meal with friends and will definitely be coming back.

Fabulous lunch yesterday, food was spot on , nice warm restaurant, atmosphere was great and brilliant service. 10/10 quality experience. Thank you.

Had an amazing early Valentines meal, great service and great food. Will definitely visit again. Many thanks

Outstanding. Attended for wife's birthday without prior announcement, and everything from service to food to atmosphere was perfect and staff couldn't have made more effort to make my wife feel her birthday was an occasion and not just a meal. The bill also.... For what we had was entirely reasonable.

Nothing could have made our experience better. It was our first time visiting yesterday and we were very impressed. The staff were extremely attentive from the moment we arrived, taking our coats, talking to my Mum about her allergy and the wonderful service we received at the table. The food was absolutely delicious, couldn’t fault a thing. The lunch set menu was really varied and portion sizes perfect. There was also a special touch for my Dads birthday with a piece of cake and decorated plate which was lovely, thank you. A beautiful building and restaurant and look forward to returning.

Without a doubt, Alec's has the best ambience, service and food within 30 miles of its location. I have been there over half a dozen times now over the last few years and it never fails to deliver. I look forward to going there rather than just driving to a restaurant, and its a 25 miles journey. Our greeting is always warm, the service is discrete but very attentive, and the food - fabulous. There is great attention to detail into every aspect of the dining experience. I would like to thank Gio and all the waiting staff for making my celebratory meal with my Mum an evening to remember. Thank you, I look forward to returning in the future.

The food demonstrated good quality and presentation. Very attentive and friendly service. Only thing that detracted was another customer's industrial language during our meal.

Both our starters were great (soup & crab). The roast was underwhelming, along with my partners fish considering the price. Chocolate Torte was incredible and would go back just for this dessert and the service.

Uber cool fish restaurant serving up very good food with impeccable service. Alec’s isn’t in a particularly glamorous location, but it has to be congratulated for generating a loyal clientele of Essex’s coolest. It’s a little bit too TOWIE for me but hey… I know I am in the minority. We were a table for 6, each having three courses plus a cheeky plate of oysters to kick things off. Everyone had a nice meal. Service was good - a special call out for the sommelier. I chose badly and I think he did try to warn me. Hats off - when I gave up half way through and ordered something better he didn’t have that “told you so” look that frankly I deserved. All of our dishes were beautifully presented and well prepared although I didn’t think anything was outstanding. There were no dishes that you’re talking about on the way home. The food is really only a 4 out of 5 for that reason. The prices reflect that this is a place to be rather than a magnet for foodies.. Personally, I prefer Smith’s in Wapping

I love going to Alecs, but it has changed over the years. Portions have got smaller, prices have increased, but it's still a place i love going. It's a very expensive restaurant for the portion size but the view is beautiful if you sit at the back overlooking the fields. Edited 20/10/24 So, I've added some more photos to update my review. I went back to Alecs last night, and the prices have increased again. The lobsters look so small I feel like they are under the size of the legal requirement. As much as they taste nice, they are still super small and are now over £50 without sides. I just wonder how much they are going to keep increasing to. It's quite worrying. The softshell crab was lovely as always, but I had to ask for some extra sauce as it was so dry, and I could barely enjoy it. It's still a great dish but definitely needs a sauce of some kind on the side rather than a tiny drizzle at the bottom.

Very nice, local restaurant and perfect for a special occasion. We went there for a birthday, the food was lovely and the restaurant was beautiful. John who served us for that night was especially accommodating and it was a pleasure to be in his service.

The Restaurant has a really nice vibe! The service was very professional, helpful and competent. The food was very very good.... Except the Oysters! Don't get the Oysters! 5 of our group had them and were really sick for the next few days with temperature, vomiting and the whole package. That's why I gave 3*