Three Pigs, Edgefield

I thought The Pigs was a superb experience, possibly the best (gastro) pub I have ever visited. It wasn't particularly expensive for the sheer quality of the food on offer and the beer (Adnams, Woodforde's) was kept and present well. The 'Three Pigs' signature dish of pork belly, black pudding and smoky bacon beans sounds simplistic, but proved to be delightful. The thyme-roasted chicken was comparably good.

It is best to visit on a Sunday, to take advantage of the notorious Pudding Club offering (�5.95 for as many portions from the pudding table as you wish, providing you clear your plate). I nearly had to be stretchered out of the place after my fifth plate of queen of puddings on a bed of superlative chocolate brownies. Make sure you pick up one of the Pudding Club t-shirts (sporting the logo 'real men don't eat sorbet!').

19 Jul 2010 13:42

The Horse and Groom, Writtle

An utterly dismal experience, particularly when one considers the publicised re-fit that the pub had in May 2010, and the equally reknowned history of woeful service and below-par food and beer. Lunchtime today (a sunny Friday, with the pub heaving) saw one trainee behind the bar and one waitress trying to cope with over 40 covers. Sandwiches for 6 people took nearly an hour to arrive, and an additional bowl of chips (not a big ask) took an additional 20 minutes. One of those sandwiches was thrown over one of our party, and the replacement took 20 minutes to arrive. The food presented bore very little relation to the description on the menu.

There are many, much better pubs in the Chelmsford/Writtle area.

21 May 2010 22:11

The Compasses, Littley Green

It is worth going out of your way to visit The Compasses. It is a very welcoming pub, offering just the right amount of old-school charm, without being kitsch or trying too hard. The beer is outstanding, and the indomitable huffers served are quite a sight, particularly after a long traipse around the surrounding footpaths (the pub's grub is all produced with very local meat and veg). It is dog-, child- and bicycle-friendly, with plenty of parking and a large garden.

I heartily recommend the place.

27 May 2009 09:03