RESTAURANTS and cafes reopened yesterday having been closed for three months because of coronavirus.
Southend is lucky to have a number of venues which offer outside seating which is great for social distancing, and of course for providing those spectacular sea views.
Many of the hotels on the seafront have some fantastic tea rooms and restaurants which should cater for a whole variety of needs.
So here's a few options you might want to consider if you're planning on heading out today for a bite to eat:
Roslin Beach Hotel
The Roslin’s restaurant offers stunning views of the coastline and is one of only 100 venues in the country to receive the coveted Visit England Rose award.
The new rules introduced at the restaurant include bookings for no more than six people, and visitors must reserve a table before entering.
Bosses say the popular terraced area has been reorganised to enable social distancing and tables have been in high demand.
The Roslin offers most things, from light breakfasts and afternoon teas, to the traditional Sunday lunch.
Contact the hotel on 01702 586375.
Camelia Hotel
Based on the seafront, the Camelia Hotel provides spectacular views with its small terraced area out the front.
The hotel has been running a new takeaway barbecue and bar service in the past few weeks, and says it intends to continue running the scheme on Saturdays and Sundays.
Bosses have reduced the menu to afternoon tea only throughout July, though they are planning to offer light lunches from July 18.
The hotel’s restaurant is only accepting bookings at this stage, with no more than four people allowed per table.
The weekend barbecue runs from 12pm until 7pm.
Contact 01702 587917.
Seven Hotel
The Seven Hotel’s Aurum bar and restaurant provide the perfect place to take in the Cliff Gardens and Thames Estuary while enjoying some food and drinks.
The indoor terrace should also provide some much need cover if the weather takes a turn for the worse.
The restaurant is open all day but is now offering a limited service, which predominantly includes small plate dishes.
It will also be used as a drinks lounge in the coming weeks as staff adapt to new changes brought in due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Contact 01702 900010.
Gleneagles Guest House
The Gleneagles Guest House's tearoom reopened to the public yesterday after operating as a takeaway service in the past three months.
Its outside terraced area will offer a slightly calmer feel compared to other venues, but still provides a spectacular view of the coastline and Cliff Gardens.
The tea rooms provide plenty of sweet treats including homemade cakes and scones, as well as savoury snacks like sandwiches.
Wines, beers and soft drinks are also on offer.
Contact 01702 333635.
The terrace hangs over the coastline which helps give the impression you are very much at sea.
Bosses say they will be unveiling an exciting new food and drinks menu today, but have yet to release any further details.
Anyone planning on visiting the Boatyard is urged to reserve a table in advance to avoid disappointment.
Strict social distancing measures will be in place throughout the restaurant.
Contact 01702 475588.
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