A NEW American burger restaurant is among the latest businesses to be handed new food hygiene ratings across south Essex.

Wendy's at 66 - 68 High Street, Southend was given the top rating of five-out-of-five on September 10, the Food Standards Agency’s website shows.

Also handed the highest "score on the door" are:

  • Christophers Cottage at The St Christopher School, Mountdale Gardens, Leigh; rated on September 13
  • Vapes And Candies at 464 London Road, Westcliff; rated on September 11
  • EKCO Sports And Social Club at Thornford Gardens, Southend; rated on September 9

The following restaurants have been given new four-out-of-five hygiene ratings:

  • Indian Ruchi at 9 High Street, Billericay; assessed on August 17
  • Domino's Pizza at 26 Station Lane, Pitsea; rated on August 17
  • Blossom Garden, at 504 Sutton Road, Southend; rated on August 19

  • Gustosi at 188 Leigh Road, Leigh; rated on August 20

  • Plan Burrito at 135 High Street, Southend; rated on August 20

And one rating of three has been handed to takeaway Just Wing It at 1070 London Road, Leigh after an assessment on August 16.

What is the food hygiene rating scheme and what do the scores mean?

The scheme aims to help diners choose where to eat out or shop for food by giving them clear information about businesses’ hygiene standards. The Food Standards Agency runs the scheme in partnership with councils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The scheme gives businesses a rating from 5 to 0 which is displayed at their premises and online.

5 – hygiene standards are very good

4 – hygiene standards are good

3 – hygiene standards are generally satisfactory

2 – some improvement is necessary

1 – major improvement is necessary

0 – urgent improvement is required