Russells Restaurant

Business Details

37 Years

experience

Historic Fine Dining in Chelmsford

Russells Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Chelmsford's dining scene since 1989, offering an unparalleled experience within one of the region's oldest surviving structures. Our Grade II listed timbered tithe barn, dating back to 1372, provides a breathtaking setting for fine dining, combining architectural grandeur with modern culinary excellence. Under the leadership of proprietor and executive head chef Barry Warren-Watson since 1991, we have maintained a commitment to quality ingredients, meticulous preparation, and exceptional service.

The restaurant's unique featuresincluding a dramatic vaulted ceiling, a private green gallery, and a historic ambiancecreate an environment where tradition meets innovation. Our menus showcase seasonal produce, expertly crafted dishes, and an extensive wine selection, while our dedicated team ensures every visit remains memorable. From intimate lunches to grand celebrations, we strive to uphold our reputation as a destination for discerning diners seeking both sophistication and warmth.

Services

Fine Dining Private Catering Event Hosting Seasonal Menus Chef's Table Wine Pairing Corporate Events Wedding Receptions Birthday Parties Afternoon Tea

Details

Year established: 1989

Highlights and features

We offer fine dining in a Grade II listed building dating from 1372
Our executive chef brings over 30 years of hands-on culinary expertise
Private gallery space accommodates exclusive events for up to 50 guests
Seasonal menus feature locally sourced ingredients with creative presentation
Award-winning wine list complements our contemporary British cuisine

Website

Update Listing

Services

Fine Dining

Our fine dining experience showcases seasonal British cuisine in an historic setting. Dishes combine traditional techniques with modern presentation, using locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes regularly to reflect ingredient availability and culinary innovation, offering both la carte and tasting menu options.

Private Catering

We provide bespoke catering services for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. Our team creates custom menus tailored to client preferences, with options for formal dining, buffets, or canap receptions in locations across Essex and surrounding areas.

Event Hosting

The restaurant's Green Gallery offers a unique space for private events, accommodating up to 50 guests. The venue combines historic architecture with modern amenities, suitable for weddings, corporate functions, and special celebrations with full catering and service support.

Seasonal Menus

Menus evolve with the seasons to ensure ingredient freshness and quality. Each season introduces new dishes highlighting available produce, with special tasting menus for occasions like Christmas, New Year, and Easter celebrations throughout the year.

Wine Pairing

An extensive wine list complements our cuisine, featuring carefully selected vintages from established and emerging producers. Our sommeliers offer expert pairing recommendations for tasting menus, with options available by the glass or bottle to suit different preferences.

People

Barry Warren-Watson

Proprietor & Executive Head Chef

Barry has led Russells Restaurant since 1991, combining culinary expertise with hands-on management. His commitment to quality ingredients and innovative presentation has maintained the restaurant's reputation for excellence while preserving its historic character.

Questions

How do I make a reservation at Russells Restaurant?

Reservations can be made by calling (01245) 478484 during business hours or through our website's contact form for lunch and dinner bookings.

Does the restaurant host private events?

Yes, our Green Gallery space accommodates private functions for up to 50 guests with bespoke catering options available for weddings and corporate events.

Are there dietary options available?

We offer vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary-specific options across our menus, with advance notice for special requirements.

What is the dress code?

Smart casual attire is recommended to match our refined dining environment, though formal wear is not required for evening service.

Can I view the wine list in advance?

Our current wine list is available upon request through our contact email or during a pre-visit consultation with our sommeliers.

Reviews (7)

Write a Review

Neil Dunn

Dec 23, 2021 Report

Still one of the best restaurants around the food is absolutely spot on
Will be going back in new year for more fantastic food especially the desserts they are to die for

John Juncal

Dec 09, 2021 Report

Love this restaurant, great food, lovely atmosphere, staff are unbelievably good and the owner Barry (who I called Russell all night) is a really nice guy. So impressed with this restaurant and would recommend it to anyone!

Jean Summers

Nov 23, 2021 Report

Gone down hill a lot over the past 3/4 years. Staff are young and here just for a pay check, no passion in restaurant. Menu is dated and been roughly the same ingredients for 5 years now! Food isnt ala carte but set up for shelf life. Beef carpaccio? Tart fine from every menu in 10 years. Chicken supreme? On a ala carte menu for 16.50 WHO are you kidding! Sort it out or your restaurant will fall even lower than it already is
- owner had feedback removed on trip advisor by crying to them, kinda shows how people give a review and he acts like a child

Carmen Jones

Oct 31, 2021 Report

Superb restaurant, we will definitely be returning. As all the food is made fresh onsite we were able to tailor our order.

Donna Flack

Oct 25, 2021 Report

First time visit to this restaurant; and we can't wait to return. Everything we ate was delicious, and that's coming from fussy eaters! Cannot fault it. Yes, it's not cheap (more for a special occasion), but I'd rather pay a bit more and get really lovely food and wine. Barry made us feel like valued customers, and the chef came out so that we could tell him how much we loved the food. All in all would definitely recommend.

Rhys Little

Oct 24, 2021 Report

An outstanding restaurant. Food was amazing. Barry and his staff couldn't have done more for us. I will have to go again to try more of the menu.

Rick McBee

Oct 12, 2021 Report

Wedding rehearsal dinner. Russell's was very well prepared, professional and accommodating. The food was well prepared and all those who attended were quite pleased and appreciative. Thank you to all.