The Chophouse Braintree

Situated in the heart of Braintree, The Chophouse is a delightfully individual and stylish restaurant. The building dates back to the 1800s, and was originally a home for ‘wayward women’. It first become an eating establishment in 1982 and opened as The Chophouse in 2015. Owner Robert Ely has created a unique experience for guests, combining both the traditional values of a chophouse with contemporary food and decor. From vintage bicycles to the display of handless clocks, there’s plenty to amuse and delight guests between courses. Thoughtful touches include a wall-mounted rack of reading glasses, which guests are welcome to use if they’ve forgotten their own – ideal for reading the menu. Whether you’re choosing as I did from the extensive à la carte, or from the exceptionally good value midweek special menu, there will be something to please even the most discerning palate. Head chef Richard, who has a wealth of experience in professional kitchens, has put together a mouth-watering menu that’s simply faultless. I chose bacon and mussel risotto to start, followed by baked hake with cockle butter, and concluded with a very generous portion of Bakewell tart. My dining companion selected dishes from the midweek special menu, and delighted in chicken liver parfait, classic fish and chips, and chocolate brownie. Each morsel was as delicious as the last. We left feeling extremely satisfied, already planning our next visit.