The Cork House

Perfectly situated in the charming village of Stansted Mountfitchet, just a short hop from Stansted Airport, The Cork House has a loyal following of both local diners who know their food and new visitors seeking a menu that demonstrates culinary flair. Set across two floors in an eclectic red brick building, the steak, fish and wine lists provide ample excuse for intimate dining or a special night out with friends. We visited on a Wednesday evening and enjoyed an eminently affordable, three-course set menu that was packed with flavour, with the added lure of half-price cocktails all night.

After working our way through generous platters of assorted seafood and grilled goat’s cheese, peach and apple salad, we moved on to the mains, which were feasts in their own rights. The steak served with garlic prawns was perfectly cooked and flavoursome, while the grilled haddock fillet was beautifully presented atop bacon, green beans, new potatoes, cherry tomatoes and asparagus. Both were accompanied by a selection of sides, dips and breads, and wine from a diverse list. We finished with quintessentially British desserts of strawberry meringue and apple crumble with custard. With a regular two-for-one steak night on a Monday, a selection of tapas dishes and a full à la carte offering throughout the week, this is just the place to savour fine food and wine.