Whether you’re catching an early flight, landing late, or simply exploring the area or restaurants near Southend Airport, finding the perfect spot to eat can enhance your travel experience. Southend-on-Sea and its surroundings offer an impressive variety of eateries, ranging from charming cafés to sophisticated restaurants.

Top Restaurants Near Southend Airport

To help you find a memorable meal, we’ve handpicked the top seven restaurants near Southend Airport. Each establishment has been chosen for its quality, convenience, atmosphere, and popularity among locals and travellers alike.

Let’s dive into the delicious options waiting for you.

1. 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar – Dining with a View

Distance from Airport: 1-minute walk (located inside the Holiday Inn Southend)
Cuisine: Modern British, European

If convenience and quality top your list, the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar is your best bet. Situated on the top floor of the Holiday Inn Southend, it offers stunning panoramic views of the airport runway.

Guests love the elegant atmosphere and attentive service, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and expertly prepared dishes, including steaks, seafood, and vegetarian options. Their afternoon tea is particularly popular, perfect for a relaxing pre-flight treat.

Whether you’re staying at the hotel or just passing through, 1935 Restaurant offers convenience without sacrificing quality.

2. The Horse & Groom – Classic British Pub Charm

Distance from Airport: 4-minute drive
Cuisine: British Pub

The Horse & Groom is a classic British pub located just minutes from Southend Airport, offering a warm, friendly atmosphere with traditional décor.

The menu showcases hearty British classics, including fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and gourmet burgers. Pair your meal with a pint from their impressive selection of ales and beers.

Guests appreciate the welcoming staff and cosy interior, making it an excellent spot for families and solo travellers alike. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy authentic British hospitality before or after your flight.

3. Bourgee Restaurant & Bar – Modern Steakhouse Experience

Distance from Airport: 10-minute drive
Cuisine: Steakhouse, British

Bourgee Restaurant & Bar offers a sophisticated steakhouse experience near Southend Airport. Known for premium-quality steaks and seafood, Bourgee combines luxury dining with a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.

The restaurant takes pride in sourcing the finest cuts of beef and preparing them to perfection. Alongside steaks, their seafood dishes, such as lobster and scallops, are highly praised.

With its chic décor and excellent service, Bourgee is ideal for travellers looking for a memorable dining experience or celebrating special occasions near the airport.

4. Il Pescatore – Authentic Italian Cuisine

Distance from Airport: 6-minute drive
Cuisine: Italian

For lovers of Italian cuisine, Il Pescatore is a hidden gem located conveniently close to Southend Airport. This authentic Italian restaurant offers a warm, inviting ambience, perfect for a relaxing meal.

Their menu features homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and delicious meat dishes. Guests often rave about their generous portions and authentic flavours, particularly the seafood linguine and pizza Margherita.

The friendly, family-run atmosphere ensures every guest feels welcome, making Il Pescatore a fantastic option for travellers craving genuine Italian fare.

5. Padrino Italian Restaurant – Cozy and Family-Friendly

Distance from Airport: 7-minute drive
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Padrino offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere combined with authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Located close to the heart of Southend, this cosy spot is ideal for travellers who prefer a casual yet enjoyable dining experience.

The restaurant specializes in traditional Italian favourites, including creamy risottos, hearty kinds of pasta, and perfectly crisp pizzas. Their seafood risotto and veal Milanese are particular crowd-pleasers.

Service here is consistently friendly and accommodating, making Padrino a go-to spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy comfort food near Southend Airport.

6. Ocean Beach – Seafood and Seaside Dining

Distance from Airport: 12-minute drive
Cuisine: Seafood, British

If you have extra time and fancy dining with a scenic view, Ocean Beach is worth the short drive from Southend Airport. Set on the waterfront with stunning sea views, this restaurant offers a beautiful, relaxed atmosphere paired with exceptional seafood dishes.

Ocean Beach’s menu includes fresh oysters, crab, classic fish and chips, and innovative seafood dishes prepared with local ingredients. Beyond seafood, their steaks and vegetarian dishes also receive high praise.

Ideal for romantic dinners or leisurely meals, Ocean Beach provides a dining experience as memorable as the coastal views it offers.

7. The Royal Hotel Restaurant – Relaxed Seaside Dining

Distance from Airport: 10-minute drive
Cuisine: British, International

Located within the charming Royal Hotel in Southend-on-Sea, this restaurant blends historic charm with contemporary comfort. The relaxed, elegant setting is perfect for enjoying casual dining with an upscale feel.

The menu offers a delightful selection of dishes ranging from traditional British fare such as steak and ale pie to international choices like Thai green curry. Guests regularly commend the quality of the food and the excellent service.

For travellers looking for variety and comfort in their dining choices, the Royal Hotel Restaurant provides a satisfying meal close to Southend Airport.

Final Thoughts

Restaurants near Southend Airport don’t have to mean settling for quick bites or airport terminal food. From sophisticated rooftop dining at 1935 Restaurant & Bar to authentic Italian experiences at Il Pescatore and Padrino, the area around Southend Airport offers plenty of appealing dining choices.

For classic British cuisine and welcoming pub atmosphere, The Horse & Groom is a local favorite, while Bourgee serves as the perfect destination for steak lovers craving luxury dining.

Seafood enthusiasts will find Ocean Beach unmissable, and for those seeking variety with seaside charm, The Royal Hotel Restaurant is an ideal choice.

Each of these restaurants offers unique experiences that can transform your travel day into something special.

To ensure a seamless travel experience, consider arranging a comfortable and reliable Southend Airport Transfer with UKride. Arriving relaxed allows you to fully enjoy your dining experience at any of these remarkable restaurants near Southend Airport.