Essex Life reviews the George and dragon, Mountnessing
A huge weeping willow stands to the left of The George and Dragon and behind it are pretty gardens and a terraced patio for outside dining. Inside is a comfortable lounge-style seating area next to the large bar where you can eat too or you can opt to sit in the restaurant towards the back of the building as me and my three guests did.
On a Sunday there is a two-course roast dinner for �12.95, which we all chose. We all remarked on the extremely relaxing environment despite the restaurant obviously having a very busy night. Service was swift and friendly and when the waitress took our orders we were asked individually how we like our meat to be cooked which was a nice, personal touch.
As we’d decided to go straight to mains it was nice to see warm crusty bread arrived minutes later with balsamic and dipping oils. A roast dinner is never an easy dish to serve with panache, however, The George & Dragon chefs managed it admirably, attractively presenting the meal in white china bowls. My lamb was in three generous slices, with plenty of fresh broccoli, cauliflower and suede and served with stuffing and a delicate apricot jelly.
If you did go for three courses there’s just an extra �3 charged whether you choose a starter or dessert. Extra gravy was also a pleasant touch, brought to the table in its own white china jug.
My dessert, a light filo pastry with layers of warm apple slices, was served with cream, although the menu had promised toffee sauce. Sadly I could find no visible sign of it. My fellow diners all chose the chocolate and fresh raspberry dessert, which was both delicious and suitable for serious chocoholics such was its depth of cocoa.
Wines are also a delight; The George & Dragon prides itself on sourcing some of the more unusual selections to surprise. If like me you are designated driver for the evening, be sure to try the range of Fever Tree mixers, all made with natural ingredients.
Useful to know
The total bill came to �68.90 for two courses with drinks. This is an independent review, featuring a restaurant selected and experienced by our food and wine editor. The restaurant was not told it was being reviewed.
Book a table
George & Dragon294 Roman RoadMountnessingBrentwood CM15 0TZ01277 352461
Three places to enjoy the great outdoors and a tasty menu too
The Compasses at PattiswickCompasses RoadPattiswickBraintreeCM77 8BG01376 561322We say: An idyllic location surrounded by roaming farmland yet only 20 minutes from both Colchester and Chelmsford.
MilsomsStratford RoadDedhamColchesterC07 6HW01206 322795We say: All-day dining surrounded by pretty parkland, and no need to book.
The SwanHall StreetLong MelfordC010 9JQ01787 378740We say: Admire the stylish refit and visit the pergola in the sheltered garden.
