Brightlingsea Eateries

Rosebud is good ('gastro pub' might be taking it a bit too far), Yachtsmans has a new chef and food is very good. Heard from someone who went to Victus v. recently - apparently it's changing hands and was pretty much out of everything including service.
 
I'm not sure I could get past the Fish and Chip shop next to French's. I went in there a few weeks ago for some parts for my water pump. Waited for the Fish and Chip shop to open at midday and ate them down on the front in front of the Colne Yacht Club. I think the Fish and Chips are now so good in Brightlingsea I will not have to make my annual pilgrimage to Ramsgate to visit Pete's Fish Factory.

I was impressed with the Harbour Master and staff at Brightlingsea. I was in early in the morning and went to the Harbour office to pay for a day visit and was told it was free. I had stripped out my water pump and couldn't start my engine as a result and the Harbour Master and staff moved me twice to make room for other boats.
 
The F&C shop on the front has more random opening hours these days, so when we went (party of 6) a few months back, we went up to Winkies,and ate in. Very very good, but not sure I'd class either as good as Pete's in Ramsgit...
 
The other Indian (Bengali I think like many) is very good. Built in an old garage or similar I think. Last went about six weeks ago. Good value. Plenty of locals.
 
Rosebud and Yachtsman are both excellent, Kovalam has improved markedly in service standards, food has always been good! The Raj is not bad but can be a bit variable. Victus is fortunately shut for a while (I think they must be replacing the microwave and are negotiating on bulk purchase of oil for their deep fat fryer!) Apparently it has new owners who hopefully will provide 1) decent quality, local seasonal produce 2) a standard of service that doesn't include chatting to your mates while paying customers are trying to get service!
 
By the way, the University Rowing Club is open and sign in, then its 2 pints for 5 quid of very acceptable Spitfire, or Oranjeboom if that's your taste. Quirky, comfortable and friendly.
No food, although I bet they do crisps. Right next to the Yachtsman.
 
Kovalam specialise in cuisine from Kerula (SE India) not the usual old Bengali fodder. If you go there and have a curry make sure you eat it with their flat bread, a parotta - delicious!
 
Kovalam specialise in cuisine from Kerula (SE India) not the usual old Bengali fodder. If you go there and have a curry make sure you eat it with their flat bread, a parotta - delicious!

Yes, a different Indian dining experience, and many of the Keralan dishes are very good indeed. As others have said, Winkies is excellent for fish and chips.
 
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