As south Essex is finally basking in some much-needed sun, there is arguably nothing better than to enjoy a meal while being treated to some truly spectacular views.

Luckily for Southend residents, we do not have to scout high and low to pinpoint great eateries with sweeping views of the estuary.

To help you narrow your choices down, here are seven of the best places to eat with a view across the borough, according to Tripadvisor.

The Peterboat, Old Leigh

Echo: The views you're treated to from The Peterboat - pictured in the background hereThe views you're treated to from The Peterboat - pictured in the background here (Image: Marie Gofted)

This quaint pub is nestled along the sea wall in the High Street and provides a warm and inviting atmosphere as well as varied menus.

Residents and tourists are particularly attracted to the pub because of its stunning views of the estuary, and the family-run pub certainly lives up to its charming reputation.

One TripAdvisor reviewer says: "Great location overlooking the estuary in Leigh. The excellent food is matched by the service and at very affordable prices for both breakfast (from 10am) and lunch.

"Loads of seating inside and out will make this an even more popular location in the summer so will pay to book or turn up early."

Roslin Hotel Restaurant, Thorpe Bay

Echo: The view from the Roslin breakfast roomThe view from the Roslin breakfast room (Image: Susan Purvis)

This 4-star hotel in Thorpe Esplanade, the winner of best hotel in the Muddy Stilettos 2024 regional awards, is a staple in the area not only for its gorgeous rooms and welcoming service, but also for its award-winning AA two rosette restaurant.

Last summer the venue unveiled its revamped "beachside utopia" terrace, boasting panoramic views of the estuary.

Of the restaurant and its views, one reviewer commented: "How fabulous to sit in the lovely garden of this lovely hotel on a warm breezy day overlooking the sea, whilst having a late lazy Sunday lunch."

Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas, Eastern Esplanade

Echo: On the beach - Billy Hundreds Fish N TapasOn the beach - Billy Hundreds Fish N Tapas (Image: Google Street View)

 A small family-run fish and tapas restaurant right on the beach in Eastern Esplanade, it is loved for its hand picked fish, and delicious tapas with a relaxed atmosphere, like being on holiday.

Out of its 1,036 TripAdvisor reviews, just over 703 of them brand the seaside venue as “excellent”.

One commented: "What a brilliant place, great location, really friendly staff, great price and food was amazing , first time visiting Southend and what a wee gem of a place will definitely be back."

Gold Coast, Eastern Esplanade

Echo: Popular - Gold Coast restaurantPopular - Gold Coast restaurant (Image: Google Street View)

A long-running Chinese restaurant, Gold Coast has earned a solid reputation for both its takeaway and eat-in options with customers praising its "quality dishes" and "appropriate portions at good value".

And with its Southend seafront location in Eastern Esplanade, the restaurant also boasts brilliant views. 

Reviewer Nina B said: "Excellent food - very tasty, staff is lovely and friendly. Location is very nice as it’s on the seafront . I recommend it any time."

Oliver's On The Beach, Westcliff

Echo: Staple - Oliver's on the BeachStaple - Oliver's on the Beach (Image: Newsquest)

In an unassuming kiosk along the seafront, celebrity chef Jamie Oliver's aunt and uncle Colin Oliver and Marianne Leggett run the rustic chic cafe Oliver's On The Beach.

They specialise in an extensive menu of breakfasts and brunches, for diners to enjoy alongside panoramic views of the estuary.

Owner Colin also previously ran the Chequers Inn, in Canewdon, and the Cherry Tree pub, Rochford.

A TripAdvisor reviewer commented: "Visiting from Somerset...wanted somewhere for breakfast before the long drive home. What a fantastic place! The food was exceptional (best Eggs Benedict I've had and the sausages are amazing!)

"Staff were lovely and what a great spot on the seafront! Will definitely be going back."

Piccolo, Westcliff

Echo: The Italian restaurant above Westcliff ArchesThe Italian restaurant above Westcliff Arches (Image: Google Street View)

In a spot known as 'little Italy' on Shorefield Road above Westcliff Arches, it is no surprise this long-standing restaurant has been hailed as one of the best with a view in the borough.

It offers a range of authentic Italian dishes which are loved by customers, with the restaurant boasting a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor.

Reviewer Sue C says: "Excellent is not the word. Lovely bubbly atmosphere with a fast paced feel. Waiters are great plenty of chatting and advising to make sure our order was correct. Food brilliant good portion size and value for money. Such a great start before the theatre."

The Grove, Leigh

Echo: Unassuming from the outside - The Grove offers stunning estuary viewsUnassuming from the outside - The Grove offers stunning estuary views (Image: Ben Shahrabi / Newsquest)

A trendy Leigh restaurant which boasts enviable views of the idyllic Thames Estuary from its decking area, The Grove is a hotspot for summer lunches and sunset dinners.

With the turbulent weather in recent months, the Belton Corner venue also recently underwent seven weeks of refurbishment in the hopes to welcome customers all-year-round.

On TripAdvisor, theHaymanfamily reviewed: "Absolutely love this restaurant; the food is very good! We had Various breakfast options for five of us and we were able to be sat outside with a lovely view of Leigh , wonderful enjoyable food and love the view and attentive pleasant staff."