Essex restaurant named among UK's best by OpenTable

Medusa in Leigh has been named one of the UK's best restaurants by OpenTable <i>(Image: Medusa/Tripadvisor)</i>
Medusa in Leigh has been named one of the UK's best restaurants by OpenTable (Image: Medusa/Tripadvisor)
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A restaurant in Essex has been picked out as being among the best in the country.

OpenTable has shared its list of the Top 100 Brunch and Lunch Restaurants for 2026.

The list was created following "insights from diner reviews and demand".

Just one Essex restaurant made the list, with visitors describing it as a "vibrant" spot with "excellent food".

Essex restaurant named among UK's best by OpenTable

Making the list by OpenTable was Medusa Restaurant, in Leigh.

The Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant opened last year on Rayleigh Road, replacing the former Chinese restaurant Mr Tang.

On its website, the restaurant says it brings the "warmth, richness, and timeless flavours of the Mediterranean to the heart of Essex".

It adds: "We believe that great food starts with great ingredients.

"At Medusa, everything we serve is prepared with passion and precision, using only fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced products whenever possible.

"Each plate tells a story — from delicate olive oil dishes and perfectly grilled seafood to aromatic herbs and handcrafted mezze."

Medusa's profile on OpenTable says it is a "vibrant destination where the spirit of the Mediterranean comes alive in every bite".

It adds that the restaurant boasts a "warm, inviting atmosphere" that is "perfect for everything from relaxed dinners with friends to memorable evenings out".

Reviews of Medusa in Leigh on Sea

Medusa has received plenty of praise since its opening last year, and is rated a 4.7/5 on Tripadvisor.

A review summary says that it earns rave reviews for its portion sizes and dishes, with its service also often praised as "friendly and attentive".

It says that the restaurant offers good value with its set menu deals, with guests often highlighting the "stylish, cosy, and vibrant atmosphere".

The food and portions at Medusa are often praised by customers (Image: Tripadvisor)

One review reads: "Food was excellent and service was the best we have ever had.

"Internal decor was great and the menu was enormous.

"Would thoroughly recommend this for anyone to visit."

Another said: "Amazing night at Medusa, the food is amazing and the service is outstanding.

"Not incredibly overpriced with extremely generous portions."



A third review adds: "Could not fault it, so many different dishes ordered but all came out steaming hot and everyone got served at the same time.

"Food was so good, really tasty and full of flavour and portion size was good!

"Service was spot on despite how busy it was."

Have you visited Medusa in Leigh? Let us know in the comments.

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