Food & Drink
If it's one thing the district does well, it's food and drink. There is such a rich variety on offer from the iconic tea huts in the forest to high end dining at a choice of award-winning restaurants – plus everything in-between.
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The towns have taken café culture to heart and support local businesses as well as the major chains. For a more substantial dining experience the district is home to a range of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets including award-winning fine dining.
Out in the countryside the pubs and inns abound with all the features you’d expect of a quintessential English hostelry with real ales, home-made food and historic surroundings. There’s local produce to try including game and organic vegetables which local chefs have incorporate into their menus. Local people support their restaurants so booking ahead is often recommended at busy evenings and for the more popular or specialist venues. Don’t be surprised if some of the top restaurants can’t fit you in straight away at popular dinning times. Check out our food outlets and their food rating here.
When it comes to drink, there’s a lot of local choice including locally produced beer and cider and even a distillery! Woodbine Racer in is specially brewed for the acclaimed Woodbine Pub in Waltham Abbey. The Woodbine is also a CAMRA winner 2019 and has many other awards including acclaim for its vast range of ciders including those it produces itself - it has been a CAMERA winner 2017, 2018 and 2019. Lux Vodka is distilled just outside Epping on the Copped Hall Estate. A premium vodka, Lux is distilled seven times using the finest grains for a distinctive and luxurious velvety texture and smooth finish.
