Polanka is believed to be one of the first Polish restaurants in the Southend area, located in Southchurch Avenue, this bright and airy place more than just provides a captivating view of the wonderful country of Poland. Here the cooking also takes in continental influences from Russia, Ukraine and other Eastern European countries.

Starters of clear beetroot soup served with mushroom ravioli and salted fillet of herring help establish a firm foundation, followed by bread crumbed pork cutlet served with mashed potatoes and cooked cabbage, and beef strips cooked in red wine, mushrooms, gherkins and peppers. Entrées certainly don't run out of inspiration, with the Polanka version offering a thigh of chicken stuffed with chicken liver, eggs, bread and herbs, and served with apple and onion on rice or mashed potatoes.

Those who love their vodka and beer will be happy to study their drinks list, encompassing a wide range from Poland, Czech and Russia.