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Do not allow yourself to be deterred on arrival! This 16th century cottage in Moulsham Street may have a non-descript frontage, but it's a very different story inside. The ancient interior has absorbed Thai culture to create a happy blend of styles which even the most talented makeover team would be hard put to equal.

There is the main menu for us ordinary mortals whilst those of a vegetarian disposition can sample the special menu, which manages to make even hardened carnivores take a second, or third even, glance. Most of the food is straightforward but there are also less predictable ones like the golden triangle, Siam gulf fruits de mer and sweet and sour melody. The curries are a nice combination of flavours as are stir-fries and grilled

dishes.The staff are particularly helpful when it comes to working your way through that magnificent main menu. If you are on a really tight budget call in at the Siam Cottage for an express lunch.

The Square and Compasses is a traditional 17th century freehouse hidden away in a sleepy hamlet and surrounded by picturesque countryside in the parish of Fairstead. Originally two farmer's cottages, the building retains a wealth of original features, exposed beams, and inglenook fireplaces.

Linger in the cosy bar over local real ales and wines from around the world or enjoy a meal in the garden or dining area that has open fires, old oak furniture, and a collection of antiquarian cooking and wine books.

The food is straightforward, with daily changing chalkboard specials served alongside traditional classic and seasonal dishes, all of which are freshly created using local produce including game from the local estates. Expect to find choices such as homemade duck liver and brandy pâté; breast of pigeon and bacon salad; steak and kidney pie; local beer-battered fish and chips; roast butternut squash and parmesan risotto, and char-grilled sirloin steak topped with garlic flat mushrooms and a real ale rarebit.

Make sure you leave some space for the lovely home-baked chocolate and cointreau cheesecake.

The Bar and Grill in Chelmsford is a nice little place to tuck into after watching a film at the Odeon cinema located opposite to it, or just spend the early summer evening at the river deck sipping on a paradise punch or cranberry cooler.

The panini summer menu offers solace to those seeking a light bite with a hearty array of fillings such as Wiltshire ham and mozzarella, fish finger and tartare sauce, and sausage and caramelised onion. The highlight of any party being hosted at The Bar could be a platter to share which embraces antipasti of Milano salami, mozzarella sticks, marinated olives, sun-dried tomatoes, marinated mushrooms, breads and oils.

The drinks list is devoted to a broad selection of draught lager, beer and cider, from Guinness and Strongbow to Becks Vier and Staropramen and Stella, as well as premium bottled lagers such as Corona, Peroni and Tiger.

A spacious and airy restaurant on the ground floor and a stylish bar on the lower ground, Mustard Bistro is set in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Situated in the commercial business district of Chelmsford, the restaurant is ideal for either a business lunch or a fun filled evening with friends.

Expect good home cooked food prepared by using the best of locally sourced produce. Think goats' cheese tart, pan-fried pigeon breast or a Dijon chicken salad to begin. Crispy and tender confit duck legs served with bubble squeak, and finished with fresh grape sauce and a traditional kedgeree of mildly curried long grain rice, flakes of seasoned smoked haddock and boiled egg topped with fresh parsley are two options bound to charm diners of all persuasions

There's a special 'Vegetarians Night', well worth trying out for those who prefer to spare the fish and meat for the rest of us.