Chatham Green, Little Waltham, CM3 3LE
Harden's survey result
Summary
Tom Clarke, ex-of Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir, and L’Ortolan in Reading (where he met partner Nancy Witte), is behind this “unique, intimate and personable restaurant” in a “beautiful setting situated in the small hamlet of Chatham Green”. A diminutive pub with a distinct dining area, the venue turns out “decorative plates that are full of flavour”, including a tasting menu which “takes you on a gastronomical journey where every mouthful is a joy”.
Summary
“A real find in mid-Essex”, this dining pub showcases “beautifully presented” cooking that’s “bursting with flavour” from Tom Clarke, who trained under Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir and was head chef at L’Ortolan in Reading. He took charge two years ago with his business partner Nancy Witte, also ex-L’Ortolan, who mixes “delicious cocktails” and oversees the front of house in style.
For 34 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at The Windmill Chatham Green?
Owner's description
The Windmill is hidden away in the charming Hamlet of Chatham Green near Chelmsford and the Racecourses, with the Essex walk just a stone's throw away.
As a dog-friendly, family-run restaurant and pub, Tom and Nancy welcome you to discover exceptional, modern cuisine served alongside unique drinks, wines and a selection of local real ales.
With a dedicated restaurant area, the pub still remains a pub in spirit with indoor and outdoor seating available on the terrace. Perfect for those who simply wish to enjoy a drink and snack from the bar menu!
Prices
| Wine per bottle | £28.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £3.00 |
| Service | 10.00% |
Restaurant details
The Windmill Chatham Green Restaurant Diner Reviews
"This place is trying to be something it’s not. Portions were tiny and flavourless. Very pretty presentation, but disappointing taste. Service was hit and miss. For the prices charged, this is not good value and I would not return."
"Lunch choice of 2 alternatives for each course. Goats cheese mousse was tasty and surrounded by excellent heritage tomatoes. Could have done with a slightly larger portion of the mousse. Chicken main was very juicy, but sauce lacked flavour. Chocolate mousse with Rose ice cream delicious. Service a bit slow but could be due to new waitress. Music background didn’t interfere with conversation as in many places. Worth another visit."
Chatham Green, Little Waltham, CM3 3LE
Opening hours
| Monday | CLOSED |
| Tuesday | CLOSED |
| Wednesday | CLOSED |
| Thursday | 6:30 pm‑8:30 pm |
| Friday | 12 pm‑1:30 pm, 6:30 pm‑8:30 pm |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑1:30 pm, 6:30 pm‑8:30 pm |
| Sunday | 12 pm‑3:30 pm |
