Nestled snugly in Old Leigh, a stones throw from the cockle sheds, sits Essex’s premier dining experience. Reclaimed timber floors, a stunning mezzanine and a beautiful deck perched over the Thames Estuary provide a stunning dining experience.
Cuisines: British, Seafood, Traditional
The Boatyard currently has no offers.
I've heard a lot about the boatyard having worked in Leigh on sea for a few years and finally got round to dining there for a friends birthday celebration. I was pleasently surprised at the waiting service we received, something I find quite overlooked at many places I've recently been too. The staff were very informative with what was on offer regarding specials and recommendations on beverages. On a down side, being vegetarian, I found the typical lack of options on the menu and the only option I did have was the lazy option of pasta/lasagne which is generally the only option anywhere you go. Having said that it was genuinely one of the nicest lasagne's i've ever had which was a definite plus point. Another thing I wasn't so keen on which I thought was a strange move was that the majority of the other diners on our table had chips as a side and instead of serving them on the plate with the rest of the meal, they were dished up in one bowl for every two people. I would have been a bit annoyed if I was served chips to share, again, I find it a bit lazy. On the whole though it was a nice night accompanied by good music and my meal was lovely so based on my own personal experience I can't knock it, good job I like pasta though.
I've been to the boatyard in Leigh on many occasions - and it's one of the nicest places to eat if you want a slightly formal sit-down meal. They often have a singer or pianist playing, and the décor inside is fabulous. You can sit out on the decking if it's a nice day - but the main seating area is inside. The boatyard would be top of my list of favourite places to eat in Leigh, but for the fact that I find the food a little lacking. The last time I ate there (March 2015), the menu had been significantly limited - which is torture in of itself, as I can see the things I'd *like* to eat, but can't order them. I'm not sure why this was - it was a Friday night, and I'd have thought it would have been peak eating-out time. I've had steak at the boatyard a number of times - but again, always been disappointed, as it's very average - ok, but nothing special. The food is good, don't get me wrong - but I always feel like I've overpaid for something that's not quite up to scratch. Can't fault it for the look and ambiance - but food (and the general welcome) need a bit of work.
