Downham Arms in Basildon

Food absolutely terrible. Never again

Nice quality food, (mainly steaks & burgers as it's a grill bar) . Great burger selection plus unusual burgers and always change the selection. Great value also, whole family love going there even picky daughter.

The staff are friendly and attentive, making every visit a pleasure. Highly recommend stopping by—it's a gem!

What a great establishment this pub is and can I say the bar staff especially Julie’s service is exquisite. Voila

Visited and found the decor fine. Ordered food abd drink using the app but only food arrived as apparently the app order doest work at the bar! Plates were cold as was the fatty steak. 3 meals arrived at once but guess mine was finished early. Lack of hot plates was an issue. Cheap but poor quality food for all meals. You get what you pay for but non standard Green King menu was poorly delivered. A CCTV camera in the male toilets tells you want you need to know inc no soap in the dispenser but a single push tap that unleashes a jet wash power level to leave you wet everywhere. Carpet out of the kitchen is sticky and black through dirt. Staff seem freindly enough but rough/avoid.

The Sinful Indulgence: A Burger Encounter When I first laid eyes on the new XXXXmas festive burger, I knew it wasn’t just food—it was an invitation. The glossy, brioche bun glistened under the soft restaurant lighting, beckoning me closer, promising forbidden pleasures. Its curves—oh, those curves—cradled layers of sinful temptation. The first bite was electric. My teeth sank into the pillowy bun, yielding to the juicy, perfectly seasoned patty beneath. It wasn’t just beef; it was an earthy, primal kiss, tender yet firm, leaving a slick, savory trail that teased my senses. And then there was the sauce. Tangy, sweet, with a slow, creeping heat—it slid across my tongue like a lover’s whisper, pooling in the corners of my lips. I licked it up, unapologetic, savoring every drop. Crisp lettuce and a pickle spear added a playful crunch, like a knowing wink in the middle of a smoldering glance. The melted cheese oozed over the edges, molten and creamy, clinging to the patty as if unwilling to part. By the end, my hands were sticky, my lips stained with its essence, and my heart racing from the encounter. This wasn’t just a meal; it was an affair. One I’ll dream about long after the last bite, craving its return but knowing it might leave me utterly undone.

Had a great lunch time date with great food and friendly staff. This was our second visit as we had our wedding anniversary date here in September also. We love the relaxed atmosphere great prices and great quality hearty food. We will be back

We went for a birthday meal at the pub the food was excellent and the low and slow beef I would highly recommend all the food came out lo lovely and hot thank you

All food was excellent especially the low and slow rib of beef which we have not seen any were else it was so tender would recommend thank you

First time visit and will definitely be going back, welcoming clean surroundings , comfy chairs nicely laid out areas so you don’t feel crampped in . Staff welcoming and friendly , a great selection on the menu , food was served quickly and hot and really lovely . Good size portions . Very relaxed dining experience . Will definately return and will recommend to anyone looking for somewhere for a nice meal out .

Food is lovely, the service is great, love coming down here for lunch great vibe inside, got some good deals on the menu as well.

Great deals throughout the week, fast and friendly staff, the food is brilliant and comes out quite quickly. Great local pub.

We lunch here every 2 weeks or so and have done for many years. Good food reasonably priced, good service and terrific friendly and helpful staff

Came in on Sunday for a few drinks with my friends and was met by amazing Riley who served us many drinks! He was so polite and friendly, couldn’t have asked for better service! 10/10

A group of us come here often and we always have a great time. The staff are amazing, can always have a laugh with them especially Julie and Lauren The beer is reasonably priced and the food is good. We are looking forward to coming here for New Year’s Eve this year.

There’s always a group of us that come down every weekend and always have a great time. We always have banter with Julie, Lauren and kel they always make the visit fun. We had food today which tasted so good thanks to Monta and LeLe. We’ll see you again next weekend.

Came here with some friends for lunch today, food was lovely and tasty and reasonably priced. Staff are incredible friendly and helpful as friend has allergies. Pub is clean and tidy. Will be back in the future.

Food was very long coming out, two dishes then come out, 20 mins later another one did. This left someone without food. 20 mins went by still the one person without food everyone else almost finished and food getting cold from waiting. We decided to go to the bar to express our concerns. Lauren then general manager immediately answered with attitude stating it ‘is on a different ticket’. This should not matter, we were all on the same table and food should come out together. After discussing this Lauren became very rude and aggressive pointing her finger in my friends face in a very threatening manner. This was very intimidating and the worst customer service experience I have faced. She looked as if she was going to hit her and my friend had to ask her to calm down numerous times. All I was after was an apology and some respect shown. However Lauren did not show this. After this incident, Lauren went round the back and did not come out. This is honestly awful, threatening behaviour for any member of staff let alone a manager. I am disgusted with how she treated us and will not be coming back!

We have recently started coming to the Downham arms weekly for a family meal. The food is the best value for money, especially for a family of four. There are so many venues who serve such small portions, but not here, we are always stuffed. It's so good to find a place that is affordable with good food. The staff are really lovely too. Thank you!

Food was delicious but took a long time to be served as only one barman and when we asked for our table to be cleaned we were told the staff member would do it next but he proceeded to have a chat for 10 mins before coming back.

Always found staff very friendly food is good service is good Atmosphere very welcoming

Very good meal in the Downham Arms, two meals for £11.99 was excellent value. The drinks were reasonable and the staff were friendly.

This was the first time I had been to the Downham Arms. It was a really good experience. The staff were really friendly, the steak (Rib Eye) we had was excellent and really reasonably priced. The pub had a lovely atmosphere and was spotlessly clean. I have mobility issues, and the disabled access was good,

The service was quite good but in 7 meals 2 steaks were tough and one was delayed until the rest of us had almost finished our meals! My coffee was tepid but otherwise everything was okay, overall not impressed shame as I can walk to it!

Kitchen was closed due to staff illness that obviously cant be avoided, but we did ring ahead to see whether we could bring dogs if we came for food and they only mentioned that we'd have to be in the bar area, not that the kitchen was in fact closed. Service when we arrived was good though friendly lad behind the bar who greeted us and the dogs and got us drinks. Lovely pub, with great outdoor area.

Food was not best quality. I had calamari, it tasted like frozen calamari you can buy in supermarket. I then had chicken Milanese, Chicken was overcooked, was supposed to be spaghetti but was linguine and full of fat. Service poor, did not all get served together, no atmosphere. Very expensive for what you get

Amazing service and Amazing food Billy was the BEST although I'm a mitchells and butlers girl it was amazing and will be back

Me and my daughter had a roast dinner..roast potatoes were soft and black ..meat was dry .ran out of veg .Yorkshire was hard .I know they were busy ..but your dinner should still be nice .it wasn't about the quantity .it just was not nice .I'm now worried as I have Christmas Dinner booked ..I think I may cancel .the 2 young staff thst were there were very nice .can't recommend to anyone.i have read other reviews on here and ghere good..this is just what we had today.

Lovely meal great drink lovely staff male barman is a grass lol the lady does a banging pina colada love the banter great experience as always xx

Me and my grandad used to be regular customers here, and the food was always nice, the service was great and the staff were super helpful and friendly.

Seems to have been a staff shortage for a Saturday Night. Slow service. 25 minutes from ordering for 2 desserts to come

3 couples went for lunch 12/9/2024 The staff were excellent.angie Julie monta and yas , my friend had the all day Breakfast and he said it was the best breakfast he had had for years , I had the ale pie excellent flavour ,the lunch was truly fantastic , if you want value at a reasonable price try the Downham Arms

Had a lovely all day breakfast today food great staff so warm and friendly highly recommend here Served today by Julie Angie and Monta. Thank you so much for a lovely couple of hours Monica xx

Food and service excellent. Very friendly, happy staff. Nothing was too much trouble. Good for lunchtime or evening visit.

Julie, Lauren and team as always are fantastic. Good food, great service with a smile. Fabulous atmosphere Totally recommend.

Out for lunch with Grandkids Ataff so good with service and meal was lovely

Love this pub and the staff!! They are all amazing and attentive. Food is great too! We always come here especially at the weekend.

Had lunch here with my dad the food is nice we had a nice time

Very friendly, nice atmosphere and food, good local pub

A lovely lunch in a great atmosphere. Staff very friendly! Thanks Kerry, Steven, Yaz and Rin.

Lovely cosy environment..staff very attentive and food superb..offers are very reasonable .burgers & chips bogof on thur..or Mon to Fri 2 mains £11.50 can't go wrong..I'd advise to book 👍

Very welcoming by Billy and staff were very nice. Food excellent 👌 definitely coming again.

I’ve Visited the pub today for the first time as I was in the area viewing a property for my son I was greeted with friendly staff. A gentlemen welcomed us and introduced himself as billy, was super helpful and friendly, the lady that also served us (who he believed was a chef was helping us with the menu) was also super friendly and helpful with the menu. The food was absolutely amazing, we all enjoyed it. Will definitely be back soon, massive thank you to the team.

Had some lunch here with friends, food was top and well presented, I gave my compliments to the chef as couldn't fault the meals, Sidney went above and beyond while serving us, 100% will be back

Best pub in the area by far! Always a great vibe, and the staff are so lovely - shout out to Julie & Kel for always being so welcoming and accommodating! :)

We ordered two Vegan burgers with drinks. Food was cooked well and good value for money. Friendly service and relaxed atmosphere.

Sydney was fantastic as always! Very friendly and welcoming. Thank you.

Fantastic bar, my local! Came for the England games, and the staff were fantastic! Would 100% recommend.

I supported a service user with learning disabilities today. The staff were very helpful and accommodating and even gave her a free piece of chocolate brownie! I was very impressed. Thank you.

All the food arrived together and was cooked perfectly, great service from the staff. Would highly recommend. One of the best pubs in Wickford.

I love coming here. Food is always top notch and great friendly service. Booked a table for 14 of us for my neices birthday and all the family had a great Time. The food came out altogether and was spot on, hot and tasty and all allergens were catered for (gluten and dairy free). Highly recommend the low and slow beef! Great service from Kel and Steven. Thank you.

Great gaff. Slow rib was a joke from monta the head chef maybe the best food ever. Get him a pay rise. Chelsea new girl behind the bar lovely woman, Julie 10/10 as always new security top notch. Bill is alright tbf. Get down here for the euros

Table for 8 fitted us in a day before Father’s Day. Very nice food and service was excellent. Very friendly and helpful staff.

Been waiting for the food for 1h. Others, who arrived after us, had received theirs much earlier. They might be understaffed as the response to my complaint was they only had one chef.

Love this pub... had a great night with Luther Vandross Tribute night. Great staff and lovely atmosphere.

The food is ok. Nothing special but passable for the price. The problem is the lack of staff. Ordered drinks on the app and waited over 20 minutes on a not particularly busy evening. It's ok if you want a cheap meal out and don't mind waiting.

Excellent as always.Nice to eat here when we come up from Romney Marsh.Great VFM

Had a drink in the garden. Pleasant and quiet. Worth a stop on the way home from work.

Decent pub ,just had a drink ,was comfortable, food looked good .

Lovely lunch today with friends for one of their birthdays (tomorrow) Really nice flatbreads and the Biscoff cheesecake was to die for 😋 Atmosphere was nice and staff were very friendly. Definitely will visit again.

A few weeks ago was my first time at the downham arms to say im impressed is an understatement . Atmosphere and food was beautiful. Staff were super welcoming and warm. Sydney especially was so kind to us and was the cherry on top of this experience. Me and my family will definitely be back :)

We went for cheap quick mid-week grub and it did the job nicely. The steak was a lot better than I was expecting. App ordering adds to convenience.

Lovely lovely lunch. Staff are so friendly and helpful. Julie is a star x All the staff are great and good food was had by all

We came to the Downham Arms for New Year’s Eve 2023. We had such a great night! The locals were very friendly and the staff was so much fun and nothing was too much trouble. We have also eaten many lunches and dinners there and found the food and cocktails definitely hit the spot!! 😋😋 With HUGE screens showing all the football matches, of which my husband LOVES! They have monthly quiz and bingo nights which are hilarious fun and have won a couple of times! Also they have special tribute nights with very good singers and lots of room to have a boogie. We really recommend a day or night at the Downham Arms Wickford, for a nice meal with the family or a great night out with friends.

Proper boozer, amazing food, Staff and management are excellent, friendly and nothing to much trouble for them. Would recommend coming anytime of day especially when football on Chelsea deanoooo

Amazing pub great bar staff very friendly

Had a lovely time with my mum great prices it was a great time well quality awesome drinks as well great food going home with full bellies and happy hearts

Amazing fast and delicious service, lovely atmosphere on weekends as well. Pool table and darts are always a win. Definitely recommend, brilliant customer service!

We always come in with friends for the wide varity of drinks they have and its now our regular. Today we tried the food and it was hot and tasty and was cooked by Monta. We can't fault this pub at all. The staff are so friendly and welcoming, we will definitely be coming back again soon.

Came for a late lunch with the family, the food was good pub grub. Food arrived quick and was hot. Drinks were good and reasonably priced. We were handed a card asking for us to reciew by our waitress Ella who was very friendly and efficient. Will be back soon.

Fab service! Really friendly staff, fast service! Great food and drink, really nice atmosphere and vibe, the bar staff are always a joy to chat with too

quiet Saturday lunch, so atmosphere nice and chilled. Food was cracking, hot, tasty and really good value. staff were brilliant, Steven was super helpful, kel the assistant manager took time to have a chat without being intrusive, just really friendly. the chef, didnt catch his name, was great too.

Starting to visit here with friends varied menu good food. Nice prices. Worth a visit

The food was very tasty, we had great service. We were looked after by Julie and Angie.

We were made welcome when we walked in. The food was lovely and the staff were friendly. We were served by Julie and Angie. WE'LL BE BACK!!!

Terrible food and bad service. Food was burnt and was advised they are unable to re cook another meal. The roast was that dry my mother in law ended up chocking. The stuffing was like a stone. Is there no quality checks. Absolutely horrid

Had a great dinner here yesterday with the family, great service! from great stuff! and the food was absolutely wonderful. highly recommend the new chicken & ribs. Always enjoy my time when I visit the downham definitely will be back soon.

Very impressed with this pub/restaurant, staff were lovely and friendly, and your lucky enough to get Kerry chef, you will not be disappointed. Best pub food I've had in a very long time. Good size, hot, flavour amazing. We will 100% be returning 10/10

Lovely pub with a fantastic atmosphere. Sydney and Angie are usually working when I visit and they are so welcoming and helpful, they always have a chat and a smile waiting. Very reasonable prices and the food is always fresh tasting and hot. The burgers are particularly nice.

The food was amazing the whole family enjoyed every bite and the chef monta definitely knows how to cook would highly recommend to anyone

Friendly staff, and lovely food.

Love this pub, Staff are all friendly and polite. Food is really nice, we had the steak and it was cooked how we asked. There's a great friendly atmosphere to which is always a good sign. We were surprised on how busy it was during the week . Highly recommended

Great value friendly Staff.. Great Service

I visited here for the first time with a client with a learning disability. The staff were very helpful and accommodating. Used the disabled toilet but the light wasn't great in there.

Had a great experience here today at downham arms, originally ordered Mac and cheese. It wasn’t great so I expressed this to staff and they immediately changed our order for free of charge. Kel from the kitchen, I believe assistant manager was so understanding and very polite, Steve our server was polite and had great customer service. Billy from the bar was also so polite. Thank you for rectifying our problem and making it a nice experience for us.

Lovely meal , very friendly, great prices thanks alot .

Service was wonderful, friendly staff and a great atmosphere. Always a good selection of sports and football on the tvs. Highly recommended for any sports fan or anyone just looking to have a decent night out.

Love this pub We only started to come here when we found out they were dog friendly about a year ago and since then we come once a week either on a dog walk or for drinks and food with friends and family The staff are so friendly especially Kerry, Ollie, Billy, Julie and Maddie and not forgetting Josh the chief We walk in a straight away get a huge smile and hello! And if the dogs with us they come over with treats a bowl of water and now even have a doggy food menu! Highly recommend the Downham Arms really lovely pub and good prices!

Love this pub, so friendly and helpful. Great food and delicious desserts. We go there for special occasions and never doubt it will be a great experience. See you soon

Great afternoon and evening watching the Six nations Rugby with Lauren, Julie and Kerry and of course the rest of the team. Great food and excellent service with a great smile.

Great place love it keep up the good work

Fantastic Meal had my all four of us. Great service and great food. Myself and the wife live local so will definitely be back!

I’ve been coming here for a few weeks now and I can’t fault it. The staff are amazing, very polite and welcoming. The drink choice is very good and can’t believe how many gins you have :) We will be back for the rugby and West Ham games. What a great atmosphere and pub.

Lovely friendly waiter, however we did wait 25-30 minutes for our drinks to come, even our starters came before those. Not sure if that’s because we ordered on the app but still shouldn’t have to wait that long. No apology for the wait time but I’m not that fussed about that. Food was alright tasting but was cold, waited about an hour for 6nuggets, a steak and a burger. My steak was overcooked, the chips were cold & my partners burger cheese hasn’t even melted in the slightest that’s how cold his burger was. My little girl obviously made no complaints but yeah not a place I’d rant and rave about.

Lovely staff, always friendly and happy to see us. Special mention to Julie and Maddie who are very popular with customers and are a credit to Greene King. The food is always lovely and well cooked thanks to Josh. Definitely recommend and we will be back next week!

Absolutely fantastic meal and great service as usual when we eat here

2nd visit and pub packed. Menu was fabulous, so much choice, and have to say prices not far off whetherspoon. Food however much better and no sticky tables. Great atmosphere (Friday lunchtime) and great banter with bar staff. Appreciate pub it part of wider chain, but felt like a really nice country pub. Definitely recommend and will be back.

Came for a family meal and have a lovely time. Julie my server was very friendly and bubbly will defo come again.

As usual all the staff were friendly and helpful. There were not many of them working but they still went the extra mile to help. Food was hot, service was great and the chef even popped out to say Happy Christmas. Thanks to Ollie, Steven, Monta and Richard for a great afternoon. 👍🏼

I went to downham arms for new years eve party. I really really had a awesome time. I honestly never met people like the staff tht helped me tht night. N a massive thank u to kel who was extremely kind to me n a massive thank u to maddie n Billy for letting me hang with them n massive thank u to Lauren who let my friend come in to help me get settled n a massive thank u to maddie for letting me walk home with her n helping me get home. I'll be definitely coming to downham arms from now on as everyone is extremely kind Massive thank u from the bottom of my heart xx