Food passion in Braintree

I will start this long and concise review by stating I've been in the hospitality industry. We came here pre booked as a table of 9, including 3 children at 3 pm on a Sunday. This was for my mother in laws birthday. Now the reason I say this time is because by now the kitchen had run out of several key components of their roasts and other main menu items such as beef and mashed potatoes. This considering the place was completely dead at this time. Why is the kind of chef that can not ensure they have ordered in and prepared these items that are vital components should wander down to McDonald's where someone with more experience will handle that for you whilst you're flipping burgers. Most of the remaining menu items are just thrust into the microwave or deep-fried without soul or care. Our starters took a full 50 minutes to be served, we had enquired earlier why it was taking so long as the kitchen had no other orders to prepare and was informed they were just being plated up. Still took another 20 minutes to produce these 5 starters! I'd chosen the salt and pepper squid that contained neither salt nor pepper! Bland would be an understatement. The rest of the meal was no less a long awaiting for poorly presented mess. It's clear the chef has no passion for food, and I'm certain wears a plaster on his microwave finger from overuse. The food was bland, overcooked, and under prepaired. The lamb Shank looked as if half the meat was missing, the hunters chicken was overcooked and dried out, and the beef bourguignon had no red wine, making it a tiny piece of beef stew. The list of disappointed meals went on. I can honestly say this is the single most disappointing meal I've had the misfortune of being served (eventually). I will not return and would recommend others avoid.

Covid safe and clean. Was a pleasant day so could sit on their outside patio area. Had a bacon sandwich, friends had cake. Bread was dry and I wish places would use proper butter, not some spread. Even with bacon you could still taste it... Service very friendly and pleasant.

Best subway in the country. Excellent service every single time. The ladies working there are gold.

Lovely home cooked food, great service.

Very friendly service. Excellent food. Must try!