The best restaurants serving Mediterranean food in Chelmsford East of England

The food was absolutely lovely, but unfortunately, the service let the experience down. The waiters seemed more interested in posing for Instagram pictures and videos than actually looking after customers, which made the atmosphere feel very fake and forced. At the end of our meal, we were surprised to be told that they needed the table back because they were ‘too busy,’ even though we had only been there for an hour. Normally, we would have been offered a complimentary drink, but that didn’t happen this time. Overall, while the food was great, the lack of genuine hospitality and focus on social media rather than customer service was disappointing.

Mohammed and Amanda were brilliant, food and service was amazing!

I was so disappointed with this restaurant. When I ordered I was told it would arrive in 30 minutes. I waited 1hr 10mins for the delivery and when it arrived it was stone cold. I called the restaurant who advised to give it back to the driver and they would send another ASAP. She apologised and said she would send some extra bits to compensate. When the second order arrived the only compensation I received was a dip!!! I ordered a lamb Shish and a portion of hummus (only 2 pieces of bread) came for the whole order. It was also warm (not hot) the lady on the phone couldn’t have been less interested. This just isn’t normal service from this restaurant but it has put me off from ordering again

First time at the Ego at the Running Mare, WOW ! lovely food topped off with world-class service from Ann. We will 100% be back and will bring family and friends. Thank you for a lovely evening. see you again soon

I am writing to formally express my disappointment regarding the unacceptable treatment I received from your manager during a phone call on 29/03/25 while attempting to place an order. I have been a loyal customer of your restaurant and have ordered from you several times before. However, during this recent interaction, I was met with rudeness and aggression from the manager, which was both unprofessional and upsetting—especially considering that I was calling from a hospital bed and was simply trying to order a meal. When I inquired about prices, which is my right as a customer, the manager became impatient and rushed me, repeatedly interrupting and pressuring me to confirm my order. When I explained that I would be paying by card and needed a moment to access my details, he began shouting at me instead of allowing me to complete my sentence. When I questioned this rude and aggressive behavior, his excuse was that he was "busy." Before I could finish my order, he abruptly hung up the phone on me. Additionally, when I asked for his name, he refused to provide it and instead replied in a proud and dismissive manner, saying, "I’m the manager," before hanging up on me. This lack of accountability and professionalism is extremely concerning. This level of service is unacceptable for any business, especially one that relies on customer satisfaction. I expect a restaurant that I have supported multiple times to treat its customers with basic respect and courtesy. No customer should be made to feel like a burden simply for asking for information or taking a moment to retrieve payment details. I would appreciate a response regarding this matter and what actions will be taken to ensure that no other customer has to experience such treatment. I hope to see improvements in your customer service so that I can continue to support your restaurant in the future.

Such a lovely ambience and authentic Turkish food.

Service is exceptional , Michaela was attentive and cheerful and incredibly busy. That didn’t stop her providing too rate service. Food was very good, good sized portions . All in all great value for money.