By Michelle Norris
AFTER a recent refurbishment last year, The Orb is now one of Billericay High Street’s best-kept secrets, serving quality dishes at reasonable prices in a friendly atmosphere, where your every need is met with little fuss.
When my friend and I visited the restaurant last week, we were pleasantly surprised at the building’s transformation. With a chocolate textured décor and dimmed lighting, the restaurant offers its diners secluded or open experiences with booths, semi-private and private dining all available. So, whether you’re looking to celebrate with a large party or enjoy an intimate meal with your partner, The Orb has it covered.
Managed by the conscientious Peter Ankin, who has over 30 years experience working in high class restaurants locally, you can rest assured that you and your loved ones are being looked after.
Feeling both comfortable and secluded at one of the brown leather booths, complete with low lighting and contemporary music, my friend and I felt right at home as we cast our eyes over the mouth-watering menu.
I chose to start with the Roast Vegetable Terrine, served with Tomato Relish, Grilled Baby Goats Cheese and toasted Focaccia (£4.95).
Beautifully presented, the sweet peppers and tomato relish complemented each other well and the refreshing grilled baby goats cheese was a real delight to the taste buds. My friend opted for the Chicken Liver and Foie Gras Terrine with Balsamic Roasted Fig and Toasted Brioche (£5.75). The warm, soft toast added texture to the luscious and flavoursome pate, leaving us eagerly anticipating our mains.
I couldn’t resist sinking my teeth into the English Fillet Steak on Celeriac Rosti, served with Confit Shallots and Roast Garlic (£22.95), which was cooked to perfection. Packed with flavour and accompanied by some gorgeous crispy vegetables, and sweet shallots, I would recommend a glass of Rioja Vega del Rayo Tempranillo to refresh your pallet. My friend decided on the Chicken with Creamy Wild Mushroom Sauce and Sauté Potatoes (£14.95), which was beautifully tender and not overpowered by the creamy mushroom sauce.
For dessert my friend and I were both drawn towards the Warm Chocolate Pudding with Rich Chocolate Sauce, which comes with a choice of ice cream or a Cointreau cream (£5.25). Melting in my mouth, the rich chocolate was a delight to the taste buds and although I enjoyed every bite, the dish was the perfect size.
The Orb is open from Wednesday to Saturday and is soon to be open on Tuesdays from 12pm to 3pm for lunch and 6pm to 12am (last orders 9.30pm) for evening meals and from 12pm to 7pm for a special Sunday lunch. Book your table by calling 01277 651492 or visit www.thecrownbillericay.co. uk for more information.
The Orb Restaurant
High Street
Billericay
Essex
CM12 9BG
Tel: 01277 651492
www.thecrownbillericay.co.uk