A husband-and-wife team behind a popular Southend seafront restaurant are celebrating a successful year, with glowing reviews and so much demand for Christmas that they’ve opened festive bookings earlier than planned.
Prowse Restaurant, overlooking the seafront near the Cliffs Pavilion in Westcliff, has been winning over diners with its freshly prepared Mediterranean food, stunning views and warm, personal service.
At the heart of its success is Cat Prowse, who has created a welcoming restaurant that’s proving popular for everything from relaxed family lunches to romantic evenings and special celebrations.
Cat herself is frequently praised in customer reviews for her hospitality and attention to detail, while diners regularly highlight the quality of the food and attentive service.
Her passion for managing front of house at the restaurant really shines through, whilst her husband is the dedicated and skilled head chef.
Christmas bookings open early after strong demand
Following a surge in enquiries, Prowse has opened its December and Christmas Day reservations earlier than originally planned.
Throughout December, guests can enjoy the regular à la carte menu or a special three-course festive menu, including a glass of Prosecco and indulgent desserts.
The restaurant will also open on Christmas Day, serving a special menu featuring roast turkey, slow-cooked beef, fillet steak and Scottish sea bass.
Cat said: “We’ve been blown away at how much the Southend community has supported us. From front of house to the kitchen staff, we thank you for choosing us again and again.
“Whether you join us for a festive lunch, a Christmas get-together with friends, a family celebration or the big day itself, we can’t wait to welcome you.”
You can view the full December festive menu and Christmas Day menu here: https://bit.ly/ProwseRestaurant
A perfect pre-pantomime meal near the Cliffs Pavilion
With the Cliffs Pavilion just nearby, Prowse is also a great choice for families and theatre-goers looking for somewhere to eat before a festive performance.
This year’s Cliffs Pavilion pantomime is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, starring Shane Richie and Steps singer Faye Tozer, running from 12 December 2026 to 3 January 2027.
For families heading to the panto, Prowse offers the chance to make an occasion of it with a freshly cooked Mediterranean meal overlooking the seafront before the show.
Its varied menu and ability to cater for different dietary requirements also make it a convenient choice for groups.
New Year’s Eve and live music
Prowse is also welcoming enquiries for New Year’s Eve, offering another opportunity to celebrate with a meal overlooking Southend’s seafront.
Diners can contact the restaurant directly for details of its New Year’s Eve arrangements and availability.
Throughout the year, Prowse also hosts live acoustic music evenings featuring talented local performers, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Cat said the live music nights always attract a “lovely crowd who genuinely want to enjoy themselves and have a night of laughter and great conversation together.”
Glowing reviews from diners
The restaurant’s growing reputation is reflected in its enthusiastic customer reviews.
Raoof H described an “absolutely fantastic experience”, praising the fresh food, generous portions and welcoming staff.
“The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, with lovely views that made the meal even more enjoyable,” he added.
Jodie Gibson, who visited with her grandfather, wrote: “We both agreed it’s some of the absolute best food we have eaten together.”
Meanwhile, Laura Sheridan praised staff member Cat for her exceptional service, saying: “Cat made us feel so welcome and was very knowledgeable about the menu.”
It’s this combination of quality food, personal attention and a welcoming atmosphere that has helped Prowse become an increasingly popular choice for Southend diners.
Freshly cooked food and special occasions
Every dish at Prowse is cooked fresh to order, with gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options available. The restaurant also caters for private functions and weddings.
Cat added: “Whether you’re joining us for a relaxed family meal, a romantic evening, or a celebration with friends, Prowse Restaurant offers an experience to remember.
“Every dish is cooked fresh to order, allowing us to adapt to your tastes, dietary needs, and food intolerances, including gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options.”
Book a table at Prowse Restaurant
Whether you’re planning a festive celebration, Christmas Day lunch, New Year’s Eve meal or a bite to eat before the Cliffs Pavilion pantomime, booking ahead is recommended.
To view the full December festive menu and Christmas Day menu, visit: https://bit.ly/ProwseRestaurant
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 11pm
Telephone: 01702 845500