If you’ve ever strolled along Southend’s seafront and missed Sunset Bar & Restaurant, you’re not alone – but once you find it, you won’t forget it.
Tucked away at 208 Eastern Esplanade near the Halfway House, this authentic Italian restaurant has quietly built a loyal following with its expertly prepared dishes, friendly service, and views of the Thames Estuary.
Sunset Bar & Restaurant offers a broad à la carte menu packed with seafood, steaks and traditional Italian favourites, alongside daily specials curated by the head chef. From light and creamy lobster ravioli to comforting homemade lasagne, the focus is on freshness and flavour. The weekly specials board features premium seafood or steak dishes that, according to the restaurant manager, “always sell out”.
There’s also a well-stocked bar with Italian cocktails, coffee and wine – all best enjoyed with a sunset view.
Owner Ruhul Shamsuddin, who took over running the business this year with a clear vision, said:
“When I first discovered Sunset Bar and Restaurant, I knew straight away this place had something magical. Sitting right on the Southend seafront with unbeatable views. I knew the effort and passion that had gone into creating this restaurant, and I wanted to preserve that legacy while bringing in fresh energy and vision.
“Now, with our talented Italian chefs preparing incredible seafood, steaks, and also authentic pizzas daily, I feel proud to see Sunset thriving on the Southend seafront. This location is truly special where great food meets the sound of waves and unforgettable sunsets.
“We’re here to make every visit feel like a little escape. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I can’t wait to welcome more of you to experience it with us.”
The customer reviews back him up. Stefania B, a native Italian, wrote:
“This is the best seafood pasta outside of Italy. I’m Italian and quite fussy and often feel underwhelmed when eating in Italian restaurants. Not this time. I visited with my partner, we had a nice whitebait starter and then two plates of pasta, both were delicious. I had the linguine mussels, prawns and chillies and my partner had the linguine with cream of courgettes and prawns. The pasta was cooked to perfection and both sauces were to die for. We even asked for some bread to mop up the sauces (la scarpetta) as they were just too delicious to leave. A really nice experience and I’ll definitely return when I’m in the Thorpe Bay area. I highly recommend.”
Another reviewer, Kim S, said:
“It’s excellent freshly cooked food and good service, with nice ambiance too! The special stuffed sea bream and seafood risotto was just perfect!”
Sunset is also a popular choice for families and those with dietary needs. Sam E commented:
“We had a lovely family meal here for a special occasion. Staff could not have done more for us. My daughter and I are gluten intolerant – my daughter had the gluten free pasta which was really good and went for the fillet steak.”
Alan G praised the consistency:
“I can’t recommend Sunset Bar & Restaurant highly enough. We have been there many times over the past few years and always enjoy our meals, the service and the ambiance. They also serve the best Negroni’s in town.”
And Liz summed it up:
“This restaurant is a hidden gem! The food is some of the best Italian food I’ve had. Visited now a handful of times and every time it has been amazing. Staff are great and it’s a lovely atmosphere. And of course you get views of the sea/sunset!”
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the restaurant also offers a value-packed set lunch menu that includes a glass of house wine or Prosecco – ideal for a leisurely midday meal by the sea.
To book a table, call 01702 831010 or visit https://bit.ly/SunsetRestaurantSouthend.
You can browse the full à la carte menu here: https://bit.ly/SunsetRestaurantMenu.