Priding ourselves on our motto ‘Famous for fish’ Smiths Restaurants is a name that has become synonymous with fine dining and quality, attentive service. Our restaurants are located in Ongar Essex (just off the A414) and Wapping in central London (near Tower Bridge). Both restaurants boast an extensive menu of fresh fish that we offer to cook in a variety of ways to suit every palette. We also offer locally sourced meat dishes to accommodate those who prefer their food terra firma. To compliment the quality of our food we have worked closely with well renowned independent wine merchants to ensure we have a selection of wines that are the perfect accompaniment to every meal. The only problem you may have a Smith’s is being spoilt for choice.
The Smith’s unique private dining experience is the perfect choice for your special occasion. Our stunning private bar is suitable for both seated dinners for up to 20 guests round one table where you will be looked after by your own personal waiter or up to 28 people on seperate tables.
Smiths Restaurant Ongar reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.
Overall ratings and reviews
Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant
4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
4.9Food
4.8Service
4.7Ambience
4.5Value
Noise • Energetic
Loved For
Essex
Best Overall
Essex
Best Food
Essex
Best Service
Essex
Best Ambience
Essex
Hot spot
Essex
Great for fine wines
Essex
Good for special occasions
Essex
Most Booked
Review summary
AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Smiths Restaurant Ongar consistently delivers "amazing food" and "exceptional service," making it a top choice for "special occasions." Guests praise its "wonderful atmosphere," "friendly staff," and "excellent fish dishes." While some find prices high, the quality justifies the cost. A favorite in Essex, it offers a memorable dining experience.
4,990 Reviews
S
Steve
Berkshire3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Excellent food, service and ambience.
The menu selection is large and you'll find something you love.
They go the extra mile and are very attentive without hovering.
Great for special occasions!!
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R
Richard
London6 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Have enjoyed our visits to Smiths Brasserie Ongar since they first opened.
The menu and quality of the food is always to our liking.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
London1 review
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
Overall 4
Food 3
Service 4
Ambience 3
Lovely restaurant and good service.
The only issue I would say is that I have the Dover sole every time I visit and every time it is over cooked / mushy. Cooked the point it looses its flakiness and integrity. Dover sole is my go to whenever I see it on the menu so I’d like to think I have had enough to know
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T
Teresa
Essex6 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Excellent service from arriving to leaving! Fantastic choice of fish and other dishes!
All beautifully cook and well presented. We went for my parent's anniversary and it was the perfect choice!
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R
Robbo
London13 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
As always never disappoints excellent quality of food and menu. The service is exceptional attentive but not overly and substantial drinks menu both wine and cocktails
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A
Angie
Devon1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Always good, staff lovely, food always delicious. Had the lunch set menu. We’ve been coming to Smiths for over 20 years and it never disappoints.
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B
Barry
Essex1 review
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
Overall 4
Food 4
Service 4
Ambience 4
Our meal was very good, the service likewise. Smiths maintain a high standard and it’s always a pleasure to go to the restaurant.
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A
Alastair
London9 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Another exceptional meal at Smiths of Ongar. My favorite place for a business lunch or personal dinner. The food is always perfect, and the staff always welcoming and totally professional.
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C
Charlie
Essex1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
beautiful food as always; lovely atmosphere - this is why we travel from Kings Lynn in Norfolk especially to come for the food! Great fish restaurants are hard to find but this one is tip top - keep up the amazing work and thank you
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N
Nicholas
Essex8 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Haven’t been back for a while so decided to book Sunday roast lunch to celebrate a family birthday,as to be expected nothing had changed!!fantastic food perfect service and a great afternoon was had. Brilliant
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FAQs
Smiths Restaurant Ongar is rated 4.8 stars by 4990 OpenTable diners.
Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.
The Smith’s unique private dining experience is the perfect choice for your special occasion. Our stunning private bar is suitable for both seated dinners for up to 20 guests round one table where you will be looked after by your own personal waiter or up to 28 people on seperate tables.