Theydon Oak Public House

You will notice that there will be an increase in reviews from around Essex. With one of my besties setting up home in Epping, it is inevitable that I will spend half of my time in the area checking out bars and restaurants.
My third venture into Epping brought us to this little pub, pretty much in the middle of nowhere. It was a Tuesday night and we had signed up for the quiz night. The plan was to have a bite to eat and then take the quiz prize for the Northerners (2 Geordies lasses and one Scouser/​Mancunian).
Theydon Oak, is a traditional pub with a nice selection of beers on tap, uneven floor surface, ceiling beams, antiques along the walls, all the things that add to a boozer with a rich history.
On the quiz front, we came third (no not out of three teams’ lol). But on the food front, it was a big win. I opted for the Fillet Steak, as I was intrigued to see if they could match the Londoners, and they did. Firstly, it was a proper portion, although 8oz, it felt bigger. Cooked perfectly to order (medium rare) and really tasty. I partnered this with Diane sauce (cream, sherry, mushrooms and onions) and fries. Helen had the pub menu staple item of a burger and Sam had chilli con carne served with basmati rice which was interesting choice. There could have been a little more sauce with the chilli, but it was tasty enough with the mixed peppers and kidney beans. These were washed down with Sauvignon Blanc, Rioja and Moretti beer.
Service is informal and friendly. They are obviously used to regulars, but were very welcoming to us. We felt like we had known them and the other quizzers for ages, possibly because were a little bit jolly for a Tuesday eve. Pricing is reasonable with the Fillet steak being the most pricy thing at £19.95 and totally worth it.
It’s a shame this place is so far away from me, as I could see myself popping by for an after work drink or dinner on a lazy eve when I don’t want to cook. I am definitely up for trying their Sunday roast at some stage, which is £18.95 for a four course set menu!
To summarise, if you live in Essex or even Hertfordshire, you must go!

Old fashioned pub with hundreds of horse brasses hanging from everywhere. Food was mediocre and pub had little atmosphere even though it was half full. Not bad but not good.