The House by Hilly Gant

The story

The House by Hilly Gant Braintree | AA 2 Rosette British Dining

The kitchen and local sourcing

The House by Hilly Gant has anchored Braintree since 2015, built around a straightforward approach to British cuisine that prioritises fresh produce. Head Chef Sam McGee leads a team that sources ingredients from farms and producers within a few miles of New Street. This commitment to regional supply shapes every plate, allowing seasonal ingredients to take centre stage without unnecessary complication. Co-owners Robert Ely and Antoine Dixon-Bellot designed the operation to feel like a proper neighbourhood kitchen rather than a staged venue.

The listed building and service rhythm

Diners enter through a narrow passage off New Street into an eighteenth century grade ii listed space that keeps original features intact. The floorplan favours relaxed tables where attentive staff guide guests through evening service at a measured pace. Jazz plays softly between cocktail hours, while wine selections drawn from Coggeshall supplier Peter Watts Wines complement the kitchen’s output. The layout encourages conversation, letting the food dictate the tempo rather than rushing covers.

Award recognition and menu consistency

That recognition reflects a steady standard across the menu, from hearty mains to carefully constructed vegetarian and vegan plates like the sautéed wild mushrooms with truffle cream. The kitchen earned its second aa rosette in 2023, following five consecutive years at one level, marking a clear step up in technical precision and plating. Guests seeking refined British cooking will find consistent execution week after week, backed by a team that values reliability over fleeting trends.