Southend Black and Red Mediterranean restaurant review

Black and Red Bistro Grill has already attracted a loyal fanbase, with delighted diners rushing to social media to praise its atmosphere and generous portions.

So on a sunny Saturday afternoon with an hour to spare and a hole in our stomachs, my sister and I were keen to catch up over lunch at the newly opened restaurant.

On first impressions, it’s an elegant and classy setting which almost makes you forget you’re in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Restaurant - Black and Red Bistro Grill in Southend High Street (Image: Elliot Deady, Newsquest)

Arriving at about noon, it wasn’t packed out but there were enough tables filled to ensure there was a good buzz in the eatery.

I’d turned up expecting a traditional Mediterranean-inspired menu to be up for grabs, but at lunchtime there’s a twist to what’s on offer.

The lunchtime choices were plentiful, even if I was a little shocked to see options like a fried egg sandwich, chilli con carne, and a jacket potato with cheese and beans on offer.

The evening menu is much more traditional with everything from kebabs to grilled salmon on offer.

READ NEXT: I tried Wagamama's exclusive 'secret menu item' in Southend and was surprised

Keen to try some of the restaurant’s specialities, we both chose to order from the two-course set menu which felt like an absolute steal at just £12 each.

The service was quick and friendly and it wasn’t long before we tucked into our starters. My sister opted for the delicious houmous and I ordered sucuk, a Turkish sausage which was tasty too.

Tasty - my sister and I both ordered the chicken shish (Image: Elliot Deady, Newsquest)

We both ordered the chicken shish for our main courses which we agreed was delightful. It was served with a generous helping of rice and a tasty salad and I’d definitely order it again.

I’m sure we’ll head back to Black and Red in the evening to try more of the restaurant’s Mediterranean cuisine.

It’s a shame more of those options aren’t available at during the day, but I guess the restaurant is trying its best to cater to as many tastes as possible to keep up as it tries its best to fit in with Southend’s crowded culinary scene.