The Recruiting Sergeant
Colchester Inns
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Food & Drink


Our menus feature a variety of dishes showcasing the adventurous use of outstanding ingredients by our team of chefs led by Matthew Colchester. Fresh fish and seafood is a speciality and a passion of ours, and we have also put our stamp on classic British pub grub. On Sundays, our traditional roasts are a popular choice.

The bar is well stocked with regularly changing real ales and cutting-edge lagers, while a range of carefully selected wines are served by the glass or bottle. You can also treat yourself to a cocktail from a bespoke menu crafted for us by Edmunds.

Our current menus closely resemble those below but may change. For this year's Christmas Menu, please visit our Christmas page.

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Table Reservations


Booking ahead is strongly advised for popular times - give us a call on 01603 737077 to make your reservation. Please be aware that for Sunday lunch, or reservations before 7.30pm on Friday/Saturday evenings, we allocate 2 hours per booking.

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Special Diets


Our food is freshly cooked so we can modify many menu items to cater for those on special diets such as gluten or dairy free.

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Celebrations


Unfortunately, due to a lack of facilities in which to keep them safe until required, we can no longer accept cakes brought in by customers. As an alternative we are very happy to provide candles and plates decorated with a celebratory message for the special person(s), should they wish to order dessert. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or upset this may cause, and thank you for your understanding.

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Gift Vouchers


Solve your gift dilemmas! Ask us about purchasing Colchester Inns gift vouchers to spend on food or drink at any of our pubs.

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Dog Policy


We are a dog-friendly pub and welcome well-behaved dogs on leads in the bar or garden, but they are not permitted in the restaurant. Dogs are also welcome in some of our guest bedrooms. Please mention when booking if you are bringing a dog so that an appropriate table or room may be allocated.

If dining in the bar with your dog we ask that owners be sensitive to other guests. If a dog needs food or water please take them outside where water bowls are provided.

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A part of the family


Looking for another Colchester Inns establishment? All our pubs feature deluxe B&B accommodation and welcoming restaurants - each with their own distinctively different menu offerings.