Chelmsford's situation means that there are not any foods considered 'local cuisine', however there are countless restaurants and food outlets from street vendors and take away shops to Michelin Star restaurants to satisfy any gastro-hungry traveller.
The Alma, off springfield Road currently has one Michelin Star and should satisfy all tastes, there is also a large garden and bar area which caters for unbooked guests to enjoy the extensive bar menu, where a steak and chips will set you back around £15, in the restaurant however this can be as much as £26.
fast food
All the usual suspects such as McDonalds, Burger King, Pizza Hut, Starbucks etc can be found on the High Street teeming with teenagers, who are characteristically anti-social and annoying.
take away
Chelmsford is overrun by takeaway options, from fish and chips to Chinese its all available late night and for pocket change. None of which can really be recommended as serious dining options, however, for after a night on the town, they are always a welcome sight. Mrs Cod on Moulsham Street does a roaring trade on Friday and Saturday night, but watch out for the hygine, its not great. China China on Moulsham Street, is one of the most favored takeaways in Chelmsford, meals there are of the cheapest and teamed with great quality food, what more can you ask for?!Ming Ming's at 140 Springfield Road is a little off the beaten track, but serves good Chinese food and is often open very late - although Mr Ming has been known to chase away customers with a broom if he is locking up early!
indian
There are plenty of options for Indian in the town, again, most of these are located around Baddow Road towards the South of the Town Centre. TM2 is a good option, light, airy and with a good menu, expect to pay around £8-10 for a curry.
italian
Strada, part of the franchise, has recently opened in Baddow Road, menus are relatively predictable, but a good carbonara should set you back under £10. Pizza Express, also on Baddow Road offeres a fine seletion of italian style pizza and pasta at good prices and far better quality than the nearby Pizza Hut. Expect to pay about £12 for a meal.
pub lunch
Most of the pubs and bars in the town offer some sort of food menu. The pick for quality is Baroosh, located on the high street where food is excellently prepared and presented, expect to pay around £12 for a burger and chips. The best for location is the Riverside Inn, located off Victoria Road next to Riverside Leasure Centre, were its waterside location makes for excellent outdoor dining in splendid gardens.
chinese
The best restaurant is the Empire on Springfield Road, meals are rarely under £30 a head but the quality is worth it. Nearly all the other Chinese offerings are 'all you can eat' and the quality, and clientele are reflected by the £10 asking price. Be prepared to be asked for ID also, however old you claim to be!