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Sands By The Sea

Sands By The Sea, Icon Building, Western Esplanade, Southend-On-Sea

3.8
RESTAURANT RATING: 
GOOD
3.8 out of 5 (436 Ratings)
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0.4 miles Cliffs Pavilion Southend
About Sands By The Sea
The Spotlight on Sands By The Sea

Relaxed British Dining with a Seaside View

Located right on the seafront in Southend-On-Sea, Sands By The Sea delivers classic British fare in a light, airy setting with panoramic views of the Thames Estuary. Whether you're gearing up for a big concert night or winding down post-show, the restaurant offers a calm, coastal vibe with friendly service and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

The interior is modern yet laid-back, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Expect a casual atmosphere that's great for both quick bites and leisurely meals. The menu leans into British favorites—think fish and chips, hearty pies, and Sunday roasts—with vegetarian options and seasonal specials.

Why Concert-goers love it

Just minutes from Southend’s main entertainment venues, Sands By The Sea is a favorite for concert-goers looking for a convenient pre-show meal. Service is fast and friendly, making it easy to dine without feeling rushed. The restaurant’s relaxed vibe and scenic views offer a great way to kick off the evening, while its proximity to the action means you won’t miss a note.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a fun, social spot before the show
  • Solo travelers wanting a peaceful place to eat with a view
  • Couples planning a romantic night out by the sea
  • Fans seeking a relaxed, lively atmosphere before heading to a gig
  • Budget-conscious visitors who still want quality British food

What People Say

Reviews from TripAdvisor and OpenTable highlight the stunning sea views as a major draw, especially at sunset. Diners love the fresh seafood dishes, friendly staff, and relaxed ambiance. Many mention how convenient it is for a pre-event meal, with generous portion sizes and reasonable prices rounding out the experience. The outdoor seating area is a bonus on warmer days.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests have noted that it can get busy during peak times, especially on weekends and event nights—so booking ahead is a good idea. A few reviews mention that indoor noise levels can rise when the restaurant is full, but the space is still comfortable for conversation.

The Bottom Line

With its unbeatable location, comforting British menu, and sea views, Sands By The Sea is a top pick for concert-goers looking for a relaxed and enjoyable meal before the music starts.

Average Price
£25 and under
Cuisine
British
Opening Hours
Daily 12:00-17:00

Sands By The Sea Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Sands by the Sea is #578 of 818 things to do in Southend-on-Sea

2 of 5 stars2 out of 5
By: 1967Grant, London, United Kingdom
Sun 10 Aug, 2025
l Came in for lunch with the expectation of good fish and chips only to find that we had been served up chips cooked from rotten potatoes.

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: vixmar69, Sandy, United Kingdom
Sun 13 Jul, 2025
l Great food , great service . You must visit here . Perfect for fish and chips . Waitress was spot on . Prices are very good . Will go again

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1 of 5 stars1 out of 5
By: matthew d, Shoeburyness, United Kingdom
Thu 3 Jul, 2025
l Our 1st visit to Sands and what a dissatisfying experience. My daughter’s burger bun had mould growing on it!!! So I went to get a refund. My daughter was still hungry so we were going to keep the...

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Sands By The Sea Icon Building, Western Esplanade, Southend-On-Sea