Hello from the restaurant team at Hilltop Garden Centre! As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp morning autumn air rolls in, we’re thrilled to welcome you to our restaurant, Floral Days. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and stunning countryside views, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal after browsing Hilltop Garden Centre.
This month, we’ve got some exciting specials on the menu that are sure to delight your taste buds. David, our French in-house chef who brings a touch of authentic culinary flair to every dish, has created this month's specials using fresh, local ingredients and his own secret recipes. So, whether you’re looking for a hearty meal, a sweet treat, or a refreshing drink, Floral Days Restaurant at Hilltop Garden Centre has something special for you this September. Let’s dive into what’s cooking!
Mains: Pork Filet Mignon with Dauphinois Potatoes & Butternut Squash Puree - £14.49
If you’re in the mood for something hearty and satisfying, our Pork Filet Mignon is a must-try. This dish is all about comfort and indulgence. The pork fillet is tender and juicy, cooked to perfection by our chef. It’s served alongside creamy Dauphinois Potatoes, which are rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. To balance the richness, we’ve added a smooth and slightly sweet Butternut Squash Puree that complements the pork beautifully.
What makes this dish extra special is our commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. Our chef takes great pride in sourcing the best produce from nearby farms, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavour.
Dessert: Homemade Warm Apple Tart Tatin with Lakenham French Vanilla Ice Cream - £5.99
No meal is complete without a little something sweet, and our Homemade Warm Apple Tart Tatin is the perfect way to end your dining experience. This classic French dessert is a favourite of our chef’s, and he’s added his own twist to it. The apples are caramelised to golden perfection, and the pastry is light, flaky, and buttery. When served warm, it’s the ultimate comfort dessert.
We've paired this delightful tart with a scoop of Lakenham French Vanilla Ice Cream, which adds a creamy, velvety contrast to the tartness of the apples. It’s a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting — just like a cosy autumn afternoon.
Light bites: Fish Finger Sandwich with Chips - £7.99
For those looking for something on the lighter side, our Fish Finger Sandwich with Chips is the ideal choice. This isn’t your average fish finger sandwich — our chef uses fresh fish that's lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp. The chunky fish fingers are nestled in soft buttered bread and served with a side of crispy chips.
This dish is perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch, especially after a morning of exploring the garden centre. It’s also a hit with kids, making it a great option for families dining with us. Plus, the portion is generous enough to keep you going through the rest of the day.
Cakes and Drinks
Sometimes, all you need is a little pick-me-up, and we’ve got just the thing with our Paradise Slice, Mint Choc Chip Milkshake, and Breckland Orchard Ginger Beer with Chilli Posh Pop.
Our Paradise Slice is a sweet treat that combines layers of chocolate, coconut, and a crunchy biscuit base. It’s indulgent and satisfying, perfect with a cup of tea or coffee as you relax and enjoy the view - just £3.99.
If you’re in the mood for something cool and refreshing, our Mint Choc Chip Milkshake is for you. Frothed to perfection, flavoured with more than a hint of mint, and topped with cream and minty chocolate sauce, it’s a nostalgic treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent for only £4.45.
For something a little more adventurous, try our Breckland Orchard Ginger Beer with Chilli Posh Pop. This unique drink combines the zingy flavour of ginger beer with a subtle kick of chilli, making it a refreshing and invigorating choice. It’s a great way to spice up your meal and try something new for just £3.29.
New - Local Honey!
We're excited to introduce a new product in our restaurant: local honey from Glendenning Farm in Thorrington, just five miles away from our restaurant. This delicious and nutritious honey is made by locally rescued bees that would have otherwise been lost. By purchasing this honey, you're not only enjoying a delicious and naturally made treat but also helping to protect the local bee population, which is vital for pollination and our environment.
Eating local honey has numerous health benefits: it can help alleviate seasonal allergies, boost your immune system, and provide a natural source of energy. Plus, the rich flavour of this honey is perfect for sweetening your tea, drizzling on toast, or adding a special touch to your favourite dishes.
Stop by our restaurant to purchase a jar and enjoy the taste of locally made goodness while supporting a sustainable local business!
Hilltop's Garden Centre and Restaurant
We’re so proud of our recently refurbished restaurant, Floral Days! With huge windows that offer panoramic views of the countryside, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature. The décor is warm and welcoming, with a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere and comfortable seating that makes everyone feel right at home.
Our specials are just one part of what makes Floral Days so special. We’ve also got a fantastic regular menu, featuring everything from hearty breakfasts to light lunches and children's meals which is available every month. Whether you’re catching up with friends, taking time out with the family or enjoying a quiet meal, Floral Days restaurant offers the perfect setting.
Fresh Local Ingredients & Culinary Expertise
At Hilltop Garden Centre, we believe that great food starts with great ingredients. That’s why our French in-house chef uses only the freshest local produce in all of his dishes. From farm-fresh vegetables to locally sourced meats, you can taste the difference that quality ingredients make.
Our chef’s culinary expertise shines through in every dish, and he loves bringing a taste of France to Floral Days with his unique recipes. By using local ingredients and infusing them with French flair, he creates dishes that are both familiar and exciting. It’s all part of our commitment to offering you a dining experience that’s as special as the garden centre itself.
Reserve Your Table
If you’re ready to experience the delicious specials at Floral Days Restaurant this month, why not reserve a table? Simply speak to a member of our team when you visit, or email us at floraldays@hilltopweeley.co.uk. We’ll make sure you have a fantastic time and enjoy every moment of your visit. Great news - our Sunday roasts will be available every Sunday from 15th September, so book your table now!
Whether you're enjoying a day out at Hilltop Garden Centre Clacton, visiting our garden centre with a cafe, or exploring our range of plants and gardening essentials, don't forget to treat yourself to something delicious at Floral Days Restaurant. It's the perfect way to round off your visit to Hilltop Garden Centre Essex. We can’t wait to welcome you to Floral Days this September. See you soon!