The Garden Coffee Shop & Diner - Upminster

Sunil C.

29 April 2025
Arrived at the non tarmacked carpark in good time for our 14:00 lunch booking.

Went to this venue as a Party of 17+ with prior reservations. My apologies to Poppy for not reconfirming the booking the day before, an oversight.

On arrival, we we were ushered to the 4 reserved tables at the far end of the cafe.

The service was prompt and efficient.

The group were very happy with their offerings and seemed to enjoy it.

I personally ordered the Fish Goujons dish with well done chips, latte with a mocha twist, hot water with lemon and mixed berries crumble with trimmings.

I was served by Poppy, who first bought my hot Latte with a touch of Mocha along with hot water and 2 slices of Lemon.

This was followed by my main course, the Fish Goujons, chips, tiny amount of creamy coleslaw and some salad.
The fish was very tasty and tender and the breadcrumb coating crisp, the chips however were on the softer side and not crispy as requested. My dish was not served with lemon/lime wedge to squeeze over the fish, hopefully next time.

The mixed Berry crumble was EXCELLENT indeed and I was the person lucky enough to get the last piece of it. The attached picture says it all and shows it off in all its glory, compliments to the chef.

Overall, it was an enjoyable outing, overlooking the Damyns Hall Airfield, with the occasional sights and sounds of light aircraft flying up and down.

I will advise **EXTREME CAUTION" when you exit the CAR PARK.
The exit is on the bend of the road and the oncoming speeding traffic from the right makes it uncomfortablly treacherous to join that road. It needs a dramatic reduction in speed with road signs to enforce it.

Thank you Poppy, family and your colleagues for a pleasant lunch outing. The VE day decorations added a nice touch of history👍

Maz H. M.

The Garden Coffee Shop & Diner is a delightful find — cozy, welcoming, and full of charm. From the moment I walked in, the friendly staff made me feel right at home. The menu has something for everyone, whether you're after a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or just a great cup of coffee.

I had the smoked haddock, and it was cooked to perfection — fresh, tasty, and beautifully presented. The portions are generous and the prices are very reasonable.

What really sets this place apart is the atmosphere — it’s relaxed and inviting, with a real community feel. You can tell it’s run with care and love. I’ll definitely be back soon. Highly recommend!

Caroline B.

We were recommended to this place by a friend. I can honestly say, I was so pleased we visited and can't wait to go again.
Although only my son ate here (I'd already eaten unfortunately), the plates of food coming out looked very tempting. I think this will be a regular occasion for us, only next time I shall save my appetite and have a fry up!.
The place is clean inside, although we chose to dine outside. Food was cooked promptly, no messing about and it was piping hot too.
The aeroplanes were doing some practise runs overhead, which was fascinating to watch. My son really enjoyed that aspect.
There was a pumpkin patch for Halloween, so we had a look round that and took some photographs.
We had a lovely couple of hours here and brought our dog too (well behaved dogs on leads are permitted).
I wished we'd found this place ages ago, it's a real delight and I can't wait to come again. Fab!.

HEATHER G.

A great place to come! Food is delicious, cooked exactly how you ask for it. Nothing is too much trouble.
Lovely family run diner with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Great attention to detail, everybody is catered for, children and dogs too!
Surroundings are beautiful, a great place to sit and watch aeroplanes.
Highly recommended.

Shanice C.

Absolutely love coming down the diner my daughter loves playing outside the food well it speaks for itself cannot beat a family run business the atmosphere is always fun and welcoming 💕

E

A lovely hidden cafe. Lovely staff and relaxing vibes in a beautiful location.

gooner B.

Drove past on main road many many times. Knew airfield was here but not the cafe. Met the 'other' grandparents with young grandson here this sunday morning 4 brekky & was very impressed. The ladies had mushrooms on toast & a bacon sarky while both us fellas had a full English (#2) grandson had beans on toast. Grub was gorgeous & plentiful. Staff were fantastic & we WILL be back. Did I mention we sat outside watching a couple of light aircraft taking off & landing ? Fortunately the weather was kind as well. See ya soon.

Stewart B.

I visited for the first time today and am so glad I did !
Brilliant venue, great food and lovely people.
To be able to sit outside with the best bacon sandwich and watch aircraft take off and land was a real treat.
I will certainly return and would recommend this marvellous place.