La Petite Petanque: A Charming French Bistro in Southend-on-Sea
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
La Petite Petanque is a quaint French restaurant located in Cambridge Square Gardens, Southend-on-Sea. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and varied menu, it offers a delightful dining experience with views over the bowling green. Open mostly during the day with extended hours on Fridays, it serves breakfast, lunch, and casual French fare, making it a local favorite for both casual meals and special occasions.
A brief summary to La Petite Petanque
- Cambridge Square Gardens, The Bowling Green Pavilion, Cambridge Road, Clifftown, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1EY, GB
- +441702353208
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-10 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Fridays for extended evening hours and a leisurely dinner experience.
- Try the cauliflower cheese side, a popular and highly praised dish.
- Enjoy the views of the bowling green from the conservatory seating area.
- Book ahead, especially on weekends, to secure a table in this popular spot.
- Ideal for breakfast or afternoon tea with a variety of sandwiches and cakes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
La Petite Petanque location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about La Petite Petanque
A Delightful French Culinary Experience in Southend-on-Sea
La Petite Petanque is a charming French bistro situated within the picturesque Cambridge Square Gardens, overlooking a traditional bowling green. This setting provides a tranquil and inviting backdrop for diners seeking authentic French cuisine in a relaxed environment. The restaurant’s location in the Bowling Green Pavilion adds a quaint, community-centered feel, blending natural greenery with a touch of French flair.Menu Variety and Dining Atmosphere
The menu at La Petite Petanque is noted for its variety, featuring classic French dishes alongside breakfast options. Guests can enjoy everything from hearty breakfasts to light lunches and afternoon teas. The food is praised for its quality and flavor, with particular highlights including cauliflower cheese and well-crafted sandwiches. The atmosphere is casual yet refined, making it suitable for both family meals and more intimate dining experiences.Operating Hours and Service
The restaurant operates daily with morning openings from 9:00 or 9:30 am, closing early in the evening except on Fridays when it stays open until 10 pm. This schedule caters well to daytime visitors and those seeking a relaxed evening meal. The staff are generally regarded as warm and attentive, contributing to a welcoming ambiance, though some past feedback has noted occasional service delays during busy periods.Setting and Ambience
Set within a garden pavilion, La Petite Petanque offers diners scenic views of the adjacent bowling green, enhancing the dining experience with a sense of openness and calm. The interior is cozy and inviting, with a conservatory area that allows natural light to flood in. This combination of indoor comfort and outdoor scenery creates a peaceful yet lively environment.Community and Cultural Significance
La Petite Petanque has established itself as a community hub in Southend-on-Sea, attracting locals and visitors alike. Its French theme adds cultural diversity to the area’s dining scene, while its location within a public garden space encourages a connection with the local environment and recreational activities.Practical Information for Visitors
The restaurant is moderately priced, offering good value for the quality and setting. It is well-suited for families, couples, and solo diners, with a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Amenities include seating areas with views and accessible facilities. Its position in a garden setting makes it a pleasant stop for those exploring Southend-on-Sea’s outdoor spaces.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
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Laindon War Memorial
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Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
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Barnards Miniature Railway
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Tilbury Fort
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Discover the historical significance of Tilbury Fort, a well-preserved fortress along the River Thames, showcasing Britain's military heritage.
Ingatestone Hall
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Experience the grandeur of Ingatestone Hall, a historic Tudor mansion offering a glimpse into England's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
27.0 km
Explore the historic St Mary Magdalene Church in Cobham, a serene landmark with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
Hylands House
27.1 km
Explore the historic Hylands House, a stunning landmark in Chelmsford, surrounded by lush gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for all visitors.
Falklands Island Monument
27.5 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
Chelmsford Cathedral
27.6 km
A serene 11th-century cathedral in the city centre offering free entry, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural events.
Mountnessing Windmill
27.9 km
Explore the unique charm of Mountnessing Windmill, a historic attraction offering captivating views and a glimpse into England's milling heritage.
Upside Down House – Lakeside
29.9 km
Discover the Upside Down House in Lakeside, a whimsical amusement park attraction that turns reality on its head for a fun-filled day of exploration and laughter.
Mersea Island Museum
30.1 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of Mersea Island at the captivating Mersea Island Museum, a hidden gem for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
30.1 km
Explore Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood, a nurturing haven for rescued animals and a must-visit for nature-loving tourists seeking compassion and education.
The Tiptree Jam Museum
30.3 km
Explore the delightful world of jam-making in Tiptree at the fascinating Tiptree Jam Museum, a sweet adventure for all visitors.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rocket01 street art mural
0.1 km
A vibrant, large-scale street art mural by Rocket01 that energizes Southend-on-Sea with bold colors and urban creativity.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.2 km
Historic marble statue of Queen Victoria overlooking Southend’s seafront, symbolizing Victorian heritage and seaside charm.
Pulp Kitchen
0.2 km
Cozy Southend bistro serving fresh, healthy dishes with vegan and gluten-free options in a friendly, jazzy atmosphere.
Cliff Lift
0.3 km
Ride Britain’s shortest historic funicular railway, a charming vintage lift linking Southend’s clifftop to its scenic seafront.
The Shrubbery
0.4 km
A historic cliffside garden in Southend-on-Sea blending Georgian charm with tranquil seaside greenery and scenic estuary views.
Never Never Land
0.4 km
Step into the enchanting fairy-tale world of Never Never Land, Southend’s magical seaside park filled with whimsical castles and timeless charm.
Focal Point Gallery
0.4 km
Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant contemporary art gallery offering free exhibitions, workshops, and outdoor digital art in a welcoming city-centre setting.
The Royals Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A vibrant shopping hub at Southend-on-Sea’s High Street southern end, blending retail variety with coastal charm and visitor-friendly amenities.
Southend Observation Tower
0.4 km
Historic Pier Hill lift offering stunning panoramic views over the Thames Estuary in Southend-on-Sea.
Talking post
0.4 km
Discover tranquility at Talking Post Garden, a lush oasis in Westcliff-on-Sea, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
Southend Pier and Railway
0.5 km
Experience the world's longest pleasure pier, blending rich history, scenic railway rides, and vibrant seaside leisure in Southend-on-Sea.
Wayfinding Stone
0.5 km
A modern stone circle landmark at Southend’s High Street, blending local heritage with urban wayfinding and cultural connection.
Adventure Inside
0.5 km
A vibrant indoor playground and ride zone for children under 10, offering year-round fun and soft play at Southend’s Adventure Island.
Adventure Island
0.6 km
Southend’s vibrant beachfront amusement park offering free entry, thrilling rides, indoor fun, and family-friendly entertainment all year round.
Westcliff clifton parade
0.6 km
Tranquil garden promenade with sweeping estuary views, perfect for peaceful walks and coastal relaxation near Westcliff-on-Sea Station.
Essential places to dine
La Petite Petanque
0.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
The Mews
0.1 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
San Fairie Ann
0.2 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
Waves Restaurant
0.2 km
Modern European fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Luker Road.
Aurum Restaurant
0.2 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
Clarence Restaurant & Cafe
0.3 km
A cozy Southend-on-Sea cafe serving hearty breakfasts and classic British fare with friendly service and great value.
Tomassi's
0.3 km
A welcoming Southend-on-Sea eatery serving hearty meals, pizzas, and ice cream in a friendly, casual setting on the town’s High Street.
The Pipe of Port
0.3 km
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
The Royal Hotel
0.4 km
Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
The Sunflower Bistro
0.4 km
A welcoming, affordable bistro in Southend-on-Sea offering fresh British fare and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere perfect for any casual meal.
Il Pescatore
0.5 km
Experience authentic Sicilian seafood and Italian hospitality in the heart of Southend-on-Sea at Il Pescatore.
Molo Lounge
0.5 km
A vibrant, artsy lounge on Southend’s High Street offering extensive vegan and gluten-free menus in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
ASK Italian
0.5 km
Modern Italian dining near Southend seafront, blending classic flavors with community spirit and seasonal delights.
Brickhouse
0.5 km
A lively Southend-on-Sea hotspot serving up juicy burgers and smoky barbecue in a casual, welcoming setting with great value.
Great Tides Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
Modern European dining with stunning sea views and a vibrant bar atmosphere on Westcliff Parade, Westcliff-on-Sea.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Linked UK Clothing Limited
0.1 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
Santas Surprise Letter
0.2 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
By the Sea Vintage
0.2 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Books-on-Sea
0.2 km
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
Africa Crafts Centre
0.4 km
Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
That's Bizarre
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts, personalised keepsakes, and high-vibration crystals at That's Bizarre, Southend-on-Sea’s family-run alternative gift shop since 1971.
The Works
0.4 km
Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
Clinton Cards
0.5 km
A classic British card and gift shop on Southend’s High Street, offering thoughtful cards and gifts in a welcoming setting.
ideal gift shop
0.5 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea’s welcoming Ideal Gift Shop on London Road.
Victoria Shopping Centre
0.6 km
Modern shopping hub with 30+ stores, dining, and entertainment adjacent to Victoria Railway Station.
Teddy Station
0.6 km
Discover rare collectible teddy bears and join a warm community of enthusiasts at Southend’s Teddy Station, a haven for teddy bear lovers.
Southend Rock & Gifts
0.9 km
Discover charming seaside souvenirs and unique gifts at Southend Rock & Gifts, nestled on the vibrant Marine Parade.
The Rockery
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Rockery, a charming seaside shop on Southend’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Two Vintage
1.0 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Two Vintage, Southend-on-Sea’s curated clothing boutique.
No Potential
1.1 km
Independent art studio and vintage fashion shop blending creative practice with curated nostalgia.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Aloha Lounge
0.1 km
Experience a vibrant tropical oasis in Southend-on-Sea with exceptional cocktails, island-inspired cuisine, and warm, welcoming vibes at Aloha Lounge.
The Alex
0.1 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great vegan options, casual British fare, and a vibrant social scene.
View Bar
0.1 km
Friendly seaside bar with great views, well-priced drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere on Southend’s Clifftown Parade.
The Hush Bar
0.2 km
A lively and affordable bar in Southend-on-Sea with a welcoming vibe and vibrant music scene for all-night socializing.
SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
0.2 km
A lively Southend pub blending live jazz, weekend music, and sports screenings in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Infinity Showbar
0.2 km
A vibrant hub for karaoke, drag shows, and late-night parties in Southend-on-Sea’s lively Alexandra Street nightlife district.
Twelve Brunch & Cocktails
0.3 km
A lively hotspot in Southend-on-Sea where brunch delights meet expertly crafted cocktails in a trendy, vibrant setting.
The Last Post - JD Wetherspoon
0.3 km
Historic post office turned lively JD Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Southend-on-Sea, offering affordable dining, live sports, and comfortable stays.
The Cliff
0.3 km
A lively, inclusive LGBT+ pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great cocktails, karaoke nights, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The N & M Club
0.3 km
Historic social club on Southend’s cliff top offering live entertainment, real ales, great food, and stunning sea views in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Terrace Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar with lively entertainment and a spacious terrace near Southend’s iconic seafront.
The Dickens
0.3 km
Lively pub and nightclub in Southend-on-Sea offering karaoke, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all-night fun.
Legbas - Private Hire Speakeasy Bar
0.3 km
An exclusive, vintage-inspired speakeasy bar in Southend-on-Sea’s Royal Hotel basement, perfect for private celebrations and crafted cocktails.
SWITCH
0.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and games lounge in Southend-on-Sea blending creative drinks with interactive fun and social gaming.
Popworld Southend
0.5 km
Popworld Southend: Where nostalgic pop hits meet vibrant nightlife for unforgettable party experiences in Essex.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Foundation
0.3 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
0.3 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
0.5 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
MYST Club
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Just Vibez
0.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
The Moonraker Club
1.4 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
The Lounge Jazz Club
4.4 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Loft Basildon
17.9 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
27.1 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Club Tantalize
27.2 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Popworld - Chelmsford
27.2 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
30.7 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
35.7 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
41.2 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
41.5 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly