Date of visit: 15th August 2026
Score: 8/10

I needed to prepare for a party where there would be plenty of drink. Also I knew I’d have to do all the grilling on the BBQ. So I took an hour away from the preparations and went to my local pie and mash shop. Hidden inside Chestnut Farm Garden Centre in South Ockendon, Chestnut Pie and Mash serves not just the obvious but also breakfasts. Notably though, they don’t serve eels. I’ve had one abortive visit to the place in early August. I eat pie and mash, but my girlfriend prefers the eels, so unfortunately we were not able to eat there.

Pie and Mash

Anyway, I rolled up at 1045 on a Saturday morning on my own. The garden centre was not busy and it was nice to get away from it all. I ordered a double double as usual. It cost £13. This makes it the most expensive pie and mash shop I’ve been to since records began.

The pies are from Maureen’s and they display this on the menu. Despite the lack of authenticity, they nurture the pies well and you would not know that they were not baked on site. Maureen’s did well in my review process, so it’s no surprise.

The staff are very friendly and came over twice to see if my food was okay. They offered me more liquor as well. The serving of mash was huge and with the heat of the day, I couldn’t finish it. This is the first time I’ve been beaten at a pie and mash shop. Each table had chilli vinegar in a huge Jack Daniel’s bottle and it had a kick. It complemented the pies well.

So all in all, a good pie and mash shop. I would say that £13 is a bit expensive, so that’s a point off. And unfortunately I have to knock another point off for authenticity. So they get a solid 8 out of 10. Don’t miss it if you are in the area, but make sure you save up your pennies first.

Chestnut Pie & Mash
Address: Chestnut Farm Garden Centre, South Road, South Ockendon, RM15 6DT
Tel: 01708 670023
Web: Facebook
Hours: 0900-1600 Tue-Sat
Cards accepted.