Restaurants in Epsom: A Guide to Eating Out in Surrey's Best-Kept Secret

# Restaurants in Epsom: A Guide to Eating Out in Surrey's Best-Kept Secret

Epsom's reputation rests largely on The Derby horse race and its sprawling chalk downlands, but locals know the town harbours a surprisingly strong restaurant scene. Whether you're a commuter with an evening to spare, a visitor exploring Surrey, or simply searching for somewhere good to eat nearby, restaurants in Epsom offer genuine variety across cuisines, price points, and atmospheres — from casual family-friendly spots to destination dining that draws diners from across South London and beyond.

This guide covers the main eating options across the town, where to head for different cuisines, and practical tips on timing and location.

!Epsom High Street viewed from the Clock Tower — pedestrianised town centre

Photo: Hugh Craddock / Geograph CC BY-SA 2.0

Indian Restaurants: A Real Strength

Indian dining is arguably the strongest suit among restaurants in Epsom. Dastaan on Kingston Road is the standout name — it holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand award, a recognition reserved for restaurants offering exceptional food at moderate prices. Expect carefully crafted curries, quality ingredients, and attentive service in a warm, welcoming setting. It's popular and booking ahead is wise, especially at weekends.

Yaadein, located at Stoneleigh Broadway (a short walk from Stoneleigh railway station), is another excellent option. It has built a loyal local following for its authentic Indian cooking and friendly atmosphere. Both venues represent good value and deliver food that justifies their reputations.

For more detailed recommendations, see our guide to the best Indian restaurants in Epsom.

Chinese and East Asian Dining

Beijing Palace and Mei House are the established names for Chinese food in Epsom town centre — both offer reliable Cantonese and broader Chinese menu options. These are solid, familiar choices if you're after familiar comfort food, and both accommodate deliveries and takeaways alongside dine-in service.

Everest Spice near Epsom Station serves Nepalese and Indian cuisine, expanding the Asian options available. It's convenient if you're catching a train and hungry, or a deliberate destination if you want to explore Nepalese food.

Our guide to the best Chinese takeaways in Epsom provides more detail on options for ordering in.

Gastropubs and Classic British Fare

The Rifleman on East Street and The Jolly Coopers on Horton Lane both serve good-quality gastropub food — the kind of place where you can grab a beer and proper, uncomplicated eating. Both are popular with locals and offer a more casual, convivial atmosphere than formal restaurants. These venues work well for weekday lunches, early dinners, or informal group gatherings.

The Derby Arms, located near Epsom Downs Racecourse, is worth a mention if you're exploring the downlands — it combines pub food with the appeal of the surrounding landscape.

Italian and International Chains

For Italian dining, Pizza Express and Café Rouge provide reliable, accessible options in the town centre. They're not fine dining, but they're consistent and good for families or informal occasions. Both suit quick meals or relaxed evenings without fuss.

Where to Find Restaurants in Epsom

Most of Epsom's restaurants cluster in or near the town centre. The Upper High Street (pedestrianised and home to the historic Clock Tower) hosts several dining venues and is the natural heart of eating-out activity. Nearby, roads leading toward Epsom Station concentrate further options — convenient if you're arriving by train. Stoneleigh Broadway, around Stoneleigh railway station, is a secondary dining hub with its own established venues like Yaadein.

For a more exhaustive list and ratings, browse our comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Epsom.

Price Ranges and Value

Epsom restaurants span the spectrum. Indian venues like Dastaan and Yaadein offer excellent value, typically £12–18 per main course with the quality justifying the price. Gastropubs are similarly reasonable — expect £8–16 for mains. Chinese takeaways run budget-friendly. Chains like Pizza Express and Café Rouge sit mid-range, £10–15 per head depending on what you order. None of Epsom's restaurants are designed to empty your wallet, and most represent good local value compared to central London equivalents.

Practical Timing Tips

Saturday nights can be busy, particularly around 7–8pm, so book ahead if you're planning a special occasion or larger party. Weekday lunches and early weekday dinners tend to be quieter and more relaxed. Wednesday and Saturday see the outdoor market on the High Street (mornings and early afternoons), which can affect parking and street-level foot traffic, though it needn't deter you.

Most venues are open for dinner from around 5.30pm or 6pm, with last orders typically around 10pm or 10.30pm on weekdays, slightly later at weekends. Many offer both dine-in and takeaway; phone ahead if you're unsure.

Getting There

If you're using public transport, Epsom Station (served by South Western Railway to Waterloo and Southern to Victoria) places you within walking distance of most town-centre restaurants. Stoneleigh Station offers similar access to venues around Stoneleigh Broadway. If driving, the Ashley Centre multi-storey car park and street parking around the High Street are the main options — arrive early on busy nights.

Summary

Epsom offers far more culinary choice than many assume. From Michelin-recognised Indian cooking to honest gastropub fare and reliable international options, the town rewards exploration. The scene is unshowy and unpretentious — which is rather the point. Book a table at Dastaan or Yaadein if you want something special; drop into The Rifleman or The Jolly Coopers for casual eating; or grab reliable Chinese if you simply want a straightforward meal. Most importantly, restaurants in Epsom are accessible, welcoming, and genuinely worth your time.