IN need of a filling, tasty meal while in Maldon’s High Street, I decide to pay a visit to Sark Restaurant and Cocktail Bar.

Although this is my first time dining at the eatery, I have heard plenty of positive things from others.

Reassuringly, the establishment secured a five-out-of-five hygiene rating in January, following an assessment by the Food Standards Agency.

There are a number of people already seated when I arrive and everyone seems to be having a good time.

Before entering the premises, I browse the tempting menu in the window.

There are kebabs and grills, Sark 'signature' dishes such as 'Chicken Juliet' and 'Ocean Delight', and sharing platters.

There are about a dozen house 'specials' such as kleftiko shank of lamb and aubergine guvec.

For the less adventurous there are homemade burgers, and vegetarians are well catered for with musakka and stuffed aubergine among the meat-free dishes.

Those wanting to try a classic dish have options such lamb cutlets, barbecue ribs and barbecue chicken wings to choose from.

If seafood is the preference, swordfish, Dover sole, seabass, salmon, tiger prawns and calamari are among the plentiful offerings.

I opt for the lamb shish, which is served with rice and a tasty salad on the side.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Menu - Sark Restaurant and Cocktail BarMenu - Sark Restaurant and Cocktail Bar (Image: Newsquest)

Before my main order arrives, I am provided with some dips and bread to enjoy while I wait.

After making light work of this and a short wait, the main event is brought to my table.

The dish ticks many of the boxes it needs to, in my opinion.

The lamb is well-cooked and well-seasoned, while I also enjoy the combination of the lamb and rice together.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Dinner - Lamb Shish, Rice and SaladDinner - Lamb Shish, Rice and Salad (Image: Newsquest)

The helpful staff are friendly and efficient throughout.

Overall, I very much enjoyed my first visit to Sark Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, and look forward to returning in the future.