SAY what you like about Colchester, but there is no denying its wealth of brilliant cafés and restaurants - all of which dish-up culinary delights.

Whether you are looking to enjoy a light bite in a quaint cobbled street or a hearty meal at a traditional pub, the city centre has got you covered.

But where exactly are the best eateries in Colchester for a top lunch date? 

After posing the question to our readers, the Gazette was inundated with responses, each championing their favourite lunch spot. 

Timbers, in Trinity Street, seemed to generate quite a buzz.

As Jayne Hilsden proudly said: "If you want to support a local family business with lovely home cooked food you can’t beat Timbers." 

Gazette: Popular - North Hill Noodle Bar, in Colchester Popular - North Hill Noodle Bar, in Colchester (Image: Public)
Gazette: Pub - The Cricketers, in Spring Lane, Eight Ash Green, also got a shout-outPub - The Cricketers, in Spring Lane, Eight Ash Green, also got a shout-out (Image: Public)
Several others echoed her sentiment, although another popular pick was the North Hill Noodle Bar, mentioned by both Chris Ransom and Hayley Roy.

Elsewhere,  The Cricketers, in Spring Lane, Eight Ash Green, also got a shout-out, with the likes of Julie Cook pointing out it is also dog friendly.

The Purple Dog, in Eld Lane, was also given a thumbs up, with top fan David Thwaites stating if offers "great food and a very nice pint".

Another punter, Ian Fletcher, also recommended it as a great lunch spot.

Patch, in Trinity Street, was also brought up a number of times, loved for its evidently good home-cooked vegetarian offerings.

Steve Mann noted it's a "good choice if you like good home cooked veggie food".

Gazette: Traditional - The Purple Dog, in Eld Lane, Colchester Traditional - The Purple Dog, in Eld Lane, Colchester (Image: Public)
Gazette: Proud - Patch owners Jordan Sidwell and Jenna Saiz Abo HenriksenProud - Patch owners Jordan Sidwell and Jenna Saiz Abo Henriksen (Image: Public)
Other venues which proved popular include ramen restaurant Hsining and Roxi Bistro, in the High Street, which, according to Kate Williams, is currently her "go-to", offering "amazing food and very reasonable prices."

If nothing else, the plethora of suggests reflects the rich culinary diversity and dining options available in Colchester, showing residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to lunch options.

What's your favourite lunch option? Comment below.