Friendly sandwich bar in small Essex town is best cheap-eat

And after a recent visit, it’s easy to understand why this family-run spot continues to attract a loyal crowd.

Even earlier in the day, I was surprised to find a steady stream of customers, many of them regulars eagerly waiting to collect their orders. It’s the kind of place where people know exactly what they want, and the staff seem to know it too.

Crispins prides itself on freshness, and it shows.

All breads — from soft brown slices to crusty French sticks and huffers — are locally baked and delivered every morning.

All fillings are home-made (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

Nearly all sandwich fillings are made in their own kitchen daily, with staff chopping, slicing, and mixing from the crack of dawn. Their commitment to local suppliers and handmade produce sets them apart from the grab-and-go options that dominate many high streets.

The menu is impressively extensive, which made choosing a challenge.

The menu is extensive (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

Paninis, bagels, jacket potatoes, cooked breakfasts, hot autumn-winter dishes, and a long list of sandwiches mean there truly is something for everyone.

I eventually settled on a prawn cocktail and avocado sandwich on brown bread.

My meal- delicious (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

It arrived beautifully fresh — chilled prawns coated lightly in a creamy Marie Rose sauce, paired with smooth slices of ripe avocado, all tucked between soft, wholesome bread. The balance of flavours was spot-on.

And the freshness was immediately noticeable: crisp lettuce, perfectly seasoned filling, and nothing soggy or pre-packed about it.

To finish, I added a lemon and poppyseed muffin and an orange juice.

At £4.50 for the sandwich, £1.60 for the muffin, and £1.30 for the juice, it’s remarkably budget-friendly — especially considering the quality.

It’s the kind of value that makes grabbing breakfast before work or picking up a quick lunch not only convenient, but genuinely enjoyable.

What stood out most, beyond the food, was the warmth. Friendly smiles, attentive service, and a team that works quickly without ever seeming rushed create an atmosphere that keeps people coming back.

Crispins is already a much-loved Clacton spot — and now I know exactly why. For those who haven’t yet been, I highly recommend paying them a visit.