About This Pub
Ah, The Fat Cat – it's one of those pubs that really knows how to pull a great pint and serve up some belting food, like their light and crispy pizzas or that Korean chicken burger that's become a bit of a legend. I've heard from folks that the atmosphere is spot on for a relaxed evening, with a cosy decor and a blackboard full of intriguing ales that make you want to try them all. The quiz nights sound like a laugh, adding that extra spark for a fun night out with pals. On the flip side, it's not always the easiest place for first-timers; some have mentioned feeling a bit overlooked when they walk in, especially with kids in tow, which is a shame because once you're settled, the staff do pull through with that friendly touch. Overall, it's a solid choice for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike, but if you're after a super welcoming spot straight off the bat, you might want to go in with a group or pop by when it's quieter. It's all about giving it a fair go – the good bits definitely outweigh the niggles for me.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The beer selection is absolutely spot on – they've got a fantastic range of real ales from local breweries and beyond, perfect for anyone who loves a good pint.
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The food is a real treat; their pizzas and burgers are delicious, with fresh flavours that make it worth the visit, especially if you're popping in for a Sunday roast.
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It's got such a cosy and welcoming vibe inside, with a friendly atmosphere that's ideal for settling in with mates or enjoying a quiet drink by the fire.
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They host fun events like quiz nights, which add a bit of excitement and make it a lively spot to catch up with friends or even join in if you're feeling sociable.
Cons
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It can sometimes feel a bit cliquey, especially if you're new or visiting with family, as not everyone gets a warm greeting right away, which might put some off.
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There might be a wait for food or service, so if you're in a rush, it could be frustrating even though the end result is usually worth it.
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The pub isn't the largest, so on busier evenings, it might feel a tad cramped, and finding a spot or getting attention from staff can take a moment.
Contact Information
65 Butt Rd, Colchester CO3 3BZ
+441206577990
Pub
Opens at 15:00
Opening Hours
Monday (Today) | 15:00 - 22:30 |
Tuesday | 15:00 - 23:00 |
Wednesday | 15:00 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 15:00 - 23:00 |
Friday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Saturday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
Lovely ambiance and cozy decor. I had the margherita pizza—it was light, crispy, and flavorful. A bit of a wait, but worth it once the food arrived.
Cracking little pub. Their pizzas are beyond par. Lovely vibes and great beer selection. Quiz on a Sunday night is quality - competitive but fun.
Very clicky place did not feel welcome when came for dinner on Sunday with my family and 2 children no one greeted us as we entered everyone just stared had to walk around to find staff to say we had made a bookings and where do we go to dine. it’s a shame because the food was a decent price and half nice but there was only one staff member young girl that was lovely kept a smile on her face the whole time with lovely manners there’s no drinks menu or condiments on the table.which I was later told they do not have a drinks menu which lead to a long conversation of back and forth what drinks they do don’t have . Had to constantly ask for stuff that should of been provided prior to sitting down, my beef was abit tough so I asked for a steak knife and was just told no we don’t have them, was told you get 3 scoops of ice cream with a child’s desert but was only given one scoop was no brownies for dessert only apple crumble or the kids one vanilla ice cream would maybe get the food to takeaway but would not dine here again as I said was only one young girl who was a polite member of staff felt like if they didn’t already no you wasn’t welcome
I have been coming to The Fat Cat for many years now and it's a firm favourite for a guaranteed good time. Whether it's for a moment to yourself, glass of wine in hand sitting near the fire or at the bar, or with a group of your friends. The selection of beers, gins and others delightful drinks are great and some you won't get anywhere else in Colchester. The staff are always ready to service and love a good chat. Food wise...wow Mats Kitchen never disappoints. Seriously mouth watering culinary magic on a plate. It's ever changing during the weeks and the Sunday roast...in my opinion the best in Colchester (you have to be quick though, as it get booked up very quickly).
My first time at the Fat Cat, and it was nice - loads of options for drinks, and if you go at the right time they do food as well. The place isn't massive, but they have a very small outside area and also a small open area upstairs. I had the Korean Chicken Burger with my pint, and it was delicious. I noted that they also had a kids meal option (I hadn't thought of bringing my kids here - but now I know I might do!) Will be coming here again next time I pop to town!
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