Cross the causeway to an island renowned for its seafood and tuck into some of its best at this 'lovely dog friendly foodie retreat', left empty and derelict from 2013 until Piers Baker (see The Sun Inn, Dedham), stepped in to revamp it in 2021. Reopened in June 2022, it's in the village, with distant sea views from some rooms. While it's 'still a locals' local', our inspector says that it 'feels less like a pub than a modern restaurant, with parquet floor, wooden tables and chairs, colourful banquettes'. Readers agree that 'the food is fantastic', with 'yummy sausage rolls' and other meat dishes alongside 'delicious Mersea oysters; mussels with white wine and garlic are also a must'. The long wine list rates 'special mention', with 'a huge amount of choice by the glass (including a crisp white from Colchester) at very reasonable prices'. Six 'contemporary cool' bedrooms, 'some in jaunty colours', have modern bathrooms, enormous walk-in showers and Bramley products. 'The photos on the internet don't do them justice.' A reader was pleased with his room, which 'though small was perfectly adequate'. 'There are great walks within minutes of the inn.' (David Haigh, and others)