The Old Ship Inn, Heybridge Basin

We wondered why the cafe just round the corner was always busy and this pub was usually empty. Now we know. Stopped for breakfast today as the cafe was full. A beautiful mid morning, but no menu's outside. Had to check they were open and then ask for a menu. Not sure of the people were people were staff or owners; either way, I seemed to be interrupting them. They seemed not to want to serve. Eventually placed an order, but they could not alter the menu - we wanted toast instead of fried bread - simple? - no. Had to ask for a dog bowl to be filled with water. They put about an inch in - is water that expensive? Filled it properly on the toilet. Had to get our own cutlery and condiments. Coffee and tea were not to usual quality. A round of toast was 1 slice and 1 small butter - all very mean and no interest in customer satisfaction, which was a shame as the breakfast itself was good. Good chef; bad owners/staff. Will rather queue at the cafe or starve than eat here again.

4 Jul 2011 00:00