Best Child-Friendly Places to Eat on Mersea Island

Mersea Island in Essex is famous for its fresh seafood, sandy beaches and laid-back coastal charm – but did you know it’s also packed with fantastic child-friendly places to eat? Whether you’re planning a family day out by the sea or a weekend escape, finding somewhere welcoming for little ones can make all the difference. From cafés with play areas and hearty pub lunches to seaside spots serving up fish and chips with a view, Mersea Island has plenty of options to keep both kids and parents happy.

In this guide, we’ll share the best family-friendly restaurants and cafés on Mersea Island, making mealtimes easy, relaxed and delicious for everyone.

Popular Spots on the High Street & Seafront

West Mersea Oyster Bar

Don’t be fooled by the name — while it’s best known for oysters, this seaside restaurant has plenty to please children too. With generous plates of fish and chips, scampi, calamari, and burgers, it’s a hit with families. Its waterfront setting means kids can run around while you enjoy estuary views.

The Company Shed

A Mersea institution, this no-frills seafood hut is famous for its crab, prawns, smoked fish, and of course, oysters. You bring your own bread, wine, and cutlery, and they’ll pile the table high with fresh seafood. While best for older children or adventurous eaters, families are always welcome.

The Coast Inn

Right on the waterfront, The Coast Inn offers hearty pub meals, seafood dishes, and pizzas alongside a kids’ menu. There’s a warm, relaxed atmosphere indoors and estuary views outside — ideal for a casual family lunch or dinner.

The Victory at Mersea

This traditional pub is a favourite for its family-friendly beer garden with a children’s play area. The menu has something for everyone, from pub classics to lighter bites. A great option if you want to relax while the little ones are entertained.

Mersea Island Fish Bar (High Street)

When only fish and chips will do, this High Street takeaway delivers. Serving generous portions of fish, chips, burgers, and pies, it’s quick, affordable, and ideal for eating on the beach.

Waterfront Pizza (Coast Road)

Sometimes you just need a pizza night, and Waterfront Pizza has you covered. With a simple, family-friendly menu, it’s a fuss-free option that kids will love.

Mersea Island Bakery & Café (Barfield Road)

This cheerful bakery café is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch. Kids love the toasties, pastries, and cakes, while parents can enjoy decent coffee in a relaxed setting.

The Two Sugars Café

Set inside a quirky WWII pillbox, this seafront café is a slice of Mersea history. Serving home-cooked meals, afternoon teas, and ice creams, it’s a fun, casual stop that kids and adults will both enjoy.

Hidden Gems Away From the Beach

Mersea Barns (East Mersea)

A rustic barn café and farm shop serving breakfasts, lunches, cakes, and Sunday roasts. With plenty of space inside and out, plus a lovely shop stocked with local produce, it’s a great option for families looking for a quieter setting.

The Dog & Pheasant (East Mersea)

A traditional country pub with a large garden and roaring fires in winter, The Dog & Pheasant is perfect after a coastal walk. Expect hearty pub meals in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Lake House Café (East Mersea)

Located near the boating lake, this small café offers light lunches, teas, and coffee with peaceful views. Ideal for a simple bite away from the crowds.

The Fox Inn (West Mersea, East Road)

Tucked off the High Street, this cosy pub offers breakfast, lunch, and classic dinners. With a spacious beer garden, it’s perfect for families wanting somewhere quieter than the seafront.

The Granary Bar & Restaurant (Waldegraves Holiday Park)

You don’t have to be a guest to eat here. The Granary serves breakfasts, pub classics, and dinners, with a dedicated children’s menu. A great low-key option for families, especially if you’re staying nearby.

Unique Fish Bar (Church Road, West Mersea)

A fun, off-beach takeaway serving fish, chips, kebabs, and even curry pancake rolls. It’s friendly, affordable, and a good alternative to the busier High Street chippies.

From seafront pubs and seafood shacks to country barns and hidden pubs, Mersea Island has more family-friendly food spots than you might expect. Whether you’re grabbing fish and chips to eat on the beach, treating the kids to pizza, or sitting down for a Sunday roast in a rustic barn, there’s something to suit every appetite.

If you’re planning a visit, why not pair your meal with a walk along the pastel beach huts, a stop at the alpaca farm, or a cosy night in one of the island’s caravan parks? Mersea isn’t just about oysters — it’s about simple, good food that welcomes the whole family.

Planning a longer trip? Read my 48 Hours on Mersea Island Weekend Guide for ideas on where to stay and what to do if you’ve got more time