We’ve been waiting oh, so patiently for the re-opening of The Old Lyme Inn, so we raced over on opening day, and were delighted to stroll in to a crisp and sunny version of its former, frayed self. White walls trimmed in a classic New England mucky green sport museum-quality, gilt-framed Impressionist landscapes (on loan from Cooley Gallery), the dingy carpeting has been tossed for reclaimed oak floorboards and the ragged upholstery on the original comfy chairs has been replaced with a modern abstract leaf print.

In a word, it’s fresh. And everyone will feel at home, from Old Lymees who’ve dined at The Inn every Sunday for years, to weekenders traipsing in from the city. And thankfully, there are no surprises. The menu is well-executed comfort food: a perfect Ceasar, lovely English pea soup, Four Mile River cheeseburger with the skinniest of frites and everything tastes good without trying too hard.

For those of us who live here, we’re thrilled to have a go-to for a decent lunch (besides the delish lobster roll with homemade potato chips at Jessie’s Restaurant). A jazz club is in the works, guest rooms (country chic with marble-clad baths) will be ready for overnights in a month or so and all in all, we’re delighted to have The Old Lyme Inn back! Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday.

Tags: Old Lyme, Inn, New England traditional, Re-opening, Lunch, Dinner