North Devon is known for its dramatic coastline, award winning beaches, surfing scene and stunning moors yet not many would think to visit the area for its haute cuisine. You’ll be nicely surprised to find that there are quite a few culinary gems from beach café’s to dog-friendly pubs and Michelin star restaurants. Whether you fancy a laid back curry on the beach or fine-dining, there’s plenty to tantalize your taste buds.
Here is part one of Tantalise your Taste Buds with 5 unmissable eating spots in North Devon to put on your foodie wish list.
Best of all - they are only a short drive from HARTA retreat !
Great For: Traditional Sunday Roast, Dog-Friendly
Set in the picturesque village of East Down on the outskirts of Exmoor National Park this award winning pub is a popular foodie venue. Owned by the lovely couple Ellis and Amie Pannell this former village post office has been transformed into a gastropub with traditional pub décor, dark beams and wood burner. It offers everything from a Sunday roast to specialty fish alongside a seasonal menu with an emphasis on locally sourced produce. Deliciousness on a plate for everyone. And, what’s more your four-legged friend is more than welcome to tag along.
Great For: Romantic Dinner
A small, intimate glass-fronted restaurant a short stroll from the picturesque harbor of Ilfracombe. The food here is simply delicious – a well thought out menu using locally sourced ingredients packed with flavor and at a very reasonable price. It is no wonder that this modern British restaurant has received the Bib Gourmand by Michelin.
Great For: Laid Back Sunset Suppers
A firm favourite with the locals this little café is well-known for their scrumptious Sri Lankan curry. Curries are served everyday (as long as it isn’t raining!) from 5-7pm (or until it’s gone – which is often pretty quick). No bookings so just turn up … Bring a bottle of wine, blanket or deck chair and enjoy a delicious sunset meal on this magical pebble beach.
Great For: Sharing, Cocktails
This former Victorian tearoom and cakeshop has been transformed into a buzzing Mediterranean restaurant - think terracotta and wooden tables scattered around various alcoves and a pretty alfresco terrace where you can enjoy pre-dinner cocktails. Offering a fantastic range of freshly cooked authentic Spanish tapas you will certainly not be disappointed. Savour their delicious Iberico Bellota meats and award winning cheeses with a good glass (or two) of Rioja and you will be transported to Spain.
Great For: Gourmet British Cuisine, Special Occasions
Tucked away in the center of the medieval town of Barnstaple this fine-dining restaurant is situated in a beautiful stone building with quaint leaded windows. The unobtrusive entrance opens up to a cosy bar with a spiral staircase leading to the impressive dining room with timber beams and high vaulted ceiling. Having worked in various Michelin starred restaurants across the world, Robert Bryant combines high quality local ingredients with unique flavours. This restaurant is a little pricier than the others on this list, but his cooking is pretty special which makes it definitely worth a visit.
