Heading to the rolling hills and rugged coastline of North Devon for a weekend getaway? As a foodie you'll be pleased to know that culinary treasures await those with an adventurous palate. In our quest to tantalize your taste buds, we're back with part two of our gourmet guide to some of North Devon's finest and trendiest places to eat. From Michelin star dining to creative street food, each establishment offers a unique culinary adventure that complements the natural beauty of the region. So, embark on your gastronomic adventure and discover the flavors of North Devon. Your taste buds will thank you !
Great for: Michelin Recommended Fine Dining, Creative Cuisine
A truly hidden gem nestled in the coastal village of Woolacombe. Chef Noel Corston's creative approach to cuisine shines through in his innovative dishes, which feature locally sourced ingredients prepared with artistic flair. The set menu is created around the seasons and from what grows, swims and runs within the Unesco Biosphere Reserve. Describing each course passionately, Noel prepares mouthwatering dishes in front of you. Dining here is like embarking on a gastronomic adventure against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Watch the food magic happen before your eyes. One for the fine dining bucket list, but be sure to reserve as there are only 8 seats !
(Dinner reservations only Weds – Saturday)
Great for: Fine Dining, Dog Friendly
Venture into the heart of Knowstone, and you’ll discover the Masons Arms, a charming 13th century inn on the edge of Exmoor. The food is modern but the setting is certainly everything you would expect from a traditional pub - enter directly into the bar, an area with low ceilings and a roaring fire. Exuding rustic charm and a friendly atmosphere this restaurant is popular with both foodies and walker alike. And for those with four-legged friends it’s good to know the pub is dog-friendly. Gained a Michelin star within 6 months of opening and has held it ever since. Quirky painted ceiling (Sistine chapel comes to mind). Fine dining done friendly and laid back.
Great for: Cocktails, Urban Elegance
Bringing a touch of urban elegance to Barnstaple, Clayton’s and the Glasshouse is a contemporary snazzy cocktail bar – lounge – restaurant. Nestled in the heart of Barnstaple it offers a dynamic culinary experience. Clayton’s, the trendy cocktail bar – lounge sets the stage for relaxation. With its urban jungle décor, exposed brickwork, relaxing lounge chairs and quirky lighting, the lounge area invites you to unwind with a cheeky cocktail (or two!).
Upstairs you’ll discover the roof top restaurant, The Glasshouse, which as the name suggests, has a glass roof making it light and airy. There’s also a rooftop Terrace ideal for al-fresco dining and sipping Mojito in the sunshine (yes we do get sunshine in Devon !) or a night cap under the stars.
While the food here may not boast Michelin stars, it consistently delivers delicious dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. From light lunches of healthy salads and juicy burgers to Thai vegan curry and Moroccan chicken as well as a chef’s menu. The rooftop setting adds an extra layer of charm to your dining experience, making it the perfect place for a relaxed meal with friends or a romantic evening.
Great for: Casual Dining, Vibrant Flavours
For those seeking bold and vibrant street food flavours, Biffen’s kitchen is a must-visit in the laid-back coastal town of Croyde. Housed in a charming street food van, it promises a unique dining experience with a fabulous view. Biffen’s Kitchen serves up a diverse menu inspired by international cuisines, featuring mouthwatering dishes that showcase fusion flavours. Work up an appetite surfing, walking the coastal path, wild swimming and then tuck in to street food – from breakfast sour dough bagels to lunchtime Moroccan wraps and evening meals of tantalizing Dominican Republic fusion dishes or Japanese Katsu nights
A great spot to combine wave hunting on surfers paradise beach of Croyde with inspiring street food.
Great for: Views, Best Desserts
Not far from Ilfracombe harbor (North Devon) sits this 3 AA rosette awarded restaurant with magical views over Sandy Bay and Wild Pear Beach. This elegant restaurant combines stunning views (you’d be forgiven to think you were somewhere on a Caribbean island – the pitons of St. Lucia spring to mind!) with a menu that showcases the freshest catches from local waters and seasonal produce from pastures of Devon. You can choose from the menu or (if , like me, you always have trouble choosing because everything sound delicious) opt for the 6-course tasting menu with wine pairing. BUT make sure to bring your appetite, the taster menu will not leave you hungry !
And if after all this you’ve overindulged you might want to walk it off with one of the great walking routes in north Devon. Or, you can just return to your luxury tipi haven here at HARTA retreat and snooze it off.
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