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LUXURY HOLIDAY HOMES
Ultimate guide to eating & drinking in Salcombe
Salcombe is a little slice of foodie heaven, whether you’re after a casual coffee, a long lazy lunch, or the freshest seafood right by the water. As a local, I’ve tried and tested all the best spots, so here’s my hand-picked guide to the best restaurants, cafés, and pubs in town.
Cafes & Delis
A proper coffee and a great breakfast to match. Their door-stop bacon sandwich is renowned. They also have delicious savoury muffins and homemade cakes available all day, takeaway and eat in available.
Best place to grab a coffee and you even get little shortbread biscuit to go with it. Sandwiches, beer and wine all available to take away for a day at the beach.
Breakfast with a view. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with views over the harbour, Wardroom is located right on the waters edge and caters for everyones breakfast needs, from Eggs Florentine to your hearty sausage sandwich and wholesome overnight oats.
Some what of an institution in Salcombe, head here for your greasy all day breakfast and mug of tea. Located on Whitestrand it is also the perfect for a spot to watch the comings and goings at the Harbour.
Salcombe Yawl
Lovely deli serving freshly made sandwiches and a few other treats, perfect for your picnic on a day of adventures.
The Bake House
If you’re after the best pastries & cakes in Salcombe, this is your spot. Get there early in the summer months – once they’re gone, they’re gone! Their cheese straws are legendary, and the scone are perfect for a Devon Cream Tea.
Salcombe Delicatessen
Huge selection of freshly made sandwiches and baguettes, homemade quiches as well a wonderful selection of antipasti bits, cured meet and local cheese. All conveniently located opposite the Salcombe Ferry steps.
Colemans Butches
As well as wonderful selection of meats perfect for BBQs, they also have a great selection local cheeses, cured meats, and your essentials like fresh eggs, milk, juice and sauces.
Restaurants
About as close as you can get without actually being on the beach in North Sands Salcombe, The Winking Prawn is a great eaterie serving everything you might fancy after a day on the beach, or even before you start – as it’s open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between. Serving delicious beachy-themed food such as buckets of prawns, ice creams and of course Devonshire cream teas, this is a great place to fill tummies whilst enjoying a day of sun, sea and sand. Great for kids, there’s a dressing up box so kids can keep themselves entertained. Dogs are welcome too. Keep an eye on opening times as they do change with the seasons.
Renowned for the best seafood in town, The Crab Shed is located on Fish Quay right next to where the fishermen land their daily catches for their menus. On warmer evenings dine alfresco on the deck overlooking Batson Creek or enjoy the surrounding of their casual and relaxed style inside.
Soon to open in Salcombe, Rockfish will be bringing its renowned fresh seafood to Island Street. Known for its sustainably sourced fish, cooked simply but beautifully, this will be the perfect spot to enjoy top-quality seafood with lovely views over Batson Creek. Whether you’re after classic fish and chips, grilled catch of the day, or a relaxed lunch with a glass of something chilled, Rockfish is set to become a new favourite in Salcombe’s thriving food scene. Keep an eye out for its grand opening – it’s one to get excited about!
Coffee shop by day and intimate restaurant by evening, Bistro 73 is one of favourite dinner spots; creative dishes with locally sourced ingredients, a relaxed atmosphere and friendly and attentive service make for a lovely evening out.
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A new pizza and cocktail restaurant located on Island Street. This vibrant eatery offers a menu that combines the best of Italian- inspired pizzas with expertly crafted cocktails. The ambiance at Primo is both chic and inviting, making it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and lively evening gatherings.
At Primo, the focus is on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu keeps its simple with perfectly crisp crust pizzas, a couple of sides and simple classic Italian desserts. Complement your meal with one of their signature cocktails. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing Aperol Spritz or a sophisticated Negroni, Primo's cocktail menu has something for everyone.
Waterfront brasserie offering a sophisticated fusion style menu in an elegant yet casual setting, on warmer evenings we highly recommend eating on the outside deck to enjoy the romantic estuary vistas.
With stunning estuary views and a menu packed with fresh, locally sourced seafood, The Jetty is perfect for a special meal. Whether you’re tucking into just-caught fish, Devon crab, or a beautifully cooked steak, everything is top quality. Pair it with a crisp glass of wine and soak up the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
With views over South Sands beach, the Harbour Beach Club terrace is the perfect sun trap for a chilled glass of rosé, a yummy Salcombe lobster roll and fries, just one of the perfect combinations you can try at this luxury hotel. Stylishly designed, comfy outdoor seating and 5* service, let the kids play on the beach whilst you just relax.
Although in a luxury hotel the South Sands restaurant has a lovely relaxed beachside feel to it serving fresh seafood from the local coastline. Set right on South Sands beach they welcome non- residents straight from the beach, beach shorts and flip flops welcome,
as well as muddy boots and soggy dogs...
Pubs & Bars
The cosiest of all the pubs, head here on a
chillier day and huddle around the log fire. Surprisingly large garden at the rear covered with a stylish stretch tent with comfy seating, outdoor heaters and festoon lighting.
Located on Whitestrand quay, the top terrace has gorgeous views over the harbour
and is a complete sun trap.
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The Fortescue
Traditional bar one side, lively sports bar the other showing all the popular sporting events.
The pub for the views. Right on the waterfront and next to the East Portlemouth Ferry steps it has unrivalled views over the estuary and to the beaches, the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and watch the marine activities.
f you love a good gin, this is the place to be. Overlooking the water, the distillery’s bar is a gorgeous spot for a G&T, with their signature Salcombe Gin distilled on-site. You can even book a tasting session or have a go at making your own bespoke gin.
A hidden gem for rum lovers, this casual little bar nestled between the boot building workshops serves expertly crafted cocktails made with their locally blended rums. Whether you fancy a classic rum punch or something a bit different, it’s a great spot to unwind after a day on the water.
Just outside Salcombe, this laid-back taproom adjoining the new Rock Fish is perfect for beer enthusiasts. You can sample their range of award-winning ales, including the popular Salcombe Gold. It’s a relaxed, friendly setting – ideal for an afternoon pint or to accompany your Rock Fish fish and chips.
Sweets & Ice Cream
An absolute Salcombe institution, this pink-fronted sweetshop has been delighting visitors for generations. Inside, you’ll find rows of traditional sweets in glass jars, alongside holiday favourites like clotted cream fudge and rock. It’s pure nostalgia and a must-visit for kids (and grown-ups with a sweet tooth!).
If you love rich, crumbly fudge, Roly’s is the place to go. Made in small batches using traditional methods, their fudge is irresistibly good – especially the sea salt or classic vanilla flavours. You can even watch it being made fresh in the shop, the smell alone is worth popping in for!
A hidden treasure tucked away in Island Street, this is where Salcombe Dairy’s award-winning chocolate is made. Using top-quality cocoa and no palm oil, their handmade bars and truffles are a real treat. You can pick up a selection to take home or just tuck in straight away – we won’t judge!
No trip to Salcombe is complete without a scoop (or two) of Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream. Made just down the road in Devon using the finest ingredients, their flavours range from clotted cream to honeycomb and blackcurrant sorbet. Whether you grab a cone while wandering the harbour or take a tub back to your holiday cottage, it’s a holiday essential.
Our Favourites Further Afield
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A cosy countryside pub with a fantastic reputation, Expect a warm welcome, crackling log fires in winter, and a menu that celebrates local ingredients – The Millbrook serves up refined yet hearty food with a French twist. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon and never want to leave. Tucked away in the picturesque village of South Pool, it’s the perfect spot for a long lunch by the fire or a summer evening in the garden by the creek. During the summer months they host fabulous BBQ evenings in their courtyard which are hugely popular. Accessible via boat from Salcombe 2 hours either side of high tide or a 40 minute drive from Salcombe.
Right on the water’s edge in Kingsbridge, this lively pub is a favourite for its relaxed atmosphere, great pizzas, and stunning estuary views. On sunny days, grab a table outside and watch the boats go by with a pint of local ale in hand.
A food lover’s dream, Wild Artichoke offers a unique dining experience with ever-changing seasonal feasts. Expect incredible flavours, beautifully presented dishes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere – it’s like being invited to the best dinner party.
A stylish coastal retreat offering beautifully cooked food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re after a casual lunch on the terrace or a more refined evening meal, the sea views and warm hospitality make it a truly special place.
A beachside gem, this rustic seafood shack serves some of the freshest fish around. Whether you’re tucking into scallops, grilled lobster, or their famous seafood platters, you can’t beat the location – right on the sand with unbeatable sunset views over South Milton Beach.
If you’re looking for a meal with a view, Gara Rock is the place to go. Perched on the cliffs above the coast, this stylish hotel and restaurant offers breathtaking sea views, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch on the terrace or a cosy dinner inside. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to settle in for the afternoon with a good bottle of wine and let the world slow down for a while. Perfect stop during a coastal walk or as a special treat during your stay.
Tucked away in Kingsbridge, The Old Bakery is a gem of a tapas restaurant that’s perfect for a laid-back evening with fantastic food. With its rustic charm, candlelit tables, and an ever-changing menu of small plates. It’s relaxed, unpretentious, and always buzzing.
A South Devon institution, The Oyster Shack is all about fresh, locally caught seafood served in a fun, no-fuss way. Whether you go for their famous oysters, a seafood platter, or the catch of the day, everything is beautifully cooked and full of flavour. A must-visit for seafood lovers.
A little slice of rural charm, this lovely café serves up wholesome, homemade food. From fresh salads to hearty breakfasts, everything is yummy. Just a 20 minute uphill walk from East Portlemouth beaches it's a good spot for lunch ro break up your day at the beach or perfect coffee and cake stop before or after a beach walk.
A charming little spot just outside Salcombe, Heron Valley Café is all about homemade goodness. Known for their fresh juices and organic produce, it’s a great place to stop for a hearty brunch, a slice of cake, or a proper Devon cream tea. The setting is lovely too – rustic, welcoming, and perfect for a laid-back bite to eat.
For a dining experience that’s all about celebrating the best of Devon’s local produce, Gather in Totnes is a must. This small, intimate restaurant takes a creative approach to modern British cuisine, with a menu that changes regularly based around foraging and what’s freshest and in season. Expect beautifully presented small plates packed with flavour, alongside an excellent wine list.
If you love seafood, you’ll adore The Seahorse. This elegant riverside restaurant is famous for its simple, perfectly cooked dishes, with much of the fish grilled over an open fire. Expect a Mediterranean influence, top-notch wines, and a dining experience that feels both special and effortless.
A hidden gem, Andria is a modern bistro serving up delicious Modern European inspired dishes with a real passion for quality ingredients. Exciting small plates and accompanied by a fabulous wine list and faultless service yet in a relaxed inviting atmosphere.
One of the best pubs in the area, this 13th Century Inn is full of character with four open fires, a cosy bar are two dining rooms, it oozes charm. The menu is interesting and delicious, their Sunday Roasts are renowned.
A little slice of Italy in Devon, Emilia’s is a family-run restaurant serving up delicious, authentic Italian dishes. Fresh pasta, homemade sauces, and warm, friendly service make it a real gem. Perfect for a relaxed evening with great food and wine.
If you love farm-to-table dining, this is a must. Based at the famous Riverford organic farm, the Field Kitchen serves up seasonal, vegetable-led feasts with a focus on sustainability. Expect generous sharing platters, bold flavours, and some of the best veg you’ll ever eat.
Private Chefs & Takeaway
Bringing restaurant quality food to your holiday home. From a formal plated dinner to a local seafood feast, bold explorative flavours and family style sharing dinners, whatever you fancy The Salcombe Kitchen will work with you to create your perfect dinner menu. The Salcombe Kitchen will take care of everything leaving you to simply enjoy the wonderful food and the company of your friends and family in the comfort of your holiday home.
Local fish and chip shop located on Fore Street Salcombe.
Takeaway pizza connected to the Fish & Chip Shop.
Indian takeaway based in Kingsbridge, deliver to Salcombe and surrounding area.
Chinese takeaway based in Kingsbridge, deliver to Salcombe and surrounding area.