The Royal Oak Inn

Local chef Michael Caines is behind this tastefully restored Grade II listed Georgian house, which sits in peaceful grounds dotted with sculptures. In summer, the pretty veranda makes the perfect place for a drink before you enjoy the sophisticated, well-balanced cooking. Michael's experience and abundant technical skill shine through in classical dishes elevated by his fine judgement and exceptional produce – such as Sladesdown duck with an exemplary jus providing great complexity of flavour. The bedrooms are beautifully furnished and some even come with a firepit and hot tub.

A fun, trendy spot set up on a budget by an enthusiastic group of young men known as the ‘Taco Boys’. Foraged ingredients and produce from the kitchen garden inform the daily changing, surprise tasting menus, and the original, modern dishes have bold flavours and contrasting textures.

This characterful 1720s coaching inn has a surprisingly contemporary interior, which is matched by its understated bedrooms. Take your seat in either the intimate dining room or in the airy, glass-covered historic courtyard – the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon. In the evening, choose between a tasting menu and a seasonally themed à la carte, where the colourful modern dishes are well-judged and nicely balanced. Be sure to pick up some goodies from their deli and wet fish shop on your way out.

In the older part of this delightful town, not far from the River Exe, you'll find this cosy, rustic bistro that comes with a cheery atmosphere. Seafood from the southwest coastline is the primary focus of the fixed-price menu, sometimes paired with punchy accompaniments and global influences. Examples could include the likes of tiger prawn wontons with crispy leeks or Cornish octopus with salsa verde, potato rosti and picked shallots. If you aren’t a local, this taste of the region will make you wish you were one.