The Sherwood Palm Hotel, Torquay Beach

Simon Hulstone’s bright, laid-back restaurant looks out over Torquay Harbour. Low-backed wooden chairs sit at stone tables – backed by moody coloured walls – and elephant-themed decorations are dotted about the place. The hugely appealing dishes are led by Simon's selection of local, seasonal produce, including some grown and reared on their 96-acre farm. Accompaniments are designed to enhance each main ingredient, and the tasting menu best demonstrates the breadth of his skill.