£££Modern Cuisine
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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Stage in Exeter specializes in modern cuisine with generally high praise for food quality. Dishes are noted for creativity, presentation, and excellent homemade bread, accommodating vegetarians well. Service is typically friendly and knowledgeable, though isolated reports cite rudeness or poor communication. The atmosphere is trendy and lively, but loud music and a somewhat gritty interior have drawn mixed feedback regarding comfort. Value perceptions vary significantly; while some find the experience worthwhile, others criticize portion sizes relative to cost. Overall, it offers a distinctive dining experience suitable for adventurous eaters, provided one is mindful of potential service inconsistencies and noise levels.
Suitable for diners seeking innovative modern cuisine who can tolerate variable noise levels.
££Modern Cuisine
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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Salutation Inn, featuring The Glasshouse, holds a 4.4/5 rating. Food quality is highly praised for its creativity and dishes like grilled mackerel and asparagus soup, though some afternoon tea pastries were deemed dense. Service is generally professional and friendly, with isolated reports of pacing issues or staff training gaps. The ambiance is elegant and comfortable. Value perceptions vary; while many find it worthwhile, some criticize small portions and high prices, especially after lunch menu changes. Overall, it suits diners seeking refined modern cuisine.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern cuisine and an elegant atmosphere.
££Seafood
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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Topsham, The Galley specializes in seafood with an average rating of 4.5/5. Guests frequently praise the freshness of ingredients, highlighting oysters, scallops, and dishes by Chef Han such as Cornish octopus and monkfish tail. The fish and chips are also noted for their quality. The atmosphere is described as cozy with estuary views, and service is generally friendly. However, some reviews cite issues including a freezing indoor environment, slow meal pacing, and unresponsive staff. Occasional complaints mention small portions or overly hard batter, leading to mixed opinions on value.
Ideal for seafood lovers seeking fresh catches and river views, but allow extra time and dress warmly.
££Traditional British
There’s a rustic charm to this beautifully restored Victorian inn, where they make excellent use of the surrounding estate. The generous dishes are powered by organic produce from their own farm, which is then turned into a mixture of traditional and modern pub food. Expect the likes of day-boat fish, pie of the day and a choice of steaks – plus a roast lunch on Sundays, of course. A fire-lit lounge and 11 pleasant, relaxing bedrooms complete the package, making it ideal for exploring the beauty of Exmoor.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
The Exmoor Forest Inn in Exford offers traditional British cuisine with an average rating of 4.5/5. Reviews highlight high food quality, particularly for Sunday roasts and breakfast, with specific mentions of dishes like peach and tomato salad. The atmosphere is characterized by historic charm and elegance, and the inn is pet-friendly. Service is generally praised as friendly and efficient, though some guests reported slow pacing, unfriendly staff interactions, or discrepancies regarding booking information. While a few negative comments cited small portions or billing issues, most visitors found the experience valuable and the accommodation comfortable.
Suitable for travelers seeking traditional British cuisine, comfortable accommodation, and a pet-friendly environment.
£££Regional Cuisine
Set in an old 16th-century salt house, this long-standing, proudly run restaurant is a pleasant blend of the old and the new – and is the type of place that’s always evolving. Dine in either the Abbots Den or the Garden Room, and start with a small plates selection, followed by a hearty, classically based main course that will come with minimal fuss but plenty of flavour. Alternatively, just come down for a spot of afternoon tea. If you're looking to explore the area, then extend your visit by booking one of the bedrooms.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Salty Monk in Sidmouth holds a strong reputation with an average rating of 4.5/5. Diners consistently praise the high food quality, particularly the eight-course tasting menu featuring fresh ingredients like trout, monkfish tails, and homemade desserts. The ambiance is described as bright, airy, and elegantly decorated, with a well-tended courtyard garden. Service is generally friendly and welcoming, though some guests noted issues with meal pacing, overly attentive staff, or occasional inconsistencies in food temperature and doneness. While a few reviews criticized specific items like afternoon tea sandwiches or vegan options, the overall consensus highlights a sophisticated dining experience suitable for those seeking refined regional cuisine.
Ideal for travelers seeking high-quality regional cuisine and an elegant dining atmosphere; booking the tasting menu in advance is recommended.
££Modern Cuisine
You couldn’t meet a friendlier family than the parents, daughter and son-in-law who run this rustic roadside pub. With its cosy, shabby-chic style, it's an undeniably charming and characterful place where everyone feels welcome. The bar area is filled with locals and their dogs enjoying a drink, while diners are spread across several dining rooms in which they enjoy the straightforward, satisfying cooking that derives plenty of flavour from the quality local produce.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
The Dartmoor Inn in Lydford offers modern cuisine, holding a 4.9/5 rating from 80 TripAdvisor reviews. Food quality is the standout feature, with guests praising beautifully presented, flavorful dishes, specifically recommending the quail starter and noting excellent vegan options. Service is highly regarded for its friendliness and attentiveness, with staff successfully organizing special events like birthday lunches. The atmosphere is cozy and warm, featuring a small bar area with a superb selection of beers and ciders. While a few reviews mentioned minor issues with meal pacing, the overall consensus highlights high value and consistent excellence, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking quality dining.
Ideal for travelers seeking high-quality modern cuisine, attentive service, and robust vegan options.
£££Country cooking
A heartfelt and heartwarming place, Glebe House feels like a sanctuary from our over-busy modern world. Chef-Owner Hugo Guest grew up in this former Georgian vicarage, before returning home and transforming it into a 15-acre smallholding and restaurant. Rustic charm oozes from every corner of the classic country house décor, while the surrounding farmland provides plenty of quality ingredients for the tasting menu – including home-cured meats from their own pigs. Each dish is unfussy and flavoursome, and explained with pride by the chefs.
££French
The team behind Emilia, situated just a few doors down, have imparted another gift to the residents of Ashburton with this delightful rustic bistro. Where its sister operation is all-Italian, Le Vin Perdu is full-blooded French in its approach, so don’t be surprised to find the likes of pork terrine or rotisserie chicken on the menu. The décor is understatedly chic, with the bar making a great place for a cocktail or a glass of wine from the blackboard list. If you’re sweet of tooth, the tarte Tatin is a great note to end on.During autumn and winter, Le Vin Perdu runs limited opening hours.
£££Modern British
An experienced chef and a bright, breezy team run this welcoming little bistro. Sit in the cosy, intimate dining room or the bright conservatory with sliding glass doors and a retractable roof. Hearty, unfussy cooking mixes French-influenced dishes with updated British classics.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Augustus in Taunton offers modern British cuisine with an average rating of 4.8/5. Food quality is the standout feature, praised for exceptional technique and premium ingredients by Chef Richard Guest. Dishes like lamb shoulder, hake, and daily specials receive high marks, though isolated reports mention undercooked meat or tough textures. Service led by Cedric is generally slick, professional, and attentive, yet occasional order errors cause delays. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, suitable for family gatherings and celebrations. While some guests find the pricing steep relative to portion sizes, particularly regarding wine and mains, the majority consider the experience valuable given the consistent culinary excellence and warm hospitality.
Recommended for diners seeking high-quality modern British cuisine and attentive service, ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
£££Modern British
The family-run Sandy Cove Hotel is the home for this long-standing, intimate restaurant which comes with a jewel of a terrace and commanding views of the bay. The colourful, modern dishes make use of quality seasonal ingredients, with a focus on local seafood – the mussel-stuffed sea bream shows the kitchen at its best, displaying technical precision and a good balance of flavours and textures. The cooking comes in the form of a six-course tasting menu – with wine pairings available – and the service is warm and friendly.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 56 reviews
Seacliff in Combe Martin offers Modern British cuisine with notable sea views. Reviews highlight high food quality, particularly the beautifully presented Taster Menu, and attentive service from staff like Katrina and Lisa. The atmosphere is generally praised, though some guests found the pacing too rapid or the seating arrangement restrictive. Negative feedback cites occasional salty dishes, slow service due to shared staffing, and facility issues like missing soap. Despite mixed experiences regarding value and specific service lapses, the restaurant maintains a strong 4.2/5 rating, driven by its culinary standards and scenic location.
Suitable for diners seeking refined Modern British cuisine and sea views who can tolerate a brisk service pace.
££Modern Cuisine
Despite being just a 10 minute drive from the centre of Chard, there’s a wonderfully rural feeling that accompanies a visit to this former 17C farmhouse. The inn is nestled in a lush green valley overlooking the Blackdown Hills, with its converted outbuildings turned into bedrooms. The cooking offers dashes of creativity while still delivering satisfying pub dishes like slow-roasted pork belly. They take a local, seasonal and nose-to-tail approach to their ingredients, with animals reared on site and produce grown in the kitchen garden.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Wambrook, The Cotley Inn offers modern cuisine and comfortable lodging, holding an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.9/5 from 80 reviews. Guests consistently praise the friendly service, romantic atmosphere, and high-quality food. Rooms are noted for their high standards and thoughtful touches. However, some negative feedback highlights issues with meal pacing, where diners felt rushed, particularly after minor delays. Occasional criticisms mention average food quality in specific instances, such as overcooked vegetables or tough meat cuts, and concerns regarding value for money. While generally excellent, visitors should be mindful of timing and expectations.
Suitable for travelers seeking high-quality modern dining and quiet rural accommodation; advance booking and attention to meal timing are advised.
££Modern British
With its relaxed vibe and cheerful service, this is just the kind of restaurant you want to know about when on holiday around the North Devon coast. Head for the terrace out front in good weather – a perfect spot for people watching – or sit inside surrounded by the sleek, modern décor. The adventurous cooking is executed with flair and delivers well-judged combinations of bold flavours, as with the contrast between rich butter sauce and citrus marinated fennel in a wild bass dish. Save room for dessert too, as the confit apple terrine is a highlight.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
Located in central Croyde, New Coast Kitchen specializes in modern British cuisine. Analysis of 80 reviews reveals a high average rating. Food quality is consistently praised, with small sharing plates, burgers, ramen, and Sunday roasts described as delicious and fresh. Service is attentive and friendly, with staff noted for accommodating outdoor seating needs. The atmosphere is relaxed and trendy. While a minority of reviews mention pacing issues or limited menu choices, the overall consensus highlights excellent value and a welcoming environment, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking quality dining in the area.
Ideal for travelers seeking high-quality modern British cuisine in a comfortable social setting.
£££Modern Cuisine
Situated across the road from Chef Martin Baylis’ other restaurant, New Coast Kitchen, Roku is a nod to his Japanese heritage. ‘Roku’ means ‘six’ in Japanese and, fittingly enough, the restaurant’s address is No. 6 and they serve a six-course dinner menu which changes every six weeks. There’s a three-course lunch option, but dinner provides the full experience. The cooking is a blend of modern British dishes and subtle Japanese flavours, such as barbecued beetroot with walnuts, miso and shiso. A well-chosen wine pairing and nicely paced service enhance the experience.
££Modern British
Arrive early for a stroll around the harbour before dinner at this sweet, glass-fronted shop conversion where brown paper covered tables contribute to a cool, modish feel. It’s run by a friendly couple with a passion for local produce, so the thoughtfully prepared set menu changes regularly. Well-judged dishes are modern in their make-up and packed with flavour. Bedrooms are contemporary and one even has a small terrace.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
The Antidote in Ilfracombe offers modern British cuisine with an impressive 4.9/5 average rating across 80 reviews. Guests consistently praise the high food quality, beautiful presentation, and professional, friendly service, with some comparing the experience favorably to Michelin-starred establishments. The atmosphere is delightful, though the venue is small, necessitating early bookings. While most diners find the value acceptable, a minority noted issues with meal pacing, average main courses, or high bills. Overall, it is a highly regarded destination for those seeking refined dining and attentive hospitality.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality modern British cuisine and attentive service; reservations are essential.
££Modern British
With stints as both a cobbler’s and a theatre for the Mayor of Totnes, this lovely 18th-century building has lived many lives over the years. Its latest incarnation is a friendly sharing plates restaurant with a bistro buzz, bringing a dose of welcoming hospitality to the charming Totnes High Street. The menu displays a modern outlook in its sharing plates format and incorporation of both fermented elements and open-flame cooking. The service has a genuine warmth to it, with the owners keen to ensure you’re having a good time.
££Modern British
Open fires and exposed timbers set against touches of contemporary design help make this restored Grade II pub, set in a delightful hamlet, a charming place for replenishment and recuperation. The frequently changing menus have an eye on sustainability and utilise quality ingredients from their farm, be it their own hogget or lemon verbena cleverly used to mimic the taste of lemon in a 'zero-mile' lemon geranium cake. Wonderful homemade syrups help create some refreshing aperitifs.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
The Farmers Arms in Burscough offers Modern British cuisine near the canal, holding a 4.5/5 average from 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights friendly service, high food quality, and a pleasant atmosphere. Dishes like goat cheese starters, rump steak, Sunday roasts, and mixed grills are frequently praised for being well-cooked and fresh. However, negative reviews cite issues with meal pacing, burnt or overcooked food, service errors, and occasional tension. While many guests enjoy the welcoming environment and local produce, some report disappointing experiences due to kitchen mistakes and poor management.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic British comfort food and canal views, though visiting during off-peak hours is advisable for better service efficiency.
££Classic Cuisine
Hold your nerve when navigating the narrow country lanes here and you’ll be rewarded with a simply delightful country pub. Situated next to the village church, it’s a wonderfully bucolic setting and inside the pub ticks all the soul-warming boxes with wooden beams, open fires, two pianos and even a snooker table. The daily changing menu is in the St. JOHN style with British, produce-led and minimal-fuss dishes such as salt cod fritters or pork chop with braised savoy cabbage. Communal dining at their long tables is encouraged.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
The Church House Inn in Dittisham holds a 4.4/5 rating on TripAdvisor based on 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights food quality (mentioned 50 times) and service (49 times), with guests praising the cozy, traditional-modern decor and dishes like lamb rump and steak & ale pie. However, negative reviews cite issues with food quality (10 times), meal pacing (5 times), and value (5 times). Specific complaints include hostile staff, cheap ingredients, and lack of food on Tuesday evenings. While many describe it as a quintessential Devon pub with friendly locals, experiences vary, particularly regarding service attitude and consistency.
Suitable for travelers seeking a quintessential Devon pub experience and traditional cuisine, with advance booking recommended.
££Modern British
On Lower Well Farm, the home of Sandridge Barton wines, you’ll find this lovely converted barn serving a fresh taste of the seasons. The restaurant is in a sheltered spot tucked behind the shop and tasting room, with its own extensive terrace soundtracked by the gentle flow of a nearby stream. The daily, lunch-only menu makes the most of the local larder, from fish caught at Brixham to ceps picked on Dartmoor. There’s a wholesome element to the cooking, which ensures the true flavours of the ingredients shine through. Make sure you order a glass of their own wine.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Roam offers modern British cuisine in central Belfast with generally high ratings. Food quality is frequently praised, with standout dishes including hake, lamb, and crab, alongside excellent bread and sides. Service is mostly friendly and attentive, though some guests report inconsistent pacing or disinterest during busy periods. The atmosphere is relaxed yet upscale; however, hard surfaces contribute to noticeable noise levels, affecting comfort for some diners. Value is generally considered good, although a few reviewers felt the experience was diminished by crowding or slow service. While toilets and location are convenient, acoustic issues may impact enjoyment. Overall, it suits those seeking quality dining, provided they visit during less chaotic times.
Ideal for diners prioritizing food quality over quiet ambiance; visit during off-peak hours for better service.
£££Modern British
The kind of heartfelt and enthusiastically run restaurant that guarantees you’ll leave feeling better than when you arrived, Sandro’s is a hometown return for the titular chef, who has taken over the premises his father once ran. In an intimate 16-cover space, he cooks fuss-free and flavour-packed dishes such as spatchcock quail with Montbéliard sausage and coco de Paimpol, while adding occasional touches from his Italian heritage. Sandro’s partner Vicky looks after the service with skill, and they are both relaxed, welcoming hosts.
TripAdvisor review sample · 5.0/5 · 77 reviews
Sandro's, a Modern British restaurant in Lyme Regis, holds a perfect 5.0/5 rating on TripAdvisor based on 77 reviews. Guests consistently praise the exceptional food quality, attentive service, and intimate atmosphere. The small, carefully curated menu features beautifully presented dishes like sea bass and sirloin, with staff providing detailed explanations without upselling. While the limited capacity requires advance booking and some note minor issues with pacing or value, the overall consensus describes it as a 'hidden gem' offering Michelin-caliber cooking. It provides a high-quality dining experience characterized by friendly hospitality and delicious, well-executed meals.
Ideal for travelers seeking refined, intimate, and high-quality Modern British cuisine; advance reservations are essential.
££Modern British
Dating back to the 18C, this lovely stone-built inn sits in a picture postcard village and its back garden and terrace is a real jewel. The chef-owner’s personality, his experience in previous kitchens, and his knowledge of the locale, all inform his appealing menu of modern, balanced dishes that are big on flavour and guaranteed to hit the spot. Four bedrooms occupy what was once the skittle alley.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Located in the village center, The Barrington Boar serves modern British cuisine with an overall rating of 4.3/5. Reviewers frequently praise the high food quality, highlighting the Sunday roast beef, Japanese-style starters, and ham hock. The atmosphere is generally described as relaxed and smart, with easy parking and accessible entrances. Service is often warm and efficient, though some guests reported issues with missing bookings, slow email responses, and inconsistent meal pacing. While a few negative reviews mention limited vegetarian options and poor voucher handling, most find the value good, especially with set menus. It is considered a gem for travelers heading to Devon or Cornwall, offering comfortable adjacent accommodations.
Ideal for families or travelers seeking high-quality modern British cuisine in a relaxed village setting, with advance booking confirmation recommended.
£££Modern Cuisine
A small piece of a much bigger picture, The Refectory is a cosy 18-seater restaurant occupying a rustic new-build barn on the 500-acre Fowlescombe Farm, which has the sprawling feel of an estate and even includes a former manor house now cradled by verdant ivy. The menu utilises produce from the estate, including their own Longhorn cattle and Manx Loaghtan sheep, while the nearby coastline provides the likes of meaty monkfish packed with natural flavour. To get the full countryside experience, stay overnight in one of the 10 smartly dressed suites.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located next to Norwich Cathedral, The Refectory is managed by local bakery Bread Source, offering fresh baked goods, cakes, and soups. Visitors appreciate the bright, spacious interior and unique historic setting, making it suitable for a break after touring. However, reviews are mixed regarding food availability, with savory items often selling out by lunch. Service inconsistencies include slow table clearing, cleanliness issues, and unhelpful staff. Dietary options like gluten-free or vegan are limited. Some guests find the value low given the price and portion sizes. While the ambiance is praised, operational shortcomings significantly impact the overall dining experience.
Suitable for visitors seeking a unique environment and baked treats near the cathedral, but arrive early and manage expectations regarding full meals and service consistency.
£££Seafood
You instantly feel at ease at this elegant bistro in a prime position overlooking the Dart Estuary. Food-themed art and framed former menus exude a sense of the passion poured into this long-standing, family-run spot, where the original owner's son is now cooking. The daily changing menu is a celebration of both local seafood and Italian cooking, with the day's catch used to power classic dishes like 'spaghetti alla vongole', plus whole fish cooked in the charcoal oven. Start with a cocktail in the lovely Joe’s Bar.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
The Seahorse in Dartmouth holds a 4.2/5 average on TripAdvisor based on 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights excellent service, high-quality food, and a cozy atmosphere. Guests praised dishes like seafood pasta, scallops, Dover sole, and sea bass, noting attentive staff such as Charlie and Ollie. Conversely, negative reviews cite inconsistent food quality, poor value, slow pacing, and service lapses. Complaints included stale bread, limited seafood availability (e.g., no quail or chips), and unsatisfactory taste in specific items like the Basque txangurro. While many enjoyed a perfect dining experience, others found it underwhelming compared to past visits.
Suitable for families or couples valuing service and ambiance, but verify daily ingredient availability beforehand.