The trendiest South West dining spots with a twist

Indulge in something a little unusual

From converted chapels to hidden beachside huts, these one-of-a-kind locations throughout Devon, Cornwall and Somerset are sure to provide some inspiration for South West dining with a twist. 

Dine by the sea at The Oyster Shack

© The Oyster Shack

Serving up an authentic taste of the South West, The Oyster Shack in Bigbury-on-Sea specialises in sustainably caught seafood, with fresh crab, lobster and oyster dishes being prepared daily. With vibrant Mediterranean décor, the bright blue hut sits underneath a covered terrace, making it an ideal South Devon pit stop tucked away beside the River Avon.

As well as an extensive selection of seafood and a brand new barbecue menu, The Oyster Shack caters for weddings and garden parties with its pop-up oyster bar. What’s more, this popular Bigbury venue is the perfect setting to enjoy a bespoke cookery masterclass, surrounded by sparkling blue seas.

With unbeatable views over Bigbury-on-Sea and the iconic Burgh Island, Overcombe is a fantastic holiday home base for exploring the beautiful South Hams, while nearby Avocet sleeps 12 guests in open plan luxury.

Get all fired up at Retorrick Mill

© Retorrick Mill

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Cornwall, head to Retorrick Mill for tasty, rustic food cooked on open fires, spit roasts and slow roasted smoker barrels.

Sitting in the valley of Laherne in North Cornwall, this popular pop-up restaurant is situated inside a barn surrounded by incredible wildlife, and only a fifteen minute walk to the beach. The menu is decided spontaneously in true Cornish fashion the night before, with fresh wood-fired pizzas being prepared fresh in a clay oven each day.

Trevenek is set within the headland at Mawgan Porth, accommodating up to 10 guests with four luxurious bedrooms, a crackling wood fire and dedicated games room.

Go veggie in a greenhouse

© Potager Garden

With hammocks to laze in, boules and badminton to play and an impressive vegetarian menu to sample, Potager Garden is a relaxing Cornish haven. Situated between Falmouth and Constantine, the dog-friendly garden and converted greenhouse café make for a beautiful family lunch setting, or restful pit stop for coffee and cake.

Nestled amongst the fragrant plum trees and with an ever-changing menu, the Potager Garden café serves vegetarian breakfasts, wholesome lunches and an array of spectacular local produce, taking advantage of whatever’s in season.

Enjoy lunch At The Chapel

© At The Chapel

Situated in the popular Somerset town of Bruton, a stunning Grade II listed former chapel is now an all-day restaurant and bar. At The Chapel is open every day, serving everything from breakfast to cocktails and afternoon tea, in an elegant 17th Century building.

Hearty bread made fresh from the bakery is the perfect winter warmer for chillier days, while the summer season invites afternoons spent outside on the sun-drenched terrace, enjoying a chilled glass of rosé from the wine store.

Bringing a relaxed Mediterranean approach to British food, inside the restaurant, you’ll find outstanding West Country produce and authentic wood-fired pizza, while seasonal sharing menus make At The Chapel an exquisite setting for hosting special occasions.

Try street food in a shipping container

© Craftworks

Indulge in the ever-popular street food trend with a visit to the Craftworks Street Kitchen. Set on a refurbished shipping container in Truro and inspired by food around the world, this unique venue sources local ingredients from nearby suppliers, in a bid to ‘keep it Cornish’.

With fresh and varied menu including Korean Fried Chicken and Moroccan Street Salad, the Craftworks Street Kitchen caters for local events including Boardmasters Festival at Watergate Bay, making it a popular choice amongst locals and visitors alike.

The Craftworks pop-up at Trerethern Farm near Padstow is another unique dining experience, with a relaxed festival vibe, great local food and beautiful views over the Camel Estuary. Grab a cider from the hatch and enjoy an evening on the farm watching the sun go down.

Raise a glass at Platform 1

Once a historic railway ticket office on the banks of the River Dart, Platform 1 is a recently renovated restaurant and champagne bar bringing some extra sparkle to the prestigious Devon town of Dartmouth.

With local seafood dishes and delicious breakfast options available to accompany an obligatory glass of bubbles, Platform 1 dates back to its origins in 1864, and has become a much-loved part of the town since. A truly unique spot to enjoy a light lunch or raise a glass for a birthday celebration, Platform 1 is within walking distance of Dartmouth’s independent shops, museums and galleries.
 

Step into the 50s at Penny Black Café

A unique vintage inspired tearoom in Lyme Regis, complete with rock ‘n’ roll music and an American inspired menu, Penny Black Café is a great spot to enjoy a homemade lunch or cream tea. The café is decked out with pastel coloured bunting, a candy-striped counter and quaint ceiling-hung teacups, giving the café that distinct South West charm.

Indulge in a classic thick shake surrounded by 50s icons including Elvis and Marilyn Monroe, before enjoying an afternoon uncovering fossils along the striking Jurassic Coast.

Stumble upon The Hidden Hut

Probably one of Cornwall’s worst kept secrets due to a rush of well-deserved attention nationwide, The Hidden Hut is a small café with a big difference. Located on the Roseland Peninsula along the National Trust coast path, the unassuming olive green hut is nestled above Porthcurnick Beach, and is only accessible by foot.

Those who stumble upon this secretive location will discover a menu of simple, freshly-made lunches and refreshments. From seasonal allotment salads to incredible seafood and fragrant tagine dishes, the Hidden Hut specialises in great local food, opening its doors to host spontaneous lunch events and lively feast nights.