As many of us foodies know, finding the perfect place to eat and discovering local produce can be the highlight of any holiday. Jay Raynor, the food critic and ‘Happy Eater’ columnist said: “eating is more than a bodily function. It is a significant part of the social dynamic that makes us who we are" and we completely agree! Which is why we're proud to say that some of the very best UK produce can be found here, on the English Riviera.

England's Seafood Coast

With 22 miles of beautiful coastline, seafood in its many and varied forms is naturally a significant part of the local experience. Fresh from Brixham Fishmarket, the catch finds its way into all kinds of outlets from award winning Fish and Chip shops and restaurants and to a glittering array of restaurants and bistros including The Elephant, Restaurant 1881 at The Grand Hotel, Hanbury’s, Cantina or Beamers.

Mitch Tonks, TV personality, chef and owner of the popular Rockfish restaurants explains why this area has earned the additional moniker England's Seafood Coast. “The deep, fast-flowing waters off south Devon are perfect for flatfish, shellfish and dozens of tasty species. This coast is world-class, as good as anywhere overseas.”

Local Drink Makers

South Devon is also renowned for its microclimate which makes the land ideal for growing many types of crops. For over 200 years, Hunts Devon Cider has been fermenting the juice from the highest quality Devon cider apples to produce a range of traditional ciders with a unique and refreshing taste. Fast forward to 2021 and they now also offer a popular range of modern sparkling and fruit ciders to suit current tastes.

If beer is more your tipple then Bays Brewery another family-run business uses locally sourced malted barley in its award-winning distinctive range of beers which cover the whole spectrum of beer styles and strengths including local favourites Devon Dumpling, Topsail and Gold.

Farm Shops

The very best of local produce can be found in shops across the bay. Occombe Farm Shop and Churston Traditional Farm Shop in particular showcase the very best produce the West Country has to offer at the lowest possible food miles including fresh fish, meat vegetables and dairy products plus local beers, ciders, wines, spirits and soft drinks many of which can be enjoyed in their cafes.

Traditional Devon Cream Tea

Another local favourite which can be found in cafes and tea rooms across the English Riviera is the Devon Cream Tea. For some, the only way to really enjoy a Devon cream tea is in the shadow of a thatched cottage with roses trailing all around. Head to the pretty village of Cockington and you won’t be disappointed. The Rose Cottage Tea Gardens are a real indulgence in the summer.

Nearby, the Cockington Court Tea Rooms  are housed within the luxurious settings of Cockington Court, a favourite haunt of a young Agatha Christie when it was owned by the Mallock family in the early 1900s.

Award winning afternoon tea combined with outstanding views can be had at The Seaview Restaurant at Livermead and The Guardhouse Café at Berryhead are hard to beat.

Sweet Treats

For those with a sweet tooth, no trip to the English Riviera would be complete without a delicious sugar rush! The quality of locally produced treats like ice cream, chocolate and fudge is grounded in the skills of the artisan makers combined with the excellence of devon’s dairy products, cream, clotted cream and butter. Head for Broadsands Beach, Ella’s Chocolate House or Roly’s Fudge Pantry and enjoy!