Food & Drink in Torquay

Torquay isn’t just a popular spot for families, it is also a haven for foodies, which is hardly surprising considering its proximity to Brixham, which is well known for its fresh, local produce.

In Torquay, the eateries are just as diverse as the attractions, with everything from fine dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, interesting menus at the beach front establishments, relaxing meals in the hotel or casual dining at one of the town’s pubs. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget, no matter what you fancy for dinner.

Eat on the Seafood Coast

For fish fans and those that love seeing seafood on the menu, Torquay is a dream location. The town is in the Torbay area of Devon which is known world-wide as England’s Sea Food Coast. While neighbouring Brixham is the best place to go for fresh fish, it has one of the county’s busiest markets and ports bringing in fresh fish daily, Torquay is also home to fish dishes. The fish that comes in around the Torbay graces the tables of many of the restaurants in Torquay and the surrounding area, so whether you want fish and chips to take away or a sit down meal featuring the finest scallops, you’ll have plenty to choose from. With the abundance of fresh fish on offer, it is no surprise that many of the country’s top chefs have set up shop in the Torbay region, with several of them opening restaurants in Torquay. One of the more famous chefs is Mitch Tonks, who has a restaurant in the harbour where you can literally watch the boats coming and going while you eat.

Speaking of a good view…

Torquay has so many beautiful view points. In fact, the whole of the English Riviera is known for its appearance, with palm trees, blue skies, beaches and marinas, there are plenty of lovely backdrops to enjoy your food against. The restaurants on the sea front in particular take advantage of this with glass fronts so you can enjoy the view of the beach. You’ll also find a number of eateries dotted around the harbour and marina, plus the hotels on the hilltops have menus available for non hotel guests too, so don’t miss out on the views over the whole town.

Nearby, you’ll find the chocolate box village of Cockington which is full of cobbled streets, thatched rooves and picture perfect views, so for more of a nostalgic experience, head there to grab a bite.

Being one of the most family friendly areas of Devon, those of you looking to eat with families won’t have to look far to find somewhere that caters for the little ones. There are several restaurants that are geared exclusively towards families, with plenty of fun things to keep the kids entertained between courses. For families with bigger kids too, there are establishments that are linked to leisure complexes allowing them to go and play.

Of course, if you’re in town for a special occasion, you might want somewhere a bit quieter for your meal. There are a number of fine dining options, many of Torquay’s restaurants have won awards, including Michelin stars, so there are plenty to choose from. Maybe you want something a little more relaxed, in which case there are establishments for you too, from small, independent eateries to large chains with familiar looking menus, there really is something for everyone here.

When looking for somewhere to eat, don’t discount the town’s pubs. Several of them have highly rated menus and offer an extensive range from pub favourites to more refined options as well as children’s menus and discounts for concessions.
Alternatively, the town’s hotels also have onsite restaurants which welcome guests whether they are staying in the hotel or not.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find a fine selection of restaurants and eateries in and around Torquay.

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