When I think of a ‘traditional British seaside’ resort, the first place that comes to mind is the vibrant and friendly town of Torquay. Situated at the heart of the English Riviera, on the South Devon Coast, Torquay is known for its expansive sandy beaches, family-friendly attractions and picturesque Victorian appearance. With a continental feel and plenty of things to see and do, Torquay is a family favourite and popular amongst British visitors.
When it comes to restaurants in Torquay, you will be spoilt for choice. It is no surprise that Torquay has an abundance of excellent and award-winning restaurants given Devon’s diverse landscape which provides an incredible natural larder from which to source top-quality ingredients. The Torquay restaurant scene has something to offer every visitor – whether you’re looking for a fine-dining experience created by a celebrity chef, a casual feast of tapas or fish and chips on the beach, you will find it in Torquay. So, without further ado, here is our list of the best restaurants in Torquay in 2023.
Make sure you also take a look at the best restaurants in Paddington, Brixton and Clapham.
12 Best Torquay Restaurants
Elephant
The Best Fine-Dining Restaurant in Torquay
The must-visit restaurant on Torquay’s fine-dining scene: Elephant. This Michelin-starred and critically lauded Torquay restaurant is the creation of chef Simon Hulstone who has an unbeatable taste for seasonal ingredients, sourcing much of the food from his own farm, and a delicate presentation style. The restaurant itself is a bright and modern seaside restaurant that overlooks the beautiful Torquay harbour.
At the Elephant, they offer a seasonally changing menu dependent on local and sustainable ingredients, making the most of the abundance of fresh produce available in South Devon. Each dish on the menu perfectly blends contemporary flavours with classical underpinnings to create beautifully presented plates that taste just as good as they look. For the full Elephant experience, you can opt for the eight-course tasting menu (£72.50) and you can even add the perfect wine pairings for an extra £32. The sample menu gives you a taste of what delights you can find at this restaurant. For starter, why not choose the Warm Salad of Quail, Black Pudding Scotch Egg, Walnut Mayo, Mustard Leaf or the Orkney Scallop, Fragrant Thai Green Cream, Chicken Wing, BBQ Hen of the Woods? For main, choose from Crediton Duck, Heritage Beetroot, Crispy Duck Leg, Elderberry Vinegar Jus, Apple & Turnip; Fillet of Stone Bass, Lobster and Cannellini Bean Ragout, Lime Leaf Oil, Orange & Sea Herbs or Dry Aged South Devon Beef Fillet, Truffle Terrine, Mushroom Puree, Tenderstem. Make sure you leave room for desert though, with treats like Bitter Chocolate Mille Feuille, Brown Butter & Malt Ice Cream; Citrus Cake, Chamomile Jelly, Sesame Tuile, Mascarpone, Milk Ice Cream and Artisan South West Cheeses, Homemade Chutney, Fudges Biscuits.
Although not the cheapest restaurant in Torquay, Elephant is certainly the perfect Torquay restaurant for any special occasion or for a fancy treat while you visit the south coast of Devon. So, if you’re looking for somewhere to splash some cash and eat some incredible food then this fine-dining Torquay restaurant is your go to.
Find out more here.
Rockfish
The Best Seafood Restaurant in Torquay
Rockfish is a seafood restaurant in Torquay, created by award-winning chef Mitch Tonks, which showcases his taste for informal catch-of-the-day dining. A speciality, sustainable Torquay seafood restaurant, Rockfish is perhaps the closest you will get to the source of fish in the UK. Set in the famous Brixham fish market, you can enjoy your seafood delight while watching the boats land their catch which will soon end up on a plate in this very restaurant. The interior of this Torquay restaurant gives the feel of a rustic old ship, with whitewashed wood and nautical details throughout.
When it comes to the food at Rockfish, they offer everything from classic fish and chips and scampi to extravagant seafood platters, Devon lobster and seaweed tartare sauce. On the menu, you can choose from seafood specials, including Chargrilled Sea Bream Fillets with Lime Pickle Butter; North Atlantic Scallops and Chargrilled Brixham Calamari. Or, if you’re not a huge fan of seafood, check out their burger selection: Firecracker Chicken Burger, Beyond Meat or the Skipper’s Roll. One thing that makes Rockfish one of the best restaurants in Torquay is that they offer unlimited chips with every meal – so you will never go hungry. They also have a fully-stocked bar boasting South West ales and a brilliant selection of wines, ideal for accompanying any seafood dish.
So, if you’re looking for casual dining set within a unique setting then is the best restaurant in Torquay for you. Any seafood lovers will be in heaven with their extensive fishy menu and endless supply of chips. Rockfish makes for the perfect Torquay restaurant to sit back, relax and wind away a sunny afternoon or evening by the sea.
Find out more here.
On the Rocks
The Best Bistro in Torquay
On the Rocks is an informal cafe-bistro in Torquay with sliding doors and pavement tables so you can make the most of the seaside view as you tuck into a big bowl of mussels or a juicy steak. This is the best Torquay restaurant for those looking for exceptional cuisine in a relaxing, laid-back environment. Whether you’re attending for an evening meal, a hearty lunch after a long walk on the beach or just for a little snack to keep you going as you explore the town of Torquay, On the Rocks has you covered.
This seafood restaurant in Torquay is all about sourcing local produce and developing strong relationships with their Devon suppliers. They serve up a pristinely presented cuisine to suit every palette using only the best quality ingredients. Start your meal with Braised Pork Cheek, 3 Half Shell Brixham Scallops, Coronation Crab Crumpet or Mushroom Parfait. Next, for the main course, why not opt for the St Austell Bay Mussels served in a garlic and wine sauce and sourdough bread; Baked Cod Fillet with mussel chowder and wilted greens or Butternut Squash Risotto with pickled walnuts and pumpkin seeds. Save room for pudding with delights like chocolate brownie, raspberry parfait and Bailey’s creme brulee on the menu. With an extensive and diverse range of dishes available on the menu, there is something for everyone at this Torquay restaurant.
So, if you’re searching for chilled vibes and incredible food to suit all tastes, then you have hit the jackpot with On the Rocks bistro in Torquay. With a fantastic range of both vegetarian and meat/seafood dishes available, everyone will be able to find something delicious to eat at this casual Torquay restaurant.
Find out more here.
Yum Sing
The best Chinese Restaurant in Torquay
Yum Sing is by far one of the best restaurants in Torquay for authentic, delicious Cantonese food. Established in 1985, this family-run restaurant and takeaway is ideal for all kinds of occasions – from intimate, romantic meals, special events, casual dining and more.
The menu at this Chinese restaurant in Torquay is massive and includes something for everyone, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Start your Cantonese feast with Crispy Aromatic Duck, Pancake rolls (meat or vegetarian), King Prawn Toast, crispy seaweed or, why not go for a bit of everything and get the Mixed Starter. Next, choose from a range of beef, king prawn, chicken, pork, tofu or vegetable dishes and seafood. From the beef section, choose from classics like Crispy Shredded Beef Peking Style, Beef in Satay Sauce or Beef with Mixed Vegetables. From the king prawn menu, select from King Prawns with Cashew Nuts, King Prawns with Fresh Tomatoes in Garlic or King Prawns in Light Batter. If you fancy chicken, choose from delights like Chicken with Fresh Ginger and Spring Onion, Chicken Cantonese Style and Chicken in Lemon Sauce. If pork is your thing, then choose from BBQ Ribs, Peking Ribs or Chinese Roast Pork. If you’re a non meat-eater then you have plenty of choices, with delicious dishes like Tofu and Vegetables in Satay Sauce, Mixed Vegetables in Sweet and Sour Sauce or Tofu and Mixed Vegetables. Finally, for something a little different, why not opt for a seafood dish? Choose from specials including Salt and Pepper Scallops or Sweet and Sour Monkfish. There is also a whole range of noodle dishes and fried rice dishes to choose from. The options at this Torquay restaurant really are endless.
So, if you’re looking for a Chinese restaurant in Torquay that offers an extensive menu with choices to suit all palettes, then Yum Sing is definitely the place for you. Or, if you want to have a relaxing night in, you can even order your food and takeaway.
Find out more here.
Jingles
The Best Mexican Restaurant in Torquay
If you’re looking for the best Tex Mex restaurant in Torquay, then look no further than the new Jingles. Located in Paignton, this Torquay restaurant and takeaway is Tex-Mex themed and offers traditional Mexican and Cajun dishes to satisfy all tastes. Fun, funky and colourful, Jingles certainly guarantees a good time and good food!
Explore their huge menu to find an array of delicious Tex Mex dishes, including nachos, burritos, enchiladas, chimichangas, wings and ribs, chilli, loaded fries, sides, dips and deserts. What more could you ask for from a Tex Mex restaurant? From the nachos selection, you can choose from classic, beef chilli or veg chilli, all served with salsa, jalapenos, cheese, sour cream and guacamole. From the burritos menu, opt for the chicken, pork vegetable or chilli beef burrito, all stuffed with cheese, rice, beans and slaw. Or, if you fancy something a little more meaty, then maybe you should go for the full rack of slow cooked baby back ribs in a sticky BBQ sauce or the New York style Buffalo wings, both served with fries and coleslaw. When it comes to fries, you are spoilt for choice at this Torquay restaurant, with options including Crazy Carnitas (BBQ pulled pork, crispy onions, cheese and Jingles homemade Cajun sauce) and Dirty Cowboy (beef chilli, jalapenos, cheese, sour cream, and Jingles Cajun sauce).
So, if you are looking for the best restaurant in Torquay for a Tex Mex feast then you have found it with Jingles. Serving up big, hearty Mexican and Cajun inspired dishes, you certainly won’t leave hungry. The menu has something to offer everyone and the food definitely won’t disappoint.
Find out more here.
TWENTY1
Best Bar and Restaurant in Torquay
Twenty1 is the best restaurant in Torquay if you’re looking for somewhere to have both food and drinks. First opening its doors in 2018, This Torquay restaurant and bar gained instant popularity amongst locals and visitors alike thanks to its unique interior, incredible food, delicious drinks and its unrivalled view of the Torquay harbour. Introducing a new concept to Torquay, Twenty1 is an incredibly versatile venue, serving everything from coffee, cocktails and food both day and night.
At this Torquay bar and restaurant, their food menu is about bringing people together with dishes that are best enjoyed in excellent company. Here, you can enjoy locally sourced and freshly prepared food from their seasonally changing menus. What makes this place even better is that their menu is suited to vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diners, as well as children. When it comes to food, the menu offers a whole range of options, including tapas, burgers, pizza flatbreads and tacos. Tapas is a great option for larger groups who can share and comprises the likes of crispy chicken strips, five spice pork belly, battered monkfish bites, spiced sausage hotpot and tempura halloumi. If you’d prefer to have a meal all to yourself, then it might be better to opt for a burger – choose from options like the The Brie and Bacon, The Crispy Chicken or The Vegan. Or, why not choose a pizza flatbread? Select from the Nice n’ Spicy, the Smoked BBQ Chicken or the Veganly. For something a little different, you might want to choose from the taco menu – select from the rump steak, king prawn, three bean chilli, pork belly or spiced sausage. However, no meal at Twenty1 is complete without a good old drink on the side. Explore their selection of cocktails, including creations like the Salted Caramel Martini, the Candy Floss Fizz or the Sweet-Toothed Dragon. Alternatively, you might prefer to opt for a G&T, a glass of wine or a pint of beer.
So, if you’re looking for a relaxing environment to enjoy some great food and drink in the company of friends or family, then Twenty1 bar and restaurant in Torquay is perfect for you. Get yourself down there, order some delicious food, sip some drinks and have a fabulous night as you take in the harbour views.
Find out more here.
Small World
The Best Tapas Restaurant in Torquay
Small World is one of the best restaurants in Torquay for worldwide food in tapas size. Opening its doors in 2017, Small World is the creation of a Cornish chef and a Spaniard, serving up the most delectable food with more than 25 years of experience in the industry. Delivering not only the best Tapas in Torquay, but the friendliest service, the team at Small World always have a smile on their face and a bubbly attitude to make you feel at home.
When it comes to the food at this Torquay tapas restaurant, they will certainly satisfy your cravings with their flavoursome food. Offering tapas plates from around the world, this is the best restaurant in Torquay to share some good food with families and friends. They pride themselves in creating colourful dishes that combine cultural flavours and taste absolutely amazing. The options for your delicious tapas feast include Sweet Potato and Apple Beignet, Vegan Sushi, Greek Dolmades, Falafel Burger, Chargrilled Vegetable Skewer, Sweet Potato Curry with Basmati Rice, Aubergines with Molasses and Gordal Olives. The tapas dishes at this Torquay restaurant are a fair bit larger than your usual tapas sizes so you can be sure you won’t leave hungry. With an excellent selection of wines as well, you can order the perfect glass to accompany your meal.
So, if you’re looking for a fantastic tapas restaurant in Torquay then look no further than Small World. As a family-owned and run business this restaurant delivers exclusive flavours, blending new and traditional techniques to create tasty dishes that are best enjoyed in an intimate setting with loved ones.
Find out more here.
Off Shore
The Best Dog Friendly Restaurant in Torquay
If you’re looking for a restaurant in Torquay where you can take your dog along too, then Offshore is your go to. A busy cafe-bar by day and one of the best Torquay restaurants and live music venues by night, Offshore is the ideal spot for al-fresco dining and drinking in summer. Situated in an envious location, overlooking the beautiful Torquay harbour, this beach-side restaurant has an expansive menu, offering fresh and tasty dishes for everyone to enjoy.
On the menu at Offshore you will find a mix of classics and more contemporary dishes. For starter, choose from options like Mediterranean Fish Stew, Cauliflower Pakoras, Salt n Pepper Squid or Seared Scallops. For the main dish, you can choose from a range of fish options, meat options, burgers and pizzas. From the fish selection, you can opt for a more classic dish of Beer Battered Catch of the Day or something a little different like Coriander and Spring Onion Crab Cakes. If you’d prefer something meaty, then choose from Lemon and Thyme Chicken, 8oz Rump Steak or 6oz Fillet Steak. For something a little more casual, select from the burger or pizza menus, with options including Halloumi and Avocado Burger, Cajun Prawn Pizza, or BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza. Whatever your tastes, whether more refined or laid-back, this dog-friendly restaurant in Torquay will have something delicious for you.
So, whether you’re simply meeting a friend for a drink or attending for a romantic meal and maybe a dance after, this is the perfect restaurant in Torquay for you. With a longstanding reputation for hosting the best live music in Torquay, Offshore is not only a great dog-friendly restaurant but a lively and vibrant space for having fun with friends.
Find out more here.
Number 7
The Best Restaurant in Torquay for Wine
Number 7 is a family-run fish bistro and wine bar in Torquay, serving up fresh fish and shellfish from local boats and markets. The Stacey family have been running this bistro-style restaurant in Torquay since 1993. Offering simply cooked fish and seafood dishes that pack a real punch, this Torquay fish restaurant and wine bar not only served amazing food but amazing wine too.
When it comes to food, expect to be blown away by the number of fish and seafood dishes on offer at Number 7. For starter, choose from Seafood Broth, Mussels Mariniere, Hot and Cold Shellfish Platters and King Scallops grilled with garlic and lemon. Moving onto the main course, why not order the Fillets of Plaice, filled with Prawns and baked under a Cheese and Wine Sauce, the Thick Cod Steak Grilled or Roasted with Olive Oil, Herbs and Garlic or the Salmon baked with Mild Moroccan Spices. If you still have room for desert, then you can choose from classics like Apple Crumble, Sticky Toffee Pudding and Treacle Tart. With a range of over 95 wines to choose from, you will also be spoilt for choice when it comes to drinking at this Torquay wine bar. Whether you fancy a glass of sparkling, red, white or rose, they have it all and will serve by the glass.
So, if you’re looking for a Torquay restaurant that not only serves great food but superb wine too, then look no further than Number 7 fish bistro and wine bar. Sourcing all ingredients locally and with wine options from producers all over the world, you really are in for a treat when you visit this fish restaurant and wine bar in Torquay.
Find out more here.
The Shack
The Best Burger Restaurant in Torquay
If it’s burgers you’re after then you have hit the jackpot with The Shack, the home of handmade burgers in Torquay. At this Torquay restaurant, they really are serious about making and serving the best burgers around. Made locally using prime South West aged beef and each hand-pressed, the burgers at The Shack are unlike any others.
While burgers are the main speciality of this burger restaurant in Torquay, they are also proud to serve a number of other options to cater for all tastes, including succulent chicken, hot dogs and healthy salads. However, if you are a burger fan, then we would definitely recommend trying one of their specials. Working closely with their butcher, the team at The Shack have spent weeks painstakingly curating the perfect burgers. Choose from burger creations, including the Surf and Turf, topped with king prawns and garlic mayo; The Frenchy, topped with brie and cranberry or The Hog Father, topped with pulled pork, Monterey Jack cheese and BBQ sauce amongst many more. If you would prefer chicken over beef, then you can choose from the Zingy Chicken, coated with lemon, garlic and coriander seasoning; the Cajun Chicken, coated in a blend of cajun spices or the Philly Chicken, topped with cream cheese, roast pepper and streaky smoked bacon. Choose your main and then order a side of fries, coleslaw, onion rings or olives to name just a few.
So, if you’re a big burger fan, whether beef or chicken, then you will certainly find what you’re looking for at this trendy burger restaurant in Torquay. By far the best Torquay restaurant for burgers, you might have a hard time choosing between all the delicious options on offer at The Shack.
Find out more here.
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