Devon Restaurant Guide

“Michael Wignall’s has perhaps even surpassed Michael Caines” at this famous culinary Shangri-La – a “special” Tudorbethan manor house in the narrow back-lanes bordering Dartmoor (“if your looking for a special foodie break, then this is just the place”). “The exceptional tasting menus top anything the chef formerly produced at Pennyhill Park, with a magnificent balance of tastes and textures” (“sound absurd but marry perfectly”), and “the intelligent sequencing of dishes” helps create “a sensational gastronomic treat”. There’s “a marvellous wine list” too and “top class service”. “After a meal you can sink into comfortable chairs in the plush lounge for coffee and then wander around the beautiful grounds: as an all-round experience, it’s hard to beat”.

With its “to-die for-views” over the Exe estuary, Michael Caines “stunning” new venture (his solo project after over 20 years at Gidleigh Park) “lives up to expectations” for the fair number of reviewers who have already made the pilgrimage to this converted Georgian country pile (once owned by the Baring family). “Furnished to compliment and comfort” in style that’s more “grand” and traditional than it is funky or boutique-y, its “classic, top class cooking” (“exquisite, balanced and satisfying”) plus “you-want-for-nothing” service all add up to an experience that’s “exceptional in every way”. In October 2017, Michelin speedily stepped up to award it a first star – two next year?

This thatched pub is a “delightful Devon village venue offering a warm friendly welcome, pleasant garden with beer, cider (and with a olovely B+B cottage too”). Good marks (if on limited reports) for its “consistently reliable” fare, from a short menu focussed mostly on traditional-ish British dishes.

“Wonderful meals with an emphasis on veg” (sourced from the farm) are what “make the Field Kitchen special”; chance plays a role – you eat what’s fresh and, given the “sociable setting” (communal tables, sharing platters etc) you have to “hope that your neighbours aren’t too greedy” – but results are typically “just fantastic!” A stroll around the farm completes the trip.

2017 Review: “A fantastic pub to stumble across on a wet day”; “brilliant value for money, and quality food in a great atmosphere” are to be found at this recently renovated hostelry (with features like the fireplace dating back to 1450).

Cosy neighbourhood hangout in an increasingly foodie area of Plymouth with a focus on sustainable, locally sourced produce. Initially launched with MasterChef The Professionals winner Anton Piotrowski at the helm in spring 2017, the kitchen is now headed by Jimmy and Joe Cotton.