A scenic view of a riverside town with colorful buildings along the water, boats docked by the shore, and green hills in the background under a clear, bright sky.

10 Great Places to Eat in Dartmouth

The picturesque town of Dartmouth is a real haven for foodies. Situated on the beautiful south coast of Devon, its waterfront prom and historic streets are lined with a multitude of places to eat, drink and lap up the atmosphere. From café breakfasts enjoyed with a cup of your favourite blend and leisurely lunches on sun-soaked terraces to fine-dining experiences in Michelin idylls, its deliciously diverse array offers something to suit every appetite and occasion.

Whether you’re seeking the freshest local seafood, classic British cuisine or creative exotic twists, here are some of the best places to eat in Dartmouth, just a stone’s throw from Leonards Cove.

The Seahorse

For Michelin recommended dining that celebrates all things fruits de mer, The Seahorse near Dartmouth Harbour is a must. Helmed by renowned chef, Mitch Tonks, this award-winning restaurant serves local fish and seafood delivered fresh each day and cooked to perfection in the glass-walled kitchen. Take a seat outside on the riverside terrace or relax inside and enjoy the beautiful setting. For a quintessential Seahorse experience, enjoy a drink in the inhouse Joe’s Bar, before savouring the restaurant’s signature grilled fish or seafood platter with a glass of crisp white wine.

The Angel

Set on the banks of the River Dart, The Angel is a beloved local institution and one of the best places to eat in Dartmouth. Recommended by the Michelin Guide, this riverside restaurant is run by esteemed chef, Elly Wentworth, and is renowned for its contemporary take on traditional British favourites. Focusing on local, seasonal ingredients, the menu features a mouth-watering assortment of regional flavours. Drive the 10 minutes from Leonards Cove and look forward to heavenly dishes such as Devonshire lamb, dayboat bass, and South West cheeses.

The Floating Bridge

Opposite Dartmouth’s Higher Ferry on Sandquay Road, The Floating Bridge is one of the top places to eat in Dartmouth for its picturesque river views and tranquil setting. Laidback, welcoming, and famed for its hearty portions, it makes for a great choice for lunch or dinner after hours of exploring the locale. Grab a pew outside in the sunshine in summer, head up to the heated roof terrace, or gather inside during the winter months. Whether you’re visiting for a drink or a filling meal, you’re sure to find something to tempt your tastebuds.

Taylor’s Restaurant

Stunning views, statement décor and tantalising menus make Taylor’s Restaurant on the Quay one of the best places to eat in Dartmouth. Offering a relaxed fine dining experience, it has been welcoming diners for 25 years and is popular with locals and visitors alike. Secure a table in advance and look forward to atmospheric dinner dates, with meals cooked to order by co-owner Peter and his dedicated kitchen team. For an added twist, Taylor’s also hosts special Italian nights once a month – but be quick, tickets sell out fast.

Kendricks Restaurants

With two fantastic establishments, Kendricks Restaurants in Stoke Fleming at Leonards Cove and Dartmouth are well-known as great venues for gastronomes. Full of character, they each feature inviting spaces to eat and drink and take pride in serving the tastiest dishes for dinner. Particularly sought-after are Kendricks’ gourmet burgers, ribs and grills. Choose from stacked house burgers, Devon-reared steaks, West Country pork ribs and Cajun chicken for flame-grilled flavour sensations. There are also seafood and vegan options to ensure something for everyone.

Café Alf Resco

Just 3 miles from Leonards Cove, the family and dog-friendly Café Alf Resco resides within Dartmouth’s historic old town. Exuding quirky charm, it is open from breakfast onwards each day and is one of the best places to eat in Dartmouth. Head over for freshly brewed coffees from the café’s original Italian Gaggia coffee machine and treat yourself to soothing fare where “culinary artistry meets comfort”. For a novel take, you can also look forward to live music nights on the weekend, accompanied by a glass or two of your favourite tipple.

Rockfish

On the south coast of Devon, Dartmouth is famous for its connection to the sea. Another of the best places to eat in Dartmouth making the most of the town’s coastal location is Rockfish. Nestled on the South Embankment with views directly over the River Dart, this seafood restaurant is served by its very own fishing boat, Rockfisher. Offering a menu of freshly caught and sustainable local fish, it is the place to go for fish and shellfish dishes for lunch or dinner. From spring to autumn, meals can be enjoyed inside or outside on the waterfront.

Bayards Cove Inn

The beautiful timber-framed Tudor façade of Bayards Cove Inn is a welcome sight for foodie fans. Tucked within one of the oldest buildings in Dartmouth, the history of this characterful café, restaurant and bar dates all the way back to the 14th century and has been welcoming travellers for centuries. For a memorable dining experience in Dartmouth, secure a reservation and look forward to regular favourites and specials updated in tandem with the seasons. Especially popular are the award-winning inn’s afternoon teas and Sunday lunches.

Smith Street Deli

Smith Street Deli is an independent deli and café in the heart of Dartmouth. Inside this hidden gem, an intimate coffee shop serves a selection of drinks, light lunches, and cakes and bakes that can be savoured inside around cosy wooden tables. Meanwhile, an amply-stocked deli promises a medley of sweet and savoury treats from local jams and preserves to cheeses and charcuterie meats. Take a seat to relish the moment or choose some goodies to takeaway for picnics under the warm Devon sunshine.

The Green Dragon

For the quintessential pub experience, turn your attention to The Green Dragon. Found less than half a mile away from us at Leonards Cove in Stoke Fleming, just outside of Dartmouth town, this family and dog-friendly pub is hard to resist. On the menu, an ever-updated offering of pub classics is served alongside daily specials, as well as fresh stone-baked pizzas to-go. Drink in the ambience in the suntrap beer garden in the warmer months or unwind by the log fire in winter. Each meal is accompanied by a wide range of beverages in the wood-clad bar.

Leonards Cove

Overlooking the stunning Start Bay, Leonards Cove is perfectly placed for uncovering the best places to eat in Dartmouth. From luxurious self-catering accommodation to beautiful camping experiences, there is somewhere perfect for everyone. Get in touch today to find out more.