My Favourite Food & Drink Spots in Devon and Cornwall

There’s something about the South West of the UK that’s endlessly inspiring: the surf, the light, the independent businesses in Devon and Cornwall. On my journeys - whether shooting seaside hotels, local cafés, or businesses clifftop views - I’ve tasted and sipped my way through some of the most stunning food and drink spots in Devon and Cornwall.

Here are a few of my very favourite places, throughout the foodie scene in Devon and Cornwall. Definitely wise to add these to your bucket list next time you're in the area!

• 

• 

1. Sea Space, Newquay

Nestled in the cliffs in Porth near Newquay, SeaSpace, is a creative and chilled-out place to stay for the weekend - and eat. Their onsite café is relaxed, with small plates, pastries, craft beer, and cocktails and with restaurant, Tallo, nestled at the front too, it's one not to be missed. I love how it feels like your own beachside home, with modern design and oceanic views. You'll often find me there working on my laptop with coffee in hand! Whether I’m working, relaxing, or just catching golden hour light, Sea Space is a place I always return to.

2. Harbour View House, St Ives

Perched above St Ives harbour, Harbour View House is such a gem. As a lover of all things aesthetic, and neutral, this is an all time favourite of mine! Owners, Ant and Georgia have brought their influence from their travels into a tranquil, warm restaurant and hotel overlooking St Ives harbour. The restaurant is thoughtful and seasonal - think fresh Cornish seafood, handmade pasta, and locally sourced produce.

I particularly appreciate their commitment to supporting local businesses, and the calm, soulful energy of the space makes it a peaceful spot to slow down. Their menus change with the seasons, and everything feels rooted in place. Another gorgeous spot for lunch - with the very best views!

• 

• 

3. POP, Exeter

When I swing into Exeter, POP is one of those lively, modern spots that feels youthful but grounded. It’s featured in local recommendations again and again, and has the most incredible Detroit style pizzas! Or if pizza isn't your thing, why not try a toast, ribs, wings or salad... the list goes on! Hidden just behind Princesshay in Exeter, it's a spot that locals of the city know and love.

4. Darts Farm, Topsham

Darts Farm is more than just a farm shop - it’s a full food & drink destination. You could quite literally spend half a day there - and I sometimes do! There’s a deli, butcher, gift shop, wellness spa, kitchen showroom, hair salon, café, and restaurant all onsite. Their Farm Table menu celebrates seasonal ingredients with dishes like hand-dived scallops, grilled native fish, and farm greens. I adore going there in-between my weekday shoots, or during a slow weekend, followed by a relaxed lunch surrounded by a walk around their farm.

• 

• 

5. The Crab Shed, Salcombe

If you love seafood, The Crab Shed in Salcombe is unmissable. Right on the quay, it’s laid back yet stylish, and their crab is exceptionally fresh. With a crab picking facility right next door, and the fishermen on the edge of the quay, it really doesn't get much fresher. (Their website makes me hungry every time I look.) Sitting there, watching the water and feeling the breeze - it’s a perfect spot for a sunny summer's day! I did a photoshoot for the lovely team in Summer 2025, and their crab linguini post shoot did not disappoint!

6. Ten Ten Coffee, Charlestown

Tucked into Charlestown, Ten Ten Coffee is a delightful stop when I’m exploring the other side of Cornwall. Trust me - the coffee is worth the detour. Owner Meg, uses only the best Origin Coffee from up the coast in Porthleven! It’s one of those little independent cafés where the vibe is warm, the pastries are top, and you can sit quietly for a minute - by the fire! Meg kindly let me use a corner of her space for a recent shoot and it's also a Photographer's dream!

• 

• 

7. Hey Days, Exmouth

Heydays in Exmouth is the perfect spot for watching kite surfers, cosying up from the wind, or hunkering down with a coffee. It’s cosy, community-driven, and full of charm. When I’m photographing by the coast, I often pop in for a relaxed coffee, and the team have kindly let me use the space for a shoot or two, as the decor inside is just awesome. It feels genuine, not touristy - exactly what I look for when scouting local gems.

8. The River Exe Cafe, Exmouth

One of my all-time favourites: The River Exe Café. This restaurant floats in the middle of the Exe Estuary and requires a boat to reach it - yep, you heard that right! Operating from April to October only every year, it feels like a secret spot in Devon that only try locals know about. Their menu is simple, quality-driven, and just the right kind of soul-filling for a celebratory lunch or special occasion. Or if swinging by is more your thing, you can hop on a boat of your own and use their outside decking for a snack or drink whilst watching the sunset! Be quick to book as it fills up fast and books before their season even starts!

These places aren’t just spots on a map for me - they’re the heartbeat of my laptop work and the backdrop to so many moments behind the camera. Each one has its own story: thoughtful food, friendly faces, and a sense of calm that only the South West can deliver. They inspire me creatively, caffeinate me when life gets busy, and remind me why I chose to build my life and independent business here. Whether I’m shooting on location, editing with a coffee in hand, or simply taking a quiet moment by the sea, these are the places that feel like home.

For more food and drink inspiration for Devon & Cornwall - and for a look at where I often laptop work after I've found these gems, keep an eye on my socials.