Short answer: The Crab Shed is the best meal in Salcombe and stays busy even out of season, so book. The Fortescue Inn is open from eight until midnight. The Ward Room has the best view of any café in town.
The Crab Shed. It remains the standout in Salcombe and stays busy even out of season, which tells you most of what you need to know. Book.
The Fortescue Inn, away from the waterfront, open from eight in the morning until midnight — mussels, well-rated fish and chips and takeaway pizzas. Reviewers consistently describe the friendliest welcome in town.
The Ward Room has window tables directly over the estuary and the best view of any café in Salcombe, doing brunch and eggs. The Ferry Inn is unassuming from the street until you go down the steps to a beer garden hanging over the water.
Salcombe Coffee Company on Fore Street does generous cooked breakfasts and a bistro-style menu later. The Pantry Coffee House at the top of Fore Street is tiny and family-run with gluten-free and dairy-free options. The Salcombe Yawl does freshly made sandwiches and pasties.
Several of the better restaurants cut back to Wednesday-to-Saturday in winter. Check before planning an evening around one — the Fortescue is the safest bet.
Small Devon restaurants have small dining rooms. Book at weekends and always for Sunday lunch, and ring rather than relying on a booking form out of season.
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