Short answer: Burridge's on Victoria Parade is the best coffee and brunch in Torquay by a distance, everything baked from scratch. Meadfoot Beach Cafe has outdoor tables facing the sea and stays open in poor weather.
Burridge's on Victoria Parade, and it is not close. Everything is baked from scratch, the sourdough is the real thing and the coffee is the best in the bay. Closed Fridays, which catches people out.
Tucked above the beach huts at Meadfoot, with outdoor tables facing the sea and food made to order. Reviewers single it out for staying open in poor weather when other beach cafés give up — which on this coast is worth a great deal.
A continental café bar on Victoria Parade doing cream teas, afternoon tea and sharing platters, with generous portions. Dog friendly, with reliable wifi if you need to work for an hour.
Ollie's on Torwood Street does steaks and the best cocktails in the bay. Closed Mondays. Twenty21 has a rooftop garden bar and stays open past midnight at weekends, which is unusual in Torbay.
The Wighton, inland, is a big family pub with a beer garden, mixed grills and lamb shanks, and a kitchen that copes with a full room. Easier with a pushchair than anywhere on the harbourside.
The Lighthouse is set up for dogs and Meadfoot Beach Cafe has outdoor tables. Cockington Country Park, free and five minutes away, has two tea rooms and the Lutyens-designed Drum Inn.
Devon's good rooms are small rooms. Book at weekends and always for Sunday lunch, and ring rather than trusting a booking form out of season.
See the full Torquay guide, filtered by who's with you.
Plan your day near Torquay →