Best Restaurants in Ilfracombe

Nestled along the rugged North Devon coastline, Ilfracombe is a seaside town that has quietly cultivated a rich and evolving food scene. Once known primarily for its charming Victorian architecture and dramatic seascapes, Ilfracombe now attracts gourmands with a taste for both tradition and culinary innovation. The harbour plays a central role in the town's edible identity, with fishing boats delivering fresh catches that end up on the plates of local eateries the very same day. Fish and chips remain a staple, of course, but diners will find that many establishments now offer elevated versions, featuring line-caught cod and hand-cut triple-cooked chips. The town's historical relationship with the sea not only influenced its cuisine but also shaped the ethos of sustainability and seasonality that many modern chefs in the area now embrace. The culinary transformation of Ilfracombe owes much to a new wave of chefs and restaurateurs who have chosen this coastal haven as their outpost for creative expression. The presence of high-end dining spots, such as those showcasing locally foraged ingredients and inventive tasting menus, has sparked considerable interest among food critics. Away from the white tablecloths, the town also boasts a lively cafe culture, where artisan bakers and baristas offer pastries and brews worthy of a London postcode. Yet what truly sets Ilfracombe apart is its ability to intertwine its maritime legacy with contemporary flavours, crafting a dining experience that is equal parts nostalgic and novel. Whether tucking into a hearty crab bisque at a harbourfront bistro or sampling seaweed-infused dishes that speak of the Atlantic, visitors soon discover that Ilfracombe's culinary identity is as deep and layered as the tides that shape its shores.