Five dishes you have to try on your next holiday to Devon
This is a collaborative post.
There’s no better way to get familiar with a new destination than by sampling its most iconic dishes. Devon, in South West England, is a coastal haven bursting with stunning beaches, cliff-view walks and some authentically British cuisine. Food tourism is a growing movement that supports local farmers and small businesses, while also providing you with a better dining experience when you’re away from home – it’s also far more sustainable than sticking to the same old chain restaurants. Paired together, a food-focused getaway in Devon is a delight for all your senses.
Whether you fancy stopping at a quaint cafe mid-hike for a cream tea or want to enjoy delicious crab sandwiches in a cosy pub, here are our top picks for a foodie retreat in Devon.
Cream tea
You’d be forgiven for thinking cream teas are a cornish delicacy, but this tasty pick-me-up is a popular treat in Devon, too. Served with a hot cup of tea, you’ll enjoy a freshly baked, warm scone with clotted cream and strawberry jam. However, there is an important distinguishing factor between how this dish is served in either county: in Devon, the cream is spread onto the scone first, then the jam goes on top. In Cornwall, you’d have the jam under the cream.
For a slightly different treat alongside your afternoon tea, try a Devonshire split (or bun). These light, sweet buns look similar to doughnuts, and are filled with fresh cream, jam and sliced strawberries.
Pasty
The iconic pasty is thought to have been invented as a way for miners and sea-farers to enjoy a hearty meal without needing to worry about cleaning their hands. A popular treat in both Devon and the rest of the southern English coast, they are made from pastry with meat, potatoes and vegetables in the centre. Think of a roast dinner wrapped in pastry – simply mouth-watering.
Fish and chips
No British seaside holiday would be complete without tucking in to a tray of fresh battered fish and hot chips by the beach. There are a number of distinguished restaurants that pride themselves on offering the very best fish and chips in Devon, so be sure to give them a try.
Traditionally, this meal is had on a Friday night, due to the Roman Catholic belief that meat shouldn’t be consumed on this day of the week – but fish was allowed. Try yours with a side of mushy peas and tartar sauce, or curry sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
Crab sandwich
Crabbing is a fun activity to enjoy when in Devon, especially if you have children in tow. But if you’ve never tasted a crab before, be sure to try a crab sandwich. With a sweeter flavour than you’d expect and a flaky texture, crab makes a satisfying filler for a couple of thick slices of home-baked granary bread loaded with plenty of butter.
Wash it down with cider
The West Country is well loved for its cider breweries, which make a wide range of drinks to suit all tastes. From dryer blends to sweet, fruity ciders, there’s plenty on tap across the pubs and restaurants of Devon. Wherever you choose to eat in Devon, if you stick to smaller, family-run businesses you’ll be in for a flavoursome, wholesome dining experience.