Food & Drink in Tavistock

Sitting on the western edge of Dartmoor in Devon, Tavistock is a charming market town rich in history, culture, and most delightfully, culinary wonders. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, Tavistock's vibrant food scene offers something for every palate. From cosy cafés and traditional pubs to fine dining establishments and bustling markets, here's a guide to some of the best food and drink experiences you can enjoy in Tavistock. 

Cafés 

Did you know that Tavistock is the birthplace of the Cream Tea? That’s right! Find out more about the history of the Cream Tea here.  

With that in mind, it’s not a trip to Tavi without tucking into this delicious Devonshire delight so why not pay a visit to one of Tavistock numerous charming cafés and delis, perfect for a relaxing tea break and a sweet treat! 

Duke's Coffee House:  

Located within the Tavistock Pannier Market, Duke's Coffee House offers a cosy atmosphere and an excellent selection of coffees, teas, and homemade cakes. Their Devon cream tea is a must-try! 

Café Liaison:  

Located on Church Lane and adjacent to the St Eustachius Parish Church, Café Liaison is a much-loved spot for locals and visitors alike. It's ideal for a leisurely breakfast or a bite to eat at lunchtime. 

Lemon Grove Café:  

Lemon Grove Café is a chic and relaxed café that serves breakfast and lunchtime snacks as well as a good selection of cakes and artisanal ice cream sundaes and milkshakes – yum!   

Mime:  

Located on Paddon’s Row, Mime is a wonderful little cafe, with outside seating, that offers natural homemade food from locally sourced produce. It’s the place to go to grab a breakfast pastry, a healthy lunch or a picnic box. 

Eastgate Cafe & Brasserie:  

Recently re-opened, Eastgate is a quaint cafe and brasserie with a terrace that overlooks the river, perfect for spending a summers day in. Serving local produce such as Owens Coffee, based in nearby Ivybridge and beer by Stannary Brewery, it’s a fantastic place to visit if you want to sample the area’s local produce.  

Traditional Pubs, Bars and Inns 

Experience the warmth and hospitality of Tavistock's traditional pubs and stylish bars, where you can enjoy hearty meals and a pint of local ale. 

The Cornish Arms:  

A popular spot for both locals and visitors, The Cornish Arms offers a fantastic menu that showcases the best of Devon's produce. No. 2 in the UK's top 50 Gastropubs, this is one spot that shouldn't be missed while in Tavi.

The Union Inn: 

Renowned as a popular family pub, The Union Inn boast a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as great food and drink. They’re also well known for their live music and Sunday Roasts! Their bunkhouse is a unique stay for those on a budget.  

Stannary Brewing Co.:  

Stannary Brewing Co. is an independent craft beer brewery with a fantastic taproom. It’s modern and stylish interior provides a great atmosphere for a casual drink, and be sure to visit on a Friday evening for a stone-baked pizza by Exe Valley Pizza Co.  

Restaurant and Fine Dining: 

For those seeking a more refined dining experience or want to celebrate a special occasion, Tavistock has several excellent restaurants that promise to delight the senses. 

The Bedford Hotel Bar & Restaurant: 

This historic hotel, dating back to the 19th century, features a charming restaurant. Enjoy classic British dishes made with local ingredients in a cosy, historic setting. The Bedford Hotel also plays host to a number of speciality dining evenings such as a Wine Tasting Dinner, a Flavours of Asia Dinner and a Murder Mystery Dinner! 

Church Lane Restaurant: 

Situated in the heart of Tavistock, this award-winning restaurant occupies a stunning Georgian building and a menu that celebrates local and seasonal ingredients. Perfect for a special occasion. 

Taylors Bistro:  

Taylors Bistro offers an elegant dining experience with a diverse menu that includes both modern British and international dishes. Enjoy an afternoon tea, bottomless brunch or a hearty dinner that will certainly impress.  

Thariks Tandoori Restaurant:  

For those craving Indian and Asian cuisine, Thariks Tandoori Restaurant provides an extensive menu of flavourful dishes in a welcoming setting. 

Robertson’s Restaurant:  

This vibrant restaurant offers a delightful mix of Mediterranean and British cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. 

World Cuisine  

Tavistock now boasts a number of cafes and restaurants offering contemporary and authentic world cuisine. If you you fancy a culinary adventure, we have got you covered!

Aroma Cafe:  

The new kid on the block now has a faithful following. Serving hearty Mediterranean brunches and specialities, their moto is ‘Eat Local, Think Global’.   

No. 76:  

76 is a contemporary getaway in the heart of Tavistock, with an outstanding array of bottles, beers, wines, speciality spirits and inspired cocktails. The menu draws inspiration from the Asian culture of sharing, with small plates and vibrant dishes complementing your drinking experience. 

Deli’s, Takeaways and Local Produce:  

A town renowned for the quality of its food, Tavistock abounds with local produce available at delicatessens and speciality food shops. The choice is endless!

de la Torre’s:  

Located in the Pannier Market, de la Torre’s is Tavistock’s Mediterranean Deli, complete with over 300 specialty products including pastas, oils, vinegars, olives, meze, various sweet and savoury snacks, and more! It’s a fantastic spot if you’re looking to grab some snacks for a picnic, or something to take back to your self-catered accommodation.  

SW Wine Shop:  

SW Wine Shop is situated on Market Street and offers a wide selection of fantastic wines, beers and spirits. Head over on a Friday or Saturday for their popular wine evenings, served up with local produce! 

Roots & Vines:  

Selling locally produced and source fruit, veggies and organic sourdough, Roots & Vines makes a great destination if you’re looking for ingredients to make yourself a tasty dinner at your self-catered accommodation or campsite! Beer, wine & spirits are also available, as are food hampers and veg box deliveries.  

Country Cheeses:  

For the cheese-lovers out there, this shop is for you! Also Located by the Pannier Market, Country Cheeses makes and sells a wide and varied range of artisan cheese. Whether you’re a fan of stinky blue cheese, or prefer a simple cheddar, this shop caters to all cheese-enthusiasts.  

Carters Deli:  

Formerly Crebers, Carters is the longest standing deli in Tavistock. Serving homemade produce including Denis’ ever popular quiche, this is a great place to grab picnic food. Now stocking artisan Belgian chocolates, it’s also the perfect place for a treat for that special someone.  

Stranded Sheep: 

Locating a takeaway hatch and a horsebox, Stranded Sheep boast the title ‘Tavistock’s Best Fast Food’. Whether you want a coffee whilst mooching around the town or need to grab a quick bite to eat whilst on the go, it’s certainly a worthwhile stop. Check out the mural while you are there!  

Award-Winning Food & Drink Businesses: 

Here are some of our award-winners!

Flapjackery: 

As well as the home of the Cream Tea, Tavistock is also the home of Flapjackery! Creators of luxury flapjack, Flapjackery have established themselves as a much-loved, award-winning food producer in Devon. Located on Duke Street, why not pay a visit to their flagship store and sample this delicious oaty snack? 

Gin Boutique: 

Winner of the Taste of the West award in 2023 Gin Boutique is an independent gin shop in the heart of Tavistock. They sell over 90 different varieties of this much-loved spirit, including plenty of locally-produced gins, plus, they also offer a gin-tasting experience too! 

Howells of Tavistock:  

Howells of Tavistock is a butcher that has been serving the public and the catering industry for nearly 100 years! Their sausages, made onsite, got the Royal seal of approval by King Charles when he visited and bought to enjoy later! 

Local Food Festivals & Markets: 

Tavistock hosts several markets and food festivals throughout the year, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the region.  

Tavistock Pannier Market: 

A trip to Tavistock wouldn't be complete without a visit to the historic Pannier Market. Open from Tuesday to Saturday, this lively market is a food lover’s paradise. Stroll through the stalls to discover a variety of fresh, locally sourced produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods and more. 

Tavistock Farmers Market: 

Held at Bedford Square every 2nd and 4th Saturday, Tavistock Farmers’ Market is one of the most popular in West Devon. Visit to peruse the wonderful array of local produce such as cheeses, chutneys, sweet treats and more! 

Tavistock Street Food Festival: 

The Tavistock Street Food Festival, typically held monthly from April - November, is a highlight, featuring an eclectic array of street food stalls, a variety of bars and live music.  

Tavistock Cream Tea Week:  

Held in June, Tavistock’s Cream Tea Week is a celebration of the iconic sweet treat that was born in this very town. Various businesses will be coming up with new and inspired flavours to celebrate the history of the cream tea, as well as a Cream Tea & Bubble Festival taking place at the end of the week.   

Tavistock is a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering a rich tapestry of flavours and experiences that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re savouring a traditional Devon cream tea, enjoying a hearty meal at a local pub or exploring the diverse offerings at a local market, the town’s vibrant food scene is sure to leave a lasting impression. So next time you find yourself in this picturesque corner of Devon, be sure to indulge in the delicious food and drink that Tavistock has to offer. 

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