Ed. Before we get too Christmassy I really want to share this article that I’ve had simmering for a little while (sorry Lucy!). A few months ago I met Lucy Gosling (@lucygosling) at an event in Exeter. Based in Plymouth, she knows some fantastic spots for foodies, and I managed to tap into some of her top places to eat by asking her to kindly write them down for us. Is it too early to make new years resolutions? I am certainly going to make a resolution to visit some of these fab places Lucy mentions in the following article and I strongly encourage you to do the same!
It was during a summer tasting event that I had the pleasure of meeting Chris and Tori from Dining Devon. Chatting over our love for food I realised that my hometown of Plymouth was full of wonderful hidden gems that needed to be shared. So let me take you on journey of my top 4 places to visit if you are ever in the beautiful Ocean City of Plymouth.
Let’s start with one of my favourite feasting spots, Honky Tonk Wine Library.
Honky Tonk Wine Library is the home of the ultimate sharing board; baked camembert, Chorizo sausages, ‘Honky’ Bhaji, chicken wings all on a beautifully presented board filled with olives, grapes, and apples galore. Of course, offering a vegetarian and fish option, this really is a feast for the taste buds.
With also a breakfast board as a brand-new choice. This gorgeous family run business is one not to be missed. Owners Zoe and Fitz have created the perfect social space for catching up over wine and cheese, allowing an environment that caters for good food, good wine, and good times.
I have visited Honky Tonk Wine Library a number of times for dinner as well as attending their internal wine tasting events. With 250 wines in stock and 30 by the glass there is an abundance to try from. Their passion to provide more than just food and wine, as well as proving that anyone can enjoy wine, shows through their social calendar of events. They offer opportunities for developing wine knowledge, comedy nights and food fayres.
This wine and cheese delight can be found along the waterfront of Sutton Harbour in Plymouth. Unfortunately, due to current construction to the area sea views have been temporarily taken away from this growing business. Thankfully the Honky Tonk community have come together to raise money to create an amazing outdoor garden space to bring the outside in on those glorious sunny days.
Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday with most days being open 9am until 10pm, but days do differ so be sure to check on their website if you are looking to make a visit.
Next up we have a place with real rustic charm, Salumi.
Salumi’s ethos is simple food, cooked well. Lamb rump, pork belly curry, herb and pea risotto as well as battered day boat hake and chips are all among the delicious dishes available at Salumi. Salumi pride themselves on the suppliers they work with, ensuring to stay local when possible and proudly working alongside some of the best in the Southwest. The food is almost homely yet not something I could ever cook at home myself, so definitely a treat.
From the outside looking in you may think this is a petite property, but like a Tardis, Salumi have been smart with their space to create a beautiful rustic environment for all to enjoy. With various levels to dine, you can be tucked away, within the hustle and bustle or even outside in the garden.
The garden is actually the host to some fantastic ‘Salumi Sessions’, acoustic and DJ sets are among some of the entertainment held here, as well as event nights such as Latin tasting menus. There is certainly a community feel upon entering Salumi almost as if you are joining a really cool club.
Salumi is in the centre of Plymouth, on a corner surrounded by Plymouth Pavilions, The Duke of Cornwall hotel and a not so far stroll to the waterfront. If you are wanting to pop in for a visit, then it is open Monday – Sunday 12pm until 11pm.
Next is our new kid on the block, Knead Pizza.
Knead Pizza is, as you may have guessed, a pizza restaurant. But that title absolutely does not give this place justice. When stumbling across this hidden gem we were transported to what felt like a dreamy Italian courtyard, with fresh drinks, beautiful outside atmosphere, and insanely delicious food.
Originally being based in the Plymouth market they have now renovated and moved to one of the oldest buildings in Plymouth. The location really does take you away from the everyday hustle and bustle of Plymouth town centre, hiding you in a little haven full of fresh smells, smiling faces and cheering glasses. Along with the location, Knead Pizza have worked long and hard to perfect the pizza dough they use for their pizzas, a soft and flavoursome base cooked under a wood-fired pizza oven means that every mouthful gives you a warm
homely feel but still super rich in flavour.
On my visit, I had their Oh Gosh! It’s Squash pizza, which is filled with spinach, maple roasted butternut squash, goats’ cheese, pine nuts and lots of other lovely things, along with their specialty Deep Fried Ravioli. We didn’t just find everything delicious but also seriously well priced, meaning you could enjoy a guilt-free yummy meal whether you want to sit in or take away to devour in comfort of your home, what more could you ask for. You can visit Knead Pizza Wednesday to Sunday 12pm until 10pm but do check out their
website as lunch time hours are coming soon.
Last but certainly not least, The Dock.
With an unbeatable combination of great food and great coastal views, The Dock is a family run café and restaurant that’s got something for everyone. Whether you are looking for somewhere to go for breakfast, lunch or dinner or just somewhere nice for a visit or catch up with friends, The Dock offers it all. Often my go-to due to due to gorgeous interior, a large variation of tasty food and the stunning sea views, I can highly recommend a visit here whether it is rain or shine.
The Dock is in Plymouth’s King Point Marina, right next to the ferry port. They have their own car park which is free for 3 hours meaning you can enjoy the sea views and tasty food without any worry about your car parking – quite the essential for any close to town restaurants.
The Dock is a perfect chance to sit and enjoy what Plymouth has to offer, which is ocean views and delicious food. If you are popping for a visit do try to sit outside on the balcony tables, otherwise there are plenty of tables inside to enjoy the ocean themed interior. They are open 7 days a week, 08:30am until 9pm but times do differ on a Sunday so check out their website for details.
The fantastic four restaurants I have recommended are only a handful of the incredible food spots you can find in Plymouth. From pie and pizza for lunch, to a fishy dinner by the sea or even an early bird breakfast in town, there are tons of foodie finds in the beautiful ocean city of Plymouth.
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