The Horn of Plenty

It may be out of the way, but when you walk through the door of the Horn of Plenty you feel as if you’ve come home. With its polished floorboards, huge windows, plump furnishings and a restaurant overlooking the stunning Tamar Valley, this civilised house draws an appreciative crowd of regulars – from all over the country. The kitchen champions West Country produce for its Mediterranean-accented cooking, with spectacularly fresh seafood topping the bill: how about a dreamy pairing of marinated mackerel with crab and exotic fruits, or smoked eel parfait with seared scallop and curry spices? Meat and game are handled with considerable aplomb, too: a celebration of local pork with fresh olive purée and a green olive and apple salsa, say. Caramelised pear with filo puff pastry, macadamia parfait, Earl Grey prunes and dark chocolate ice cream makes a splendid finale.

The Horn of Plenty is an all-day fine-dining restaurant tucked away in the Tavistock countryside. Renowned as one of the best culinary destinations in Devon for over 50 years, it comes as no surprise that it was recently awarded three AA Rosettes for culinary excellence. Showcasing seasonal ingredients and local produce, the food at The Horn of Plenty is based on British and French cuisine, while offering an elevated twist with inspired flavour combinations to create an exciting new experience for diners. Sustainability is taken very seriously here, with 90 per cent of its ingredients being sourced from west country suppliers. The dining room and terrace also boast stunning views of the surrounding five acres of gardens and the Tamar Valley to add extra wow-factor to your meal.

Head to The Horn of Plenty for lunch to indulge in its excellent-value two or three course menu. This changes frequently according to produce availability and the seasons. Expect dishes such as chicken and asparagus ballotine served with a hazelnut mayonnaise and fermented cherries to start. For the main event, try the likes of pan-seared local cod with coastal vegetables and buttermilk beurre blanc, or the Devon lamb with pommes anna, celeriac and beetroot. The dinner menu is a similar affair, but also includes canapes, homemade bread and butter, and finishes with coffee, tea and petit fours.

The Horn of Plenty also serves a six-course tasting menu, with a wine pairing available if liked. Again, this changes frequently with the seasons, but examples of dishes include Paignton brown crab wonton with a cucumber velouté and blowtorched monkfish with sea vegetables and pickled baby mouli in a Tom Yum broth. Afternoon tea is also served daily and includes all the traditional elements, such as freshly made sandwiches, homemade scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream and elegant patisseries.

To drink, there is an extensive Champagne selection and international wine list featuring standout wines from France to New Zealand and Lebanon, some of which are available by the glass.