Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, is a dream destination for food lovers, especially in summer. With sparkling waters, historic harbours, and a thriving dining scene, it’s the perfect place to make a day of it. Whether you’re craving freshly caught seafood, sizzling street food, or the best Sunday roast in town, Plymouth’s restaurants and cafés offer flavours as fresh as the sea breeze.
Here’s your guide to some of the best places to eat in Plymouth – from waterfront terraces with spectacular views to hidden gems that locals can’t get enough of.
The Boathouse
Perched right on the historic Barbican, just steps from the famous Mayflower Steps, The Boathouse is a seafood lover’s dream. The catch comes straight from the restaurant’s own boats, meaning the menu changes daily – think melt-in-the-mouth mackerel, rich crab, and sweet lobster. Nab a spot on the terrace for brunch, lunch, or dinner and watch the sunlight dance across the water.
The Hook and Line
Set inside the beautifully restored Slaughterhouse at Royal William Yard, The Hook and Line is big on character and even bigger on flavour. Here, sustainable seafood meets a fun, sociable vibe – order scallops, mackerel pâté, or the classic fish & chips, and wash it down with a tipple from Plymouth’s first dedicated rum bar. Live music and quirky events keep the energy buzzing.
Set in the heart of the Royal William Yard, The Hook and Line offers a creative take on sustainable seafood. Think grilled fish, seasonal specials and small sharing plates packed with bold flavour. The team here put real care into every dish, and the welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to settle in and stay a while.
Rockfish
Set next to the National Marine Aquarium, Rockfish is a family-friendly haven focused on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. The bright, beachy décor and generous outdoor deck make it as perfect for a post-aquarium lunch as for a casual evening by the water. Go for crisp fried fish and chips, changing daily specials, and Salcombe craft beers with views over Sutton Harbour.
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Jolly Jacks
Jolly Jacks offers laid-back dining right on Mayflower Marina. Expect steaming bowls of seafood chowder, plump mussels, and hearty fish dishes, plus a Sunday roast worth writing home about. It’s dog-friendly, family-friendly, and has a terrace that catches the best of the afternoon sun.
Salumi
A multi-level gastropub with a European soul, Salumi is where relaxed vibes meet creative cooking. From bao buns and sharing plates to inventive veggie and vegan mains, everything here is fresh, seasonal, and flavour-packed. It’s the kind of place you come for lunch and end up staying until dinner.
KUKU
Occupying a Grade II listed building in the city centre, KUKU reimagines Japanese cuisine with local twists. Dine at the hand-crafted maple sushi bar and watch the chefs work, crafting dazzlingly fresh sushi, flame-grilled skewers, and unique fusion plates, each beautifully presented. The elegant surroundings make it ideal for date nights or special occasions.
The Dock
With sweeping waterfront views framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, The Dock is a bright and breezy all-day dining spot. Breakfast, brunch, lunch – they do it all, and always with locally sourced ingredients. It’s as good for a lazy morning coffee as it is for an after-walk wind-down.
Suphas
For a flavour hit that transports you straight to Southeast Asia, Supha’s is unbeatable. Bursting with colour, spice, and fresh herbs, their dishes span Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Malaysia. Bring friends, grab a table by the water, and don’t be afraid to get your hands messy.
Knead Pizza
Knead Pizza in the city centre is all about Neapolitan-style perfection – chewy, charred crusts, vibrant toppings, and that irresistible wood-fired aroma. Alongside their inventive pizzas, you’ll find garlicky sides, fresh salads, and desserts like tiramisu and cheesecake that demand to be shared… or not.
Pier Master's House
Housed in a lovingly restored historic building on the Barbican, Pier Masters House pairs waterfront views with refined British classics. From creamy seafood chowder to seasonal specials, it’s a place where quality ingredients and careful cooking shine.
Zephyr Burgers
Burger cravings? Zephyr Burgers on North Hill, near to The Box, has you covered. Expect juicy, flavour-packed smashed patties topped with inventive combinations, all made with top-quality local produce.
B-Bar
Part Asian-inspired eatery, part buzzing music venue, B-Bar is a local favourite for its lively atmosphere and flavour-packed street food. Tucked inside the Barbican Theatre, it’s the perfect pre-show dinner spot or a place to settle in with friends for a night of live performances and great eats.
Make a day of it
Now is the time to explore somewhere new, support local businesses, and enjoy good food in great surroundings. With its coastal charm, fresh produce, and creative spirit, Plymouth offers a summer dining scene that’s hard to beat.
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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner
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