Anchor Stone Cafe in South Hams

Excellent view. Great selection of specials. Seafood heaven. Lovely selection of pastries too. Additional bonus: They sell bait for fishing and crabbing.

Having visited the Anchorstone many times over the years we were looking forward to celebrating two family birthdays in this beautiful setting. While the view hasn’t changed the dining experience certainly has - and not for the better. One member of our group does not eat fish but was happy to go along as, in the past, there was always a choice of items for meat eaters. All that was on offer was a vegetarian option or a ploughman’s platter. When we enquired if there were other options the waitress suggested ham and chips (not ideal) but returned a few minutes later to say this was only available for children! So, ploughman’s it had to be but this was disappointing and an eye watering £17.50 for a couple of chunks of ham, a tiny wedge of cheddar, a sprinkling of salad and three small bits of bread ( generously accompanied by 3 tiny pickled onions and one butter portion). One of the group chose the Caesar salad which proved equally disappointing. Very heavy on the lettuce but only a couple of scallops and a few scraps of crispy bacon - again very poor value for money. As was the Affogato dessert at £10.50 for a single scoop of ice cream, an espresso and a single (unnecessary) shot of Amaretto. Service was good, staff were friendly but I doubt we’ll be back - which is such a shame as this was a place we always looked forward to visiting and had recommended to many people in the past.

Very popular place to enjoy fresh seafood with great views of the Dart estuary from the deck. Service was great. Book before going to avoid disappointment. Parking on beach so check tide tables.

Fabulous, simple, fresh food, excellently cooked, beautiful setting, lovely staff, absolutely fantastic. It’s a rare occasion that my fine dining chef husband is truly happy eating out, and this was one of those occasions. Even though we are over an hour away from you, I’m sure we’ll be back. Thank you.

The Anchorstone Cafe sits perfectly overlooking the beautiful river Dart, with stunning views from almost every table. It’s a restaurant characterised by understated class; not showy, not flashy, not pretentious, instead the Anchorstone Cafe epitomises down to earth and simple elegance. It’s seafood high quality and gleaming with freshness, its atmosphere intangibly welcoming whilst simultaneously making its guests feel an air of exclusivity. Most importantly, its staff contribute to the most perfect atmosphere, kind and welcoming they offer the warm and personable service every great restaurant requires. The staff never fail to cater to your every need, nor do they torment you with an overbearing approach found in other restaurants of this culinary class. They have always been the perfect example of service. If you are looking for overbearing waiting staff, flashy steaks dressed in gold, and a bill that more represents your desire to show off your quarterly financial gains to your peers, I suggest you go elsewhere. Perhaps Dubai? If you want to feel welcomed, get great value for money, appreciate understated class, or indulge in South Devon’s most fresh and perfectly cooked seafood take a trip down to the Anchorstone Cafe. Simple. Elegant. Exceptional.

Such a shame, lovely food restaurant ruined by allowing yobs in. Profit over quality taken into consideration here. Amazing food experience completely ruined by the restaurant allowing loud yobs to come in, swear & smoke in front of our young children. One by one each table emptied & left as this happened… to add to this, was advised that this was allowed due to them having a difficult year.

We have been regular patrons of the Anchorstone for seven years now. My last review was 5 stars. It has always been our first choice for a long lunch with friends and family. Sadly, this year we noticed a significant difference in quality and experience. It has really gone downhill. Tables free for walk-ins in the high season… that probably suggests that others feel the same as we used to have to book months in advance. Firstly, we found the menu much more limited now. No crab or lobster on our latest visit, very few fresh fish options the previous visit. The Caesar salad was uninspiring with stale toasts and a huge amount of watery lettuce. The scallops were dry - we have had better in a number of local pubs and restaurants this summer. Such a shame. Secondly, the service has really lost the charm and familiarity that we had experienced previously. The team were clearly rushed, and inexperienced. For example, we had to ask four times for a jug of tap water. Positives remain… the Anchorstone is such a lovely spot on a sunny day. It makes a nice trip from Dartmouth on the boat. We enjoyed our desserts, the lemon posset particularly. And we were pleased to see that Sharpham wine is served again. Delicious. We really hope to see things turn around again at the Anchorstone because it had become a firm favourite and yet we found it lacking this summer.

Looked nice so popped in for brunch. Went to bar and was told that we would be served at the table, but that they're busy. Sat at small table near the front of Cafe. No reservation note on the table, or the large table opposite. Waited 20 minutes. Blunt waitress took drink orders and some food orders. Then asked if we were shown/seated at the table as the table is reserved. We then had to leave.

Very sad to leave this review because we've been coming to 'Anchor Stone Cafe' for a long time. I ordered the 'Cesar Salad' with scallops. This dish was totally underwhelming. The parmesan cheese was stale, the little toasts were stale, I didn't touch the lettuce because it wasn't a true 'Cesar Salad 'which normally has gorgeous flavours mixed in. It was basically a plate of lettuce with some stale stuff and the only thing that was edible were the scallops and tiny bits of bacon. My partner had the 'fish and chips' apparently just ok but nothing like the old days @ Anchor. What's happening?? We told the young waiter and he said he would convey the feedback to the chef. That's nice. That's it. No apologies ---or ---let me talk to the chef. There used to be a brilliant chap as FRONT OF HOUSE who completely ensured everything was amazing. I thought the staff serving were friendly which was nice but the food, the essential bit, was sadly lacking. We were treated to this meal by our friend and I am not sure what she thought of her food but certainly two of us were extremely disappointed. Upset to read amongst these reviews that others have also complained and they too felt that sense of ambivalence from the owners.

As always one of the most special places for lunch….the food, the view and the hospitality. Love it! Thank you as always. Can’t recommend enough!

Don’t bother going if you’re vegetarian. There were no main courses which were vegetarian or vegan, despite us having been before when there was always one option. The owner was completely unhelpful and couldn’t care less, however as I was in a group of 4 and didn’t want to spoil it for the others, we stayed for lunch although all I could have was a bowl of chips. The others in the group didn’t rate their meals either and the general consensus was that it’s nowhere near as good as it used to be. If you want overpriced, mediocre meals with poor service then this is the place for you otherwise I’d save your money and go elsewhere.

Food was excellent but customer service not great . Had ordered a bottle of wine when our food order was taken but had to ask for it when halfway through our starter, as it had not been served . Also toilets are outside and staff and guests leave doors wide open so inside toilets are visible from 2 of the dining tables. Really needs looking at as not even sure this is compliant with food hygiene standards!

Wow - a great selection of seafood including Oysters, Mussels and our favourite Brixham Plaice. The wine of French Sauvignon Blanc washed down the Moules! The food was cooked to perfection with young waiting staff looking after you superbly. Great views across the estuary from the balcony. Highly recommended (Note: park at the top of the village)

Absolutely delicious fish and chips and tuna salad plus a side of oysters. Service very good too. We arrived at 2pm without a booking and they managed to squeeze us in

Arrived early as got boat from Dartmouth, staff let us in early. 2 of us, had the prawns and whitebait for starters. Both had black bream with fries and salad for main. Service great, food superb, bream especially, nice salsa verde on side and fries cooked to perfection. Even the side salad with fennel, radishes, minted peas and peppers was tasty. Been here twice, always recommend

We were so lucky to get a table for 2. It was perfect. Great location, wonderful breeze, shady (During our English heatwave), exceptional food and cold white wine. This was a lunch time. Unfortunately no tables available for the evenings whilst we were in Dartmouth. Next time we will book well in advance.

Lovely setting above the water, tables well spaced, great service, excellent food that was well presented, generous helpings, lots of attention to detail re: flavours, fresh and tasty fish, reasonably priced. Overall a great experience.

Great food, great setting, great wine, and great views. But what makes the difference was Great service - well done the staff, you made it special.

We were lucky enough to get a table here, the girl serving was very accommodating, Hubby had the Cajun chicken burger and i had the ploughman's .. both were fab and beautifully presented. Lovely food and lovely staff. Would highly recommend this place ... best to book and they are always busy.

Ordered a takeaway homemade crab tart which was excellent, very fresh and flavourful. One of the nicest crab tarts I've ever had the good fortune of enjoying. Accompanying salad and coleslaw were faultless.

We had lunch on the balcony fantastic seafood and service - the seafood platter was great as was the frangipane - very organised - well done - ignore reviews that say this is closed it definitely isn't!!

We went here for lunch and sat outside on the balcony in the sunshine overlooking the water. The setting was beautiful, the service great and the food fantastic. We shared oysters and the seafood platter which was really good value and just tasted delicious. Would definitely recommend, although book in advance so you don't turn up disappointed!

Great find at the bottom of a steep slope down to the river. Lovely ploughman's , better than your average elsewhere-good qualify ham and fancy salad. Felt very welcomed. The host is an asset.

Another visit to the Anchorstone in Dittisham, this time with more friends and as we’d raved about it before it was great that the food and service lived up to the reputation we had given to our friends. Muscles, scallops, sole, prawns, bream and halibut all lived up to the superb standards of the Anchorstone. It was pouring down with rain and sitting in the marquee was dry and cosy. As usual service was attentive and friendly. The only issue is that its so good, you have to remember to book early or be very lucky with cancellations to get in!

Fabulous lunch. Got the ferry from Dartmouth up to the Anchorstone. Great food and service and all undercover if the weather isn’t good. We’ve had the most fabulous weather so didn’t need anywhere covered, but it’s handy to know if the weather isn’t quite as good. Starters and mains were all great and everyone enjoyed everything ordered. We will definitely be back again.

Best to book in advance or be flexible on timing if you want to eat in. We opted for a takeaway which was delicious. The seafood is excellent and the chicken burger was fantastic and leave room for one of their delicious puddings!

Having been before , we wished to return and enjoy the seafood dishes ( John Dory, and sea bass) with mussels as a starter - delicious. Make sure you book ( closed from around Nov to March)Worth trying esp in summer, when you can watch the maritime world go by...

Lovely sea view outdoor but covered and heated cafe serving fish, fish and fish. All beautifully simple and fresh. Well-presented although my whole crab was a little dry. Puddings looked excellent. Excellent service and a lovely lunch

Amazing selection of local seafood e.g. Brixham mussels , which were delicious. If you are fish lover you’re in a for treat here. Nice service and good choice of local beers and ales. Bit of an adventure to get to down narrow lanes and wear sensible shoes to get down to the restaurant from the steep hill from the car park.

We have been coming here as a family for over 10 years, and it is one of our favourite places to eat. As always, the food did not disappoint. The ingredients are daisy fresh and of a very high quality. Therefore, the simplicity in the dishes compliments the quality of the food, making every bit an absolute delight. The restaurant is Covid friendly, with staff wearing masks and guests having to wear masks when moving around. There is one bathroom which is down a shielded corridor, preventing individuals from roaming around the restaurant.All in all, a great experience, even during Covid.

Recommended by a friend. They were able to find us a table without a booking. Friendly staff, a good selection of dishes on the menu. Great for seafood. COVID secure with well thought out seating, hand sanitisation and a shielded route to the toilets. Food preparation and presentation excellent. Highly recommended!

So pleased we could get in to the Anchor Stone cafe at Dittisham yesterday via a cancellation .We were not disappointed especially with the view up the Dart from Our table , where we were served fresh fish which was delicious. The staff were very friendly making for a very relaxed lunch . Worth the visit..But book early...

We were so pleased to secure a lunchtime reservation at this wonderful restaurant in Dittisham. We arrived by ferry from Dartmouth . It was a beautiful summers day and lunch with special friends overlooking the estuary was a truly memorable occasion. The menu was superb with a great choice of seafood dishes - I choose the scallops with a gratin topping and crab tartlet with salad. My friends thought the mussels were amazing value for money . Thank you for a wonderful experience and keep up the hard work.

We visited without a booking, so take-away was the only option. No problem, Service was friendly and prompt and we sat on a nearby public bench to eat our delicious fish and chips. pint from the pub opposite to was it down.

We were advised to book early and we did, but the fresh fish is so good we tried getting in again with no luck.Location is lovely for a bright day as you look out over the river, the food delicious and the service excellent. Would certainly go again.

After reading all the reviews was looking forward to eating here even with takeaway.The lady manning the access point was trying her best on a hot day to keep everyone happy ,what with people arriving early and others waiting for takeaway.We ordered fish and chips and the fish burger.The fish was pale and greasy and the chips are a small portion of french fries. Whoever the chef is should be ashamed of passing this off as palatable food. Any local chippie can do better than this.Very disapointed

We were lucky enough to get a table when someone failed to turn up for their booking - more fool them! The Caesar salad with scallops, pancetta and anchovies was amazing - best meal of our hols so far! Thanks so much for fitting us in and to the family who gave us a free rib ride over to Greenway! We would thoroughly recommend booking a table at the Anchor Stone - you won’t be disappointed. See you next time we’re down!Ps - the crabs love their frozen fish bait too. X

Booked way in advance to make sure we were able to eat here and we weren’t disappointed! Arranged to travel from Dartmouth to Diddisham on the ferry that runs every half an hour and that was a good way to get there. The staff were excellent and the revised social distancing rules explained at the outset. The menu is primarily fish based but enough for those that don’t like fish. All 5 of us thought the food was excellent as was the service throughout. The only thing was the wasps that were around but not something the restaurant could do much about. We would definitely go back again and recommend to others.

Had a lovely meal here today, my husband had the haddock and I had the plaice which was lovely. We live near Padstow so we are spoilt but this was a really lovely meal!! I had the chocolate brownie for pudding which I can thoroughly recommend!!The staff were friendly and efficient and all COVID procedures were in place.We had a wonderful view outside although we were being bothered by wasps but it’s that time of year. The rain then came down and we had our meal under cover on tables which the staff had kept free in case which was really thoughtful!The only thing that marred it for me as this was our first meal out since lockdown was the eight other people who were in the room with us talking at the top of their voices from one table to another. Which in the circumstances made me feel very uncomfortable.

We’d heard lots of good things about the place and maybe we just caught the place on a bad day but our lunchtime food needed seasoning / dressing and left us feeling rather underwhelmed with the lunch. It wasn’t bad enough to not give it another try at some point (We live nearby) but I wouldn’t risk going there for a special event/celebration until I’m sure it was better than average.

Dined in the little shed area which was good as the weather was very wet. Set up well for covid safetyAll round very good service from our waitress . We had booked especially to have crab, having been wow'd last visited 3 years ago , but on arrival were told sorry ,no crab so had to rethink.The calamari, mussels and scallops were very nice but lacked the wow factor, possibly in presentation ,that we had expected.Pavlova for pudding was really spot on.

Attended for lunch as a party if 6. All meals were cooked perfectly and delicious. Lovely atmosphere with a beautiful view over the river. Great safe friendly service. Can't wait to visit again.

The Anchorstone Cafe is legendary and there are few things in life that give me more pleasure than eating fresh cracked crab and sipping good Rose' with a group of friends. Will and his team have been doing a magnificent job for years now and the views from the restaurant are to die for. Rain or shine it is consistently 10/10.

We come as a family every year, always make sure to book. My first year as a vegan at this restaurant and they really accommodated me. They had run out of sorber for dessert so they made me berries with coulis which was lush so thank you! Brilliant restaurant, brilliant food and service as always

Fantastically friendly and hugely enjoyable. Been many times and the food is wonderful - mussels, calamari, scallop Caesar salad, fish and chips and lemon sole. All beautifully cooked and great service.

Have been here before, and have always enjoyed it. This time no different, they fitted 3 of us in, and we had a delicious lunch. Mussels and a Pavlova to finish. Wife had a haddock, which she also reported to be very nice. The view is of course very nice, so cannot be faulted, a perfect summer venue. The only metaphorical fly in the ointment as before, is being bothered by some wasps. This time not as bad as before.

We have been a few times over the last couple of years and it has been okay. This time round the food was fantastic, Will and the team have always been great front of house, but the food this time was brilliant. The ginger pudding is a must! Covid-19 compliance was outstanding.

Tried to get in last year and failed. Managed to get in on our recent holiday in July. It's a real gem. Perfect location in the overlooked village of Dittisham. Pared back, simple but great seafood. Relaxed and attentive service.. Amazing, peaceful venue. The ferry across, crabbing afterwards (so many crabs!) and a look around Agatha's (Christies) holiday home all adds to the overall experience. Have to say, they were coping really well with the covid adjustments too. A simple but ridiculously hard to deliver hospitality proposition.

Spectacular view, great food, friendly service, good COVID 19 safety measures in place. We had mains of sea bass, plaice, lobster . All brilliant. One of the best places we have found on UK hols. Rivalled my fav of shell bay Restaurant, studland bay, Dorset)) Long leisurely Relaxing lunch. The icing on the cake of a weeks stay in Devon and well worth the hour plus drive from our cottage in Chagford. We took a boat out for three hours before Lunch from dittisham boat hire - also recommend. Great day.

Wonderful cafe in a spectacular setting overlooking the River Dart. If you love fish, this is the spot for you. A great menu with plenty of choice, all super-fresh. We hadn’t booked (a BIG mistake) and were lucky that they had just had a lunch cancellation. The owner was charm personified and a great host. BTW they are, rightly, talking Covid very seriously but this didn’t impact our enjoyment in way way. The combination of food, location and service make it one of the best lunches we have had for a long time. BRAVO!

Enjoyed one of the chicken burgers yesterday for lunch which was delicious. Great sides and crunchy fries to accompany a really well made burger. I’ll be return to the Anchor stone cafe as soon as I can 👍🏻

It is almost exactly a year since we enjoyed a memorably sunny birthday lunch here, overlooking the quayside and watching the little ferry to and fro to Greenway. Having moved to the area in the autumn we looked forward keenly to the seasonal April reopening but it was not to be. Now that the Lockdown is finally easing, we got to return, fingers firmly crossed that the lustre had not worn off. Thankfully, it hadn't. We got a typically warm welcome from the local staff, suitably sanitised, and a great table to observe the bevy of visitors, their inflatable dinghies, spaniels, Jemimas and Georges spuddling in the Dart with varying degrees of confidence and expertise. Still atmospheric then. More importantly, the fare was excellent, the seafood notably plump and fresh, imaginatively served. The Fowey Mussels as a shared starter were outstanding, fleshy and flavoursome. Panfried Turbot was also lovely, two generous fillets with the skin nicely crisped, the flesh soft and succulent. Ceasar Salad with pancetta, fresh anchovies and scallops was arguably more adventurous in offering a savoury combination and some punchy flavours. Local Salcombe ales were an ideal aperitif and the food was well matched with a reasonably priced Italian Chardonnay from a brief wine list. No room for puddings, so we'll have to skip the starter next time to make it that far.The bill came to £70 without service. You'll need to book well ahead to bag a table here now that the tourist season has begun with a vengeance but it will be well worth the wait.

We had the pleasure of another excellent lunch at the Anchorstone Dittisham. Newly re-opened after lockdown, standards were as high as ever. Superb fresh produce, delicious cooking and all delivered with an enormous effort being made to be Covid-safe. Truly impressive and very reassuring. We ate perfectly cooked and exceptionally fresh Start Bay crab, Fowey mussels cooked in cider that were as plump, soft and stunningly flavoursome as any we have eaten for years (and we eat a lot of mussels at home and out). Local hand dived scallops were delicious. The service is knowledgeable and friendly and the views here wonderful. You won't find better seafood, simply cooked to show off natural flavours rather than complicated cooking anywhere on the UK South Coast.

Reopened following lockdown. Well managed. Very good food. Speciality fish. Beautiful riverside location. A repeat visit and our first choice for a special lunch post lockdown.

Fantastic little lunch spot, there's something about eating fresh seafood in a harbour town. This place is a knockout and looking forward to going back ASAP.

Well worth the walk from Dartmouth but you could take the ferry and arrive in luxury! The food here is great, service efficient and friendly and the views across the River Dart are stunning. You'll need to keep your layers on if you sit outside at this time of year (October) as the sun misses the lovely little terrace area but it's worth it for the gorgeous views across the river. There are two ferry options out of season - the larger Greenway ferry from across the river or the smaller 12 seater ferry from the pontoon at Dittisham. The cafe has its own ferry but not all year round so double check!

The Anchor stone is one of those few places you find which are simply amazing!With its authentic laid back styling/furniture. excellent menu with lots of choice for all - this is a must visit Restaurant.The views over the Dart are of course captivating and add to the overall expereince.But the stars of the show are the staff and the Fish!Well organised service - nothing is too much trouble, and food arrived in good time, even when v busy.All delicious! highly recommended. AAAAA

Fantastic quality service and beautiful food. A lovely treat sat watching the world go by on the river Dart.

Visited for a second time this year, whilst camping locally. Location on the river Dart is fantastic and the ferry trip across from Greenways adds to the occasion. Menu is extensive with a good variety of fish dishes in particular. I had an amazing ceaser salad with local scallops, which I would recommend to anyone! Service is friendly with a relaxed atmosphere which adds to the enjoyment. It seems essential to book as we saw many potential customers turned away, even on a rainy day. We’ll be back next year, for sure!

After a great ferry ride with Buddy on the Anchorstone ferry we arrived into Dittisham. This Place only takes Reservations for the first sitting at 12pm and then the tables are given away through a waiting list system. This works incredibly well during the busy summer periods and we did not have to wait too long for a table. In the meantime the cafe sells takeaway Coffee, Cakes and all the crabbing gear you need! The Daily menu is on a huge Chalk board with lots to choose from, although mostly Fish there was a option for Non fish eaters, and half portions of anything for children. After visiting a few times this year I thought it was about time I wrote a review. The service here is always super friendly no matter how busy they are. This time around we enjoyed the Panfried Hake, The scallops baked in their shells, Half pint of prawns and the Beer Battered Monkfish. All absolutely delicious and cooked perfectly as always! The Local Heron valley Cider is also lovely especially in the sunshine as well as the Routas Rose which goes perfectly with seafood. Too full for Pudding this time but so nearly tempted by the Treacle Tart or Pavlova. Well Done to the Anchorstone team keep up the good work!

Well worth the 5 minute boat trip from Greenway... This is just an idyllic place to have a wonderful seafood lunch in Devon. Beautiful location on the bay at Dittisham... Obviously a well known venue as there were no empty tables.. always a good sign. The food was excellent prawns. mussels.. sole.. perfectly prepared. Extremely pleased we were recommended its hard to fault.

There were ten of us and we were looking for a Fish Restaurant to celebrate a major Birthday .The Anchor Stone Cafe was the perfect answer and I cannot rate this Restaurant more highly .Firstly the position was lovely looking out to Dittisham Jetty and beyond to the River Dart . We sat outside but we could have had covering if the weather turned .The decor and ambience was perfect . Relaxed , Trendy , and efficient - the girls and boys who served were excellent .Then we come to the Fish . The menu changes every day to ensure that nothing served is anything but absolutely fresh . The local mussels and scallops were amazing , the fresh crab came in 3 sizes ( small was absolutely huge nearly the biggest crab I have ever seen ) so I dread to think what the medium and largecrabs were likeWe also had Lobster and Turbot and the children had fresh Hamburgers which they loved .The white wine was lovely ( although perhaps a little expensive ) And then surprisingly bearing in mind this was a specialist Fish Restaurant the sweets were unusual and absolutely excellent We all had the best Lunch - thanks to everyone at the Anchor Stone Cafe who made that possible

Stopped here for lunch with our dogs the place was packed but service was quick and pleasant the food was just as our friend had recommended the views are fab over the bay

I have been going to the Anchorstone Café ever since Claire Harvey took over the running of the place eighteen years ago, ably assisted by her family. I love it for the fresh seafood, wonderful location, friendly service and buzzy atmosphere. I have taken many friends there for lunch over the years and have never been disappointed. I think of it as a special treat, the food is of a high standard and although not cheap, is a fair price for what is on offer.It is only possible to book at the start of service at 12 noon and it can get very busy particularly on a Sunday. If you haven't booked, you can turn up to put your name on a waiting list. It can take a little while for a table to become free, but the friendly staff will give you a realistic estimated time and you can always have a drink in the neighbouring Ferry Boat Inn, or sit and enjoy the views while you wait. I tend to arrive by ferry, having had a lovely trip from Dartmouth, rather than driving, as the lanes are quite narrow and parking can be tricky. To save disappointment, it pays to plan ahead and book either the new Anchorstone Ferry, or one of the Dittisham ferries, unless you are crossing on the foot ferry from Greenway Quay. Understandably the best way to enjoy the Anchorstone Café is on a lovely sunny day, sitting either under the canopy, enjoying the views, or in the wooden chalet. The balcony, which has spectacular views over the River Dart, can get a bit hot as there isn't a lot of shelter. But whatever the weather I have always enjoyed my visits and have wonderful memories of the place. I say, long may the lovely Anchorstone continue as it is!

My family treated me to a very special lunch at the Anchorstone. From arrival to departure, we were all thrilled with our visit. Wonderful food, really difficult to chose as so much choice. Staff so friendly and helpful, best venue we have been to for a while. I would thoroughly recommend a visit here for families or couples. They do get very busy in peak times, so best to book ahead. Enjoy

Visited with great hopes because of the high Trip Advisor score.

We booked seating for lunch,when we arrived were taken to the balcony over looking the river. There was no umbrella and it was very hot. I had a Caesar salad with scallops and my husband had a seafood medley. The Caesar was nothing like I was used to they used iceberg lettuce???? Instead of Romaine, anyway it tasted good, when we finally got it. It took 21/2 hours for 2 courses, which is bloody ridiculous, especially in the sun, my Husband and I had to change seats as my neck was burning so badly. Found it excessively expensive too

Firstly let me say the location and view were pretty much unbeatable and that may well be why it was all so expensive. The food was all very nice but the fish n chips I had was really just pretty standard pub grub. My partner enjoyed her lobster and loved the garlic mayo (very much) but left most of her salad. I paid £5.50 for a pint of peroni which is what I pay in the fancier parts of west London. The meal was very pleasant but really quite expensive all things considered. The other thing which makes me give this 3 rather than 4 out of 5 was the fact that our square table was cramped for my partner who had to sit legs akimbo straddling a crossbar! Get a table with legs at each corner please. Many restaurants are guilty of trying to cram in too many seats but when you’re top dollar. However we would go back if we could get a better table and I wouldn’t have the Peroni.

Yet again we enjoyed a locally sourced seafood long lunch (!) at the Anchor Stone Cafe, the seafood, service and location are simply fabulous !

This is a great place with a good holiday vibe to it. The staff are really pleasant and accommodating and although we had a 30 minute wait for our table, we sat and enjoyed a drink so it wasn’t a problem for us. A superb choice of food and I liked that you could have the mains as a starter to. I think for fresh quality food the price was spot on and we all enjoyed what we had. We never felt rushed even though they were busy. The only reason I haven’t given 5 stars is because there were no dog treats like in other places : )

Having booked a table for 4 a week ago, we arrived by Buddy’s water taxi from Dartmouth and were shown to our table straightaway and explained the menu options (including half-sized mains as starters if preferred). The atmosphere was perfect - relaxed and informal, busy but not hurried, coupled with a captivating view across the river.

Sadly the Amchorstone Café was so popular we never managed to get in, other than morning coffee. So the essential need is to book well in advance. Situated right on the River Dart at Dittisham, it's in a super location with a covered outside area. It's only open summer lunchtimes so make sure you book in advance.! Bring the kids/ grandkids to go crabbing off the nearby pontoon. The crabs love a free lunch and they all go back in to the river so a nice bit of crab friendly fun there after your meal..

Great location right on the river - catch the ferry from Dartmouth for a perfect lunch. Seafood so fresh and local, beautifully served- not fancy just real honest good food. Bookings in the season are needed. Fantastic!

Beautiful position with lovely river views from some tables, on our lunch visit it was very busy with holiday guests, so maybe a excuse for the poor service. We eventually ordered, and waited a hour for food which was ok, but a little over cooked with to many leaves. It all seemed a little amateur. If you’ve got plenty of time on your hands, maybe it is a place to visit, but quite expensive for the privilege of a view!

We've been past this restaurant quite a few times but never managed (due to our poor planning) to eat there. Today was different. We made use of the their water taxi and sauntered round Dartmouth for several hours and, on our return, had a lovely meal. The welcome from Will and his cheerful and attentive staff was good to say the least. The food and service really was outstanding - it makes the difference between a good or a great meal. The Anchorstone was very busy - as was expected - but nobody seemed to wait very long; every dish that came out looked fantastic and superbly presented. My overall memory will be of lots of people eating truly delicious food in the warm sunshine in a wonderful setting. We will return as often as is possible. Many thanks.

Just yummy food that is presented well, all while sitting next to the river, drinking delicious wine! what more could you ask for!

We booked here for lunch after our first visit just for ice cream. We had a lovely table outside, the waitresses here are so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. It was tricky to know what to choose, extensive fresh fish menu. We had mussels to share as a starter which were just perfect. Fresh Fish and chips and fresh grilled chips accompanies by a delicious sauvignon blanc. Highly recommend this restaurant. It does close at 4. Best to book in high season but they have a good wait list procedure as well.

The skipper had lunched here last week and had a great meal. We three decided to try it again. The service was friendly young and enthusiastic, but they knew the menu very well. We all had mussels as a starter, excellent size and well cooked. We then had Lemon Sole I had a Halibut. These were both cooked to perfection and the accompanying salad and chips were perfect.

Went for lunch with three friends mussels were the best I’ve had in a long time followed by Sole Very impressed with the general level of service from all

The Seahorse restaurant in nearby Dartmouth claims, on their website, that: "We believe that seafood of this quality requires skillful (sic) but simple prepartion (sic) to enjoy it as it's (sic) best and this is at the heart of what we do."

Café restaurant The Anchor Stone is het betere alternatief voor Dittisham. Een nadeel: de keuken sluit om 16.00 uur dus geen diner. Maar als je lekker wilt lunchen aan de oever van de Dart River en houdt van visgerechten, dan is dit een uitstekend alternatief. Mooi terras aan het water.

Kjempegod mat og porsjoner man blir mett av. Ikke noe fast meny, den varierer fra dag til dag, avhengig av hva som er tilgjengelig. Veldig god service! Utsikten er upåklanderlig.

Got there when it was busy, at 2pm. We got on the waitlist but weren’t seated till 3pm, despite the fact that the table we sat at had been empty for at least 10 minutes. The food was good, with fine service vice, so come if you’re not in a hurry.

Going off the reviews decided to pay a visit. Lobster dish was nice (lots of leafy salad) but the other dish, a ploughman’s was a big disappointment. Only two small cheeses with lots (lots of leafy) salad and chutney. The ham was nice but having sampled a ploughman’s in Barnstaple this for the price (x2) paled into insignificance as a worthy dish. It is in a lovely location for views over the river if your lucky to get a table with a river view.

We walked from Dartmouth to Dittisham / Distsun or whatever variation you choose to use. It was well worth the walk. Lovely tables looking out directly onto the Dart. The staff are friendly, helpful and efficient and the food, well magnificent. Try the scallops or the seafood platter, the spider crab was enormous. I’ve also had the fresh Tuna and Crab Tart on other occasions. Oh and the puds (Brownies) are superb too. Sadly can’t rave about the wine as didn’t have any on this occasion as we were walking back. Will definitely be a regular. Check out the photo of the view...

Turned up on a rather sunny afternoon we no booking and not a table free in sight. However, we were greeted by the very attentive maitre d who was extremely pleasant and said they’d be a table ready in half an hour or so. He took our number and sure enough we were sat down in no time at all.

Fantastic restaurant. Quality ingredients beatifully prepared in a delightful location. Very reasonably priced. Service excellent.

We’ve been coming to the Anchor Stone for a few years now. It’s always excellent and somehow keeps getting better! Highlights for us this time were the fish platter, the sole, the warm treacle tart, the pear frangipane, the view over the estuary and the welcome and service from Will and his team. It is I think my favourite UK restaurant!

Remains an excellent venue for lunch, especially if you like sea food. Amongst others, Whole sole, scallops, monkfish, lobster, crab. Dishes complimented by fresh, fresh salad. Summer pudding with clotted cream to follow rounds off lunch in a beautiful setting, enhanced if the sun is shining on The Dart estuary. Booking in summer season advisable.

This was worth the rather cold ferry trip from Dartmouth. We had booked and were given a large table to ourselves with no pressure to hurry when the restaurant became busy. My favourite scallops on the shell couldn't have been better. Then my husband and I shared a very large Dover Sole which was perfectly cooked, served whole and left for us to fillet ourselves. This seemed typical of this place which calls itself a cafe, with its friendly informal service. I was very glad that I made room for a dessert, a pear frangipane, mouth-wateringly light and moist.

We took a scenic half hour ferry trip from Dartmouth to Dittisham to have lunch at the recommended Anchor Stone Cafe. Such an incredible setting and such delicious food. Starting with a Caesar A half dozen of the freshest most succulent oysters and a Caesar Salad with scallops (with their roe) was a great beginning. The seafood platter was heaping - best calamari rings ever - so light and flavorful. Sweet fresh prawns were a treat, several varieties of smoked fish, lovely local mussels (surprised that they were chilled - had somehow expected them to be warm and would have preferred them so), and some big crab legs. Everything save the crab was wonderful. Probably I am just not used to the crab from this region, but I found it dry and lacking much flavor, but I am used to sweet Dungeness crab, so perhaps it was not a fair comparison to make. All and all, a brilliant day out and outstanding lunch.

I’m a fussy man, but my lunch here was to die for! It was a whole crab, with mussels, salmon, etc, etc. and all so tasty and fresh. Cost about £21 and worth every penny. Best fish meal I’ve had for a long time, and I shall be back again next week for the same again!

Great seafood restaurant complimented by a lovely view, Had to wait a short time for a table as we hadn't booked but had a drink at the bar beforehand. Easily reachable by ferry from Dartmouth and worth the trip.

Still my favourite place to have lunch on the world. Wonderful river view, outstanding seafood, lovely staff and excellent cider on draught.

Lunch here having popped across the river from our holiday cottage. Quite superb meal with fresh fish the king and a menu that changes every day. All of the ingredients were excellent, the wine and beer was just as good and the desserts were to die for. Sat out on a sunny terrace overlooking the river it was a small taste of the good life. Yes it might come across as a little pricey but you get what you pay for here and it is worth every penny. All that and cheerful service too - just go see for yourself.

We sat on a seat on a small terrace with a lovely river view. It was very busy and we had to wait for our seat, hence service was quite slow but staff never seemed to stop. I had a plate of mussels in a creamy broth with fries. We asked for bread to mop up our broth as none came with the meal. Perhaps it should be included in the meal. The mussels were quite big but some were not open and some barely open and needed to scrape the mussels out of the shell. Still a nice dish. Chocolate brownie for afters hit the spot.

If you are seeking a great fish meal try this popular restaurant in Dittisham.Parking is a problem close by but there are several car parks in Dittisham and good riverside footpaths to the restaurant. Staff friendly. Great food. Good views.Highly recommended

Sunny May Sunday. Sun glistening on the Dart. Sat on the balcony overlooking the river watching all the activity on it and GLORIOUS scenery.

No tables available on a busy Bank Holiday. Nevertheless, we were found seats on the little terrace, with a fine view of the harbour and river. We were able to have drinks and some terrific bar-type food - the calimari in batter was superb!

Well recommended cafe that we wanted to try whilst on our holiday in Dittersham. They managed to fit us in because of a cancellation which was great as it was packed...booking highly recommended! The food was great, very fresh. We had prawn cocktail salad which was amazing and scallions in their shells - both were amazing. And it’s dog friendly too so that was a bonus. Great place to visit for lunch if you’re in the area.