Secret Garden Cafe in Torridge

I popped in to the Secret Garden Cafe hoping to have a light lunch with my daughter for a special treat - we had been given a £15 voucher to spend and had been really looking forward to our visit. However, it was not the lovely lunch we were hoping for… When we went in, there was a bit of a wait for a table. One of the waiting staff popped out into the garden to see if a table was free there. The older man in the kitchen spoke very rudely to him saying a rather aggressive manner, “you should know if there’s a table free if you could only do your job properly!” The poor guy (who was probably only late teens) looked really upset. While we were waiting for a table, I chatted to another staff member and showed her my gift voucher saying we were excited to finally be able to use it as we had been given it for Christmas. The man in the kitchen then demanded to have a look at it. He said that we couldn’t possibly use the voucher as he only provides laminated vouchers and ours was just on a piece of paper. He implied that we had printed it off ourselves! He then questioned me (in a very abrupt and abrasive manner) for about 5 minutes via the female staff member, wanting to know where I had got the voucher and kept repeating that he only ever gives out laminated ones. I wasn’t really sure what to say! He then asked the female staff member to write down a note about the voucher in their book and take my name and phone number! He said I couldn’t use the voucher until “it had been investigated.” I felt like a criminal! It was also very embarrassing and uncomfortable as everyone in the cafe was staring at my daughter and I! I was then given a menu and told that someone would be over to take our order. I said no thank you, and we walked hastily out. I won’t be back. My auntie (who gifted me the voucher) has been conned out of her £15 so if you are considering buying vouchers from here as a gift, I would say don’t bother, as you won’t be able to use them!

Cannot comment on the food as we only popped in for coffee. It was the service that we found poor. Our order wasn't taken for probably 10 minutes although the waitress didn't seem to be rushed off her feet. The owner was negative and moaning about everything almost as soon as we walked in. Will not be returning.

This little gem of a cafe delivers on every level, well located, excellent food, lovely surroundings, excellent service and good value for money. Dogs welcomed too.

We browsed places in Biddeford to have lunch and as it was a sunny day and there were 8 of us, this cafe with a garden suited perfectly. A young lady escorted us through a magical little garden to a shady spot with picnic tables. Served by two smiley polite waitresses (table service) and all of our lunches were delicious.Didn’t come across any grumpy people maybe they work on a different day!

Today four of us visited this cafe for the second time, we won't be going back for a third. On the first occasion the staff were unwelcoming but we gave them a second chance. The first question from the young lady on the till before we sat down was "Are you eating breakfast ?". We said no , just coffees and scones. There were free tables in the cafe but we were told to go outside into the garden , it was 10 deg max ! We declined and the owner very grudgingly unlocked the garden room. After our coffees and scones etc... the owner burst into the room and said in a very loud aggressive voice "Are you leaving, I have people booked in here for lunch ".It is obvious that unless you wish to eat a meal here you are unwelcome .I feel very sorry for the young lady having to work for such a rude and boorish individual .

Would never recommend this place. Popped in for some tea. Please note no one told us it was table service, there are no signs to say it is table service and there is a till on display at the front. This indicated to us that we were to go up to place our order. However when we went to do so we were told to sit back down and wait to be served. We were fine with this. While waiting in the garden however we were shocked to hear that even from the garden we could hear the owner aggressively, loudly and openly ranting about us. Shouting how rude and impatient we were for simply going up to place an order. We decided to take our business else where. When we told the owner why he refused to apologise for his appallingly rude attitude and the fact he’d been caught red handed. In fact from the volume of his voice I believe he very much wanted us to know we weren’t welcome there. Such a shame for such a simple resolution, just make it clear it’s table service!! Good luck to poor Sam who has to put up with that awful man as a manager, I hope you find a better part time job soon!

The first thing everyone is asked is "Are you eating" - quite unwelcoming. The food was ok, the service was okish, bit disappointed to be honest.

Me and my husband and daughter came in today to sample a Devon cream tea and we were not disappointed. My daughter is only nine and didn't want the tea so instead they stopped it, without a problem, with a drink of her choosing. The scones were light and fluffy, the locally made jam was to die for... and the staff were super friendly and helpful. We will definitely return when in the area.

Popped in here for breakfast and the food was lovely, great fry up. However the way the owner spoke to the young lad working on the till was far from lovely. He was constantly belittling, patronising and humiliating him in earshot of every customer. Won't be visiting again and I hope the young lad doesn't have to put up with this too much longer!

I can’t remember having a better full English breakfast. Delicious chipolatas, three rashers of good quality bacon friendly and efficient service. Top marks.

Wonderful Cafe in a beautiful setting. The staff are really friendly and the food was great. We will definitely revisit.

We needed a dog friendly cafe during heavy showers. This cafe couldn't have been any more acomodating... they set up sheltered areas outside in the Snug and again when we moved to the even cosier Deck. Waitress service excellent. Chef was so helpful. And to top it all the food was lovely, thoroughly enjoyed my special omelette. Thanks for making us feel so welcome.

Absolutely horrific service! After having a look around Bideford for breakfast (we aren’t from here) we looked at the secret garden and thought if there’s no where else we liked more we would go there. Upon arriving back there we saw the cafe over the road was just opening so we had a look at their menu. We decided to still go to the secret garden. However, as we entered the cafe the chef/owner said “oh are they not open over the road then”. It was like he was annoyed that we went to look at the menu as if he was second best. He didn’t welcome us, offer us a menu or a high chair for our daughter. We were instantly made to feel unwelcome so we left. Not to mentioned the fact it absolutely stank of grease and they were flies in there. Awful service, awful place. Cheaper breakfasts else where. Best quality and cleaner.

We had lunch in the secret garden cafe today we ordered omlettes and they were huge also very delicious the leaf salad had the best dressing that i have ever tasted the chef makes his own if he bottled it i would buy loads the staff were excellent with happy dispositions we will be going again .

Visiting with a friend managed to sit outside in the lovely garden inbetween rain. Big portions very nice hot chocolate, watching the birds play was so nice

Visited this Café for breakfast on Sunday 24th October. It was truly the best one I’ve had in ages. Very friendly staff, clean establishment. Surely this must be the best place for your full English in Bideford? Don’t bother wasting time searching for a place...

I am local and had not been before, but will be going back again! Breakfast was brilliant. And service too! Just got back from holiday and was craving a good English breakfast and it didn’t disappoint.

We were visiting old friends in Bideford for a few days who are locals. On the way to see them my wife and I called at the cafe just before 11am. We read a notice on the outside stating that breakfast is served until 11am....

the most pedantic Covid experience we've ever had. They spent more time shuffling us from table to table while they wiped everything down what seemed like several times over. Some focus on actual customer service wouldn't gone amiss. We got the impression from the staff...

A gem. A haven of peace, tranquility and a tip top full English. Great service from attentive staff. The garden dining is great. Well worth a visit.

Please do not go here if you are not a regular and local. I tried to speak to the owner about my complaints but he said I could carry on but I was on loud speaker and he was not listening. I've heard good things...

The service was friendly and the food was good. Nothing fancy but nicely made and presented. The garden is a bit of a gem, we sat in the snug, out of the wind and sheltered from the rain showers.

Waited outside at opening time while owner chatted to local tradesman. Family of four arrived and waited after me. They were then allowed in and seated, but on asking if I could go and find a seat in the garden I was told no, and...

The crab cakes were beautiful, and I enjoyed the sweet location and the staff were very helpful.. but I can’t help feeling slightly unsafe as staff do not wear masks I know it’s been lifted, but covid is still very real and majority of hospitality...

Been here twice now over the last 5 weeks or so and both times for breakfast. I was really impressed by the ingredients used and it was cooked really well, I got the feeling that decent care and attention had been made to my breakfast....

I read about this place on trip advisor and they exceeded my expectations Such a lovely setting beautiful wildlife friendly garden Felt very safe and lots of COVID measures in place. Food was plentiful and delicious We both had clean plates and our waitress was...

A pleasant cafe with a lovely garden at the back of the cafe which is very secluded and peaceful. The food was scrumptious. The service was very good. I would recommend this cafe and will certainly visit it again.

Beautiful secluded garden at the rear of the cafe. Friendly, polite staff and exquisite food served. Highly recommended.

honestly BEST place of my life, real hidden gem, fun for all the family. BIG thank you to the staff for making my tasty afternoon lunch even better than I could have hoped for.

Great find. Lovely peaceful garden kept very neat. Soup was delicious. Good value food. Felt clean and safe.

What a beautiful hidden gem... the gardens behind are cosy and very pretty. Served by Erin, who was very friendly and attentive:) We had the ploughman’s platter, mushroom omelette and a tuna jacket potato, which were yummy. Will definitely be returning !

Lovely lunch in this peaceful garden on a visit to Bideford whilst staying a few days in North Devon. My mother had an omelette with chorizo which she said was amazing. I had the savoury scone and cream cheese which I enjoyed too. The coffee was good and the staff were very pleasant. Very Covid safe in your own little area in the garden. Would definitely recommend.

Amazing house breakfast, all locally sourced, perfectly cooked, reasonably priced and great service. What’s not to like?!

The lunchtime omelettes here were so good we had to repeat the experience a week later! Add to that an excellent pot of tea and we were set for the afternoon. Highly recommend this little cafe, which literally has a secret garden out the back to enjoy in warmer weather. Will definitely be back next time we are in Devon.

We visited here for lunch which was lovely. We had Brie bacon and cranberry roll, which was huge! and cheese and chutney baguette. Very COVID safe, lovely staff and a good price.

We’ve only been here twice but will definitely be back again! The breakfast is great and good value including a drink in the price . The Waitress was very helpful. We sat in the snug outside which was very cosy and cute and we was joined by a cheeky Robin which we loved!Very good COVID Measures.

The coffee is superb and the food fantastic. Had one of Robin's (the chef and owner) excellent omelettes and it's the best I have ever had.

A fabulous little find. We enjoyed cooked breakfasts here which were delicious and excellent value. Staff were friendly and welcoming and every attention to detail to keep one feel safe was in place. Would recommend but it is only small. Believe one can reserve a table.

Excellent service excellent food very clean dog friendly will come again. Staff very nice and helpful

Slap bang in the middle of Bideford, you might expect the 'secret garden' to be a bit of back yard with a couple of outside tables, but not a bit of it. We were looking to eat outside and took a chance, and once we were ushered through the unappealing streetfront cafe we found a Tardis-like open space at the back with plenty of space and great care taken with proper distancing - other reviews have mentioned the brusque boss, I can see how he's not all smiles but he obviously takes safety seriously and full marks to him. We all tucked in to a selection of light lunch meals in a lovely sunny spot, all very good value and generous portions particularly my mixed ploughmans. Recommended.

Just popped in for a chilled out lunch on a day off. Excellent covid measures, very welcoming and good food well presented. Will definitely return.

Stumbled on this "little" cafe on our visit to Bideford, but don't be fooled by the size outside... it has a gorgeous deep garden with lots of little areas that are very cosy even on a rainy day. The owner/ manager was very welcoming and showed us to the garden area. He has also made sure that there are plenty of plastic screens, hand sanitizer and signage throughout the establishment. It is by far the most well arranged place for dealing with CV19 distancing and cleanliness! Toilet also immaculate!The food menu is small but has all the favourites like scones, jacket potatoes, omelettes, sandwiches... and all hot drinks. Lovely little find.

Never have a bad trip here, as a local me & my mum always come here when we both get time off together & it's always a pleasure! Food spot on, coffee amazing & above all else we feel safe & secure here! Keep up the amazing work guys & see you soon!

We only needed a quick snack and a drink. We were not disappointed, the covid 19 protocols were perfect, the staff continuingly cleaning down all surfaces. Food prepared and served safely. We will return.

The secret garden is such a lovely cafe so welcoming to family’s and the food is absolutely amazing the staff are all so lovely and helpful

Popped in here for afternoon tea as last day of our holiday. The level of care and thought into keeping both their staff and customers safe was anazing. Felt completely at ease and each table in the beautiful gardens was sectikned off. Led through the garden tour table. Grandchildren had chocolate cake (shared a slice as too big for a slice each). Me and him had cream tea and daughter and hubbie had carrot cake. Such a wonderful place and thoroughly recommend a visit.

Fresh cooked food that's real good value. A little gem in central Bideford with a wonderful sheltered pretty rear garden.

Outstanding food in a small unassuming cafe. The chef is happy to enage with customers and talk about the dishes he makes and in some cases, as in Lamb Cawl, their origins. I enjoyed a delicious meal and learned a little about West Country traditional recipes.

This place is a hidden gem! Came in for the first time with my friend I have a cream tea and a tuna jacket and will 100% be returning!! Food was amazing. Staff was so extra it just made the experience for us so good. I actually highly recommend this place. We will defiantly be coming back

Whilst visiting our family in Devon today, we popped into the Secret Garden Cafe for lunchtime toasted sandwiches and baguette all of which were served by friendly staff. The food was extremely delicious and a visit here is highly recommended.

I often eat breakfast here as the people are so helpful and friendly it really makes a difference to the experience

We called here only for a lunchtime drink which was OK by them. This appears popular for locals and the menu and food looked good. The staff were good and recommend the venue.

Simple but well presented lunchtime snacks. Unfortunately no specific menu for children but a toasted sandwich fitted the bill. Lovely garden area with plenty of tables. Staff friendly and cheerful.

Visited the Secret Garden Cafe and enjoyed some scones and tea today. Beautiful garden, excellent service and a lovely relaxed atmosphere.

Great location, especially on a sunny day in the secret garden, fantastic scone based Devon teas and a great choice of omelettes - best cafe in Biddeford by far - thank ypu

we enjoyed some lovely food here.dog friendly.lovely friendly staff.lovely garden to seat i.you must visit this place to see for yourself.n

We were cycling the Tarka Trail and stopped in the town for a half way coffee/lunch. Awesome find. Beautiful hidden garden behind. Sensible prices and all freshly prepared. We had good service and very happy we found them.

The cafe has a really nice garden and says it is dog friendly, which is why we went in. We found a free table, although the plates from the previous occupants had not been cleared away. The waitress said she would take our order, but she went past us three or four times without doing so. When she did take the order, she only bothered to remove the dirty plates, leaving the glasses. When ordering we asked for a drink of water for our dog, which she managed to forget. If this is the service level they have in early June, I wouldn't bother going there in July or August.

Nice place for an afternoon scone and coffee. Garden was big and very attractive. The scone took a little while to arrive, but when it did it was warm and light and very tasty.

Superb bacon and tomato omelette and cranberry and brie toastie in garden. Would have succumbed to a cake but some smokers arrived and put us off. Maybe next time. Great food and staff, thanks chef x

We came across this cafe on a sleepy Bank Holiday and enjoyed a wonderful brunch, just what we were looking for. Friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere and great food.

We stumbled across this lovely little cafe this afternoon while looking for somewhere to get a coffee. The unprepossessing front did not hint at the great find behind - the delightful secret garden.

Very relaxing ... food excellent ... took account of dietary requirements! Felt refreshed and ready for the afternoon!

Absolutely shocking. Rude staff, rubbish food and drain runoff they’re passing off as coffee. avoid at all costs

Prompted to go in by the dog friendly sign and although a very cold wind the sun was warm so we could sit outside in the garden. A warm welcome and explanation of the garden and an invite to find a spot and they will come to us. The garden has some lovely sheltered comfy seating areas and an area of picnic type tables at the end so lots of choice. We sat in a sheltered covered area that caught the sun. The garden is very cottage like and full of flowers and herbs - will be beautiful later on. Great cream tea with not too much cream or jam so no wastage. Sat and had a relaxed time with no pressure to move on. Dog bowl brought for Ava which she appreciated. Very friendly staff. Clean toilets. Will return as we are fairly local and stay over in Bideford regularly when seeing bands at The Palladium.

Went in for breakfast on Saturday - great choice. I have a really small appetite so the junior breakfast was perfect for me. Husband had the full English. Eggs particularly tasty. They were very busy (cook appeared a bit stressed) but service was great and you do wait a little but we don't mind that as you know everything cooked to order. Will be back again as whole experience was a million times better than nearby cafes.

I have never been to a place where I get told off by the cook for asking why my scones arrived 20 mins after my pot of tea. I was always under the impression that when ordering a cream tea it's all served together !!!

After years of living in the area I only tried this cafe recently. The exterior isn't the most inviting in town, which is maybe why I've not been in before, but wish I had. The service from both the lady and chef is great, and the sandwiches and coffee are fab. On a warm day the garden is amazing, a real sun trap. The garden is huge with lots of tables - you'd never think it was that big from the outside (I know the clue's in the name!). There's very few places in Bideford which have this fab outside space. I'll be spending a lot of time in here over the summer!

This feels a little like a locals only place but it's fine for coffee and light lunches. We did not see the garden... tables not sticky (one of my hates) and nice buttery tea cake goes a long way. Coffee a bit smoky for my taste but pleasant enough. Great value.

We popped into this small coffee shop/café when we were visiting Bideford at the weekend…we chose this particular shop as they had the facility to pay by card, which it appears that a lot of the coffee shops in Bideford don’t. Just as well, as otherwise we wouldn’t have found this lovely little place. The service was excellent (table service, no ordering at the counter here), prompt and friendly. Just the right level of attention to each of the guests. As well as drinks, we ordered a scone (which was served warm), and a slice of chocolate cake for my son. As the name implies, the café has a garden area – we didn’t look at it, but whilst we were there one of the other customers (I assume a regular) took some people out to look at the outside seating, so I assume that the garden seating was open, even on a cold November day. I would have no hesitation in recommending this café, and would definitely go back next time I’m in Bideford, if they would have me! The only drawback, if you can call it that, is that the indoor seating area is small – but I guess that’s what allows the proprietor to provide the excellent level of service and attention to detail.

My parents and I had a lovely meal in very pleasant surroundings. The food was excellent along with the service.

Had a great baguette and coffee!! Service was great....atmosphere was great and very welcoming! There were several options for outdoor seating, indoor seating and a private small room with a fireplace. Everything was very clean , organized and inviting.

We visited this cafe this morning and I have to say what a pleasure it was!

Lovely surroundings and the extensive garden makes it very special. Tables not too crowded so nice for meetings too. I had a smoked salmon omelette for the first time. I will be back!

My friend and I visited for lunch and ate it in the garden which was very peaceful. The food and service was good and we would return, possibly.

The secret garden cafe is a hidden gem, from the outside it looks like a normal cafe until you go through the door and into the garden in the back. Plenty of seating for all amongst the flowers, lovely peaceful place to sit down and relax. Food is well served and very tasty especially the omelettes

A number of times I have been here and each time the peaceful setting and lovely food is over shadowed by the shouting and unpleasantness of the chef/owner.

Enjoyed a cuppa here with my mum last month and a most friendly cafe with the most beautiful secret gardens :-) perfect for the lovely dry weather we are enjoying at the moment!! Excellent green tea and mum enjoyed her scone with clotted cream ! Been back since and was the same excellent service. Thanks Anita

Forth time we have been here with various family members always a welcome smile when we arrive to first class food, omelette always very special and dealing with small children in the Garden cafe never a problem. Victoria and Robin always make everyone welcome and make you want to return again very soon Thankyou to you all

Great cafe!! Had lunch in the walled garden, lucky to get a table as very busy. . ... Food was very tasty and enjoyable.... Waitress kept us updated as to how long the food would be , as they were really busy....but it was well worth the wait! Would definitely revisit ..

Stumbled across this little place and will be sure to come again.....

As a relatively new resident of Bideford, this secret place was recommended by a friend, otherwise I might have missed it. In the most unexpected place is a haven of peace and quiet. I always thought I didn't like omelettes but I was encouraged by my friend to try one. Turns out I love omelettes. At least I love Secret Garden's omelettes. I have since taken other friends who are all now Secret Garden fans. Go. You will not be disappointed.

We were really, really impressed with this cafe. All of our food was cooked freshly to order, with generous portions and tasted absolutely delicious! The omelettes were wonderful and a must. We were also impressed with the cafe's ability to cater for all diet types, with gluten free options as well as dairy free and decaffeinated drinks, all served by lovely people! Our only problem was that we were so full we couldn't manage one of the cream teas which looked so tasty! (We will allow more time on our next visit)

Our second visit and the home made scones, home made jam with cream didn’t disappoint. My son had the passion cake he said the icing was amazing. Highly recommend for coffee and cake.

Popped in for a cup of tea. Everyone around seemed to be enjoying their breakfasts and I enjoyed my cup of tea. The staff were friendly and told me about their 2017 award which they are very proud of.

Mum & I pop in quite regular and always find everthing about it like totally awesome! Love the owner, staff and food and thier Hot Chocolate is always 'HOT' ! Keep up the fab work guys! 💜

I live locally and this place is always my go to when with friends (local & visiting), family or on my own. Always tasty fresh food,with friendly and personal service. Relaxing atmosphere and beautiful well kept garden with plenty of seating and space. Such a good standard of food and fairly priced too - have never been let down by my order though have often felt blown away by how great it is. Definitely worth a visit - Robin and Victoria are stars !

I visit regularly being a local in the area. Lovely place, lovely setting and great food and drinks. Their coffees are amazing and their menu is yummy and great value. Robin and Vicky do a great job cooking and serving respectively and I cannot recommend The Secret Garden highly enough.

We stopped in Bideford for lunch whilst travelling through Devon and stumbled across this gem. The Secret Garden is a friendly and welcoming cafe and our tomato and roasted red pepper soup was excellent. Highly recommended!

good food breakfast is a must got be best in town at 5.95 whole lot and with a coffee. pluss not the cheap rubbish.two prop eggs 2bacon mush rooms toms beans two sos and two toast and prop butter/all cooked fresh. robbin .victoria its great

Found this after checking out Tripadvisor. On holiday in Bideford with two dogs, so wanted a dog friendly establishment and this definitely fit the bill. Not much to look at from the outside but a lovely area to sit with the dogs at the back of the cafe, sheltered from the wind and thoughtfully covered in case of rain. Teacakes were huge and the brie and bacon toasties were generously filled and served with a lovely fresh salad, coleslaw and crisps. Good coffee and choice of fruit teas. Excellent value for money and well worth a visit.

Lovely little cafe, comfortable seating, good staff and the food is fantastic. That guy knows how to cook properly -...

This has for to be one of my favourite places in Bideford. Omelettes are light fluffy and and packed with flavour. Coffee is amazing. Customer service always a smile and polite. In the summer the outside seating is amazing and you can catch a few rays too. ☺

We had a lovely cup of coffee and free mince pies in this quaint little café. The two people serving were very friendly and we will go back when in the area again.

We were quite short of time so we popped in for a coffee and a snack. The coffee was delicious and the stir-fried steak, mushroom and onion baguette accompanied by a fresh salad and potato crisps, was fantastic. Robin should be congratulated on his food and service, both immaculate.

Another wonderful freshly cooked omelette at this first class cafe. With very friendly staff and a beautiful garden in addition to the fabulous food, we look forward to our next visit. Very good provision for our celiac grandchildren as well.

Best fresh coffee, lovely cakes and sandwiches. Really recommend this place if you're visiting Bideford, North Devon

Best brie, bacon and cranberry baguette i have had so far. Good cup of latte too. Excellent service and vaule for money. Will definitely return again!

Home made strawberry jam and clotted cream scone.... words cannot describe the jam.... what a treat. Great service

Have visited here several times usually with family when they are on holiday. The Garden is an absolute dream it really is secret. The food is fantastic everything is really tasty. The omelettes are delicious. All prepared by one man in the kitchen and one or two waitresses. Great daily specials too. Don't miss this gem when you are in the area.