The best restaurants in South West

The Best Fish and Chips in Barnstaple – Hands Down! Pelican Fish and Chips is my absolute favourite spot in Barnstaple — it’s the kind of place that reels you in once and keeps you coming back for more. The fish is always perfectly cooked, light and flaky with that golden, crispy batter you dream about. The chips? Chunky, piping hot, and just the right amount of salt and vinegar. The vibe is friendly and relaxed, and there’s a subtle seaside charm that makes you feel like you’re just steps from the ocean (even if you’re not). It’s got that classic British chippy feel, with a little splash of something special — like the Pelican crew sprinkled in a bit of sea magic. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, drop anchor here. You won’t regret it.

Best fish and chips in the area, good customer service, chicken burgers not the best but you don't really go here for chicken burgers, will 100% go back

It was really disappointing and walked away. Most of the drinks on the menu were not available, including cocktails. No vegan food is available. When booking a table, explained that there was a member of the party vegan.

really nice vibe, perfect for a chill night out. my bf had a beer and i went for the black cherry sangria. both were so good. defs coming back to try the food next time, the menu looked amazing

Always pay a visit when we are in the area in my opinion it’s the best chippy around

Charlotte was very respectful and handled every situation with confidence. Extremely kind and amazing service!! Thank you

Very good but busy maybe it was because it was bank holiday

We booked a last-minute dinner at the Royal George for 12 people (with just a couple of hours’ notice!) and were absolutely blown away by the experience. We’re on holiday in Appledore and this evening was easily a highlight of our trip. The team couldn’t have been more accommodating – they gave us a private room, which made it feel extra special. Service was exceptional from the moment we arrived. We were never left waiting for anything – drinks flowed, food came out promptly, and the staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely warm. The food? Incredible. The burgers were terrific, the steaks were melt-in-the-mouth tender, the mussels were fresh and full of flavour, and the fish curry was perfectly spiced and absolutely beautiful. They even went above and beyond by sending us home with a takeaway portion of the chef’s crumble of the day for a family member who couldn’t make it. Such a thoughtful touch. And yes, our dog Barney was welcomed too – which made the whole evening feel even more inclusive and relaxed. We left full, happy, and very grateful. The Royal George is an absolute gem. Highly recommend!

Absolutely wonderful meal here on a Saturday night Friendly service, great music being played and a really interesting menu Food was fresh and delicious beautifully presented and cooked to perfection Great wine list also with a great list of cocktails also The team even let us stay in our 9 metre long motorhome in the carpark for free over night so I could enjoy a drink Highly recommended 10 out of 10

It's a pleasure to go there and we'll be back soon the food is wonderful Many thanks.

My wife and I ate dinner here, I had mussels to start which were ok but the portion was quite small (only 8) then I had the seafood linguine which was quite nice, my wife had the spaghetti Bolognese for main, for which she was quite disappointed. On the whole the food was ok and service was good.

Three of had an excellent lunch on the patio today. We ordered starters and entrees. Everything was delicious. We will definitely return!

Wonderful pub with very friendly staff and impressive range of beers

From the minute we walked into this place after a long drive we felt immediately at home. From the dogs at the bar to the garden we lived this place. My wife is Gluten free and she had the veggie stew which she really enjoyed. I had the meat pie and it was delicious! The staff were all warm and welcoming. I would definitely come back again.

Fab food and service as always. Visit this restaurant every time we come to St Ives and are never disappointed. Will be back