Review
The Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge

Sitting beside the idyllic Kingsbridge Estuary, with the first sip of chilled white wine on our lips, we watched river users come and go, while youngsters in wetsuits aimed to master the skills of paddleboarding.

The Crabshell Inn, overlooking the beautiful waterfront, is the finest location to take in glorious views and enjoy a diverse, flavoursome menu. This popular venue appeals to all ages, as families and friends gather to enjoy the bonhomie atmosphere inspired by owner Simon Harrow. He brings his passion for food, ale and wine to the table, along with a genuine care for top customer service.

Rustic wooden tables, coloured water glasses and house plants make dining a relaxed affair, while an energetic team of young waiting staff attend to our order.

Seafood seemed an obvious choice of starter, and my partner tucked into deliciously plump king prawns, juicy on the inside, seared with garlic and lemon flavours, and served with focaccia. My king scallops, served in the shell, were sweet with a delicate taste and meaty texture.

I followed with monkfish and chorizo skewers, which were zingy, fresh and fun to eat. Aromatic harissa vegetable couscous was the perfect accompaniment. My partner’s steak burger towered like a skyscraper of prime beef, onion rings, melted cheese and crispy bacon with fries and slaw – classic flavours jumbled up in a delicious bun.

Choosing a pudding was a dilemma for two full diners, but my lemon posset topped with crumble and forest berries was light and zesty, while my partner needed only one word to sum up his apple and blackberry tart served with Devonshire clotted cream: “exquisite”.

The Crabby had us in its claws and won’t let us go too long without a return visit.