The Smugglers - North Devon

Steak, Seafood, British

The Smugglers

The Smugglers
4.1 / 5 (5978 reviews)

Description

Nestled in the bustling heart of Ilfracombe Harbour, this charming eatery captivates with its quirky decor and friendly atmosphere. While diners rave about the welcoming staff and diverse menu, opinions are mixed about certain dishes; the fish pie has been critiqued for its lack of fish, while the Eton mess fell short of expectations. Yet, the fish and chips, plaice, and surf and turf earned commendations for quality and flavor. Despite occasional waits, the restaurant offers a delightful dining experience, making it a memorable stop for locals and visitors alike, all while maintaining reasonable prices against a picturesque backdrop.

Last update: 17.01.2026 from: User

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★ 4.1 / 5 from 5978 reviews
casey7862016
09.02.2024

This place is really atmosphereic with lots of fascinating objects to look at as well as enjoy the food and drink too. I rhightly recomend the steak kidney pie (not thqt i'm biased or anythingXD)

dave-t-bush8
09.02.2024

What a place! It's like an explosion in an antiques shop. Everywhere you look there's something unusual displayed on the walls or ceiling. Good strategy for the summer months too, they don't take bookings so you'll see a queue forming when they open at 5pm, thereby creating its own demand. My roast turkey dinner was very nice with a huge portion of meat, we all enjoyed our meals and service, considering they were busy, was pretty prompt. Would recommend, deserves its reputation.

joccameron1
09.02.2024

Used to go here a lot with my mum over 20 odd years when on holiday in Ilfracombe, she loved it in here, had a look at the menu outside, quite pricey, but wanted a meal as a kinda nod to mum. Hadn 't been able to phone my kids to let them know wed got to Devon OK, as a poor signal/wi fi where we are staying, so asked at the bar if they had WiFi, the barman or owner, I don 't know which, turned to me and very loudly said, ' No, we expect people coming in here to eat and make conversation ' , he then encouraged the couple on the other side of the bar to join in his laughter at my request, we were then asked to sit near the bar and await a table,whilst he continued to pass comments about people on their phones whilst eating out to other customers at the Bar, I came to the very fast conclusion that he was rude, didn 't know my circumstances and could stick his food and attitude let 's hope when he reads this, he will contemplate why I was there, my simple request and not be so rude. Sorry mum, I tried xx

The atmosphere is excellent, the staff are friendly, and the food is outstanding, complemented by a great selection of wines. I highly recommend this place—just head towards the harbor in...

Fantastic food, great service

FAQ

The place serves you a selection of gluten-free meals.

The eatery also provides suitable seating for its smallest guests in the form of baby high chairs.

The premises on site are wheelchair accessible and can also be used with a wheelchair or physical disabilities.

You can also pay for your dishes with the common credit cards.

More information

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