Totnes is one of those places that just gets food right. You can walk down the high street and smell fresh bread, pop into a cafe for a proper flat white, or sit at a long table with strangers and eat veg that was in the ground that morning. This totnes food guide is for anyone who likes their weekends full of eating, drinking, and maybe a bit of wandering in between. Whether you’re all about organic, want to try local cheese and wine, or just need a good coffee to start your day, Totnes has something for you. Here’s what I’d do if I had a weekend to eat my way around town.
Key Takeaways
- Totnes is packed with farm-to-table restaurants, quirky cafes, and markets that are all about local flavour.
- If you love good food and drink, you’ll find plenty of spots in Totnes to try something new – from organic veg feasts to artisan cheese and English wine.
- Don’t skip the coffee scene; the cafes here are full of character and perfect for a lazy morning or afternoon break.
Farm-To-Table Dining Experiences in Totnes
If you’re the kind of person who checks menus for local produce and likes a good natter over a shared table, Totnes is absolutely your spot. This town goes all in on farm-to-table food; it feels like just about every plate has a story that starts in the fields nearby. Let’s get stuck into two of the best places to experience this fresh, flavour-packed approach to eating.
Riverford Field Kitchen: Seasonal Feasts and Communal Tables
The Riverford Field Kitchen isn’t your average rural restaurant. You don’t just eat there – you’re properly invited to be part of the meal. Picture this: big rustic tables, an ever-changing menu scrawled on a chalkboard, and dishes topped with just-picked herbs from the garden a stone’s throw away. It’s all about sharing – literally, the plates are passed around and you’ll probably end up chatting veg with your neighbour before the main course lands.
Why it’s a must-visit:
- Dishes are based entirely on what’s harvested that week.
- One sitting per service – everyone dines together.
- Loads of veggie options, and honestly, they might change your mind about carrots forever.
- Extra bits like walks around the farm, the occasional foraging session, and cooking demos if you’ve got time.
Don’t stress if you’re not green-fingered or into gardening chit-chat; there’s a down-to-earth vibe here and, trust me, nobody cares if you can’t tell thyme from rosemary.
The Bull Inn: Organic, Local Ingredients with a Twist
If you fancy a more classic pub vibe with a foodie twist, The Bull Inn right in the heart of town should be top of your list. They’ve made a name for themselves with their totally organic, local-first menu. The dishes change often, depending on what the local suppliers have brought through the door that morning. You might get crispy chicken skewers with herby sauces, or aubergines under oil with a bit of zesty tahini – really clever combinations that keep things interesting.
Reasons to pop in:
- Menu changes daily, so it’s always fresh and seasonal.
- The wine list is pretty special – locals rave about their house white.
- It’s cosy but never pretentious; you could just as happily stop for a snack as settle in for a long lunch.
- They know their suppliers personally, which is always nice to see.
Here’s a quick look at what stands out between these two spots:
| Restaurant | Communal Dining | Menu Changes | Veggie Friendly | Local Produce Focus | Cosy Interior |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riverford Field Kitchen | Yes | Daily | Loads | 100% | Rustic Farm |
| The Bull Inn | Optional | Daily | Good Selection | All | Lively Pub |
That’s the lowdown – get your table booked early at either because locals love them, and you won’t regret making food the focus of your Totnes weekend.
Unique Food Markets and Farm Shops in the Totnes Area
Totnes is brilliant if you’re into food that doesn’t get lost in the supermarket maze. Here, you get to chat with real people who actually grew your carrots or made that stonkingly good loaf of bread. These markets and farm shops are more than just places to pick up grub – they’re a proper slice of Totnes life.
Ben’s Farm Shop and Local Delis: Organic Produce and Artisan Treats
Ben’s Farm Shop isn’t your average veg stand. Expect everything from muddy carrots to smoked cheeses and the odd new discovery you never knew you needed. Sometimes you’ll find a team member chopping veg or helping a regular decide which apple is best for crumbles.
- Everything’s organic where possible, and sourcing local goods is serious business here.
- Shelves are bustling with local breads, Devon-grown apples, jams, and cakes.
- There’s a deli counter loaded with local charcuterie and cheeses you can sample before buying (dangerous if you’re peckish).
- If you fancy something to take home, hampers packed with Devon treats are always worth a look.
Other independent shops and delis in Totnes are equally worth a poke around. Sometimes you stumble on lavender honey or brownies that disappear before the walk home. No judgement.
One of my best Totnes afternoons was just wandering, nibbling tasters, and leaving with a bag heavier than I intended and zero regrets.
Sharpham Wine & Cheese: Vineyard Tours and Tasting Experiences
Wine and cheese in the countryside just feels right – and Sharpham, a short drive from Totnes centre, makes a day of it. Book their tasting tour and you’ll trundle through the vines, glass in hand, learning about English grapes that actually taste good (no more wine snobbery here).
Here’s a mini-guide to what you can try:
| Activity | Time Needed | What’s Included | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Tasting | 30 mins | 3 wines + 2 cheeses | £10 |
| Full ‘Vine to Wine’ Tour | 2–2.5 hrs | Guided walk, 5 tastings, nibbles | £20 |
| Café Lunch | As you like | Fresh local fare, wood oven pizzas | From £7–£15 |
- You don’t have to be an expert to appreciate their creamy cheeses and crisp whites.
- Their café lunch is bang on for a lazy afternoon; expect platters, wood-fired goodies and big countryside views.
- Best tip: book ahead for tastings, especially on weekends. It’s popular for a reason.
By the end, you’ll probably want to buy a bottle (or three) and maybe even brave the muddy walk back after a glass too many. It’s what weekends are for, right?
Cosy Cafés and Hidden Gems for Coffee Lovers
There’s just something about Totnes’ café scene that hits differently if you love a spot of caffeine and a good natter. Cosy corners, the kind of coffee you remember weeks later, and enough baked treats to justify a second (or third!) visit in a single weekend.
The Curator: Italian-Inspired Espresso and Focaccia
Tucked away at the bottom of the high street, The Curator makes you think you’ve wandered into a little slice of Italy. It’s tiny, it’s buzzy, and you’ll find regulars eyeing up the focaccia and wood-roasted espresso. The menu goes beyond coffee: there’s sweet pastries for those who want to spoil themselves and fresh pasta at lunch—which, honestly, is hard to resist. The cool, minimalist décor with surfboards and bright prints sets the scene for a lazy morning. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- Wood-roasted espresso shots that actually pack a punch
- Daily-made focaccia sandwiches (the mortadella one is a fan favourite)
- Bright Italian sweets to enjoy with your second cappuccino
Rain or shine, The Curator is a top pick for a caffeine fix and that relaxed, friendly vibe Totnes does so well.
The Daily Knead: Artisan Pastries and Locally Roasted Coffee
You know the smell of freshly baked bread that pretty much grabs you by the nose? That’s The Daily Knead. This bakery isn’t just about coffee—the sourdough, creative Danish pastries, and vegan treats are the kind of thing people queue for, so go early if you don’t want to miss out. Their focus is on local produce and a friendly welcome. For the full story, see artisan bread and pastries in Totnes.
Here’s a quick look at what you’ll want to try:
| Must-Try Pastry | Coffee Pairing Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Almond Croissant | Flat White |
| Cardamom Bun | Long Black |
| Vegan Brownie | Oat Milk Latte |
Totnes’ cafés are an experience all by themselves, each with their own twist, and more than enough to keep you buzzing happily from breakfast through to late afternoon.
Looking for cosy spots to sip your favourite coffee? Check out our Website!
Wrapping Up Your Totnes Foodie Weekend
So, that’s Totnes for you – a proper treat if you love your food. From lazy brunches in quirky cafés to sharing platters at Riverford and sipping local wine in the sunshine, there’s no shortage of good stuff to eat and drink. The best part? Everything feels relaxed and friendly, whether you’re grabbing a coffee or settling in for a long lunch. I left with a full belly and a list of places I want to try next time. If you’re after a weekend that’s all about simple pleasures and tasty discoveries, Totnes is definitely worth a visit. Just remember to pack your appetite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time to visit Totnes for food lovers?
Honestly, Totnes is great all year, but spring and summer are extra special. That’s when local farms and markets are bursting with fresh fruit and veg, and you can sit outside at cafés or enjoy a picnic by the river. Plus, lots of food festivals pop up during these months!
Do I need to book ahead for places like Riverford Field Kitchen or The Bull Inn?
Yep, it’s a smart idea! Both Riverford Field Kitchen and The Bull Inn are super popular, especially on weekends. Booking a table means you won’t miss out on their amazing food. Some tours and tastings at Sharpham Wine & Cheese also need booking in advance.
Are there good options for vegetarians and vegans in Totnes?
Absolutely! Totnes is really veggie and vegan friendly. Places like Riverford Field Kitchen focus on seasonal veg, and cafés like The Hairy Barista have loads of plant-based choices. Even the farm shops and delis offer yummy vegan snacks and treats.
