OpenThe Muddiford Inn
Muddiford, Barnstaple EX31 4EY, United Kingdom
Welcome to The Smugglers Restaurant
The Smugglers Restaurant is a charming family-run eatery nestled right at The Quay in Ilfracombe. It offers a delightful à la carte menu, showcasing a plethora of seafood, tender steaks, and British classics. The restaurant welcomes everyone with vegetarian options and a special kids’ menu, making it a go-to spot for the entire family. Whether you're enjoying a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, the casual and historic vibe of The Smugglers adds to the experience. The restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of wines and beers, enhancing your meal perfectly. With options for dine-in, takeaway, or delivery, it caters to all preferences.
Welcome to The Smugglers Restaurant, a charming family-run establishment located in the scenic Ilfracombe. We proudly offer a delectable à la carte menu featuring a variety of seafood, succulent steaks, and beloved British classics, along with vegetarian options and a kids' menu. Enjoy our welcoming atmosphere, perfect for solo dining, groups, or family outings. Indulge in our extensive drinks selection, including craft beers, fine wines, and delightful cocktails. With accessible seating and paid parking nearby, your comfort is our priority. Whether it's lunch, dinner, or dessert, reservations are recommended for an unforgettable dining experience at The Smugglers.Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Dine-in
Delivery
Takeaway
Highlights
Great beer selection
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Spirits
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Diners rave about the delicious seafood, particularly the fish pie and lobster, which showcase the kitchen's ability to prepare fresh, local ingredients to perfection.
The welcoming atmosphere combined with friendly, attentive staff consistently earns high praise from visitors.
Many love the historical decor that adds character to the restaurant, making each meal feel like an event.
The extensive drink selection, featuring a great wine list and craft beers, elevates the dining experience, catering to varied tastes.
Most Disliked
Some guests mention that during peak times, the restaurant can get quite busy, which may lead to a wait for tables.
Others noted that the occasional plate may not be as hot as preferred, but this doesn't seem to detract significantly from the overall experience.
A few diners found the prices slightly high for certain dishes, though most agree that the quality justifies it.
User Reviews
An
Anne-Marie
Delicious food cooked perfectly, very friendly staff. Loved the decor in the restaurant.
CH
Claire H.
What a little gem! The food is amazing! The menu is full of options, the staff are very friendly and nothing is too much trouble. Situated right on the quay, this is a great place to enjoy your surroundings whilst enjoying some wonderful local food. Would definitely recommend! Photos show: Pate (Starters), Garlic & Butter Prawns with Rice (Children's option), Cod & Chips, Fish Pie, Lobster & Salmon 😋
AW
Alison W.
Three of us came in tonight 25.10.25 for dinner at 5.15. We ordered the Salmon, Chicken au Poivre and Gammon. We all enjoyed our meals, service was quick and the young girl was very friendly. My chicken was moist and the peppercorn sauce delicious, plates were warm too which is a bonus. Pudding was cheesecake, fresh strawberries and I had chocolate ice cream with big chunks of chocolate yum! We finished it off with coffee and agreed the food was delicious and we will be back.
PT
Peter T.
A really superb restaurant. We both had prawn cocktail for starters, my main was salmon supreme and the wife had smugglers plaice. For dessert we had pineapple fritters and sherry trifle. All courses were really lovely. Luckily we got in early evening and had no problem getting a table, this establishment does get quite busy and there maybe a short wait for a table. Staff very polite and friendly, service is very efficient.
MN
Matt N.
A unique interior for this cute restaurant right at the harbour. Friendly staff, and great prawns and plaice served; we particularly enjoyed the yummy garlic sauce with it. Recommended for a nice seafood vibe.
DD
Des D.
What a lovely restaurant. We sat in a beautiful booth with red leather seats. There is plenty of paraphernalia on the ceiling. The staff were very attentive and the food excellent. There's a reasonable wine selection and they have easy listening music in the background. Great place to eat.
DB
David B.
Really good quality food. A beautiful restaurant with a lovely ambience. Really friendly staff. Although people did walk in and were offered a table, some were turned away. Definitely worth booking.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
The Smugglers Restaurant specializes in a diverse à la carte menu featuring seafood, steaks, and British classics. There are also vegetarian options and a kids menu available.
You can find The Smugglers Restaurant at The Quay, Ilfracombe EX34 9EQ, United Kingdom.
Expect to spend between £20 and £30 per person for a satisfying meal at The Smugglers Restaurant.
The restaurant offers a range of dining options including lunch, dinner, dessert, and table service.
Yes, the restaurant features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring comfort for all guests.
Guests can enjoy a cosy atmosphere with a bar on site, a fantastic selection of beers and wines, as well as easy payment options including credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments.
Why visit The Smugglers Restaurant
Visiting The Smugglers Restaurant is more than just about food; it’s experiencing a slice of local culture. The waterfront location gives every meal a scenic backdrop, perfect for intimate dinners or family gatherings. Plan for dinner reservations, especially on weekends. Tips range from trying the lobster to making space for dessert—don’t skip the desserts!
With a casual and cozy vibe, the restaurant fosters social interactions, allowing guests to strike up conversations over their shared love for good food and the charming setting. It’s not just about dining; it’s about enjoying life’s simple pleasures, making The Smugglers a must for both locals and visitors alike.
