Victoria Inn, Salcombe — Restaurant in South Hams

We recently visited the Victoria for Sunday lunch. We have been regular visitors to Salcombe since the 1990s and have seen the pub go through many changes over the years, but always maintaining a great atmosphere and excellent food.

On arrival (in teeming rain!!) we were welcomed and offered a place at the bar, as we were early and our table was not quite ready. Staff were friendly and polite, and the fire was giving off some welcome heat to dry our coats.

Imagine our disappointment then, when our Sunday lunch was delivered - my wife's meal had only one small slice of beef and my chicken was not delivered as described on the menu - only one small chicken breast as opposed to a mix of dark and light meat. Admittedly very tasty, but a significantly smaller portion than on previous visits and a price which did not reflect what was brought out from the kitchen.

I raised this with the server, to be told that the chicken was mis-described on the menu, but that nothing could be done.

We then ordered the crumble for dessert, which was advertised with Creme Anglaise and ice cream. The dessert arrived without the ice cream and only a small helping of the CA, which left it very dry - I again raised this with the server and was told that the kitchen was working with "the wrong data sheet" for the meal and some ice cream was provided.

In fairness, our bill was discounted by the value of the desserts, we would have much preferred to have what we had ordered delivered correctly in the first place.

It is such a shame that this pub has fallen into the trap of being a "brewery pub" with menus set and managed by Head Office rather than being run as it was in previous years. Given the choice of several other, much better pubs in the village, sadly we are very unlikely to visit again.

Sorry Victoria Arms - you emailed me to ask me to complete a survey, so I have provided what I feel to be a fair reflection...

Outstanding Experience at The Victoria Inn, Salcombe!

We had the most wonderful time at The Victoria Inn on Fore Street — truly one of the highlights of our trip to Salcombe! From the moment we walked in, we were warmly welcomed and made to feel right at home. The setting is charming, with a cozy, traditional pub atmosphere blended perfectly with a modern touch.

What really made our visit exceptional was the incredible staff. A special shoutout to James and Tilley, whose professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine warmth really stood out. They went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect — from our table to our drinks to making sure we felt relaxed and cared for. Equally impressive was Tatum, who was absolutely lovely and attentive throughout our meal. She brought such a friendly energy and was happy to chat and offer recommendations.

The food and drink were top-notch — fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavour. Whether you’re popping in for a casual pint or sitting down for a full meal, you’ll be impressed by both the quality and the service.

Can’t recommend this place enough. It’s a must-visit if you’re in Salcombe, and we’ll definitely be returning next time we’re in town. Thanks again to James,Tilley,Tatum, and the whole team for making our experience...

Facts and not opinions as feedback.

Burgers were not good quality meat. Not the type of burgers you would ever see pink in the middle. Pretty sure they could have been frozen patties.

Sneaky suspicion the food was left on a hot pass for 5 mins as everything was dry and crispy.

Processed cheese slices.

Served up with a small bowl of oily crispy fries.

Would have been fine it was a cheap burger, but sadly they were £16 each.

I ate the lot as I was starving,so can't complain too much. Just didn't fancy a scene and then roaming the streets for another food joint at prime time. My bad.

My constructive advice would be to use 20% fat beef mince, salt & pepper them and fry them up until bloody clear juice starts to ooze. Even cheap cheddar would be fine as opposed to processed cheese. Brioche buns can be purchased cheaply these days. I make burgers every week and know you could easily put the above dish together for a raw cost of £4 max so selling at £16 would give punters an authentic juicy burger and would make a profit.

Food like this gives the impression you don't have to try hard in tourist heavy spots as you don't have to keep repeat customers....but we do have reviews these days so be mindful to keep the quality up or the prices down.

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