Visited September 2007

Their website tells us that "11 The Quay is the latest culinary adventure undertaken by the controversial artist Damien Hirst. Hirst has financed the restoration of a charming Victorian Inn situated on the harbour in the North Devon seaside town of Ilfracombe and is backing Simon Browne and his team in the Bar and Restaurant project housed therein. This outstanding building will be home to a café bar on the ground floor and three dining rooms over two levels. All these spaces enjoy spectacular views."  A party of 15 of us lunched here on a Sunday and everyone had varying opinions about the decor; I loved the upstairs restaurant as its very light with lots of shaker style white wood, a very high ceiling and an impressive arched window with doors leading to a balcony overlooking the sea which the few smokers enjoyed (see pic of the restaurant on their website) .  Apparently the art work on the walls, see sample above, is the work of Damien Hurst.  Service was very friendly and amazingly efficient considering what a large party we were.  Their warm bread, either Ginger and Coriander or Granary and Walnut is to die for!

A selection of our choices.. starters.. Lundy Crab Claws, Tuna with Carrot & Coriander salad, Marinated Salmon with lemon dressing, .. mains.. Salt Cod Bouillabaisse, (all except the crab very small portions!)

Roast Beef, Roast Lamb, served with many varying vegetables, (requested more gravy for all the roasts), Saffron & Mussel Risotto.  Selection of West Country Cheeses and Biscuits which was a miniscule portion (this is a side plate) for £7.50.

Puds....White Chocolate and Raspberry mousse, Selection of Sorbets and a Chocolate Brownie with vanilla ice cream, all delicious! 

I think everyone enjoyed themselves because we were all together and most of the food was very nice but the majority felt that the portions were very small for the prices charged.

Cost £ £ £ £ £ £