Lean into laidback Mediterranean-inspired feasting at School House in Devon, a cool eatery in the heart of the Flete Estate

Located a short five-minute walk to the secluded cove of Mothecombe Beach, the en vogue restaurant takes inspiration from its coastal setting, as evidenced through its Med-influenced menus, efficient yet relaxed service and rustic aesthetic.

A crowd-pleasing menu of small and large plates, hand-stretched pizzas and sides blurs the line between casual bites and refined dining, but rest assured the ingredients are always of superlative quality and the cooking skilled.

Head chef Lloyd Inwood trained with Rick Stein and worked alongside the Tanner brothers in Plymouth, and his talent for marrying complementary flavours with deliciously fresh ingredients can be experienced in dishes like Devon crab linguine. The freshly made pasta is a house favourite thanks to its perfect bite, every silken strand unfurling potent flavours from its bedfellows of crab, chilli, garlic, parsley and samphire. More net-fresh seafood thrills await in small plates such as grilled sardines blanketed in salsa verde and a spritz of fresh lemon.

Those who can’t resist the allure of bubbling stonebaked pizza can explore toppings such as taleggio with mushroom, truffle oil and and rosemary salt (sides of pesto sour cream or black garlic aioli are a must for crust dunking).

Contemporary cocktails and craft beers make the prospect of lingering in the covered courtyard rather tempting. There’s no need to rush back to the car for the pup’s sake either – well-behaved dogs are welcome at School House Devon and particularly enjoy snoozing by the outdoor log burner.

Trencherman’s tip

The takeaway menu is ideal if you want to snaffle your School House haul on the beach. It’s also worth exploring the calendar of events featuring the likes of summer barbecues, live music and themed feasting nights.