Barbican Kitchen

Supper with spirit

Well established as one of Devon’s gourmet go‑tos, Chris and James Tanner’s Barbican Kitchen continues to deliver the gastronomic goods 16 years on.

Situated inside a historic building that’s also home to the Plymouth Gin Distillery (and where the Pilgrim Fathers spent their last night before setting sail on the Mayflower), the location makes for an inspiring experience – even before you’ve sampled the cooking. The ancient stone of the harbourside building is complemented by contemporary styling to create a successful marriage of old and new.

A relaxed vibe sets up expectations for the smart‑casual menu – which the team deliver in style. Dishes are built around locally sourced ingredients such as fish landed by Looe dayboats and meat from Philip Warren Butchers in Launceston. This fine fare is crafted into creative dishes such as lamb cutlets with shoulder terrine, crispy sweetbread, ratatouille and asparagus, alongside a line‑up of modern British classics.

Committed carnivores will revel in the fruits of Barbican Kitchen’s charcoal grill: West Country moorland beef, which has been dry aged for succulence, is seared over hot coals for flavour. Just choose a sauce and a starch, such as skinny fries or buttery mash, to accompany.

Plant‑based visitors will be pleased by the superb selection of veg‑centric dishes, all crafted using hyper‑fresh ingredients from the surrounding Devon countryside.

Celebrating? Hire the private dining room which caters for up to 24 guests.