Tom’s Lyme Regis

Coastal resorts don’t come much prettier than Lyme Regis, with its picturesque promenade overlooking the historic Cobb. Tom’s Lyme Regis has a coveted spot just a stone’s throw from the water, so the boat-to-plate journey of its sought-after seafood is a matter of yards.

Lyme Bay scallops, prawns and crab vie for top billing on a seafood-laden menu that often features fresh oysters and Dorset Blue lobster. However, the pièce de résistance on the line-up is Tom’s Fish Board, which features thrills like pan-roasted Lyme Bay scallops with burnt lime and sriracha butter and roast monkfish.

On balmy days, laze on the oceanfront terrace with a glass of fizz from nearby Castlewood Vineyard while enjoying a bite from the lunch menu – the Lyme Bay lobster roll doesn’t disappoint.

Drop in on a Friday or Saturday between 5pm and 6pm to delight in Portland Pearl Oyster and Cocktail happy hour.

There are options for both meat eaters and vegetarians at Tom’s, but it’s really the seafood that’s the main draw, with a bill that changes daily to reflect the day’s catch. Indeed, it’s not unusual for Tom to take delivery of a freshly caught haul in the afternoon and work it into that evening’s menu.

Trencherman’s tip

Start the day as you mean to go on with a farmhouse-style breakfast at the restaurant. It’s served every day between 9.45am and 11am and includes classic dishes like hot-smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on sourdough.