Princess Theatre enjoys an enviable location on Torquay’s seafront, surrounded by some of the finest restaurants on the English Riviera. Whether you’re after fresh-off-the-boat seafood, relaxed harbourside dining, or a special occasion at Devon’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, you’ll find plenty of excellent options within walking distance.
The harbour area is the heart of Torquay’s dining scene, with restaurants lining Victoria Parade and Abbey Sands just a short stroll from the theatre. Most welcome pre-theatre diners and understand the need for timely service before curtain up.
In the Theatre
Teatro
Princess Theatre’s own café, bar and restaurant has spectacular views across Torquay Harbour. Serving hand-rolled sourdough pizzas, a day menu and kids’ options, it’s the most convenient choice for pre-show dining – you can eat and simply walk to your seat. Open on performance days from 10am, with the pre-show pizza menu available before evening performances.
Location: Inside Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, TQ2 5EZ
On the Harbourside (2-5 minutes walk)
The Yacht
This glamorous new addition to Torquay’s harbourfront opened in May 2025 at 18-19 Victoria Parade (the former Cinnabar premises). Spread across two floors with marina views, a champagne bar and gin lounge featuring their own Coastal Distilling Co spirits. The menu celebrates Devon produce with seasonal ingredients and global influences. They offer a 15% discount when you present your Princess Theatre ticket on the day of your performance.
Address: 18-19 Victoria Parade, TQ1 2BB
Website: the-yacht-torquay.com
Rockfish
Mitch Tonks’ celebrated seafood restaurant overlooks the inner harbour on Victoria Parade. Fresh fish is delivered daily from Brixham, just across the bay, and cooked to order – either chargrilled or in their signature batter. The menu changes with the seasons and daily landings, and your server will talk you through what’s just come off the boats. Heated by log burner on colder days, with outdoor seating in summer. No bookings required for small parties.
Address: 20 Victoria Parade, TQ1 2BB
Website: therockfish.co.uk
Pier Point Restaurant & Bar
Beautifully situated adjacent to Torquay’s marina with stunning views out to the bay. A Good Food Award winner for fish and chips (Gold Seal 2025/26), they also serve breakfast, afternoon tea and an all-day menu of coastal-inspired dishes. Known for friendly service, competitive prices and excellent gluten-free options including dedicated fryers.
Address: Torbay Road, TQ2 5HA
Website: pier-point.co.uk
Below Decks
A picturesque restaurant tucked away on Beacon Quay overlooking the historic harbour. Known for sumptuous seafood meals with strong ties to local suppliers, plus a diverse traditional menu. Family-friendly with a relaxed atmosphere – a local favourite that’s easy to miss but well worth seeking out.
Address: Beacon Quay, TQ1 2BG
Website: belowdecks.co.uk
Abbey Sands (5-8 minutes walk)
Bistrot Pierre
This French bistro is set right on the stunning Torquay seafront near the Princess Theatre. Spread over two floors with a lively downstairs bar and covered first-floor balcony offering sweeping views of the beach and bay. Their set menu offers excellent value, with options including classic Steak Frites and Chicken Fricassée. Ask about the Express Lunch menu on weekdays.
Address: Abbey Sands, Abbey Crescent, TQ2 5FB
Website: bistrotpierre.co.uk
Las Iguanas
Latin American flavours at Abbey Sands with the best views across the Riviera. Sizzling Mexican and South American dishes perfect for sharing, alongside a legendary cocktail menu (2 for £13 all day, every day). Great for groups, families and anyone who fancies something a bit different before the show.
Address: 4 Abbey Sands, Abbey Crescent, Torbay Road, TQ2 5FB
Phone: 01803 297053
Website: iguanas.co.uk
On The Rocks
An authentic seaside dining experience at Abbey Crescent with wonderful views across Torbay. They’re passionate about sourcing local produce – fish from Brixham’s ‘Boat to Door’ suppliers, vegetables from 60 local farms via Torquay-based Roots, and cider from nearby Broadleigh Farm. Relaxed atmosphere where kids and dogs are welcome, and it’s perfectly acceptable to roll in from the beach.
Address: 1 Abbey Crescent, TQ2 5HB
Phone: 01803 203666
Website: ontherocks-torquay.co.uk
Special Occasion (10 minutes walk)
The Elephant
Torquay’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, celebrating 20 years with the coveted star in 2025. Chef proprietor Simon Hulstone and his wife Katy run this bright, informal restaurant overlooking Torquay Harbour. Much of the produce comes from the restaurant’s own dedicated farm in Brixham. The set lunch is renowned as the best value Michelin-starred meal in the UK, while the tasting menu offers the full experience. Book well ahead for dinner; lunch is slightly easier to secure. Open Wednesday to Saturday.
Address: 3-4 Beacon Terrace, TQ1 2BH
Phone: 01803 200044
Website: elephantrestaurant.co.uk
Quick Reference
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Walk Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teatro | Pizza, café | In theatre | Convenience, families |
| The Yacht | Modern British | 3 mins | Theatre discount, cocktails |
| Rockfish | Seafood | 4 mins | Fresh fish, harbour views |
| Pier Point | British, seafood | 2 mins | Fish & chips, gluten-free |
| Below Decks | Seafood, British | 5 mins | Hidden gem, families |
| Bistrot Pierre | French | 6 mins | Set menus, sea views |
| Las Iguanas | Latin American | 6 mins | Groups, cocktails |
| On The Rocks | British, seafood | 7 mins | Local produce, relaxed |
| The Elephant | Fine dining | 10 mins | Special occasions, Michelin star |
Pre-Theatre Dining Tips
Timing: For a 7:30pm performance, aim to be seated by 5:30pm at harbourside restaurants, or 5pm if you’re heading to The Elephant or Abbey Sands. Teatro in the theatre itself offers the most flexibility – you can dine right up until doors open.
Booking: Reservations are strongly recommended for The Elephant (essential), The Yacht and Bistrot Pierre, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. Rockfish doesn’t take bookings for small parties – just turn up and they’ll find you a table.
Theatre discount: The Yacht offers 15% off your bill when you present your Princess Theatre ticket on the day of your show.
Getting there: Most harbourside restaurants are a flat, easy walk from the theatre along the seafront. The Elephant is slightly uphill past the harbour towards Beacon Terrace.
Parking: If you’re dining before the show, Fleet Walk car park (TQ2 5EA) is convenient for both the restaurants and the theatre. See our parking guide for full details.