Perched at the top of the hill above Shaldon village, cafe ODE is causing quite a stir in foodie circles both near and far. This buzzy newcomer has already been crowned Sustainable Restaurant of the Year thanks to its eco-friendly building design and tempting, locally sourced menu.

We ducked inside out of the wind and were immediately met by mouthwatering aromas and a warm atmosphere, created both by the woodburning stove in the corner and the friendly welcome. Don’t expect airs and graces here – squash onto the rustic bench seating with fellow beachgoers and pick from the list of unpretentious meals listed on the kraft paper menu on the wall.

Absolutely everything at cafe ODE is designed with the environment in mind, from the compostable cardboard boxes in which your food is delivered (pulled pork roll and venison burger for us – both delicious) to the washing-up water heated by solar panels on the green sedum roof. Later this year sees the launch of the cafe’s own microbrewery (you can see the equipment through a window in the restaurant) and in the summer months there’s loads of outdoor seating too.

And did I mention the chocolate tart with clotted cream? I’ll leave you discover that heavenly experience for yourself!

TiYK Top Tip! Head down the old smugglers’ tunnel to the side of the cafe to The Ness, a secret beach that’s one of the most sheltered and secluded in the area.

Photo courtesy of Guy Newman for LHC Architects