A unique Devon seaside venue that offers diners the luxury and fun of outside pod dining has made an exciting comeback. Lobster Pod Bistro can be found in beauty spot Hope Cove above Harbour Beach between the towns of Kingsbridge and Salcombe in the South Hams.
It opened 2019 after William Ireland, owner of the Cottage Hotel, realised that land in front of the hotel could be better utilised as a almost all-year round dining spot. To coincide with the Easter weekend, the bistro reopened last week after closing over the winter months from November.
Its relaunch has included a new menu, with some firm favourites making a return, and also a whole new team of staff. New general manager Yasmin Downing started two weeks ago and she has enjoyed welcoming their first guests of the new season.
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Customers can choose to eat in either its indoor cabin, cosy pods or outside eating area depending on availability. The menu mostly consists of local seafood and lobster but now those who don't like seafood are also catered for.
Yasmin said: "I don't eat seafood so when I first visited the bistro I was a little disappointed as there was not much I could eat. I have introduced steaks on the menu, surf and turf and a new fantastic pasta dish.
"We are still offering fresh local lobster and some favourites are still on the menu, but it's just been upgraded. It's fine dining in terms of food and if you book a pod that becomes the dining experience.
"However, at the same time, you also just order some squid bites and a pint so it offers everything from light bites to a lobster platter. We had a beautiful day on Easter Saturday; it was packed.
"To sit in one of our pods, booking is not essential but it is highly advised. The only thing you can't book is the outside tables."
There are five pods and each one can fit up to eight people. They are suitable for all weather conditions because they have heating for the colder months and fans for the summer months and also have Bluetooth. They are bookable for one hour and 45 minutes.
To address historical problems of staff shortages due to its rural location, an investment has been made in staff accommodation.
Yasmin said: "William has invested a lot in the business for 2024. I have worked in wedding venues and other restaurants all over the country. I'm originally from Plymouth so this is close to home and it's a beautiful place to live.
"I had been to the bistro as a guest a few years ago for a birthday and absolutely loved it. When I heard about the job I thought, that's the one for me.
"I had two weeks to get it ready with a new menu and a whole new team. I love a challenge and having a brand new fresh start."
Lobster Pod Bistro is open from Wednesday to Sunday. From May 25, dining will be available all day but up until then food is served between noon to 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 8pm, but remains open all day for drinks.
All bookings must be made online. The indoor cabin can also be hired for private functions and bookings. For more details please click here.
