The Black Venus Inn

We visited this fantastic dog-friendly pub during our stay in Barnstaple. Communication with the staff to book was very easy, and I would recommend reserving a table as it was quite busy when we visited.

The food was excellent. We started with the duck Scotch eggs, which were cooked to perfection and absolutely delicious. My only small criticism would be the sauce, which didn’t really add anything to the dish, a piccalilli style sauce would have complemented it much better. That said, this is being very picky as I still really enjoyed it. The salad was lovely too.

I had the venison sausage and mash, which was very tasty. Unfortunately, there were a few small pieces of bone in the sausage and I almost cracked my tooth on one, but despite this I still enjoyed the meal. My partner had the venison burger and said it was one of the best burgers he’s eaten in a long time. The children’s pasta was also a very good portion.

The staff were extremely attentive, and it’s rare to find places of this standard offering great local produce in such a welcoming pub setting. We will definitely be back when we’re in the area again.

Best restaurant I've visited in the UK.

Superb food, I've visited twice and each time a delicious souffle has been on the dessert menu, and they were both delicious.

I travel 66 miles to come just to eat.

Wow what a fantastic pub in a charming village.

We ate here both nights on our holiday and the food was excellent, so tasty and great value for money.

Lovely visit yesterday for our monthly ladies lunch club. Every month we go somewhere different and many felt it was the best so far. The menu was wonderful and the food so tasty! Thank you

This pub is an absolute must- visit. Sensational! Booking advised. We visited midweek but we were lucky that they could seat such a large party.

The food here is exceptional. Portions are generous and beautifully presented. A highlight was definitely the chips – they accompany many dishes and are incredibly good. Everyone in our group thoroughly enjoyed their lunch.

There are lots of vegetarian options available as well

Even if, like me, you're not usually a dessert person, prepare to be tempted. The mouth-watering selection of desserts is absolutely incredible. The kitchen team is clearly inventive, clever, and artistic; their creations are truly on par with what you'd see on MasterChef. This is one of those meals you'll remember for a long time – I know I will!

I have not been here for a few years. The menu is great and has a mix of traditional food, as well as some adventurous takes on modern classics.

The carrot masala and daal curry was banging! Great for the vegetarians.

The Lamb curry was also great. Not what I expected at all when it came out. But the taste was on point.

Staff are super friendly. Would recommend, and will be returning.