Elephant
Torquay, United Kingdom
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Simon Hulstone’s bright, laid-back restaurant looks out over Torquay Harbour. Low-backed wooden chairs sit at stone tables – backed by moody coloured walls – and elephant-themed decorations are dotted about the place. The hugely appealing dishes are led by Simon's selection of local, seasonal produce, including some grown and reared on their 96-acre farm. Accompaniments are designed to enhance each main ingredient, and the tasting menu best demonstrates the breadth of his skill.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Dedicated Farm for Seasonal and Sustainable Ingredients
The Elephant sources many of its ingredients from its own dedicated farm in Brixham, which provides seasonal produce, free-range chicken, lamb, pork, and Kelly Bronze turkeys. This farm-to-table approach ensures freshness and sustainability, emphasizing local South Devon produce.Best Value Michelin Starred Lunch in the UK
Unlike many Michelin-starred restaurants that focus on exclusive fine dining experiences, The Elephant is known for offering the best value Michelin-starred lunch in the UK, combining high culinary standards with affordability and a relaxed atmosphere.Unique Culinary Style with Unconventional Ingredient Pairings and Presentation
Chef Simon Hulstone is recognized for his creative use of unusual natural ingredients and artistic plating. Examples include pairing beef with squid and using flowers and petals as adornments. The dishes emphasize contrasting colors, textures, and flavors, often featuring elements like foams and artful arrangements that highlight taste and visual appeal.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Elephant in Torquay are:
Locally grown and reared produce from their dedicated 96-acre farm in Brixham, South Devon: This includes seasonal vegetables, herbs, and high-quality meats that form the core of their dishes, emphasizing sustainability and freshness.
Local and sustainable fish and seafood from the surrounding English Riviera area: These are featured prominently in the menu, reflecting the restaurant's seaside location and commitment to regional sourcing.
Seasonal British vegetables and accompaniments: Used to enhance the main ingredients, these are carefully selected to complement and elevate the flavors in Simon Hulstone’s modern British cuisine.
These ingredients are significant because they embody the restaurant’s philosophy of local, sustainable sourcing and seasonal cooking. The dishes change regularly based on what is at its best from their farm and local suppliers, showcasing the best of South Devon’s produce. The tasting menu especially highlights the skillful use of these key ingredients, creating a refined yet approachable dining experience.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- Evening Tasting Menu: £120
- Tasting Menu at Lunch: £90