The Dolphin Inn, found in the delightful village of Newton Ferrers, boasts beautiful surroundings and oozes tranquillity. After travelling down a quaint little street, you'll first notice the pretty, lantern-lit terrace with seating that overlooks the scenic River Yealm. The inn has a traditional and warming atmosphere, with beamed ceilings and an open fire. Within this charming setting, good hearty food is served by polite and genuine staff who welcome you with sincere smiles. Brett, the chef, has headed the kitchen for just over a year now and has seen the place develop successfully into today's comfortable and reputable venue.

Sprinkled with regatta and rugby memorabilia, The Dolphin's interior is interesting and unpretentious. Newton Ferrers' residents frequently visit the popular premises, one of Yachting Monthly's top 40 favourite pubs in 2009, to try the local cuisine or partake in a card game or two. On the menu, you'll find a selection of delicious options to start; we tried the melted buffalo mozzarella on toast with juicy tomatoes and a homemade fragrant basil pesto - warm and gooey yet light enough to whet the appetite. Indulging further, we opted for main courses of spice-crusted rack of lamb with minted gravy, and freshly fried golden fish cakes, packed with crayfish and smoked haddock. As if that wasn't enough, a luxuriously rich chocolate cake with lashings of whisky ice cream - a St Patrick's Day tribute - completed a fabulous meal.

An additional eating area behind the bar is occasionally transformed into an activity spot to hold darts competitions for some extra fun. Alternatively, take a seat in the cosy beamed area and complete your evening by taking in some fresh sea air and appreciating the picturesque scenery.