The Cove Café at Coryton Cove

Perched at the edge of Dawlish’s Coryton Cove, The Cove Café catches the eye with its simple kiosk setup and rows of outdoor tables that hug the pebbly shore.

Walk under the railway bridge from the town centre, and the path levels out to reveal stacks of red rock framing the bay, where the horizon stretches towards Exmouth on clear days. This spot draws people for its direct line to the sea, with waves lapping close enough to feel the salt spray during high tide.

Inside, the counter hums with the basics: pots of loose-leaf tea brewing under cosy covers, espresso machines pulling shots that locals swear by for their smooth bite, and fridges stocked with gelato tubs in flavours like salted caramel or pistachio.

Baked goods fill the display case, from slabs of coffee and walnut sponge to cannoli dusted with icing sugar, often baked fresh that morning. For something heartier, woodfired pizzas emerge from the oven on select evenings, topped with classics like margherita or focaccia-style bases loaded with herbs and cheese.

Antonio, the pizza specialist, handles the dough, turning out bases crisp at the edges and soft in the middle. Smoothies blend seasonal fruits, and there’s a nod to Italian treats alongside British staples like scones with clotted cream.

The café leans into the cove’s rhythm. Summer brings longer days for lingering over a cold drink while watching paddleboarders bob in the shallows.

Evenings shift gear with live music sessions, where acoustic sets or jazz combos spill out onto the terrace, paired with those pizzas.

One recent post flagged an Italian long-table feast, plates of pasta and antipasti shared under string lights. Dogs wander freely too, as the tables sit just metres from the beach, making it easy to combine a walk with a refuel.

Feedback from regulars and passers-by paints a picture of reliability. The views earn consistent nods, with many calling it the perfect pause after a dip in the sea. Staff get praise for their warmth, remembering faces and quick chats about the weather or tide times.

Pizzas stand out on event nights, described as surprisingly authentic for a beach setup. Cakes and ice cream follow suit, though a handful mention muffins landing on the drier side now and then. Overall, it rates highly across a solid spread of comments, with the friendly vibe and location tipping the balance for most.

Out of dozens of reviews online, the bulk celebrate the coffee’s quality and the ease of grabbing a treat with sea air in your lungs. Positive mentions cluster around service and specials, while the odd grumble surfaces over baked item freshness or calls for more savoury picks beyond pizza hours.