The Elephant, a Michelin-starred venture from Simon Hulstone in Torquay, offers diners unadulterated wizardry from the mercurial chef.
Decked out in a modern, relaxed and elegant style, with portraits of the animals themselves around the walls, The Elephant offers stunning views over the bay in which the restaurant is situated – comfortably away from the bustle of the tourist centre, but close enough to be accessible.
The focus is on either à la carte or the tasting menu (there is also a set lunch available), with local ingredients at the fore – hand-dived scallops from the bay, for example, may shine atop a confit lemon risotto.
Expect to see chef-owner Simon Hulstone's typical use of unusual natural ingredients in full force – beef sharing a plate with squid, flowers and petals used as adornments and effervescent fish and seafood dishes.
The presentation highlights the contrasting colours and textures of the dish, with the main elements peeking out of foams, sitting atop piles, arranged artfully and tweaked and teased until perfect. Taste is key, while textural differences and contrasts in flavours are the order of the day.
Wines are available by the glass and are reasonably priced.
3-4 Beacon Terrace, Torquay, Devon, TQ1 2BH
(01803) 200 044
