Nestled in the heart of scenic North Devon, the Bay Brasserie here at the Woolacombe Bay Hotel invites you to indulge in the ultimate Sunday dining experience: Sunday roast by the coast. Our devotion to traditional Devon culinary delights is matched only by our passion for crafting the best Sunday roast lunch in North Devon!
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the exquisite world of Sunday roast lunch. It is this rich history that brings us to where we are today: proud custodians of the traditional roast! From perfectly roasted meats to fluffy Yorkshire puddings, we leave no stone unturned in delivering the ideal Sunday lunch experience.
Join us as we explore the history, the key ingredients, the cosy atmosphere, and the impeccable craftsmanship behind our claim to the hard-fought-for title of the “Best Sunday Roast Lunch in North Devon”!
The tradition of the Sunday roast holds a special place in the hearts of many Brits, and in our picturesque region of Devon, this sentiment is particularly profound.
As we delve into the essence of the perfect Sunday lunch, it’s important to appreciate the profound significance it carries in this charming part of the world.
In its simplest form, a traditional Sunday roast dinner is a feast that gathers family and friends around a table, celebrating both culinary craftsmanship and togetherness.
A ritual of sorts, friends and loved ones will get together around a succulent roast, often of meat such as lamb, beef, chicken, or even a vegan option such as nut roast, cooked to perfection and served with a delightful array of accompaniments.
However, in Devon, the Sunday roast has transcended the boundaries of a mere meal and a gathering! It has become a showcase. The best local Devon pubs and restaurants take great pride in presenting their unique takes on this classic dish, with each dining den vying to offer the very best!
The origins of a
CULINARY TRADITION
Before we get into the delicious intricacies of the modern Sunday menu, let’s take a look back at why the tradition of the Sunday roast holds a special place in the heart of quintessential British culture. Rooted in history and celebrated as a weekly ritual, the Sunday roast is one culinary journey that has stood the test of time…
The origins of this beloved English tradition date back to medieval England, and the reign of Henry VII. It was during this era that ovens were inefficient and not suitable for roasting meat. Hence, communities would gather at their local church for the Sunday service, leaving a joint of meat to cook slowly in the communal oven or over a spit.
By the time the congregation returned, the roast would be perfectly cooked and ready to be enjoyed as part of the Sunday meal. This practice was both practical and communal, symbolising the spirit of togetherness.
Over time, the Sunday roast evolved. As ovens improved and moved into individual homes, families began to host their own Sunday roasts. Roast beef was the primary choice for many, adorned with flavourful gravy, yorkies, and a selection of fresh seasonal veg. For others, roast lamb, pork, or poultry took centre stage, each region having its own unique preferences.
MODERN INTERPRETATIONS
of Sunday Roast
Today, while the essence of the Sunday roast remains the same – bringing people together over a sumptuous meal – it has also embraced contemporary influences. Diners can explore a wide array of roast options, from traditional meat roasts to innovative nut roasts for vegetarians, each with its unique twist.
The use of locally sourced ingredients and seasonal vegetables is a hallmark of Devon’s commitment to a sustainable and authentic dining experience. Many roast meats and seasonal vegetables will come fresh from Devon’s rich agricultural larder.
The county’s proximity to the sea means that seafood has also started to find its way to the Sunday table. As have elevated accompaniments – such as crispy duck fat roast potatoes, cauliflower cheese, and rainbow-tinged heritage carrots!
As we move forward in our exploration of this treasured tradition, we’ll uncover how the Bay Brasserie at Woolacombe Bay Hotel pays homage to the roots of the Sunday roast, while adding its own distinctive flair to create the “Best Sunday Roast Lunch in Devon.”
LOCAL GOODNESS
from farm to plate
From the first satisfying bite of the deliciously crispy roast potatoes, to the last mopping up of the homemade gravy, every part of our classic Sunday menu exemplifies our dedication to using locally-sourced ingredients. And how could it not? Devon is graced with fertile farmlands, coastal abundance, and a cornucopia of flavours!
At Woolacombe Bay Hotel in North Devon, we take pride in forging strong bonds with local farmers and suppliers.
By sourcing our the best seasonal produce from the very community that surrounds us, we not only ensure the freshest ingredients grace your plate, but we also contribute to the sustenance of local livelihoods. It’s a celebration of the close-knit relationship between the plate and the land.
There’s a lot of pressure when it comes to researching places for Sunday lunch. If you want to find the best Sunday roast in the South West, we believe there are four essential elements that are guaranteed to delight:
1. A choice of the finest meats
2. Dishes to suit dietary requirements (veggie, vegan, and gluten-free)
3. Seasonal sides to tuck into
4. The whole family is welcome!
We take our quest to serve the best Sunday lunch in Devon very seriously! Our indulgent Sunday menu has these things in spades…
THE FINEST MEATS IN DEVON
and beyond
Meat, undeniably, is at the heart of our favourite Sunday lunch. For many, it’s the centrepiece of this beloved tradition. Whether it’s perfectly roasted beef, tender chicken, or flavoursome pork, the meat often defines the very essence of the Sunday roast experience.
When you enjoy a Sunday roast in the beachside Bay Brasserie, a choice of three or four meats is typically available.
Favourites from our menu…
Exmoor National Park Sirloin of Beef
Nestled in the heart of Devon, Exmoor National Park is a treasure trove of exquisite flavors. Here, the grasses are greener, and the air is cleaner, allowing livestock to flourish in a natural and unspoiled environment. It’s from these pristine landscapes that we source our succulent Exmoor National Park sirloin, a cut of Devon roast beef renowned for its tenderness and rich marbling, delivering a sumptuous roast that’s truly a cut above the rest.
Devonshire Free Range Chicken Breast
Devon’s rolling landscapes and open pastures provide the ideal conditions for free-range chickens to thrive. Our Devonshire free-range chicken breast boasts a level of taste and texture that can only be achieved through a life of freedom and natural foraging. The result is a tender and flavourful poultry experience that graces our Sunday roast with a delightful, rustic charm – and the taste sensation that is chicken crackling!
Organic Saddleback Pork Loin
These heritage pigs are raised in a manner that reflects a deep respect for animal welfare and environmental sustainability. The naturally reared pork loin boasts a succulent and robust flavour profile that captivates the senses. And lovers of pork crackling won’t be disappointed either, you’ll get a satisfying serving of this naughty but nice delight!
VEGGING OUT: OUR SUNDAY ROAST OPTIONS
Something for all tastes
While we honour the classic English roast with succulent meats like Exmoor National Park sirloin, Head Chef at the Bay Brasserie – Eddie Grecu, goes beyond the beef to cook up the best roast! His ever-changing seasonal menu features exquisite alternatives for non-meat eaters, such as delicate Roasted Loch Duart Salmon, and hearty Root Vegetable Filo Pie (the latter is expertly crafted to satisfy vegetarians and vegans).
Gluten-free? We’ve got you covered too!
It’s our commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joy of a hearty Sunday roast that not only pleases the taste buds but also warms the heart. Join us at the Bay Brasserie for locally sourced produce and a roast experience that redefines tradition. Every dish is a testament to our dedication to quality and variety.
Seriously good sides
ELEVATE YOUR SUNDAY LUNCH IN DEVON
When it comes to our commitment to fresh twists and local produce, our Sunday sides elevate the English roast to a higher plane! Not only is every main dish served with roast potatoes and your favourite trimming – whether it’s crackling, seasonal veg, or Yorkshire pudding… there’s also the bright colours of deliciously roasted heritage carrots and a homemade gravy to complement every meat on the menu.
Take a seat in the Bay Brasserie and you can choose from one, two, or three courses, plus an extensive menu of scrumptious sides. Including delights such as:
Chunky triple cooked chips
Mashed potatoes
Cauliflower cheese
Mixed leaf salad
Vine tomato & red onion salad
Green beans / snow peas
SUNDAY ROAST IN NORTH DEVON
The perfect family ‘meat’-up!
If you’re looking for a family-friendly Sunday lunch, you can rest assured that, at the Bay Brasserie, we’ve ensured that the Sunday roast experience, is warm and welcoming affair for the entire family.
We believe in ensuring that everyone, no matter their age, can indulge in the pleasures of a Sunday roast. Portions are available specifically for the under 12s, so young ones can join in the English roast tradition!
But it’s not just the human members of the family who are welcome. We’re a dog-friendly restaurant so well-behaved dogs are welcome too.
At the Bay Brasserie, family isn’t just a word; it’s the heart of what we do. Come and experience the warmth of our fine dining Sunday roast, where there’s a place for everyone at our table. If you prefer, you can book a Courtyard Suite, they are the perfect choice for those seeking a relaxed family meal, away from the hubbub.
Devon’s Sunday roast tradition isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that encapsulates the region’s warmth, flavour, and community spirit.
From the traditional pub carvery you’ll find tucked in charming Dartmoor villages to coastal fine dining at The Bay Brasserie, every plate tells a tale of dedication to quality and a love for locally sourced ingredients.
As you journey through the scenic landscapes of Devon, exploring the culinary treasures it offers, the beloved Sunday roast becomes more than just a dish; it becomes a shared moment, a memory, and a celebration of tradition. In Devon, the Sunday roast is more than food; it’s a cherished ritual that promises heartwarming hospitality and unforgettable flavors, inviting you to experience the essence of this delightful region.
Sunday Lunch Serving Times
Join us from 12pm – 2:30pm to experience the warmth and indulgence of our Sunday roast.
The whole family is welcome! The Bay Brasserie is dog-friendly and child-friendly.
How to Book a Table
Reserve your table for a delectable Sunday roast experience by calling 01271 870388, or by booking a table online.
Situated on the North Devon coast, around 90 minutes from Exeter, 30 minutes from Barnstaple, and just steps from the sands of the stunning Woolacombe Bay, and the Bay Brasserie is the perfect place families and friends to gather together for delicious food. And why not make a day of it? Blow away the cobwebs with a clifftop walk on the South West Coast Path, before hunkering down for some Sunday comfort food? Free beachside parking is available (off peak).
Experience the charm of the coast,
one plate at a time!