The Black River Inn
Broad Street, Black Torrington, Beaworthy, EX21 5PT
Member Overview
A Village Pub Championing Devon Produce and Fire‑Cooked Food
The Black River Inn is a modern, award‑winning village pub located in Black Torrington, near Beaworthy in West Devon, serving local food and drink with a strong focus on sustainability and flavour. Recently refurbished, the pub has developed a distinctive reputation for its Devon tapas and fire‑cooked dishes, all prepared over a solid‑fuel hearth that sits at the heart of the kitchen.
Cooking Over Fire – At the Heart of the Kitchen
Under the direction of Head Chef Alex Pallatt, The Black River Inn has embraced solid‑fuel and wood‑fire cooking as a defining part of its identity. The kitchen’s central hearth allows food to be grilled, roasted and cooked using embers and coals, creating layers of flavour that set the menus apart from those of a traditional pub.
Much of the wood used is sourced locally, reinforcing the pub’s commitment to low‑impact, sustainable practices.
Devon Tapas & Sharing‑Led Menus
The Black River Inn is particularly known for its Devon tapas – small plates designed for sharing, showcasing ingredients sourced from nearby farms, growers and producers.
The menu features:
- A rotating selection of Devon small plates
- Dishes cooked entirely over the fire hearth
- Vegetarian and vegan options that move far beyond the traditional pub offering
- Menus designed to suit different dietary requirements and tastes
This relaxed, flexible approach encourages guests to sample widely and return regularly to try new seasonal dishes.
Exceptional Sunday Roasts
Sunday lunch at The Black River Inn has become a destination in its own right. Roasts are served banquet‑style on large sharing boards, featuring:
- Three different fire‑roasted meats, all served together
- A minimum of seven seasonal, local vegetables
- Crispy roast potatoes and rich gravy made with herbs and vegetable juices
- Creative vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as ember‑baked aubergine steak or harissa‑roasted squash
This format has proved hugely popular and frequently sells out in advance.
A Warm, Inclusive Village Pub
The Black River Inn places community at the heart of what it does. The pub offers a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere
- A wide range of local ales, beers, ciders, wines and spirits, a large sun‑trap beer garden with ample seating and Family‑friendly and dog‑friendly spaces. It has also been recognised for its drinks offering, appearing in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2024.
Events, Theme Nights & Catering
Beyond everyday service, The Black River Inn hosts:
- Monthly themed food nights, inspired by world cuisines but always served tapas‑style
- Private functions and group dining
- Outside catering and fire‑cooked event menus, with bespoke options tailored to each event
This makes the pub a popular choice for celebrations, gatherings and community events.
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