Mitch Tonks has been taking the South West by storm since he opened his flagship restaurant, The Seahorse, to opening the growing collection of Rockfishes. Now, he has transformed Joe’s Bar in Dartmouth into your new favourite hang-out; a suave, achingly cool venue, where the drinks slip down a little too well.

What’s more, he has just launched Cantina; a private dining room, next door to the bar.

Luckily for me and Mr Devon Food Hour, we were invited to experience it for ourselves. A wall of lacquered wine-racking, understated lighting and paired down décor gives the room bags of atmosphere. You’ll feel relaxed enough to laugh out loud and chat loudly across the table, without fear of disturbing other guests.

For ten guests, the team are at your service, preparing delicious dishes right in front of your eyes. And jeez was it delicious. We munched away through the Italian influenced menu – intensely savoury cuttlefish in squid ink, paired with zesty, creamy polenta; suckling pig; sea bass with a knockout tomato and caper salad; chocolate mousse; and finished as all good stories do – with truffled brie. It was incredible.

Yes, my phone images are hopeless. Check back on Nick’s blog for the good ones…

Find an excuse to gather up your closest bunch of friends and family – half birthdays, Boots card anniversaries, MOT day – any reason will do, and book now.