Dec
06
2025
Pier Point Strikes Gold Again: Celebrating Our Taste of the West 2025 Success
We are absolutely delighted to announce that Pier Point Bar & Restaurant has once again been awarded Gold in the Taste of the West Hospitality & Retail Awards 2025, proudly winning in the Casual Dining category.
This recognition means the world to us. It marks another incredible milestone in what has been a standout year for our team — and it reflects everything we stand for: quality, consistency, community, and a true passion for hospitality on the English Riviera.
Championing Local: Our Commitment to South West Suppliers
Taste of the West praised our dedication to sourcing locally wherever possible — something that has always been woven into the Pier Point ethos.
You’ll find many of our suppliers featured on our menus, website and in-house displays, including:
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Bays Brewery
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Hunts Cider
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Torbay Gin
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Devonia Water
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Locally landed and responsibly sourced seafood
We want every guest to understand the story behind their meal — who caught it, who grew it, and why local matters.
We’re excited to continue increasing seasonal dishes and showcasing even more of the incredible produce our region has to offer.
Food That Celebrates the Sea
The judges highlighted the balance of our menu — celebrating seafood without limiting choice. Some of the dishes that stood out included:
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Hake fillet en papillote with herbs, fennel and courgette
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Our signature light, crispy batter, used creatively across new dishes
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Prawn skewers and harissa-battered cauliflower
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A wide choice of fresh, hand-prepared seafood and vegetarian options
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Regularly updated specials reflecting the season
Their comments reminded us how far our menu has evolved — and how hard our kitchen team works every day to keep standards high.
Service That Feels Personal
One of the most meaningful parts of the judging feedback focused on our team and the warm, attentive service they delivered throughout the visit.
The judges wrote:
“We were treated as individuals, not just another set of customers.”
To us, there is no greater compliment.
A Team with Loyalty at Its Heart
More than half of our team have been with owner Lorraine Arnold for over three years — and several for more than seven — transferring from Paignton Pier.
In an industry known for high turnover, this level of loyalty is exceptional.
Lorraine’s leadership has always been “front first”: whether behind the bar, on the fryer, at the pass or supporting the team on the floor. Over time, she has nurtured a strong, capable team she trusts completely — confident that the high standards she sets are maintained whether she is physically on site or not.
This culture of teamwork, pride and genuine care is the backbone of Pier Point.
Transforming Torquay’s Seafront
Taste of the West highlighted how Pier Point has evolved from a tired seafront venue into a vibrant, stylish, warmly welcomed coastal restaurant — with:
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A modern interior
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An open kitchen
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A refurbished bar and facilities
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A lively seaside atmosphere that fits Torquay perfectly
This transformation reflects years of investment, vision and passion.
A Year of Outstanding Achievements
This Gold award joins an already remarkable year for Pier Point and Lorraine Arnold:
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Contribution to the Community Award – Devon Women in Business Awards 2025
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Finalist – West Country Women’s Awards 2025 (Women in Hospitality)
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Good Food Award – Third consecutive year
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Best Fish & Chip Shop – Fishermen’s Mission Awards
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Double Fry Magazine Recognition – Restaurant & Takeaway
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NFFF Quality Award – Fifth year in a row
Each accolade reinforces our commitment to quality, consistency and community.
A Message from Lorraine
“Winning Gold again means the world to us. Pier Point is built on passion — for our people, our community and the incredible produce we’re lucky to have on our doorstep. I’m so proud of my team, from kiosk to kitchen to front of house, for the care they put into every service. And a heartfelt thank you to our loyal customers — your support drives everything we do.”
Thank You
To our customers, suppliers, neighbours and supporters — thank you.
This award is a celebration of what we have achieved together.
This award is a celebration of what we have achieved together.
Here’s to another year of exceptional food, exceptional service, and exceptional people — right here on the English Riviera.
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