The Waterside Bistro, a cherished South Hams Riverside gem, has been successfully sold in a confidential deal brokered by Charles Darrow, market-leading business agents. The leasehold interest of this exquisite establishment changed hands off a guide price of £275,000, marking the end of an era for the outgoing owners, Matt & Delphine Buzzo, who have lovingly overseen the business for over two decades.
The torch has been passed to Phil & Donna McCann, esteemed proprietors with an impressive portfolio of establishments, including the Pig & Whistle at Littlehempston, The Otter at Weston, The Railway Inn at Churston, and the Church House Inn at Marldon— the latter of which was also sold by Charles Darrow to the McCanns.
Nestled on the banks of Mill Tail, an inlet of the River Dart, this beloved establishment has been a hub for an eclectic mix of patrons, offering everything from formal dining to casual bistro experiences and a relaxed atmosphere in the enclosed riverside beer garden.
Matt & Delphine Buzzo, the visionary owners, are set to embark on a new chapter in their lives, leaving behind a highly successful enterprise that has become synonymous with exceptional hospitality.
Perfectly positioned at the bottom of the high street, Waterside Bistro & Bar is at the heart of Totnes—a medieval market town renowned for its bohemian culture and a plethora of independent businesses. Drawing visitors year-round, Totnes lies within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, accessible via the A38 Devon Expressway, mainline railway, and an extensive network of National Express and local bus links. The town is conveniently located 24 miles East of Plymouth and 29 miles West of Exeter.
Over the years, the Waterside Bistro & Bar has been meticulously maintained and refurbished, creating a turnkey business that has primarily been traded under management.
The business, boasting ground floor covers for 80+ patrons across two trading areas, features a formal dining room that doubles as a private suite and a main bistro area catering to all-day trade, including drinks, luncheons, and evening service. The riverside terrace, with seating for over 180 covers along the River Dart Estuary, is a highlight, offering a picturesque setting with part-covered areas and heaters for colder months.
Commenting on the sale, Charles Darrow Director Jon Clyne stated, “The Waterside Bistro represents the epitome of a successful and well-loved establishment. Its sale, albeit confidential, marks a new chapter for the business, and we are confident that under the capable hands of Phil & Donna McCann, the legacy of Waterside will not only endure but thrive.”
The new proprietors, Phil & Donna McCann, expressed their enthusiasm for this exciting venture, stating, “We are honoured to be the new custodians of Waterside Bistro, and we are committed to building on the exceptional foundation laid by Matt & Delphine Buzzo. We look forward to welcoming patrons old and new to experience the magic of Waterside.”
