The city of Exeter has many things to offer for both visitors and locals. Other than possessing a range of attractions, such as its majestic cathedral, Castle Drogo and Northernhay Gardens, a large shopping centre and secret underground passages, this large city also boasts a variety of Exeter restaurants.
From Michelin Star excellence, gastro pubs, beach cafes and atmospheric riverside bistro's, Devon and Exeter restaurants are some of the best in the country.
Eating Local
One of the main benefits that Exeter restaurants take advantage of is the easy access they have to fresh, local Devon produce - right on their doorstep. There are a number of fabulous suppliers throughout Devon providing high quality food and drink, from fruit and vegetables (even chilli grown in Kingsbridge), a variety of specialist meats such as Red Ruby Devon beef, Devon cheese such as Sharpham, excellent seafood like Bigbury Bay Oysters and drinks such as Luscombe Organic. That's not to mention the vineyards - over a dozen that are close by in Devon, producing and supplying award-winning wines to many Exeter restaurants.
Using local Devon suppliers means that Exeter restaurants not only receive fresh local produce, they are also doing their bit for the environment, they are helping to minimise food miles which therefore reduces the carbon footprint and slows down the impact of global warming.
Exeter Restaurants
There are a variety of excellent Exeter restaurants to choose from which are dotted throughout the city and surrounding areas, from the coast through to the countryside.
For a countryside location head to The Jack in the Green in Rockbeare, which serves rustic dishes with an emphasis on fresh, local and seasonal produce. This friendly Exeter restaurant has won a number of accolades including Best Restaurant in the South West of England by the Taste of the West Awards 2009/2010 and is recommended as one of the top 100 restaurants in the UK.
In the centre of the city overlooking Exeter Cathedral is the boutique Abode Hotel where the two Michelin star chef Michael Caines has a restaurant. Expect fine dining at its best with a variety of menus and wines to choose from. Alternatively choose Michael Caines Cafe Bar for something a little more laid back. The Cafe Bar provides affordable quality from simple coffees, teas and light bites through to modern international dishes.
La Petite Maison in Topsham is located around 15 minutes from Exeter centre and is worth the drive. The menu features a range of dishes that change from month to month, keeping in harmony with the seasons by using fresh local produce when it's at its very best.
The Olive Tree at The Queens Court Hotel has been awarded an AA rosette and offers a well known regarded venue for contemporary dining. The menu changes regularly to incorporate seasonality. Additionally, the Terrace room can accommodate private dining parties for up to 16 people.
These are just a few restaurants that the city of Exeter has to offer, there are many more waiting to be discovered. If you are lucky enough to visit Exeter for a short break or a weekend getaway there are a variety of accommodation types to choose from with the additional attractions, abundance of activities, quaint coastal towns and beaches.
