As someone who has explored the vibrant food scene in Exeter, I’m excited to share with you my top 10 restaurant recommendations in Exeter.
Whether you’re craving Italian, Indian, Thai, Chinese, or a Quayside experience, Exeter has an eclectic mix to satisfy your taste buds.
Category: Most-Favored Restaurants in Exeter
Exeter Italian Restaurants
- Quo Vadis
- The Curry Leaf
French Cuisines in Exeter
Côte Brasserie
Moroccan and Mediterranean Restaurants
- Al Farid Restaurant
- Herbies
Thai Restaurants in Exeter
Jasmine Thai Restaurant
Chinese Restaurants Exeter
Tyepyedong
Exeter Local Restuarants for British
- Harry’s Restaurant
- The Welcome Café
International Restaurants in Exeter
On The Waterfront
10 Best Restaurants in Exeter
- Location: 86 Longbrook Street, Exeter
- Type: Modern British
- Open Days: Tuesday to Saturday
- Contact: 01392 202234
My Take: Harry’s is a must-visit for its cosy atmosphere and menu that celebrates Exeter‘s produce. Their Sunday Roast is a local favourite!
Must-Try Dish: The Seared Scallops starter followed by their famous Harry’s Heart Attack dessert is a foodie’s dream.
The Curry Leaf
- Location: 68 South Street, Exeter
- Type: Indian
- Open Days: Daily
- Contact: 01392 495715
Personal Highlight: For authentic Indian flavors, The Curry Leaf stands out. Their Chicken Tikka Masala is a burst of flavours!
Must-Try Dish: Lamb Biryani and Chicken Chettinad are highly recommended for a spicy and flavorful experience.
On The Waterfront
- Location: 4-9 Southern Warehouse, The Quay
- Type: Quayside Pub/Restaurant
- Open Days: Daily
- Contact: 01392 210590
Why I Love It: Perfect for a scenic dining experience by the Exeter Quay. Their pizza and seafood dishes are exceptional.
Must-Try Dish: The ‘Exe Estuary Pizza‘ loaded with seafood is a local favorite
Al Farid Restaurant
- Location: 3 Cathedral Yard, Exeter
- Type: Moroccan & Mediterranean
- Open Days: Daily
- Contact: 01392 494444
My Experience: Al Farid offers a cozy ambiance with exquisite Moroccan dishes. Their Lamb Tagine is a culinary delight.
Must-Try Dish: The Mixed Mezze platter followed by the Lamb Tagine.
Quo Vadis
- Location: 53-54 High Street, Exeter
- Type: Italian
- Open Days: Monday to Saturday
- Contact: 01392 758585
Insider Tip: A hidden gem for Italian cuisine lovers. Their pasta dishes, especially the Carbonara, are cooked to perfection.
Must-Try Dish: The Spaghetti Carbonara, prepared in a traditional style.
Herbies
- Location: 15 North Street, Exeter
- Type: Vegetarian
- Open Days: Monday to Saturday
- Contact: 01392 258473
Vegetarian’s Choice: A haven for vegetarians, offering a diverse and creative menu. The Vegan Pizza is a standout.
Must-Try Dish: The Vegan Pizza and the homemade Veggie Burger.
Tyepyedong
- Location: 175 Sidwell Street, Exeter
- Type: Chinese
- Open Days: Tuesday to Sunday
- Contact: 01392 251888
Must-Try: For a Thai food fix, this place is unbeatable. The Noodles are my all-time favorites when studying at University of Exeter.
Must-Try Dish: The Pad Thai and Tom Yum Soup.
The Welcome Café
- Location: The Quay, Exeter
- Type: Café/British
- Open Days: Daily
- Contact: 01392 250438
Café Charm: Ideal for a casual brunch with a view of the Quay. Their Full English Breakfast is a hearty choice.
Must-Try Dish: The Full English Breakfast or their homemade cakes.
Jasmine Thai Restaurant
- Location: 153 Fore Street, Exeter
- Type: Thai
- Open Days: Daily
- Contact: 01392 689988
Thai Authenticity: A cosy spot with authentic Thai flavours. The Massaman Curry is a dish you shouldn’t miss.
Must-Try Dish: The Massaman Curry and Jasmine Rice.
Côte Brasserie
- Location: 19-21 Cathedral Yard, Exeter
- Type: French
- Open Days: Daily
- Contact: 01392 433406
French Flair: For a touch of French elegance, head here. Their Beef Bourguignon is sublime.
Must-Try Dish: Beef Bourguignon and Crème Brûlée.
Enjoy Your Flavour at Restaurants in Exeter
Exeter is a paradise for every food lover; the Exeter restaurants listed above offer unique and amazing dining experiences that you’ll remember forever.
If you are ever over in the area or looking for something new, I highly recommend visiting one of these establishments.
FAQs of Restaurants in Exeter
Q1: What food is Exeter famous for?
Exeter is known for its traditional Devon cream teas, featuring desserts like scones, clotted cream, and jam. The city also takes pride in its local produce, including delicious Devonshire pasties and fresh seafood from the nearby coastline.
Q2: What are the best areas of Exeter?
The best areas in Exeter often include the historic Quayside, known for its charming pubs and waterfront views, as well as the Cathedral Green area, surrounded by medieval architecture. St. Leonards and Topsham are also popular for their picturesque streets and vibrant communities.
Q3: How many Chinese are in Exeter?
As part of the wider community, Chinese or British Chinese residents now comprise about 2% of Exeter’s total population. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the number of Chinese students studying abroad, with 7.5% of the total student body at the University of Exeter hailing from mainland China.
