Eating out
The South West is renowned for its contribution to the UK’s rich food and drink culture so it’s no surprise that acclaimed chefs like Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Rick Stein and Michael Caines make their home in the area.
Exeter is at the heart of the South West food scene with a vast array of outstanding restaurants, coffee shops, delicatessens and markets. From small independent eateries to chain restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.
Exploring outside Exeter reaps culinary rewards too. The Devon countryside has many vineyards, cider presses and specialist farms supplying outstanding produce.
Exeter has many great options for eating out. As well as the chain restaurants you would expect to find, the city boasts an abundance of independent and small-scale eateries too.
Eat your way around the world without leaving the city by exploring Exeter’s international cuisine. Thai, Japanese, Greek, Mexican and Lebanese restaurants are just a few on offer. However, if you fancy traditional British pub grub, then Exeter also has many gastropubs.
A student favourite, especially in the summertime, are the restaurants and cafes at Exeter’s historic Quayside. What could be better than enjoying a pizza al fresco while overlooking the beautiful River Exe? Home to several delicious restaurants and rooftop bars, it is the perfect location in Exeter to wine and dine.
Vegetarians and vegans are also well catered for across Exeter with excellent plant-based restaurants such as Sacred Grounds and The Flat.
You’ll find a range of supermarkets represented in Exeter including Aldi, Tesco, Morrisons and Waitrose. Many of them are located in or close to the centre making it easy for those without a car to go food shopping. Explore the outstanding local produce on offer at the various butchers, bakers, delis, fishmongers and greengrocers across the city too. Magdalen Road, near our St Luke’s Campus, is a great spot to find an array of foodie-pleasing shops.
Specialist international supermarkets
There’s a good range of international supermarkets, delicatessens and butchers catering for Asian, Indian, African, European and religious cuisines. Many are located around Sidwell Street, just a short walk from both of our Exeter campuses.
Farmers' Market
Explore the range of fresh local produce at the Exeter Farmers’ Market every Thursday. On the corner of Fore Street and South Street, right in the centre of town, the market is a great place to get high-quality meat, fruits and vegetables, bread, cakes and more.
Farm Shops
For those craving something special on non-market days there are several farm shops nearby. Most notable is the award-winning Darts Farm in Topsham which offers local West Country food and drink, luxury gifts, and home and lifestyle products.
There’s nothing quite like a fresh cup of coffee and you’re spoilt for choice in Exeter. There are plenty of chain coffee shops across the city, but coffee lovers will want to explore the numerous independents and small-scale cafes and coffee roasters dotted around Exeter. Some local favourites include The Exploding Bakery, Artigiano, Crankhouse Coffee and Exe Coffee Roasters.