Seafood that never see’s land, with views of land from the sea! (River Exe Café, Exeter, UK)
As you head towards the South West of England, through Dorset, Devon and onto Cornwall, you get a sense of England’s history. The cities are steeped with history, many influenced by the Roman’s, the towns are quaint with thatched roofs and most having a traditional pub, plus there are many pre historic sites including the popular Stonehenge. While historic ancestors made their mark on the South West, and that is what visitors are often seeking out, what is often overlooked is the food scene.
Many famous, now celebrity status, chefs have put the South West on the culinary map. In many cases their approach to cooking has been inspired by the land and the sea, offering up the best of local and seasonal produce. Some better known names (Celebrities in the cooking world), and our favourites, include Dorset’s Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Devon’s Michael Caines and Cornwall’s Rick Stein. Foodies should check out their acclaimed establishments however you will be paying a premium.
But don’t overlook the smaller and independent restaurants. There a number of unique places in the South West that represent all that is great from this region. Our favourite it the River Exe Café, just outside of the historical city of Exeter. This is an absolute must for those visiting Devon.
The River Exe Café sits in the middle of the River Exe estuary – yes, out in the water. You have to take a water taxi to get there and back, and this really contributes to the overall experience. The views from this floating seafood shack are unparalleled. The coast line is green, hilly and dotted with houses, the estuary is swarming with commercial fishing boats, rivers taxis, day boats of all sizes and on a fair whether day water skiers.
The basic interior of the River Exe Cafe is neatly dressed with elements of the sea. This no fuss approach extends to the food, delivering simple, fresh and seasonal food straight from the local fishermen to your plate.
The staff, mostly local, are dressed in a simple uniform comprising only a T shirt and unlike some higher-end establishments their unique personality is encouraged with an array of tattoos, piecing’s, elaborate hair do’s on show. No fuss and honest, like the food.
So onto the best bit – the food. We met the head chef (Chris) who clearly loves his craft and is passionate about local seafood and simple delivery of dishes. Whilst there are numerous options for non-seafood eaters, you’d be missing out not trying at least one seafood dish off the menu. Or, like us, try an array of things with a sharing seafood platter.
British weather in Winter unfortunately drives the restaurant to close. The team shut up shop, Chris the chef heads to the Caribbean for the season working on super yachts, and the staff likely rotate into another hospitality role. If you are travelling to the UK between April and September, and plan to see some of the wonderful countryside and cities in the ‘West Country’, then you should consider a day out and meal at the River Exe Café.
For more information or reservations please see here - www.riverexecafe.com
Local hotels include Lympstone Manor (home of Michael Caines accredited Michelin Star restaurant) and favourite of golfers, Woodbury Park. Exeter City centre is a 20 minute taxi ride or short train ride from Starcross (a short water taxi ride from Exmouth Marina).
