Exeter has gained a reputation as a fantastic foodie city, with many restaurants championing local produce. Thanks to its proximity to the sea and acres of farmland. In Princesshay and the modern Queen St Dining Quarter, you will find popular chains such as Wagamama, Carluccio’s and Gourmet Burger Kitchen. Whilst the riverside Topsham boasts independent cafes, gastropubs and restaurants.
Therefore at BabyBreaks, we have researched the best child friendly restaurants in Exeter. So you can plan your mealtimes around the city.
Also take a look at our selection of activities in Exeter for the perfect stay.
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1. The Welcome Cafe
This independent, family run café has a loyal following and receives consistently excellent reviews. For its laid back atmosphere, simple home-cooked food and peaceful location on the River Exe. Above all, dishes include locally sourced produce wherever possible. There are plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options available. Expect simple, flavourful meals such as French Toast with Bacon and Maple Syrup. Also filling homemade soups and sourdough, and fantastic cakes.
Work up an appetite with a riverside stroll before your lunch, then soak up the sunshine in the pretty courtyard garden.
Phone: 01392 439201
2. Harry’s Restaurant
Harry’s Restaurant has certainly become something of an institution for locals. Serving classic dishes in an elegant, brasserie-style setting for 25 years. Although the building is impressively grand, the restaurant’s atmosphere is relaxed and welcomes children. In addition, there are often large parties dining here for family celebrations.
The wide ranging menu covers everything from breakfast to cocktails. Above all, all dishes can be adapted for little ones appetites. Highlights include for instance, the Devon crab linguine, fig and goat’s cheese filo parcels and “Harry’s Heart Attack”. Moreover, a decadent dessert involving brownies, marshmallows, ice cream and M&M’s. One of the best child friendly restaurants in Exeter!
Phone: 01392 202234
3. Comptoir Libanais
This bustling chain restaurant serves flavourful Lebanese cuisine in a lively setting. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Perfect for fussy eaters, the mezze style dishes allow your children to try a little bit of what they fancy, introducing them to new flavours in a fun way. However, there’s a separate kids menu with simple chicken wraps or lamb kofta. They often offer deals for family dining during the school holidays.
Efficient service and a city centre location make this a great option for a speedy lunch or dinner when you’re tired after sightseeing.
Phone: 01392 249588
4. Exploding Bakery Cafe
One of Exeter’s most famous cafes has a cult following, and is a must-visit for coffee and cake when your energy levels are flagging. Started in 2011 by two school friends who are passionate about quality coffee and cakes. The café has now expanded to include a small selection of lunch dishes such as sourdough toasties, vegetable tortillas and amazing sausage rolls. Most importantly, don’t leave without trying the famous brownies or the Lumberjack Cake, made with apples, dates and coconut.
Phone: 01392 829787
5. Kids’ Hub Coffee Exe
Newly opened (August 2019) Kids Hub Coffee is a great place where kids have total freedom to play whist parents enjoy a relaxing coffee or lunch. The large play area has loads to keep little ones entertained, including books, soft toys and giant Lego bricks. Kids Hub serve salads, sandwiches and cakes using locally sourced, organic ingredients, with plenty of vegan options too. The cafe’s upstairs space also offers a variety of classes such as baby massage, art and dance classes, or it can be booked for children’s birthday parties.
Address: 11 Paris St, Exeter EX1 2JB
Phone: 07554 321995
6. The Tally Ho!
A classic pub close to some nice dog walks, The Tally Ho! boasts a fab sunny beer garden complete with large play area for kids. Your little ones can tackle the monkey bars and assault course whilst you sip a pint of local ale. Doggie treats and water available for your furry friends too.
Address: 2 Countess Wear Rd, Exeter EX2 6LG
Phone: 01392 271794
7. The Daisy Cafe
An award-wining, family run cafe with a ‘secret garden’ that the kids will love. The Daisy Cafe serves delicious breakfasts using locally sourced ingredients, as well as light lunches and generous slabs of homemade cakes. All dishes are available in child sized portions. They’re also dog friendly, making it a great place for the whole family. Locals love this spot so it does get busy- get there early to grab a table in the sun.
Address: 98 Fore St, Heavitree, Exeter EX1 2RS
Phone: 07769 695113
8. The Flat
A pizza joint with a difference, The Flat’s speciality is ‘Planet Friendly Indulgence”… in other words, delicious vegetarian and vegan pizzas that the family will love. The tasty toppings of the seasonal pizza menu might include truffle, goats cheese, vegan mozzarella or artichokes. They also serve some simple pasta dishes, if you fancy something different. All pizzas can be ordered to takeaway, making it a great option for a movie night in at your holiday cottage.
Address: 142 Fore St, Exeter EX4 3AN
Phone: 01392 459424
At BabyBreaks, we have kept a limited choice of activities, restaurants and hotels so that you can prepare your trip to Exeter without browsing the Internet for endless hours. So if you are looking to be inspired to visit Exeter for your next family weekend, just visit our different Exeter pages to find what this destination has to offer.
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