Exeter can really live up to its posh stereotype. And what do posh Exeter students want more than brunch? Luckily, there are plenty of options right on your accommodation’s doorstep. Whether you like healthy brunches or stacks of pancakes, you will definitely find something for you!
Artigiano’s
We’ll start with my personal favourite, Artigiano’s. Located in the city centre, this café/bar/music venue is the perfect place to hit up for brunch with friends. The interior is so aesthetically pleasing, with plenty of tables. I love to order the loaded banana bread (picture the most decadent brunch ever) with a strawberry matcha. They also have wifi, so you can have a study brunch with your classmates.
The Undergrad
This café is a firm favourite amongst Exeter students. You can find it near the bus station, next to some off-campus student accommodation. I wouldn’t recommend studying there as the music can be quite loud and it is usually packed. But the brunch options are endless. The “Meatygrad Breakfast” comes with poached eggs, streaky bacon, sausages, chorizo, sweet chilli jam, all on sourdough bread. What more could you want? Though if sweet breakfasts are your thing, they have a blueberry and bacon pancake stack with maple syrup. With plenty more options on their menu, you’re spoilt for choice.
The Tiny Tasting Room
This is the cutest and tiniest café in all of Exeter. Right next to the Cathedral, this café has an excellent bakery selection. Their cinnamon buns are to die for, and so is their matcha. They also have the most incredible bagels. This café fills up fairly quickly, due to its popularity and size, so try to beat the crowds and head there slightly earlier than you would for a normal brunch.
Forum Kitchen
If you don’t want to head into town, head to the Forum Kitchen on campus. This café is such a unique idea. Local businesses host a “takeover”, where they serve food from their own menu. My favourite takeovers include The Red Panda and the Taco Cartel. This is the perfect on-campus spot for when you want a more exciting brunch, without having to leave for town. With new menus each week, you won’t get bored.
Sacred Grounds
Head back into town for Sacred Grounds. This café is on the slightly more expensive end of these brunch options, but if you’re looking for something a bit more bougie, you’re in the right place. Personally, I would order the brulee banana buckwheat waffles and the rhubarb and rose matcha. They have plenty of vegan and healthy options available.
Turtle Bay
This brunch spot is a completely different vibe to all the others on the list. Granted, it’s not unique to Exeter, but it is well-loved for a good reason! If you’re looking for a brunch with lots of cocktails, you must try their bottomless brunch. You choose any two small plates or one dish from their menu (per person) and you get a constant stream of cocktails for two hours. The food and cocktail options are impressive, making it a firm favourite amongst Exeter students.
Boston Tea Party
This brunch spot is right across from Turtle Bay, but is far less boozy. They make the best and fluffiest pancakes ever. Their iced coffee is incredible, largely because they put avocado in it (don’t knock it until you try it! It makes it super thick, like a milkshake). There’s a good selection of smoothies and juices as well, if you’re feeling healthy.
The Sunset Society
This café was my favourite place to study last year. The prices are really reasonable but the quality is unmatched. My go-to order was an oat cappuccino and French toast. They have wifi, so you’ll usually see students huddled together, studying. It’s located near St James Park, off the high-street.
No 1 Polsloe
This café is nestled between houses in a big student area, perfect if you’re a local. The cake selection is to die for, and the coffee is incredible. Their homemade pancakes are delicious and they’re reasonably priced. I’d recommend the bacon pancakes and their blended iced coffee. It’s a super cute and cosy café that students and locals love.
The Exploding Bakery
Located next to Exeter Central Station, this bakery has so many delicious options. You can sit in for food and coffee, or grab food on the go. Their cheese croissants are my preferred order, though their ever-changing selection of cakes are a good choice. It’s a laidback atmosphere, but the food is high-quality.
There’s such a wide range of options right on your doorstep. Though if you’re looking for a cheap/free morning in Exeter, this guide will give you some ideas!
Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m a French and International Relations student at the University of Exeter. When I’m not studying, I’m usually reading a good fiction book or listening to pop culture podcasts! Or, you’ll find me reading the guests’ essays from the New York Times.