Harry’s Restaurant

Harry’s is a highly unusual find in Exeter city centre. Where the chains have devoured so many indies, Harry’s has remained a family-run restaurant and the discerning local’s go-to for 30 years.

Samantha Pounds’ parents launched Harry’s in 1993, and now she and her four daughters man the helm. They craft smart and crowd-pleasing brunches, lunches and dinners in the Victorian Gothic-style building, which once the workshop of 19th-century architectural sculptor Harry Hems.

Start any visit with one of the well-crafted cocktails (the sweet-sharp French 75 is a great shout), before digging into indulgent starters like the famed cheddar soufflé topped with crispy shallots, and the crisp, hot arancini dipped in truffle mayonnaise.

The restaurant’s relationship with nearby suppliers reflects their decades in the business. Supporting fellow local indies such as Darts Farm, Godminster and The Sidwell Street Bakehouse is prioritised – and namechecked on the menu.

For mains, choose something light such as Devon crab linguine with chilli, lemon, white wine and cherry tomatoes. Or opt for pure hedonism via quality chateaubriand with a side of marrowbone in garlic crumb. And if the homemade blood-orange and frangipane tart is on the dessert menu, don’t hesitate.

Trencherman’s tip

Harry’s is all about the good times and is a perfect spot for a sociable dinner with the gang.