Saveur

Euro-inspired cooking in Exmouth

There’s no need to cross the Channel to experience Parisian bistro vibes when a seaside excursion to Exmouth reveals a vraiment délicieux dining encounter at Saveur.

Hidden away on a pedestrianised street just off the main square, this local favourite is where chef-patron Nigel Wright leads a kitchen crew whose modern, seasonal dishes have seen the restaurant retain its two AA rosettes for six years.

The kitchen continues to develop daily changing menus that celebrate all things local and seasonal, with a leaning towards seafood thanks to the venue’s proximity to the ocean (and Nigel’s hotline to the fishmongers at Brixham Fish Market). A starter of seared local sesame scallop with spring onion, ginger soy dressing and crispy seaweed can be chased by hake with crab velouté, grilled little gem and watercress potatoes. The catch of the day is available for diners who want to experience the dayboats’ freshest haul.

For those not piscatorially inclined, the options are equally delicious; seasonal examples include local venison with pommes anna, smoked celeriac puree, roasted beets and sherry jus.

The service is as relaxed and welcoming as the decor, making this a charming find for a casual lunch with friends or an intimate dinner à deux.

Trencherman’s tip: Want to make the most of the restrained but impressive wine list? Saveur is just a 30-minute train ride from Exeter.