Lunch on a Floating Restaurant

I booked a weekend away in The English Riviera, which stretches from Exmouth to Plymouth, in beautiful Devon. The 22-mile stretch is filled with sandy beaches, rocky coves, picturesque villages and little seaside towns. A quintessential holiday destination to relax, revitalise and take in the sea air.

A Little Gem

Nestled where the river meets the sea, is a delicious hidden gem, far away from the crowds and hustle and bustle of daily life. A place that I have wanted to visit for many years… and I had booked a table all on my own!

My wonderful experience began even before setting foot on the River Exe Cafe. The little water taxi pulled up at the harbour to safely sail us across the bay, and, in around 20 minutes, we had arrived at the floating restaurant.

Welcome

The welcome as we stepped on board was really special, as each guest was met by an individual team member and escorted to their seat. My table overlooked the beach and as my eyes tried to take in the beautiful scene around me, I was met with bobbing fishing boats, distant kayaks, far away paddle boarders and the little train of the Riviera Line, trundling along the coastline. It looked absolutely idyllic.

Although it was rainy outside that day, the atmosphere was warm and cosy, and I was surprised, but delighted, when a complimentary glass of bubbly arrived, courtesy of the lovely bar manager (I mentioned it was my birthday when I booked). I was in love with the place before the food arrived!

The Menu

The menu, as you might expect, was dominated by fish and seafood. Oysters, muscles, squid, scallops, crab, the list went on. All the produce was sourced locally whenever possible, some coming from just a few miles away. If you are a wine buff, The River Exe also has one of the most outstanding wine lists in the world. Quite an accolade for a floating pontoon!

I was a little unsure whether to come here on my own on my birthday, but the welcome I received was fantastic, with several of the front of house staff popping over for a little chat. The restaurant is only open from early April until the end of September, so many of them are travellers, giving us a lot to talk about!

Amazing Food

I ordered mussels, one of my favourites, and when the dish arrived, it was absolutely out of this world! I have travelled to many places and eaten in some lovely restaurants, but I would say this was one of the tastiest meals I have ever eaten. Sadly, I could only manage one course, but it was truly delicious!

Chatting to the people on the next table, who travel the country eating in fabulous restaurants, it was clear I was not the only visitor enjoying the food! My neighbors by table ordered oysters, shell-on prawns, roasted scallops, Thai fish curry, Baileys over ice cream, several glasses of wine, followed by coffee and brandy (must be more used to over filling their tummies than me!) which all looked incredible. 

For such an amazing restaurant, the atmosphere was very casual (people even brought their dogs) and you could turn up in shorts and T-shirt and be fine. However, it can get windy so, if you are lucky enough to go, be prepared for all types of weather. People can arrive on their own boats and tether alongside the restaurant, and some have sailed down just to have lunch!

Outside Deck

Outside there was a large deck for dryer weather. There was also a little mezzanine with several tables. I honestly cannot wait to return and eat outside; adding the sounds and smell of the sea to the fabulous tastes and sights, could only make this place even more magical.

If you are ever in this beautiful corner of the world, try to find time for a visit to this little piece of heaven (booking is a must), I am sure you will be very happy you did.

A Birthday Gift

All too soon, my meal was over, and it was time for the water taxi to pick us all up and return us safely to shore. However, there was still one treat in store for me as I was presented with a birthday gift from the staff. I have to say I was very moved by their kindness; it was something I will never forget. :)

Back on our little water boat, we had the most wonderful time, and as we sat there chatting – 7 adults, 5 kids and a dog! – it was not hard to tell why this place is so successful. Delicious food, fantastic staff, amazing views, perfect location, relaxed ambience and a fabulous atmosphere. Sounds like the perfect recipe to me!

Please Join the Conversation:

What out-of-the-normal restaurant(s) have you been to? Where did you learn about them? What was the food like? Would you recommend them to others in the community?