Nestled along the riverside in Exeter, Quayside Café welcomes both locals and visitors alike, offering a laid-back atmosphere where dogs are always a part of the family.
Known for its homemade pies, friendly service, and scenic views, this café has become a popular spot for breakfast, brunch, and even a relaxing pint with complimentary tapas. Whether you’re looking to fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast or grab a quick snack, Quayside Café has you covered.
Menu Highlights
Breakfast Options
Continental Breakfast
A perfect start to the day with a choice of flaky pastries including giant croissants, Danish pastries, chocolate twists, and cinnamon swirls. Prices start at £3.45, making this a great option for a light but indulgent breakfast.
Grab & Go
For those on the move, Quayside Café offers a simple yet satisfying breakfast with English muffins, sourdough toast, fruit teacakes, crumpets, or waffles, all priced at £3.45 to £3.95. Quick, convenient, and delicious.
Full English Breakfast
For those craving something heartier, the Full English Breakfast includes two rashes of back bacon, two pork sausages, fried eggs, baked beans, grilled tomato, mushrooms, hash browns, and toast (choose brown or white). This classic meal is priced at £10.15 and provides a traditional, filling experience.
Quayside Full Monty Breakfast
A feast fit for a king, this breakfast includes three rashes of bacon, three pork sausages, two black puddings, two fried eggs, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, two hash browns, mushrooms, and toast, all for £15.65. A breakfast lover’s dream, this option is perfect for those who like to indulge.
Sourdough Specials
Quayside Café offers sourdough toast topped with either poached or scrambled eggs (£8.95), smashed avocado (£9.95), or smoked salmon and scrambled eggs (£10.95), making it a more refined breakfast choice with a health-conscious twist.
Pancakes & Waffles
For something sweet, opt for buttermilk pancakes (£4.95) or the Belgium chocolate waffle (£4.94), both perfect for a treat-yourself moment.
Savory Selections
Jacket Potatoes
Perfect for lunch, the jacket potatoes come with a choice of two toppings such as coleslaw, tuna, ham, cheese, or beans, priced at £8.75. Each additional topping is £1.45.
Pete’s Homemade Pies
Quayside Café is known for its pies, and Pete’s selection doesn’t disappoint. Options like Steak & Guinness, Pork Cider & Apple, or even a breakfast pie are all priced at £9.45. If you want the full experience, try Pete’s Pie & Mash Meal for £15.95, served with mash, peas, and gravy—a true comfort food.
Sandwiches and Baguettes
Looking for something on the go? The café’s sandwiches and baguettes are freshly made, and options include cheese salad, ham & mustard, tuna & sweetcorn, and more, priced between £7.95 and £9.95.
Sweet Treats
Handmade Cakes
Whether you’re indulging in a rich chocolate cake or a slice of Victoria sponge, the handmade cakes at Quayside Café are baked daily and are priced at £4.45 to £4.75. Favorites include the cappuccino cake and superfood fruit cake.
Farmer Tom’s Ice Cream
For dessert, a scoop (or two) of Farmer Tom’s ice cream is a must. With flavors like banoffee, double chocolate, and salted caramel, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Dog-Friendly Environment
Quayside Café stands out as a truly dog-friendly establishment. With an outdoor seating area overlooking the river, it’s the perfect place to sit back, enjoy your meal, and watch the world go by, with your furry friend by your side. The café is welcoming to dogs of all sizes, offering water bowls and even some tasty treats for canine visitors.
Review Summary
Quayside Café enjoys rave reviews for its dog-friendly atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food. Visitors often highlight the café’s scenic riverside location as an added bonus, making it a perfect spot for people-watching or enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Many customers return for the hearty breakfasts, especially the Full Monty, while others come back for the homemade pies, scones, and ice cream.
Despite a few minor issues, such as occasional presentation concerns with certain dishes like jacket potatoes, the overall experience at Quayside Café is overwhelmingly positive. The cozy, welcoming vibe combined with affordable prices makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Final Thought
If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy a satisfying meal, relax by the river, and bring your four-legged friend along, Quayside Café in Exeter is the perfect spot. With a varied menu that caters to every craving, from traditional breakfasts to homemade pies, and an atmosphere that’s as friendly as it is inviting, Quayside Café is a must-visit for both people and pups alike.
Quayside Café Features
Location & Setting
- Located at 85 Waterside, Exeter EX2 8GZ, United Kingdom
- Scenic riverside views of the River Exe, ideal for relaxing and people-watching
- Easily accessible with outdoor seating for a pleasant dining experience
Dog-Friendly Atmosphere
- Welcoming to dogs, with dedicated outdoor seating areas
- Provides water bowls and treats for your furry friends
- A perfect spot for dog owners to enjoy a meal while their pets relax
Extensive Breakfast Menu
- Full English Breakfast with all the classic elements
- Continental options including croissants, Danish pastries, and fruit teacakes
- Pancakes, waffles, and English breakfast muffins with customizable fillings
- “Grab & Go” options for a quick breakfast on the move
Homemade Specialties
- Famous for a variety of freshly baked, homemade pies
- Options include Steak & Guinness, Pork Cider & Apple, and unique breakfast pies
- Delicious jacket potatoes with a selection of toppings like beans, cheese, and tuna
Sweet Treats & Desserts
- Handmade cakes and pastries, including chocolate brownies, flapjacks, and scones
- Wide range of Farmer Tom’s ice creams in unique flavors like Banoffee, Raspberry Pavlova, and Salted Caramel
- Traditional cream teas available with scones, clotted cream, and jam
Light Bites & Snacks
- Sandwiches and baguettes with a variety of fillings such as cheese, ham, and tuna
- Sausage rolls and Cornish pasties for a savory snack
- Quick bite options like doughnut balls and toasted crumpets
Beverages
- Selection of hot drinks including coffees, teas, and hot chocolate
- Cold drinks available to complement meals or snacks
Affordable & Family-Friendly
- Budget-friendly with meals ranging from £1–£10
- Dedicated kids’ menu with smaller portions and child-friendly options
- Cream teas and family sharing meals like the Full Monty Breakfast
Special Offers
- Complimentary tapas with any alcoholic drink purchase, a great value for evening visits
- Seasonal and daily specials posted on boards inside the café
Friendly Service
- Known for quick, welcoming service from friendly staff
- A warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for both locals and visitors
Quayside Café FAQ
1. What are the opening hours of Quayside Café?
Quayside Café is open from 8 am to 8 pm on Friday and Saturday, 8 am to 7 pm on Sunday, and 8 am to 7 pm on Wednesday and Thursday. On Monday, the café is open from 11 am to 6 pm, and it is closed on Tuesdays.
2. Is Quayside Café dog-friendly?
Yes, Quayside Café welcomes dogs and provides a comfortable outdoor seating area with water bowls and treats for your pets. It’s a perfect spot for dog owners to relax by the river.
3. Does Quayside Café offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, the café offers vegetarian options like the vegan pasty and cauliflower cheese pie. For breakfast, there are choices like scrambled eggs on toast and smashed avocado with poached egg.
4. Can I reserve a table at Quayside Café?
Currently, Quayside Café operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not take reservations. However, the staff works hard to accommodate all guests, especially during peak hours.
5. Where can I find more information about the café and its menu?
For more details about the café, menu, and special offers, you can visit the Quayside Café’s official website or contact them directly at +44 1392 401646.
6. Does Quayside Café have options for children?
Yes, Quayside Café has a dedicated kids’ menu with smaller portions, including breakfast options and light bites like sandwiches and jacket potatoes, perfect for young diners.
