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My Week In Pictures - Lockdown 3 Week 3

My Week In Pictures – Lockdown 3 Week 3

24th January 202125th January 2021 - tara Leave a comment

It’s been a funny old week here. Firstly, I have been on my own as Steve has been working away. Don’t panic! It’s all within the Covid laws – testing and a work bubble has been created. Professional musicians are allowed to rehearse which has meant that for the whole week I have been atRead more

Saturday Brunch

My Week In Pictures – Lockdown 3.0 Week 2

17th January 202117th January 2021 - tara Leave a comment

Hello all. We seem to have made it through another week in lockdown so let’s give ourselves a pat on the back for that. it’s challenging and we are all doing a great job. However we get through the week and whatever we do is alright. If you want to spend a day in your PJ’sRead more

My Week In Pictures - Lockdown 3.0 Week 1

My Week In Pictures – Lockdown 3.0 Week 1

9th January 20219th January 2021 - tara Leave a comment

Here we go again! Lockdown 3.0 started on Tuesday here in England. I did manage to get one evening in of live ballet classes with my primary-school-age children before resuming online from Tuesday which was lovely. A chance to reconnect with the children albeit briefly. Obviously, with lockdown 3.0 I haven’t been out and aboutRead more

Let It Be Sunday - My Week In pictures #4

My Nine Best Things Of 2020

30th December 202030th December 2020 - tara Leave a comment

2020 has been challenging for all. Work has been sparse for some and non-existent for others. Loneliness for many has become a real issue. There have been constant challenges thrown our way that has meant we have had to adapt and adopt new ways of thinking, working, socialising and exercising. For me, 2020 has givenRead more

Let It Be Sunday - My Week In Pictures #3

Let It Be Sunday – My Week In Pictures #3

13th December 202013th December 2020 - tara Leave a comment

Happy Sunday friends! Are you feeling festive yet? With less than two weeks to Christmas I feel like I should be but I am not. I am excited for Christmas but I certainly don’t have that festive warm feeling yet. It may be because we don’t have our tree or it maybe because I don’tRead more

The Postal Pantry Co - Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca

The Postal Pantry Co – Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca

15th August 202015th August 2020 - tara Leave a comment

My love of Italy is well documented as is my love of Italian food. Quite often Italian recipes are incredibly easy to prepare with flavours that pack a punch. The key being good quality ingredients and a sprinkle of love! This recipe is no different. Spaghetti alla Puttanesca is one of those simple recipes thatRead more

The Secret Garden Cafe – Exeter

20th July 202020th July 2020 - tara 4 Comments

There are many places I have discovered during my lockdown walks including hopefully my new home! (eek!). I have walked and walked and walked every day uncovering new places that I simply wouldn’t have known existed if we hadn’t have been confined to home pretty much for the last 4 months. The Secret Garden CafeRead more

Places To Eat - Agricultural Inn, Brampford Speke

Places To Eat – Agricultural Inn, Brampford Speke

17th March 202017th March 2020 - tara 1 Comment

I know at these uncertain times a blogpost about eating out might not be of much interest to you but you know what? It’s worth a read anyway. We all need to keep our chins up and plan fun stuff for when all of this virus stuff is over and we can finally get outRead more

New York – My Little Guide To The Big City

7th December 20191st January 2020 - tara Leave a comment

New York is one of those cities that you never get tired of exploring. I have been lucky to visit four times over the course of my life and have never had the same holiday twice. The city, like so many others, is constantly changing and evolving which makes visiting so exciting. It’s been atRead more

New York City

My November

1st December 20191st December 2019 - tara Leave a comment

November was a pretty special month for me. I got to travel to New York City with my sister Estella and my stepdad Tim to see The Pineapple Thief play at Sony Hall. For those who don’t know, my other half Steve plays in a band and that band, The Pineapple Thief are on tourRead more

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Tara Smith | Foodie & Content Creator

tarasbusykitchen

Devon-based food & travel content creator exploring top UK restaurants, cafes & vineyards. Sharing tips from the South West & beyond

A L B A T R O S S - T O T N E S Introducing Alba A L B A T R O S S - T O T N E S 

Introducing Albatross in Totnes to all my lovely foodie followers.

They’ve been open a few months now, but I hadn’t had the chance to get down to Totnes until Friday night. 

Safe to say, my first visit definitely lived up to the hype.
Is this the best pizza in Devon? I’ll let you decide when you visit, but honestly, it was excellent. Innovative flavour combinations, perfectly cooked bases and the kind of crust you actually want to finish. The sides were equally impressive too. That smashed cucumber dish was an unexpected standout.

Here’s the thing: finding a pizza restaurant that gets every element right is surprisingly rare. Great food is one thing, but when the atmosphere, service and overall experience all hit the mark too, you know you’ve found somewhere special.

The decor is effortlessly cool, the staff are genuinely friendly and the whole place has a relaxed, welcoming feel. Drinks-wise, they don’t have a full bar, but there’s a carefully curated wine list ie red, white or rosé (lol) , a couple of cocktails and plenty of soft drink options.

I’ve also heard the tiramisu is legendary, but we were far too full to put that claim to the test. Next time.

For a pretty perfect Friday night in Totnes, I’d recommend starting with a drink at @rossototnes , heading to @albatross_totnes for dinner and finishing at @bullinn_totnes just across the road. Three brilliant independents, great vibes and some seriously good food and drink.

Have you been to Albatross yet? I’d love to know what you ordered and whether you think it could be the best pizza in Devon. Let me know in the comments, and save this post for your next trip to Totnes.

#AlbatrossTotnes
#TotnesFood
#PizzaDevon
#TotnesRestaurants
#SouthDevonFood
F R I D A Y N I G H T plans in Totnes? I may have F R I D A Y  N I G H T plans in Totnes? I may have just found your new favourite spot… 

Rosso is everything I want from a wine bar - relaxed, welcoming, great wine, friendly faces (hey Helen and Jonny) and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay for “just one more”.

What started as a wine tasting with my friend Rebecca from @emilewines quickly turned into a Friday night debrief over drinks. Work first and play after. The perfect combo. 

Rosso is a bottle shop throughout the week, but every Friday evening it transforms into a vibey wine bar right in the heart of Totnes.

Happy Hour runs from 5–6pm with wines by the glass for just £5. On our visit it was a crisp Vinho Verde and a Spanish Tempranillo - both perfect for easing into the weekend and this amazing weather we’ve been having lately .. long may it continue. 

And here’s the thing… it wasn’t just the wine that made it special.The atmosphere was buzzing. A lovely mix of ages, groups of friends, couples, families and solo visitors all enjoying great wine together. We even bumped into a few familiar faces which made it feel instantly welcoming.

My little Totnes tip? Start your evening at @rossototnes for wine (they close at 8), head to Albatross for a bloomin’ good pizza and sides, then finish across the road at The Bull Inn for a nightcap. Honestly, it’s the perfect Friday night out.

I’m planning to explore a lot more of South Devon’s food and drink scene this summer, so I’d love your recommendations. Where should I be heading for great wine, cocktails, beer gardens, pubs or hidden gems? 

Pop your favourites below and save this to your must visit list. 

#Totnes #TotnesFoodAndDrink #SouthDevon #DevonWineLovers #VisitSouthDevon
P O V : it’s a terrible day to be a magnum of Si P O V : it’s a terrible day to be a magnum of Simpson’s Rosé, Perelló olives & truffle Torres crisps.

This heatwave has me operating on one thought only: beach > sunset > snacks > rosé.

The necessary ingredients to re-create this perfect beach set up = A magnum of @simpsonswine Rosé chilled to perfection, a tin of Perelló Gordal Picante olives and a friend to help tackle the dangerously salty, truffley situation that is Torres crisps.

If this is what surviving the heatwave looks like… I feel like I am coping remarkably well. 😌🌅

Winedown Wednesday, but make it beach edition.

What’s going in your sunset snack bag? There will be no judgement from me. 

18+ PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY 

#EnglishRoseWine #BeachPicnicVibes #WineDownWednesday #SummerSnacking #UKFoodieFinds
P O V : You’re discovering that some of the best P O V : You’re discovering that some of the best vineyard experiences in England are hiding right here in the South West.

From Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Devon, these are some of my favourite South West vineyards for unforgettable vineyard tours, wine tastings, delicious food and dreamy countryside settings. From larger English wineries producing their own wines to smaller boutique vineyards full of charm, every one brings something different.

Think vineyard tours, wine flights, seasonal menus, restaurants, live music events and lazy afternoons with a glass in hand… because a South West wine tourism day out really is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon.

Some places like @wraxallvineyard and @sandridgebarton even offer accommodation, turning a simple wine tasting experience into the perfect English vineyard mini break.

Someone once said to me years ago on a vineyard tour: “you never find an ugly vineyard.” And honestly? I think they were right. Every vineyard I’ve visited has had beautiful views, gorgeous settings and such good energy. We’re so lucky in the South West to have so many incredible English vineyards on our doorstep.

This list barely scratches the surface though - there are so many more waiting to be explored. 

What vineyard should I visit next? Tell me your favourites and why you love them. Save this for your next South West wine adventure. It’s time to get planning for the summer holidays.

For those who love an English vineyard visit as much as I do you may want to check out @ukvineyardguide .. the app has 100’s of English & Welsh vineyards all in one place. It can tell you the nearest vineyards in your area, their facilities, where their specialties lie, their opening hours.. you name it! Available in the App Store. I’m just about to download it myself actually. 🍷

#southwestwinetourism #englishvineyards #vineyardtouruk #winetastingexperience #southwestdaysout
S A L C O M B E T A P H O U S E - S I D M O U T H S A L C O M B E  T A P H O U S E - S I D M O U T H 

How I wish this place had existed when I was growing up in Sidmouth. Teenage me would have been in her element. 

They only opened a week or so ago but somehow already feels like a proper part of Sidmouth life. In fact that whole stretch of the seafront is having a bit of a moment. With Rockfish transforming the old Drill Hall and bringing fresh energy to the area, Salcombe Taphouse now sits perfectly beside it.

I popped in on Saturday after a brilliant afternoon at Sidmouth Jazz Festival before heading back to Exeter and I’m so glad I made the time. The place had such a lovely buzz.

Then came the impossible decision... wine or beer?

The drinks menu was great so it was hard to choose but when I saw Seahorse Rosé I had to have a glass. It’s a wine I already love. It’s light & fresh with delicate strawberry & raspberry notes, a touch of watermelon and citrus & that crisp, dry finish that just tastes like summer by the sea.

But the stars of the show are obviously the beers. There were around 8 or 9 to choose from which felt like a really solid selection including Atlas Session IPA - fruity & tropical and made for sipping by the sea.

I really loved the design of the place. The architect has made the inside feel like the outside. Huge windows open out towards Sidmouth’s iconic red cliffs and the big glass doors at the front mean you can see the sea from almost anywhere inside.

But on an evening like that there was absolutely no chance I was staying indoors. Drink in hand, straight outside for ocean views & a moment appreciating just how spectacular that coastline is. Those cliffs really are something else.

I also loved the mix of people enjoying the space - all ages, all just soaking up the atmosphere. Friendly, relaxed & properly chilled. They serve pizzas too which looked great, although we’d already eaten at the Jazz Festival.

I’m already planning my next Sidmouth outing: pre-dinner drinks at Salcombe Taphouse, then supper at Rockfish overlooking the sea. Sounds like a pretty perfect evening to me.

Have you been yet? And are you choosing wine or beer?
K I N D A C H I C T H I N G S I W I L L N E V K I N D A  C H I C  T H I N G S  I  W I L L  N E V E R apologise for. 

Supporting independent cafés over chains, travelling way too far for pastries worth the drive, and spending my spare time hunting down the best hidden gems across Devon & the South West.

It’s kinda chic to fill your wardrobe with preloved finds, to grow older with confidence (whatever that looks like for you), and to stop playing small when your side hustle starts becoming something bigger. Ballet teacher by day, foodie + content creator by every other spare minute… proof that dreams can quietly become reality if you’re brave enough to back yourself.

If you’re in the South West, tell me your favourite independent spot to eat, drink or wander - I’m always adding to my list. 

What kinda chic things would you like to add to the mix? 

Enjoy your bank holiday weekend.. Love Tara x

#DevonFoodie #SouthWestUK #SupportLocalUK #DevonLife #IndependentBusiness
R E S T A U R A N T S I W O U L D H A P P I L Y R E S T A U R A N T S  I  W O U L D  H A P P I L Y drive across the South West for ..

As a Devon-based foodie, these are restaurants I’ve visited recently and genuinely loved - independent spots across Devon, Dorset, Bristol & Somerset serving seasonal menus, local produce, thoughtful wine lists and experiences that stay with you long after the meal.

Because the best restaurants are never just about the food. It’s the atmosphere, the people, the service, the attention to detail… the feeling.

If you’re still here and reading then each of these restaurants are already calling me back. 

Save this for your next date night, weekend foodie trip or inevitable “where should we eat?” group chat. (We all have one!) 

P.S. If you love this list, I’ve got a great pubs list coming soon… there are so many great pubs with outstanding food that need to be shared so watch this space. 

Have a fabulous bank holiday weekend and start planning your next foodie trip. Love Tara x

#DevonFoodie #SouthWestFood #SeasonalDining #IndependentRestaurants FoodieFinds
L I T T L E F R E N C H - B R I S T O L A birth L I T T L E  F R E N C H - B R I S T O L 

A birthday lunch, a one-hour train from Exeter and a table that instantly made us feel like we’d escaped to a tiny corner of France… 

Bristol has been high on my foodie hit list for a while and this spot has sat on my saved list for far too long. So for my birthday, a quick lunch date with friends felt like the perfect excuse to finally book it - and it completely lived up to the anticipation.

The Monday lunchtime atmosphere was buzzing (always a good sign ) and I can absolutely see why the set lunch menu is such a draw. We started slowly with wine and little nibbles - beautiful green olives, proper French baguette with real French butter and cheese croquettes that absolutely melted in the mouth. The kind of start that makes you instantly settle in and know you’re in for a good afternoon.

Then every plate started arriving and suddenly the whole table became “can I try yours?” territory. 

We ordered one of each starter for maximum taste-testing - garlic soup, Roquefort salad and steak tartare - all simple and delicious. I had the moules frites (because once I saw them, there was no changing my mind) while my friends both chose the onglet steak and frites. Add a lovely Pinot Blanc, staff who made us feel completely looked after and a surprise birthday chocolate mousse complete with candle... and honestly, I left wondering why I’d waited so long to visit.

It’s exactly the sort of independent place I love finding - somewhere with brilliant food, a lovely atmosphere and the feeling that you’ve stepped somewhere else for a few hours. Official Tara’s Busy Kitchen seal of approval.

Bristol and Somerset food lovers - where should I hunt down next? Drop your favourite independent restaurants, hidden gems and lunch spots below because I’m always building my foodie list. 

#BristolFoodie #BristolRestaurants #SouthWestFoodie #SomersetFoodie #IndieFoodFinds
T H E B O O K C E L L A R - B R I S T O L POV T H E  B O O K  C E L L A R -  B R I S T O L 

POV: Instagram actually understood the assignment… because a few days before my trip to Bristol, The Book Cellar appeared on my feed and I’m still not over what a genius concept this is. 

A beautiful independent Bristol bookshop that also doubles as a wine bar and wine shop? I’m officially starting a campaign for one of these in every town and city because I’m convinced more people would read and buy books if they could settle in with a bloomin’ great glass of wine alongside them.

Having only opened a week ago, this felt like such a fortuitous find whilst planning a birthday lunch day out with friends. It was perfectly placed before our lunch reservation and made for such a lovely stop during a day of exploring Bristol’s independent food and drink scene.

And then I discovered they even pair books with wines… yes, actual book and wine pairings. Whoever came up with that deserves a round of applause because it is absolutely ingenious. 

As a South West foodie always searching for new places to visit in Bristol and beyond, this is exactly the sort of independent gem I love discovering - unique concepts, brilliant atmosphere, good wine and businesses doing something a little different. If you love supporting independent businesses, wine bars in Bristol, bookshops with personality, hidden gems and cosy spots to while away an hour or two with friends, add this one straight to your list.

Have you visited yet - or do we need to convince someone in Exeter to bring this concept a little further south? Tag your favourite wine-loving bookworm below and save this for your next Bristol day out. 

#BristolFoodScene #BristolHiddenGems #SouthWestFoodie #IndependentBristol #WineLoversUK
Q U A Y S I D E D I S T I L L E R Y - E X E T E R Q U A Y S I D E  D I S T I L L E R Y - E X E T E R 

POV: You’ve just found Exeter’s newest brunch spot and it floats!! 

If you’re looking for the best brunch spots in Exeter or somewhere different for a weekend catch-up in Devon, I may have found your next place. I headed down to Exeter Quay last weekend to try the newest addition at @quaysidedistillery - a floating pontoon restaurant right on the water and I loved the idea instantly. Because if the weather’s good, who doesn’t want to sit outside by the quay with a coffee or cocktail in hand? 

Beth looked after us and she was so lovely - friendly, accommodating and just one of those people who makes your visit feel that bit nicer.

The menu leans more brunch-meets-lunch with toasted flatbreads, king prawns, steak sandwiches, falafels and chargrilled chicken, but they’ve got plenty if you’re after a proper brunch moment too. The avocado & edamame bruschetta with poached eggs, Full English breakfasts and mini Dutch baby pancakes with blueberry swirled Greek yoghurt all looked and tasted so good. 

But wait, because this bit surprised me... they infuse their own gin, vodka and limoncello on site so if you did fancy a cocktail or perhaps a Bloody Mary at brunch then you could have it made with gin or vodka distilled a matter of meters away.you can’t get more local than that! 

Exeter Quay is already such a lovely place at weekends and being only a 10-minute walk from Exeter city centre makes this such a good addition to the Exeter food scene.

Save this for your next Exeter brunch date and send it to the person you’re always making weekend plans with 💛

Ad - invite 

#ExeterBrunch #ExeterFoodGuide #DevonBrunchClub #ExeterQuay #DiscoverExeter
B E A R S L A K E I N N - A Dartmoor Staycation G B E A R S L A K E  I N N - A Dartmoor Staycation Gem You Need To Know About 

Last week I escaped to Bearslake Inn on the edge of Dartmoor for a cosy foodie staycation and it absolutely delivered. 

Self-employed life means I can’t always disappear for long trips, so I’m fully embracing shorter, food-driven staycations this year and this Devon getaway ticked every box.

A beautiful 13th-century thatched inn beside the moors, stunning countryside views, the warmest welcome and food that was absolutely worth the drive.

After following Chef @tombrowning1992 online I knew I needed to visit, and letting him choose a few dishes for us was the best decision. Truffle parmesan fries? Non-negotiable. The leek & potato velouté with hen’s egg and burrata with heritage tomatoes were stand outs. Yes, I am still in my burrata era - don’t judge! The hot honey glazed pork belly was melt-in-the-mouth good and the pollack with tomatoes with smoked mashed potatoes was SO good. 

And then the next morning… A wicker basket filled with tea, coffee, juice, pastries, fruit, cheese, Coppa ham and breakfast bits delivered straight to your room? Breakfast in bed people... BREAKFAST IN BED! 

We threw open the windows and sat overlooking the moors but in summer? I’d be taking that basket straight out to the picnic tables in the beer garden.

Oh and speaking of the garden - there’s a huge space out the back with a babbling brook, Dartmoor views and an outdoor bar for warmer days.

If you’re looking for a cosy Devon staycation, foodie escape or countryside weekend away - add this to your list.

Ad - hosted stay 

#DevonStaycation #Dartmoor #UKStaycation #FoodieTravel #DevonFoodie
C H A G F O R D - Devon’s Little Foodie Gem PO C H A G F O R D - Devon’s Little Foodie Gem 

POV: you head to Chagford for “a quick potter” and somehow leave planning your next overnight stay... because this little Dartmoor town has absolutely stolen your heart.

I’ve been to @beachwoodbakery before, but this was my first visit since the new owners took over and from the second I stepped inside I knew… yep, this is my kind of place. Soft pink walls, simple decor, beautiful fresh florals and that relaxed atmosphere full of locals - exactly the kind of bakery you instantly want to linger in.

Freshly baked seeded (and non seeded if your heart so desires) sourdough, cinny buns, beautiful cakes and bakes… and not just the usual suspects either. Persian Love Cake? .. My interest is sparked. A traditional Bakewell tart?! Immediate purchase.

Actually… two purchases because one slice simply wasn’t enough. Their seasonal soup, cheese toasties and great coffee keep lunch simple. Sometimes simple done well is perfection. 

But Chagford is so much more than a bakery stop. Although I would definitely travel miles for another slice of Bakewell tart!! 

This beautiful Dartmoor town is packed with artisan shops, delis and local makers. Pop into @dartmoorshepherd , lose yourself in @_astorsbookshop , and if you know Chagford... you KNOW the hardware store. I’m convinced if they don’t stock it, it probably doesn’t exist. 😂

Finish the day with a wander through one of Devon’s prettiest towns and a glass of wine at the @chagfordinn - one of my favourite Devon pubs. I’m already planning an overnighter… dinner at the pub, a cosy stay and waking up to bakery breakfast? Dreamy.

Devon friends - have you done a Chagford day trip yet? Or if you’re local, tell me your favourite hidden gem because I’m officially obsessed.

#Chagford #VisitDevon #Dartmoor #DevonFoodie #SouthDevonLife
A R O S É Launch Like No Other at The Newt ✨ A  R O S É Launch Like No Other at The Newt ✨

POV: you think you’re attending a wine launch… and somehow end up in a floral dreamscape with wine royalty. 

Thursday saw me hot-footing it to Somerset for a truly unforgettable day at The Newt to celebrate the historic launch of @babylonstoren 2026 Mourvèdre Rosé - and honestly, I’m still not over it.

From wandering the breathtaking gardens (led by the incredible cottage garden gardener -  easily my favourite part of the whole garden), spotting an actual newt in one of the ponds, to a sparkling wine reception complete with canapés and rose crowns, every moment felt like stepping into another world.

But then came the lunch...

Picture long tables dressed with cherry tomato plants, tumbling nasturtiums & piled high with delicious fresh summer salads, roast beef served pink (obvs - this is a rosé event after all) and the most succulent trout. The central dining table displays so beautiful they looked as if they had organically grown straight from the table itself. Add grape sculptures that were genuine works of art and endless roses creating what I can only describe as floral heaven. The attention to detail was beyond anything I could ever have imagined.

And the wine? Stunning.

🍷 TASTING NOTES: Babylonstoren 2026 Mourvèdre Rosé is elegant, fresh and beautifully expressive -  think delicate summer berries, juicy watermelon, soft peach and fragrant floral notes with a crisp minerality and refreshing dry finish. The kind of rosé that instantly transports you to long lunches, sunshine and slow summer afternoons.

Alongside incredible summer salads, roast beef and fresh trout, we had the privilege of tasting this new release while celebrating a truly special moment in wine.

I also got to meet people I’ve spent years fan-girling over on Instagram and be part of this landmark launch.

A genuine pinch-me moment. ✨

Tell me your favourite summer rosé below. I’m all ears. 

Ad - pr invite 

#babylonstoren #tastetheterroir #Mourvèdrerosé #RoséWine #roseallday
D E V O N & C O R N W A L L F O O D I E D I A R D E V O N &  C O R N W A L L  F O O D I E  D I A R Y : The best food and drink events this May, June & July. 

Food markets, chef pop-ups, festivals and long lazy summer sessions… if you’re wondering where to eat and drink & be merry across Devon and Somerset this May, June and July, I’ve got you covered.

We are seriously spoiled with the Devon and Somerset food scene and these are some of my favourite chefs, venues and local food and drink events happening over the next few months. How lucky are we to have all this on our doorstep? Organise your designated driver now peeps! 

The Fore Street Flea kicks off this weekend and is always a favourite - independent traders, brilliant food and a great excuse to head into town. Plus @thefatpig_exeter , @exetersacredgrounds and all the amazing cafés and restaurants nearby make a full day of it.

The South West chef pop-up scene is looking strong too, with @village_farm_cafe Greek evening and @lolulis_fire_and_fish pop-up at @thedrakesarms both sounding incredible (but be quick — tickets fly).

@dartsfarm 55th birthday celebrations, @holmsomerset Balfearic Sundays, and @salutationinn Italian wine evening are all firmly on my Devon foodie guide / Somerset foodie guide list this summer.

And I can’t not mention Le Vin Perdu who have a huge run of themed nights and pop-ups coming up too. I genuinely can’t list them all - think Korean food nights, pizza evenings, Tuscan-inspired feasts and plenty more besides

There are loads more Devon food events, Somerset food festivals and foodie happenings I couldn’t fit in here (and yes, I’ve already got tickets for some! I know where the good stuff is at! 😁) 

Save this post, share it with your foodie friends and let me know if you’d like this to become a monthly South West food scene roundup in the comments below. 

#DevonFoodScene
#SomersetFoodies
#SouthWestFoodGuide
#DevonFoodEvents
#WestCountryEats
S E V E N D A Y S O F M A T C H A 🍵 The pla S E V E N  D A Y S  O F  M A T C H A 🍵

The places to go for your indie matcha fix in Exeter this summer.

If you’re in your matcha era too, this one’s for you.

Matcha is more than just a drink in my opinion. It’s ritual, atmosphere, flavour & the process itself. The whisking, the pouring, the care that goes into making each cup - every café does it differently & that’s exactly why I love exploring it.

Some places focus on ceremonial grade matcha & the full experience. Others lean into creativity, atmosphere or beautifully balanced flavour. Some are quiet & thoughtful, others are pure Instagram-worthy drama.

My Exeter matcha lineup:

Pink Ginger
Artigiano
The Press House
Sunny’s
Tiny Tasting Room
Mana at Moksa
Suki Café

@artigianoexe & @mana_at_moksa are bringing ceremonial grade goodness. @thetinytastingroom , @sunnys_exeter & @thepresshouseexeter have that warm indie atmosphere I always come back for. @_sukicafe_ gets extra points for the matcha soft serve.

Then there’s @pinkgingerexeter - the OG in my eyes when it comes to Exeter matcha. Every single time it delivers. Their homemade strawberry syrup with iced matcha is still top tier for me. In fact I stopped in earlier with a friend & ordered just that! 

I don’t know how you feel but iced matcha is my personal favourite. Not overly sweetened, still earthy, still rich in flavour & giving that smooth energy boost without the coffee crash. Although honestly, a warm matcha on a colder day still has my heart too.

Not all matcha tastes the same & that’s exactly why I love exploring it. The grade, the preparation, the milk choice, the sweetness, the person making it… every cup has its own personality.

Exeter really does have some gorgeous indie spots serving matcha right now & this is your sign to start your own little matcha crawl this summer.

Now I need your recommendations - where should I be trying next? 

#ExeterMatcha #exeterfoodscene #matchainexeter #indieexeter #exetercafe
D O Y O U E V E R F E E L like everyone else ca D O  Y O U  E V E R  F E E L like everyone else can see your success except you?

Because lately, imposter syndrome has been louder than my confidence.

My body’s been tired, my energy has felt low and with another birthday approaching, I’ve found myself questioning everything a little more than usual - whether I’m good enough, strong enough, young enough, achieving enough.

Which is strange really… because when I step back, I’m living a life filled with things I genuinely love. Teaching. Movement. Beautiful food. Great wine. Discovering independent places. Writing. Creating. Exploring.

I think sometimes we raise the bar so often for ourselves that we forget to stop and recognise how far we’ve already come.

So this is your reminder (and mine): you’re probably doing better than you think you are ✨

What’s something you’ve achieved lately that you haven’t given yourself enough credit for?

#BalletTeacherLife #FoodWriter #FitnessInstructor #RestaurantReels #LifestyleCreator lifequote
T H E S O U T H W E S T I N D I E S P O T S I T H E  S O U T H  W E S T  I N D I E  S P O T S I have been loving lately. 

A little collection of some of my favourite independent cafes, coffee spots, restaurants, pubs, bars and takeaways I’ve visited recently across Devon, Somerset & Dorset. All genuinely worth the trip.

I’m Tara - a Devon born-and-raised food explorer, always on the hunt for the best places to eat, drink and be merry across the South West and beyond. If a place features on my grid, it’s somewhere I truly love and would recommend wholeheartedly and most importantly would visit again. That speaks volumes I think. 

There’s something special about independent businesses. So many are family run, built from passion, hard work and people who genuinely care about what they do. You can feel the difference in the atmosphere, the service, the food, the coffee, the wine - every little detail matters because their livelihood rests on creating something brilliant.

From neighbourhood coffee shops and cosy wine bars to destination restaurants, laid-back pubs and unforgettable takeaways, the South West food scene is full of places doing things really, really well. I’m gradually working my way through my saved list! 

If you’re looking for the best cafes in Devon, Somerset restaurants worth travelling for, Dorset restaurants with atmosphere, independent coffee spots, foodie hidden gems and local businesses to support this is your sign to add these places to your list.

And honestly, finding incredible food and drink spots across the region will never get old for me. There’s nothing I love more than discovering somewhere amazing and sharing it with people who’ll appreciate it too.

So - where have I missed?

What’s your favourite indie spot in Devon, Somerset or Dorset that deserves more love?

#SouthWestFoodie #DevonFood #SomersetFood #DorsetFood #IndieFoodSpots
S A N D R O ‘ S - A hidden foodie gem in Lyme Re S A N D R O ‘ S - A hidden foodie gem in Lyme Regis you need to book. 

Ad If you’re looking for one of the best places to eat in Lyme Regis, this tiny Dorset bistro absolutely stole my heart…

Tucked away between the main street and the mill area in beautiful Lyme Regis, @sandros_lymeregis is the kind of place you almost want to keep secret. Run by chef Sandro and partner Vicky, this intimate little restaurant is all about locally caught fish, seasonal Dorset produce and the freshest ingredients available that day - which is why the menu changes constantly and is handwritten fresh each service.

And honestly? I loved every second of it.

Being in Dorset we had to start with a glass of Tommy from @langhamwinery Blanc de Blanc alongside @iowtomatoes with olive oil, white balsamic, homemade sourdough and whipped butter… pure heaven. Those English tomatoes were unreal - sweet, fragrant and tasting exactly how summer should taste.

Fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, beautiful wines and that relaxed Lyme Regis charm… honestly my perfect kind of lunch.

We shared monkfish with marinated octopus and haricot beans, plus spinach and mushroom rotolo packed with rich, comforting flavour. Then came the mains - Wye Valley asparagus, Jersey Royals, wild garlic, quail’s egg and summer truffle for me (basically spring on a plate) and wild bass with potato & prawn rasam for Rebecca. Beautifully balanced flavours, thoughtful wine pairings and genuinely warm hospitality throughout.

What makes this place even more special is the story behind it. The building was once Sandro’s father’s Italian restaurant many years ago before changing hands several times. Then one phone call from his dad saying “the old restaurant is available… go for it” brought everything full circle. I love stories like that.

Would I go back? Without hesitation. I already know Steve would absolutely love it too, so maybe another Lyme Regis birthday trip is calling? 

If you’re planning a Dorset foodie weekend or searching for restaurants in Lyme Regis, put this one on your list immediately.

pr visit 

#LymeRegis #DorsetFoodie #VisitDorset #LymeRegisFood #DorsetRestaurants
M A N A A T M O K S A - E X E T E R If you’r M A N A  A T  M O K S A - E X E T E R 

If you’re in Exeter & looking for a calm, beautiful independent space to spend an hour… go and find Chloe. 

You may have seen Chloe from @moksa.skincare on Instagram recently after being told to remove the table, chairs and A-board outside her Castle Street businesses - something that seriously impacted footfall for her new wellness café in Exeter. So, I wanted to pop on here to let you all know about this special new addition to Exeter’s cafe scene. Even if one or two of you pop in and say hi & order a delicious iced strawberry matcha (highly recommend) it will make a huge difference to a new business. We all know how hospitality is struggling right now. 

Before Mana Wellness Café opened, Chloe created Moksa - a gorgeous independent wellbeing & skincare shop filled with handmade facial oils, botanical balms, candles, gifts & products from local Devon makers. It’s one of those spaces that instantly makes you feel calmer the second you walk in. I regularly use her face oil & left with her facial serum yesterday which she tells me is developing a cult status with her customers! High praise so I needed to try it obviously! 

And now, next door, she’s created @mana_at_moksa - a peaceful wellness café in Exeter serving homemade cake, artisan matcha, hojicha & tea in the most calming environment. A space to slow down, work quietly or just take a breath for an hour.

I proudly contributed to the crowdfunder that helped Mana open, so visiting yesterday felt really special. 

Chloe & I chatted about life, politics, independent business struggles, cake & matcha - and it ended up being one of the loveliest hours of my week.

✨ Little reminder mid-scroll: independents are the beating heart of our towns & cities and deserve to be appreciated don’t you think?

So this weekend, skip the chains if you can & support somewhere small, local & unique - whether that’s Mana & Moksa in Exeter or an independent business in your own town.

Save this for your next Exeter café visit, send it to your matcha-loving friend & tag your favourite independent business below. 

#ExeterWellness #ExeterCafe #DevonWellness #IndependentExeter #ExeterMatcha
W A N T T O U N D E R S T A N D A C I T Y ? St W A N T  T O  U N D E R S T A N D  A  C I T Y ? Start with its indie cafes & coffee shops. 

There’s something special about exploring Exeter through its cafes and coffee shops in my opinion. Every independent coffee spot tells a different story and gives you a different feeling. One day it’s a black americano and a slice of cake tucked away in a cosy corner, another day it’s an iced strawberry matcha while watching the city move around you, and sometimes only a perfectly made cortado or cappuccino will do.

Exeter’s cafe scene feels like a reflection of the city itself - layered, creative and full of character. After so much of Exeter was destroyed during WW2, the city rebuilt itself through different eras of architecture, and you can see that everywhere you go. Georgian streets meet post-war modernism, Victorian buildings sit beside hidden historic gems, and every coffee shop nestled in these buildings seems to bring its own personality to the mix.

That’s why I always think the best way to truly experience a city is through its independent cafes. You get a real sense of community, creativity and local culture that chains just can’t replicate. Exeter’s indie coffee scene has become one of my favourite ways to slow down, explore and connect with the city and I’ve made some great friends whilst chatting along the way. 

I’ve tagged some of my favourites here but if you want an extensive list of my favourite cafes and coffee shops in Exeter I can send you my go-to list. 

✨ Save this for your next Exeter coffee crawl and tell me - what’s your go-to coffee order when you explore a new city or are you like me.. change your order depending on your mood? 

#ExeterCoffee
#IndieCafeCulture
#ExeterFoodie
#DevonCoffeeShops
#CafeHopping
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© Tara Smith 2022