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Saturday in Topsham

24th May 201517th February 2016 - tara 2 Comments

On a grey but warm Saturday, Steve and I hopped on a train to Topsham. It’s a short journey from Exeter.. About fifteen minutes maximum. We go quite often as its so close and easy to get to. You feel like you are getting away to a small town far and away from the crazinessRead 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

S U M M E R S I N D E V O N look like this... S U M M E R S  I N  D E V O N look like this... 

Beach days, picnic blankets, BBQs that go on way longer than planned, vineyard visits, eating outside whenever the sun decides to show up, lots of laughter with lovely people and, of course, plenty of delicious food along the way.

I honestly feel so lucky to live here. Devon is full of brilliant independent cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars, and there always seems to be somewhere new to discover. Add in all the incredible local produce and talented chefs, and it’s such a special place to explore if, like me, you love to eat, drink and be merry.

If you’re looking for foodie inspiration, hidden gems and the best places to eat and drink around Devon and the South West, I’d love to have you here.

What’s been your favourite summer find so far? Pop it in the comments - I always appreciate a recommendation! 🤍

#DevonFoodie #DevonFood #LoveDevon #SouthWestFood #EatLocal
I F Y O U T H I N K D O R S E T ‘ S food scen I F  Y O U  T H I N K  D O R S E T ‘ S food scene is boring… think again.

I’ve been visiting Lyme Regis for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Sidmouth, day trips there were a regular treat usually involving the fudge shop, fish and chips on the beach and a wander around the harbour with a scary walk along The Cobb. 

Before anyone points it out, I know Lyme Regis isn’t all of Dorset. It’s a bit like assuming everyone from Britain lives in London. There is a reason why it’s my first point of call so read on ..

I still have so much of Dorset to explore, but as someone who relies on public transport, Lyme has become my gateway to the county. And if what I’ve found so far is anything to go by, Dorset has one of the most exciting independent food scenes on the South Coast.

A few favourites include Sandro’s, Jack’s Bistro, Swim, Amid Giants & Idols, Town Mill Bakery, The Whole Hog, Lyme Regis Brewery, The Rose & Crown in Trent and Parnham Restaurant in Beaminster.

My wishlist is growing too, with @brassicadorset , @toms_lymeregis , @strawberrytreelyme , @foxandowllymeregisuk , @risecafebar , @platformrestaurant and plenty more of Bridport all firmly on my list. It would be nice to get to @pursuitofhoppinessbridport too as I was a big fan when they were in Exeter for a while. 

I know i’ve barely scratched the surface of Dorset’s restaurants, cafés, pubs and foodie spots, and I can’t wait to explore more.

I’m also putting together a weekend guide to Lyme Regis, packed with my favourite places to eat, drink, stay and explore, so keep an eye out if you’re planning a visit.

In the meantime, I’d love your recommendations. 

What’s the one independent Dorset restaurant, café, pub or bakery that I absolutely shouldn’t miss? Let me know in the comments. I have a feeling this is just the start of my Dorset adventures.

#DorsetFood
#LymeRegisFood
#DorsetFoodie
#WestDorset
#southwestfood
B I R D H O U S E - E X E T E R ad The Exeter ca B I R D H O U S E - E X E T E R 

ad The Exeter café where every coffee changes lives. 

Tucked away in the beautiful surroundings of Pinces Gardens, St Thomas, @birdhouseexeter is so much more than an independent Exeter café. Run by Garland Support, this not-for-profit social enterprise creates paid employment and training opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, so every coffee, toastie and slice of cake gives back to our local community.

And the food? Delish.

The new Jammy Tomatoes on Toast with tahini and lemon & herb dressing, plus the Dukkah Spiced Hummus on Toast with roasted onions, are both packed with flavour. If you’re after something heartier, the Veggie Breakfast Toastie is an absolute winner (can confirm it’s delicious!).

The coffee is excellent too, made with beans from local Exeter roastery Crankhouse Coffee. Pair a long black with one of their legendary millionaire slices and thank me later.

On sunny days, the garden setting is one of the loveliest spots in Exeter, and there’s now a cosy indoor space too, creating even more opportunities for the young adults Garland Support supports.

If you’re looking for brunch, lunch or great coffee in Exeter, this is somewhere that genuinely makes a difference with every visit.

📍Save this for your next Exeter brunch, lunch in St Thomas or coffee stop in Pinces Gardens, and tag someone you’d love to visit with.

#ExeterFoodie #ExeterCafe #DevonFood #SupportLocalExeter #SocialEnterpriseCafe
J A C K ‘ S B I S T R O - L Y M E R E G I S J A C K ‘ S  B I S T R O - L Y M E  R E G I S 

ad If you’re looking for one of the best dining experiences on the Jurassic Coast this summer, this is it.

After weeks of admiring Jack’s incredible dishes on Instagram (thank you, algorithm!), I finally got to experience his pop-up kitchen in Lyme Regis and it completely lived up to the hype in my head. You know that feeling when you absolutely know that somewhere is going to be good before stepping foot in the door? That’s how I felt.. 

@imjackyr usually works as a private chef in Australia but is back in the UK for a limited time, bringing his talent to Dorset. Instead of asking us to order, he simply asked if we’d trust him to cook whatever was at its absolute best that day. We said yes... and I’m so glad we did.

From citrus-cured scallop and local Lyme Bay crab to perfectly cooked lemon sole and an unforgettable chocolate miso tart, every plate celebrated beautiful local produce, incredible flavour and thoughtful presentation.

The wine list, curated by The Modest Merchant, was spot on, and Fi made us feel instantly welcome, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

If you’re looking for the best restaurant in Lyme Regis, somewhere special to eat in Dorset, or a memorable Jurassic Coast dining experience, Jack’s Bistro deserves a place at the top of your list.

Bookings for the final dates (14th–25th July) are open now and if I could go back tomorrow, I absolutely would.

Book in friends. You won’t be disappointed. I definitely wasn’t. 

#LymeRegis #DorsetFood #JurassicCoast #DorsetRestaurants #FoodieFinds
1 0 D E V O N S P O T S I’ve been loving recen 1 0  D E V O N  S P O T S I’ve been loving recently. 

I could have easily turned this into 20 places because Devon has so many incredible independent food spots, but I thought I’d keep it to the places I’ve genuinely visited and enjoyed over the last month or so. 

From cute bakery finds and birthday coffee with pastries at my forever favourite, to vineyard lunches, starting a champagne train at a seafood restaurant, Spanish tapas nights, burgers with the wildest toppings and beach views that never get old... these are the places I’ve been recommending to everyone lately.

✨ Save this for your next Devon food adventure...

In no particular order:

📍The Oyster Shack – Bigbury
📍The Central Dairy – Bradninch
📍Calvo Loco – Exeter
📍Heydays – Exmouth
📍Rosso – Totnes
📍Creamo’s – Ashburton
📍Hippo – Moretonhampstead
📍Polly’s Little Greek – Exeter
📍Shaka – Totnes
📍Roam – Stoke Gabriel

Whether you’re looking for the best cafés in Devon, hidden foodie gems, independent restaurants, coastal dining, brunch spots or your next weekend food adventure, every one of these is worth adding to your ever growing list. 

💛 Save this for your next Devon food adventure, and tag the person who’s always asking, “Where shall we eat?”

Have a fab time exploring and trying .. Love Tara xx

#DevonFoodGuide #DevonFoodie #DevonCafeGuide #SouthDevonEats #VisitDevonFood
Y O U  M A Y  W A N T  T O  S A V E  T H I S... 🤍

If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Somerset, the cosiest country pubs, unforgettable Sunday lunches, or beautiful places for a special meal, this one’s for you.

Over the past year I’ve been lucky enough to discover some truly wonderful places to eat across Somerset, and I wanted to bring them all together into one little saveable guide.

From incredible Sunday lunches and brilliantly fun themed nights at Dinnington Docks, to more small plate feasts than I can count at Holm, long lazy lunches in the stunning surroundings of @thenewtinsomerset, and everything in between - from cosy country pubs and converted railway carriages to elegant Manor House’s - it’s been a year full of memorable meals.

For me, good food and happy memories will always go hand in hand, and every restaurant on this list has given me both.

Each one offers something completely different, but they all share beautiful seasonal food, thoughtfully chosen wines, warm hospitality and the kind of experience that makes you want to come back again.
If you’re planning a foodie weekend in Somerset, even better. Holm, Wraxall Vineyard, Lord Poulett Arms, The Newt, The Manor House and Briar (via No 1 Bruton) all have beautiful places to stay too.

So whether you’re searching for:
✨ the best restaurants in Somerset
✨ where to eat in Somerset
✨ the best Sunday lunch in Somerset
✨ country pubs with rooms
✨ romantic restaurants
✨ or somewhere special to celebrate...

...I hope this gives you plenty of inspiration.

If you’ve found this helpful, I’d love you to save this post for later and follow along for more of my favourite places to eat, stay and explore across Somerset and the South West.

Obviously Somerset is a big old county and I am limited to public transport from Exeter on the most part so forgive me if your area in Somerset hasn’t featured yet. I will take on board any recs and try my best to get out and explore if I can get there via train or bus! 

Now tell me... Where’s your favourite place to eat in Somerset? I’m always looking for somewhere new to add to my list.

Happy discovering everyone...
Y O U M A Y W A N T T O S A V E T H I S ... my Y O U  M A Y  W A N T  T O S A V E  T H I S ... my must visit places to eat in Somerset. 

Over the past year I’ve collected some really rather lovely food memories across Somerset, and I wanted to bring them all together into one little saveable post for you.

From incredible Sunday lunches and wonderfully fun themed nights at @dinningtondocks , to more small plate feasts than I can count at Holm, long lazy lunches in the beautiful surroundings of @thenewtinsomerset , and everything else in between - from cosy country pubs and railway carriages to elegant manor houses - it’s been a year full of unforgettable meals.

For me, good food and happy memories will always go hand in hand, and every place on this list has given me both.

Each one is completely different, but all serve beautiful seasonal food, thoughtfully chosen wines and the kind of warm service that makes you want to return.

If you fancy turning dinner into a little getaway, even better. @holmsomerset , The View at @wraxallvineyard , @lordpoulettarms , The Newt, @themanor_house and Briar (via @numberonebruton ) all have places to stay, so you can make a proper foodie weekend of it.

So whether you’re searching for the best restaurants in Somerset, the perfect Sunday lunch, beautiful country pubs with rooms, or somewhere special for a celebration, I hope this gives you plenty of inspiration.

If you’ve found this helpful, I’d love you to save this post for later and follow along for more of my favourite places to eat, stay and explore around Somerset and the South West.

Now tell me... where have I missed? What’s your favourite place to eat in Somerset? I always love discovering somewhere new. 🤍

Happy discovering everyone …. love Tara x

#SomersetFood #BestRestaurantsSomerset #VisitSomerset #FoodieSomerset #SouthWestFood
S H A K A - T O T N E S 

ad Is this South Devon’s best new burger spot? It might just be...

If I’m looking for somewhere independent to eat, I nearly always end up in Totnes or the surrounding area. For a small town, it’s absolutely packed with amazing indie eateries, bakeries, coffee shops, pubs, wine bars and taprooms and now @shaka_totnes has joined the party.

Run by Dickie Harrison and Hayley Gonzales, this new smash burger joint has only been open a few weeks, but it’s already making a name for itself. Dickie’s burger credentials speak for themselves having opened Ruby Burger in Exeter before moving to The Tors Inn in Belstone. If Totnes is a bit of a trek for my East Devon followers, they’ve also just opened a pop-up at The Grapevine in Exmouth so you can pair a burger with a trip to the beach instead.

One thing I really loved? The veggie and vegan options aren’t an afterthought. There are loads to choose from, so everyone leaves feeling like they’ve had the full Shaka experience. There is nothing worse when you aren’t a big meat eater to have what feels like an afterthought. 

I had the Kraut & Clout, Emily went for the Yes Chef chicken burger, and we couldn’t resist ordering frickles with sriracha mayo and halloumi fries. Did we need the sides? Definitely not. Did we enjoy every bite? Absolutely. Don’t worry .. nothing went to waste. We boxed up what we couldn’t finish to nibble on later. 

The staff were brilliant - attentive, knowledgeable and the right side of friendly without being too much. The courtyard was perfect in the sunshine but next time I’m grabbing one of the upstairs window seats overlooking the High Street. You get an amazing view of Totnes from there. 

A great burger can be surprisingly hard to find in my opinion, especially if you’re after a really good veggie option - so if you’re looking for a brilliant independent restaurant in Totnes, somewhere new to eat in South Devon, or simply a proper smash burger, Shaka gets my vote. 

Have you tried Shaka yet? And more importantly...are you team frickles or halloumi fries? 

#Totnes #SouthDevonFood #TotnesFood #SmashBurger #IndieEats
I S T H I S Y O U R N E X T F A V O U R I T E I S  T H I S  Y O U R  N E X T  F A V O U R I T E  restaurant in Devon.. ?

Ad I’d had Roam at Sandridge Barton on my list for ages and yesterday i finally visited and it didn’t disappoint.

From the moment we arrived we were welcomed so warmly by Miles, Roam’s General Manager and Co-Founder, before being shown to our table in the sunny courtyard. Every table was full, the atmosphere was brilliant and everyone was enjoying beautiful seasonal food alongside Sandridge Barton’s award-winning English wines.

The menu was right up my street. We ordered the ferments and pickles, beetroot with tahini and hazelnuts, sea trout with Pinot Blanc and edamame, the rigatoni with asparagus and pangrattata (I haven’t stopped thinking about that sauce!) and, of course, the hand-cut chips. 

They instantly took me back to the chips my nan used to make. Food has such a wonderful way of bringing back memories don’t you think? 

A little shout-out to Head Chef Sean Blood and his team too. There’s no fuss here, just really thoughtful cooking that lets beautiful local produce shine. Every plate felt considered, full of flavour and left us wanting to order more. More arrived in the form of pudding perfection .. a blueberry pavlova. Delish. 

We paired it all with a glass of Sandridge Barton’s Classic Cuvée Rosé, made from grapes grown, pressed, fermented and bottled right there on the estate. Local food and local wine just belong together.

After lunch we wandered up to Stonyfield Vineyard to take in the gorgeous views across the Dart Valley - the perfect end to a wonderful afternoon. 

Roam has gone straight into my top Devon restaurant experiences of the year. If you’re looking for exceptional restaurants in Devon, a memorable South Devon lunch, or somewhere to enjoy fantastic local food and English wine, put this one at the top of your list.

Save this one for your next trip to South Devon - you won’t regret it. Promise. 

#DevonRestaurants #SouthDevon #DevonFood #EnglishWine #FoodieUK
T H E N E W T I N S O M E R S E T I think I m T H E  N E W T  I N  S O M E R S E T 

I think I may have found perfection… 🦎

On Monday, my friends and I headed to The Newt in Somerset to celebrate Serena’s birthday and honestly, what a place to mark a special occasion.

It’s such an easy day trip from Exeter too - train to Castle Cary, then a short taxi (around £20 each return when there are four of you).

The Newt had been on my wishlist for years and after attending the Babylonstoren 2026 Mourvèdre Rosé launch a few weeks ago, I knew we had to book the Botanical Rooms. We started with a bottle of rosé (it would be rude not to!) on the terrace overlooking the croquet lawn before heading inside for lunch.

The dining room is stunning, the service is exactly what you’d hope for and the food celebrates the seasons so beautifully. As I’m firmly in my tomato era, I chose the Castle Cary Creamery mozzarella with heritage tomatoes, herbs and edible flowers, plus a side of buttery Jersey Royals. The girls all opted for beautifully cooked lamb and beef with gorgeous seasonal sides, and we finished by sharing strawberry choux buns, which were every bit as good as they sound.

Afterwards we wandered through the gardens, dreaming about staying one day... although that’s a little beyond my budget for now!

The Botanical Rooms definitely isn’t an everyday lunch spot, but for a celebration? Every penny felt worth it. Beautiful food, gorgeous surroundings, wonderful hospitality and the best afternoon spent with friends (and maybe one or two glasses of rosé too many 🥂).

Have you been to The Newt in Somerset or is it still on your list? I’d love to hear your favourite special occasion restaurants. Where do you go to celebrate? 

p.s is it just me or do edible flowers just elevate every single dish to next level whimsy? Have a great Wednesday friends .. love Tara x

Not an ad - we paid and enjoyed. I just loved it so much I have to share .. I did recently go to an event at The Newt for full disclosure though. 

#TheNewtSomerset #SomersetFood #VisitSomerset #LuxuryLunch #FoodieUK
B O Y S H A L L - A S H F O R D 🪴 One more mu B O Y S  H A L L - A S H F O R D 🪴

One more must-visit restaurant ticked off my list... and it was every bit as lovely as I’d hoped.

Last week I finally visited @boys.hall for lunch on what was quite possibly the hottest day of the year. We sat outside beneath a parasol, surrounded by beautiful gardens, and it couldn’t have been a more idyllic setting.

The seasonal menu was gorgeous, and we opted for the set menu (£28 for two courses or £35 for three, if I remember correctly), which felt like fantastic value.

To start, we enjoyed a glass of @simpsonswine Canterbury Rose. When you’re in Kent, it feels only right to drink Kent wine - especially during English Wine Week! My lunch companion, Helen, works for Simpsons, so it was a bit of a busman’s holiday for her, but thankfully it’s a very easy wine to enjoy.

I chose the English asparagus with lemon ricotta and chilli crisp, followed by the aubergine schnitzel, which was such a clever take on a classic. Helen had the bone marrow toast with braised lamb to start, then a beautifully tender lamb shank with pea and broad bean fricassée. We finished by sharing the rhubarb pavlova before wandering around the stunning gardens. I just love roses so much and the rose garden was particularly beautiful and fragrant in the sunshine.

From the food and service to the beautiful surroundings, Boys Hall completely lived up to the hype. If you’re looking for a restaurant in Kent that’s perfect for a long lunch or special occasion, I’d definitely recommend adding it to your list.

✨ Have you been to Boys Hall, or is it on your must-visit list? Save this post for your next Kent foodie adventure and let me know in the comments.

* not ad ad - I just loved my experience and wanted to share with you all. 

#KentFood #KentRestaurants #VisitKent #EnglishWine #FoodieAdventures
A N E W D E V O N B A K E R Y F A V O U R I T A  N E W  D E V O N  B A K E R Y  F A V O U R I T E just 15 minutes from Exeter…

If you’re looking for a cute bakery near Exeter that’s absolutely worth the short drive (or an easy bus trip), then add @thecentraldairy in Bradninch to your list. 

This gorgeous little Devon bakery was packed when we arrived (always a good sign!), with people queuing for coffee, pastries and brunch. Their coffee is made with locally roasted Roastworks beans, but more importantly... it’s made really well. Smooth, balanced and full of flavour.

Everything is baked in-house, from the cakes and buns to the pastries. We went for the classic plain croissant (because that’s the ultimate bakery test, right?), plus the tomato & whipped ricotta pastry bun and a bacon, cheese & spinach pastry roll. Every single bite was flaky, fresh and packed with flavour.

We had Lachie with us and, although dogs can’t go inside, the team couldn’t have been more helpful and happily served us through the hatch. Little touches like that make such a difference. 🐾

For me, the biggest sign of a great café or bakery is simple... would I go back? The answer is an easy yes.

Have you discovered any hidden gem bakeries in Devon that I need to visit next? Drop your recommendations below. I love finding independent spots to share! 

Save this for your next Devon food adventure and send it to someone who never says no to coffee and pastries.

Happy Sunday, Love Tara x

#DevonBakery #ExeterFood #DevonCoffee #IndependentDevon #DevonFoodie
T H E U L T I M A T E foodie day trip from Exeter T H E  U L T I M A T E foodie day trip from Exeter? I think Bath might just be it...

You might think Exeter to Bath is a bit far for a day trip, but for someone who’d happily travel three hours for exceptional coffee and pastries, 90 minutes is nothing! Yes, I hold my hand up to this! Sometimes you just have to put the time in for a good croissant.🥐

If you’re looking for a Bath day trip by train from Exeter, here’s how I’d spend it.

Start with coffee and pastries at @landracebakery , or head to @_morso_bakery if you’re after brilliant vegan bakes. Wander Bath’s beautiful independent streets, popping into the boutiques and shops that make this city such a joy to explore.

When it’s time for a drink, @wolf_wine and @_thesickle are both excellent (or visit both - you’ve got time!).

For brunch, @samesamebutdifferent , @kingsmeadkitchenbath and @greenrocketcafe all deserve a spot on your list. Then if you’re staying into the evening, you can’t go wrong with @solinapasta  @magaripasta , @oakrestaurantbath or @root_bath for one seriously memorable meal.

This itinerary is proof that one train journey can lead to an entire day of incredible independent food, coffee, shopping and wine.

Have I missed one of your favourite independent spots in Bath? Tell me below as I always love discovering somewhere new for my next foodie adventure and probably visit Bath 2 or 3 times a year. Yey to friends who live there that like eating as much as I do! 

If you like my vibe follow along for more independent food guides, foodie train day trips and hidden gems across Devon, the South West and beyond. I am always on the hunt for new places to share with you all. 

Have a lovely sunny Saturday everyone. 

Love Tara x

#bathfoodie #ukdaytrips #independentfoodguide #traintraveluk #southwestfoodie
T E N H O T D A T E S P O T S If one of my fr T E N  H O T  D A T E  S P O T S 

If one of my friends asked me where to go for date night... this is exactly where I’d send them. 

Whether it’s a first date, a hot date, (let’s be honest.. all dates are hot dates right now 🥵♥️)an anniversary, a birthday or just because you both fancy a really good meal, every restaurant in this carousel is somewhere I’ve been recently and genuinely loved. In fact one or two I have been back to twice. 

Some are relaxed and casual, some are lively and buzzing, others are a little more refined. Some do incredible set menus, others are all about the small plates (which, as we know, I absolutely love). The one thing they all have in common? I’d go back to every single one. Actually that is the gauge of how much I like a restaurant.. I ask myself would I go back?

They’re all in Devon, Dorset or Somerset, so within about an hour and a half of Exeter. That might sound like a bit of a drive, but I promise they’re worth it. And quite a few are easy to get to by train too, which means you can both enjoy a glass of wine without anyone worrying about the journey home. Sounds like a win to me. 

I’ve always loved recommending places to friends, so I thought I’d put them all in one place for you too.

Save this for the next time you’re trying to decide where to book, and send it to the person you’d love to take with you. Life’s too short for disappointing date nights!! 

Which one are you trying first? Or have I missed your favourite date night spot off the list? 

Have a great weekend everyone!
Love Tara x

#DevonFood #ExeterFoodie #DateNightIdeas #SouthWestFood #SomersetRestaurants
E N G L I S H W I N E W E E K really is a thing. E N G L I S H  W I N E  W E E K really is a thing... despite what my friends might tell you.

And what better way to celebrate than with a visit to @domaineevremond in Kent, the English sparkling wine estate created by Champagne house Taittinger and Hatch Mansfield.

On one of the hottest days of the year, I joined my friend Helen from nearby @simpsonswine Estste to explore the vineyard, winery and cellars before tasting Domaine Evremond’s Editions I and II amongst the vines and later alongside a spectacular cheese and charcuterie board.

With Chilham church in the distance, wildflower meadows buzzing with bees and glasses filled with beautifully crafted sparkling wine, it was a reminder of just how special English wine tourism has become.

Of the two wines, Edition II may have just edged ahead for me with its extra minerality and complexity, although ask me again tomorrow and I may well change my mind.

Whether you’re looking for a tasting, a vineyard tour or simply an afternoon enjoying exceptional English sparkling wine, Domaine Evremond is well worth adding to your list this English Wine Week and beyond.

Have you discovered an English vineyard you love? It’s so hard to choose .. I was once told that “you never find an ugly vineyard” and it’s so, so true. 

#EnglishWineWeek #EnglishSparklingWine #WineTourism #KentWine #DomaineEvremond
A L L E Y W A Y - W H I T S T A B L E Discoverin A L L E Y W A Y - W H I T S T A B L E 

Discovering hidden gems is one of my favourite things, especially when they’re this good.

While staying with a friend in Kent, she took me to Alleyway in Whitstable on my first morning and I loved it so much that I went back again before heading home.

Hidden away inside what feels like someone’s home, this independent coffee shop has all the charm of a cosy French bistro. Think vintage Tour de France signs, beautiful green French crockery, soft lighting, delicious croissants and exceptional speciality coffee sourced from a local Kent roastery.

What really stood out were the thoughtful touches. The bathroom was stocked with everything from perfume and face serum to deodorant and interdental sticks. It’s the kind of place where every detail has been considered. I definitely took advantage of a bit of face serum and perfume this morning .. not going to lie! 

My first visit yesterday called for warm croissants and iced coffees (it is a heatwave after all), and on my second visit this morning I stopped by after a beachside sauna session overlooking the sea. Oddly enough, sitting in a sauna on the hottest day of the year made the outside temperature feel completely manageable!

If you’re looking for an indie coffee shop in Kent, a hidden café in Whitstable, or simply somewhere serving great coffee and pastries with serious French café vibes, @thealleywaywhitstable is worth seeking out.

Save this one for your next Whitstable day trip.

Have you found any hidden coffee shop gems in Kent that I need to add to my list? Let me know below. I do tend to visit a couple of times a year so it’s good to have local intel! 

#IndieCoffeeShopKent #WhitstableCafe #KentCoffeeScene #HiddenGemKent #SpecialityCoffeeUK
I W I S H E X E T E R had a restaurant like this I  W I S H  E X E T E R had a restaurant like this… 

I’d spotted @magaripasta on my last trip to Bath but didn’t have the time to visit, so when i booked a weekend away in Bath, it was the first restaurant on my list.

Hidden away in Shires Yard, it’s a small independent Italian serving fresh pasta made every morning, a small but tasty menu and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay for another drink.

I ordered the Alici (anchovy, lemon & chilli), Sophie had the Cacio e Pepe and Serena chose the Pomodoro. 

Simple, authentic dishes that let the fresh pasta do the talking.

To drink, I had a Select Spritz (made with Select Aperitivo, a bittersweet Venetian aperitif that’s been served in spritzes since the 1920s), while the girls shared a carafe of Italian rosé. We rounded things off with a tiramisu to share.

The best part? It came to just £21 each.

And here’s why this place would absolutely thrive in Exeter...
Fresh pasta, great value, lovely service, a buzzing atmosphere and no overcomplicated menu. Just really good food done well.

They also offer a brilliant lunch deal: a bowl of pasta and a soft drink for £10-£12, with the option to add a glass of house wine for just £2.50.

Bath has one. Bristol has one. Exeter, we’re ready for one too. I think Magdalen Rd would be the perfect spot! 

Save this for your next Bath trip and tell me: what’s the one restaurant concept Exeter is missing?

#BathFoodGuide #BathEats #ItalianFoodUK #IndependentFoodie #SouthWestFoodScene
Y O U K N O W A B A K E R Y is doing something Y O U  K N O W  A  B A K E R Y  is doing something right when you go back twice in 24 hours... 

@_morso_bakery in Bath has only been open for less than two weeks, but it’s already become one of my favourite independent bakeries in Bath. The pastries are incredible, the coffee is excellent, the cardamon bun is a must-order, and the team are genuinely lovely. Bonus points for the gorgeous little courtyard out the back, which was the perfect escape during this heatwave.

I had a coffee and aforementioned cardamom bun on Saturday, then found myself back again this morning for a hazelnut pain au chocolat that was supposedly for the train journey home. It never made it to the station. 

What I love most is that everything feels effortless. I had no idea they were vegan when I first visited because they’re not making it their whole personality. 

The food simply stands on its own, and it is SO good.
The vibe is immaculate, the merch is great, and it already feels like one of those places that will become a Bath institution.

If you’re looking for the best bakery in Bath, specialty coffee, amazing pastries, or a brilliant independent food spot, add Morso to your must-visit list.

Have you been yet, or what’s the best bakery you’ve discovered recently? Tell me below. 

#BathFoodie #BathBakery #IndependentBath #VeganPastries #SouthWestFoodies
E N G L I S H W I N E W E E K has arrived... alt E N G L I S H  W I N E  W E E K has arrived... although my friends would probably tell you it’s English Wine Week in my house all year round.

I’ve been a huge supporter of the English wine industry for as long as I can remember, and it’s been incredible to watch it grow into the success story it is today. From English sparkling wine to beautifully crafted still wines and rosés, there’s so much to celebrate.

This little carousel features one of my favourite English rosés from @drink.folc . Made in Kent, it’s the kind of wine I reach for when the sun is shining and friends are gathered around the table - or in this case, a picnic blanket. Fresh, elegant and unmistakably English. 

Perfect for a celebration, pre-dinner drinkies, alongside a barbecue or delicious summer salads. Just thinking out loud but my favourite salad right now is ripe English tomatoes, nectarine and halloumi with a warm fennel seed and chilli dressing - this would work so well! 

I am feeling especially excited because I’m heading to the Wine Garden of England to celebrate English Wine Week properly. I’ll be visiting Domaine Evremond, the English home of Taittinger and one of the most talked-about English sparkling wine estates, as well as Simpsons Wine Estate, whose vineyards have helped put Kent firmly on the map for world-class English wine.

There’s something special about standing in the vineyards, meeting the people behind the bottles and seeing first-hand the passion that continues to drive the English wine industry forward.

Here’s to English wine, the growers, the winemakers, and another year of raising a glass to everything this wonderful industry has achieved. 🥂

Have you visited any English vineyards or discovered an English wine you’ve loved recently? I’d love to hear your recommendations as always. 

AD - Pr Gift @drink.folc 

18+ Please enjoy responsibly this English Wine Week

#EnglishWineWeek #EnglishWine #EnglishRose #KentVineyards #EnglishSparklingWine
A M O N T H O F E A T I N G, drinking, explorin A  M O N T H  O F  E A T I N G, drinking, exploring and discovering some of the very best food and drink hotspots in the South West... and honestly, it’s been one for the books. 

If you’re looking for hidden gems in Devon, Somerset and beyond, these are the places that have genuinely impressed me recently.

From an unforgettable rosé launch at @thenewtinsomerset celebrating @babylonstoren new Mourvèdre Rosé (which was so good I’ve already booked a return visit for the full restaurant experience and another glass... or two 😉), to cosy village pubs, vibrant cocktail bars, memorable pop-ups and laid-back fish BBQs by the coast, every spot on this carousel has earned its place.

What they all have in common? Great food, delicious wine, brilliant service, fantastic atmosphere and those moments that remind you why sharing good food and drink with friends, family and even new faces is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

As a Devon-based foodie, I’m on a mission to uncover the best places to eat, drink and be merry across the South West of England. I love seasonal ingredients, locally sourced produce, interesting wine lists, top-notch hospitality and venues that get the vibe just right.

One more thing before the Cornish contingent comes for me... 😅

I know Cornwall is noticeably absent from this month’s roundup, but it isn’t intentional. I haven’t managed to get down there in the last 12 months (long story for another day!), despite it being one of my favourite places for foodie adventures. There are so many incredible places on my list and I’m hoping to carve out a few days in August to get back down there. I genuinely miss exploring the county, discovering new places and revisiting old favourites.

Save this post for your next South West food adventure.

And if you’ve discovered somewhere amazing recently, I’d love to hear about it - drop your recommendations below so I can add them to my ever-growing list.

Follow along for South West restaurant recommendations, Devon food finds, Somerset hotspots, wine discoveries, foodie adventures and hidden gems worth travelling for.

#southwestfoodie #devonfoodie #somersetfood #southwestengland #foodanddrinkuk
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© Tara Smith 2022
 

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