Exeter's Best Cafes
Exeter is the perfect university town full of a variety of shops, hidden gems, and, of course, most importantly, amazing cafes. Whilst Exeter has many coffee shop chains, such as the likes of Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Coffee #1, it is also home to independent cafes you have to visit during your time at the University of Exeter.
Artigianos
Artigiano is a buzzing spot on Exeter’s High Street. By day, it’s a cozy café serving top-notch coffee, fresh pastries, and crowd-pleasers like Eggs Benedict and açai bowls. In the evening, it transforms into a lively wine bar with a great vibe, offering cocktails, craft beers, and even live music or DJs throughout the week. Whether you’re after a relaxing brunch or a fun night out, Artigiano has you covered.
The Undergrad
Located on Bampfylde Street, under "The Depot Exeter," The Undergrad is the go-to spot for students and coffee lovers alike. With its cosy interior adorned with vibrant greenery from its plant-loving neighbours, Hutch Houseplants, this café offers a relaxed, laptop-friendly vibe. Known for its superb coffee, including creamy oat cappuccinos, it’s also a hotspot for brunch and lunch. The menu features fresh, locally-made options like smoothie bowls, veggie breakfasts, and the signature "Undergrad Bowl," packed with smashed avocado, hummus, fritters, and greens. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee to-go or settling in for a nourishing meal, this café is perfect for unwinding or catching up on work.
Glorious Art House
Located on Fore Street, The Glorious Art House is as colourful and creative as ever. Known for its bohemian charm, the café offers a mix of freshly prepared light lunches, like filled baguettes and soups, alongside sweet treats such as waffles and pastries. Their famous "Glorious Hot Chocolate" remains a staple among Exeter students and visitors alike. They also serve locally sourced coffee from Brazier Coffee Roasters, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
The café’s dog-friendly courtyard and art-filled interior make it a delightful spot for casual catch-ups or focused study sessions. Occasionally, they host events like poetry readings, acoustic music nights, and creative workshops, adding to its vibrant community vibe.
Tea on the Green
Tea on the Green remains a popular spot on Cathedral Green, blending classic charm with a modern menu. They are known for their all-day breakfasts, which include Full English, vegetarian and vegan options, and indulgent specialities like their Ulster Fry. For a lighter option, they serve granola, stuffed croissants, and porridge. Their Devon Afternoon Tea is a standout, featuring a selection of locally sourced sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream, bite-sized cakes, and unlimited tea or coffee served in elegant crockery.
With local suppliers like Ryders Bakery and DJ Miles, Tea on the Green prioritizes fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their outdoor seating provides the perfect opportunity to soak in views of the cathedral while enjoying a meal or drink.
Mango’s Café
For students wanting a break from the library, Mango’s Café on Exeter’s Quay offers the perfect escape. With cosy seating in a historic 1820s cellar and outdoor tables overlooking the river, it’s a great spot for a chilled study session or a group hangout. Start your day with their vegan banana bread or chorizo-baked eggs, or pop by for lunch to try their shredded pork flatbread or nachos. The vibe is relaxed, and the coffee is top-notch—perfect for fuelling your productivity or just unwinding after class. Bonus: their cakes and pastries are great for a mid-study treat.
The Old Firehouse
With its cosy, rustic vibe and medieval tavern feel, The Old Firehouse is a must-visit for Exeter students, especially if you’re into this type of vibe. Famous for its huge, square pizzas (perfect for sharing), it offers plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The drinks menu includes a great range of ales and ciders, ideal for a chilled hangout with friends. If you’re looking for a relaxed spot to unwind during the day, study, handout or even a lively venue with live music in the evening, this place has it all?.
Board – Game Bar & Restaurant
For something a bit different, Board on South Street offers food, drinks, and an extensive collection of board games to enjoy with friends. The affordable entry fee, starting at £5 for adults, gives you access to their wide game library, with Game Gurus available to help you choose. It’s a lively spot for students looking for a fun way to unwind or hang out.
Chococo
Located on Gandy Street, Chococo is a must-visit for chocolate lovers. Known for its rich hot chocolates and indulgent cakes like salted caramel brownies and lava cake, it offers a cozy, quiet space perfect for studying or taking a break. The café has a relaxed vibe, with an upstairs area for a quieter, more secluded space for those who prefer a more peaceful environment.
Hopefully, you will find your new favourite café in this list of the best cafes around Exeter, whether it’s for a catch-up with a friend, a hungover coffee, or studying.
