Street food isn’t a new concept to Exeter’s Guildhall Shopping & Dining Centre. In fact, it was the success of their ad-hoc street food markets launched in 2013 in this very location that inspired the initial Queen Street Dining concept that thrives today.

Now, nine years on, the street food roots remain surrounding St. Pancras Church, and have since grown into a seven-day-a-week opportunity to sample some of the local area’s most exciting independent street food vendors.

But what’s so special about street food? While some people might offer different answers, for me the recipe for success is simple: a wide variety of food options in one place, an energetic atmosphere and the ability to enjoy restaurant quality food for much less.

Street food is as much a social endeavour as it is a journey through cuisines of the world. Watching food made in front of you as you talk to the chef and share the experience with your friends and family adds something special. And best of all, you’ll be supporting local start-ups and small businesses. That’s a huge win.

Among some of the regular traders are Oasis Falafel & Grill serving fresh, made to order Egyptian street cuisine. Choose from the Beef, Chicken or Falafel Shawarma – or mix and match if you prefer – and finish off with a slice of homemade baklava. At just £6 these fragrant, spiced meat wraps melt in the mouth, are packed full of flavour, and could quite easily serve two!

Take a few steps around the corner and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the streets of Philadelphia at Dan’s American Kitchen where, among other US inspired dishes, you can enjoy their highly recommended recreation of the classic Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich.

The Dog House bring all things hot dogs from £3-£7 depending on your appetite, and have partnered with Darts Farm to bring their fresh farm produce to the heart of the city in the form of a 6oz steak burger.

Let’s not forget the drinks either. Grab a fun and fruity Bubble Tea from David and Lisha at Tealith – the latest addition to this market area. With fruit teas and flavoured milk tea options too, including banoffee and Pina Colada, it’s just one more of a whole host of exciting new independents rising up together.

So what’s the secret to the success? It’s the simple menus, quality ingredients, great flavours and exciting servings – all backed up by enthusiastic individuals with a love of food and a desire to succeed.

Street food is here to stay.