Formerly housing Exmouth’s local Chronicle newspaper, this charming building wouldn’t look out of place in New York’s Lower Manhattan – its cosy ambience glows through the large, cleverly dressed window frontage tempting in passersby from outside.

Step inside and that cosy art-deco glow is immediately absorbed and fully realised, from the ambient music down to the smallest details.

The navy and gold colour scheme is stylish and sophisticated; the extravagant gold tiled roof joining the navy wooden clad walls with a striking wallpaper print. Ornate glass light fittings add just the right level of lighting to keep it intimate while enhancing the additional colour brought in by luxurious seating, the wall art and the indoor plants that bring further life to the room.

Look out for the stunning 102-year-old till which is still in use, and cuttings from the previous Chronicle newspaper framed on the wall. 

Owners Amy and James, who bring their management experience from previously running The Swan Inn at Lympstone and The Heavitree in Exmouth, have completely renovated the restaurant from what it was. Both kitchen and dining area have been transformed, with a split-level dining area and enhanced internal arched architecture to create zoning and add privacy. 

The result is a unique dining experience with a welcoming atmosphere and inimitable menu.

The physical menu itself deserves a shoutout – beautifully designed with period correct artwork to showcase the varied dishes available – while in terms of dishes, less is more (that’s a good thing). The menu has been designed to provide diversity while focusing on complete quality and the use of local produce, bought in fresh, while minimising food waste.

Starters include the decadent seafood bisque with brandy and cream, as well as my personal favourite, arancini. Mains focus on quality cuts of meat, locally caught fish and a number of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The slow roasted pork belly with cider and honey reduction is indulgent, tender and hefty in size! The dauphinoise potatoes avoid the overly-rich fate that can happen all too often, and the port and redcurrant sauce served with the duck breast was a real ‘oh wow’ moment.

Any restaurant is only as good as its staff. Here, a comforting confidence exudes from the serving team, helping you feel at ease from the off. Throughout our experience, our two servers were friendly, familiar and caring whilst demonstrating a professional approach and knowledgeable recommendations – for me particularly with the wine list and my search for a ‘fruity white’ wine.

We visited midweek and were impressed to see a very full restaurant – an unspoken testament to its popularity already. All it takes is one visit
and you’ll understand why.