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The Exeter Hotel

Editorial Review

Editorial Review

The Exeter needs no introduction. Not just famous for its delicious range of ales on tap, intimate grungy courtyard and East Rundle Street location - the food at the Exeter is truly first rate. Before “gastro pub” was an imported catch phrase, The Ex was catering to the tastes of epicurean Adelaide folk with quality, reasonably priced food and creative seasonal blackboard menus. During the nineties wonderful food began to be turned out of the kitchens by talented chefs, and Curry Nights (Wednesday nights) upstairs on the balcony became a beloved tradition with locals when introduced in 2000. Today the Exeter maintains a strong contemporary Australian menu, in which bold Asian masterpieces play a starring role. The fragrant chicken Laksa has just the right nuances of heat and crunch, while fish prepared differently on a daily basis is always fresh and surprising. Richly spiced curries still exceed the expectations and taste great with a cold Coopers on tap.

There are four prescribed dining areas that include the street out front, upstairs, and a courtyard and back room. But the front balcony (also suitable for functions) overlooks trendy Rundle Street East and is the best place to allow a memorable night to occur. Nothing changes at The Exeter - the whole thing just improves with age. Like the memories scribed on the toilet walls and the wines in their sizable cellar, The Exeter just gets better. The original mint green tiles and sturdy wooden bar still hold up the locals and welcome visitors aboard. Not only a place to dine but an entire evening of entertainment in itself, you can listen to bands, catch up with friends, meet new people and chat to the publican here. Or do it all and have something great to eat at the same time.

 

Belinda Aucott, September 2007