Set on Exeter’s historic Quayside, Crave is a modern restaurant centred around seasonal small plates, local produce and a drinks list that gives cocktails plenty of attention. The approach is relaxed rather than formal, with dishes designed to be mixed, matched and shared across the table.
The menu takes a broad approach to modern cooking, drawing on influences from around the world while making good use of South West produce. Ingredients are sourced predominantly from Devon and Cornwall, with seafood coming from Brixham, and the kitchen works with a selection of independent local suppliers.
There’s plenty to choose from for a sociable meal, starting with smaller plates such as burrata with crispy chilli and tomato oil, Vietnamese rolls with cashew satay and miso, and boudin noir and nduja croquettes. Seafood features strongly, from oysters and white fish crudo to mussels with nduja and samphire, wild Atlantic prawns and scallops with celeriac and caviar. Those after something more substantial can opt for bavette steak, lobster roll or a bone-in sirloin, while the daily-changing board brings in additional dishes based on the market and available produce.
Crave also works as an all-day spot, opening for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with the restaurant shifting naturally from daytime dining into evening drinks. The bar serves classic cocktails with a modern twist alongside wine and non-alcoholic options. There are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free choices across the menus, too.
For Exeter diners, Crave is a good option when the aim is to order several things for the table rather than settle on a traditional starter-main-dessert format. Its Quayside setting and flexible small-plates menu also make it well suited to relaxed lunches, dinners and drinks with friends.