You would be forgiven for thinking you’re on the French Riviera when visiting Cote Brasserie in Exeter. Overlooking and sitting opposite Exeter Cathedral next to the Cathedral green, set amidst the historic architecture of Exeter the terrace seating is airy and relaxing, catch yourself there on a sunny day and you’ll be so relaxed that you might end up buying a Rolex from the watch shop next door.
The contemporary interior takes influence from a French brasserie, as does the all-day menu - as opposed to eating on an antique table however, as you might expect, you dine at elegant marble tables surrounded by a fresh interior. The various menus (breakfast served from 9am to midday with the a la carte taking over until close) serve French classics; why not have a portion of ratatouille with a side of confit potatoes, as well as Frenchified familiars like a hand-made beef burger laden with reblochon cheese. The setting and the menu lends itself to a simple and classic breakfast with the ‘Oeufs’ section offering all of the much loved hollandaise based favourites as well as some unashamedly indulgent choices - confit duck with French toast, for example.
You can wash all of this down with a good range of well-priced wines, prices ranging from budget to blow out, beers, soft drinks as well as some classic French cocktails - why not try a Side Car, a Parisian classic. With a brunch menu that runs on Saturdays and Sundays, a prix fixe menu, vegan and gluten-free menus as well as a childrens ‘petit’ menu this is a relaxing all day eatery that will suit almost anyone with appealing and tasty dishes. The nice thing about Cote Brasserie is that it is uncomplicated and unpretentious, but retains a healthy relationship with quality.