The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter

A one-time Victorian eye hospital on the edge of Exeter, this second property in the Chapter hotel portfolio has been bought bang up to date with cool staff, a spa and a glass-fronted dining room. In contrast to the hotel’s funky modernism, the food emanating from the open kitchen is deliciously unassuming: chicken breast on fried courgettes and lentils, artichoke heart filled with a poached egg and hollandaise or mussels in Thai broth all impress thanks to top-notch ingredients and crystal-clear flavours. There are some creative touches too, from carrots roasted with cumin, chilli and feta to chocolate fondant with a caramel centre (TV chef/author Simon Hopkinson acts as consultant here). Once you’ve sussed it out, the iPad wine list yields good value, variety and helpful information – something that’s occasionally missing from the service.

Renovated from a Victorian eye hospital, the striking architecture that surrounds The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter is visually stunning. With a modern, sleek dining room The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter is a place perfect for romance or to catch up with family.

The menu is simple, incorporating a number of classic British dishes including rump of lamb oozing in jus or the catch of the day topped with fennel, The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter has an emphasis on traditional meals that evoke a sense of home. However, the restaurant also incorporates a range of international cuisine giving the menu a variety that keeps its dishes fresh and memorable with additions like moules mariniere steamed with white wine and salade maison giving alternatives to plant based guests.

For drinks, The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter has a huge stock of different whiskies from across the world, from Irish Jameson to Kentucky Woodford Reserve; this is not to mention the arsenal of Scottish whiskies from Scottish Highland as well as Speyside (famed for its single malts). As well as just whisky, The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter has a range of other spirits including vodka, gin and Tequila ensuring that every diner has a choice of drinks to choose from.

The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter also offers diners lighter options, with an international range of beer from across the world including Chang Export from Thailand and Vedetta from Belgium. At Magdalen Chapter, there is a clear desire for there to be a representation of the globe on its drinks menu.

The Restaurant at Magdalen Chapter offers a classic menu of British classics in a contemporary dining room, making it an ideal place for a romantic date. The international selection of alcohol gives the restaurant a unique edge in Exeter and makes it perfect for special occasions.