Discover Herbies: Exeter’s Beloved Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurant - Our Review

Why Herbies is a Must-Visit for Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Exeter

Tucked away on North Street in the heart of Exeter, Herbies has been a cornerstone of the city’s vegetarian and vegan food scene for over 35 years. Since first opening its doors in 1990, this independent restaurant has built a loyal following thanks to its hearty, home cooked, plant based dishes and warm, rustic charm.

Whether you're a seasoned vegetarian, vegan, or just curious about exploring meat free dining, Herbies offers a welcoming and flavour packed culinary experiences.

A New Chapter: Fresh Management, Same Soul

Now under fresh management, Herbies is entering an exciting new era while staying true to the values that made it an Exeter institution. The new team is focused on maintaining the community spirit and loyal customer base, while also drawing in a new generation of plant based food lovers.

A revamped website and active presence on social media are helping Herbies reach a broader audience. Despite the updates, the emphasis remains on hearty, honest food and exceptional hospitality — the things that have always made Herbies stand out.

What’s on the Menu: Vibrant, Fresh, and Always Changing

Herbies’ menu is a celebration of wholesome, creative, and satisfying vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Alongside fan favourites like the chef’s curry and the roast vegetable & houmous ciabatta, you’ll find an ever changing specials board that highlights seasonal ingredients and global flavours.

Expect to see sections for starters and nibbles, sharing platters, salads, sandwiches, hearty mains, sides, and a truly tempting dessert menu.

Dietary requirements are taken seriously — gluten free and vegan options are clearly marked, and the kitchen uses separate fryers and preparation areas to avoid crosscontamination. Herbies is a safe and tasty choice for those with specific dietary needs.

Our Visit: Flavours That Impress from Start to Finish

We kicked off with two standout starters.

We chose Chipotle Jackfruit Tacos from the specials menu. They were served with pickled red onion and coriander mayo which was smoky, tangy, and entirely addictive – this was our favourite dish! When we have tried jackfruit before it has been bland, this is certainly not the case here!

The other starter was Tempura Broccoli. This was lightly crisp and fresh from the fryer and paired with a bold Korean red chilli sauce that brought serious flavour.

For mains, we had Shiitake Mushroom Lasagne, Clare’s pick from the specials menu, served with garlic bread and a crisp green salad. Earthy mushrooms and creamy pasta elevated this vegetarian staple

Our other main was Three‑Bean Chilli Nachos. Nachos is always my go to and this didn’t disappoint. It came generously layered with beans, cheese, jalapeños, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream - comforting, and deeply satisfying.

Though we couldn’t manage dessert, the menu was brimming with tempting choices: sticky toffee pudding, fruit crumble, cheesecake, chocolate brownie, and what would have been my pick -a decadent sounding chocolate, Biscoff & amaretto torte. All desserts come served with ice cream, custard, clotted cream, or soya cream.

Drinks wise, we loved the local touches: Heron Valley pink lemonade from Kingsbridge and Karma Cola, which is organic and Fairtrade.

Homely Vibes and Standout Service

The atmosphere inside Herbies is warm and welcoming, with rustic wooden tables, fairy lights, and a relaxed vibe that makes it feel like a home from home.

Service was exceptional — we were greeted by Edward, whose enthusiasm and friendliness perfectly captured the spirit of the place. It’s the kind of hospitality that makes you want to come back again and again.

Local Love and Glowing Reviews

Herbies holds strong ratings of 4.5 to 4.6 stars across platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, and HappyCow. Customers frequently highlight the generous portions, great value for money, and friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Why You Should Visit – Even If You’re a Meat Eater

Herbies transcends the stereotype of “just vegetables.” The dishes are creative, flavourful, and hearty—often leaving omnivores asking for more. With commitment to quality, dietary accommodations, and prices that are fair for a city‑centre location, it’s clear why locals remain loyal: it’s comfort food, reinvented.

Final Verdict – Herbies is Exeter’s Must Try Vegetarian Spot

Whether you’re local or just visiting Devon, Herbies deserves a place on your foodie map. With a refreshed vision, passionate team, and food that’s as comforting as it is creative, this independent gem is proof that vegetarian and vegan food in Exeter is more exciting than ever.