Browns Exeter

01 The Arrival

Browns has that polished brasserie look without feeling excessively formal. The Haven Road location gives it a lovely riverside setting, and the interior is smart, comfortable and very easy to settle into.

02 The Food

I went for the fish pie, while we shared truffle fries and garlic bread, finishing with chocolate brownie and ice cream. The fish pie was creamy and comforting, with plenty of fish and a beautifully golden topping. The truffle fries were dangerously good, and the brownie was rich without being overwhelmingly sweet.

03 The Experience

Service was polished and attentive - felt more formal than some of the pubs on this list, but never uncomfortable. Stylish and comfortable, with a lively brasserie atmosphere and the riverside setting as an added bonus.

04 Was It Worth It?

Reasonable rather than exceptional. You're paying partly for the setting and polished restaurant experience.

05 The Verdict

Pros: stylish setting, broad menu, good service, lovely riverside location. Cons: more expensive than a casual pub meal. A good choice when I want somewhere a little smarter without going all the way into fine dining.

Location — 7 Haven Road, Exeter, EX2 8BP, England