The Tab Reviews – Tea On The Green

Looking for the perfect spot for afternoon tea? Jess Rayner and Sophie Brown test out Tea On The Green.

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Not just a place to take your parents on their termly visit, Tea On The Green offers a varied menu for breakfast and lunch – from pasties to poached eggs and curries to canneloni – as well as a huge range of specially chosen and mixed teas and coffees.

The building dates back to 1530 (so you’ll feel cultural) and holds all kinds of history; our lovely waiter Luke was telling us stories about a topless ghost (that’s right boys, a TOPLESS ghost). Talking of which, the service really was with a big ol’ smile, as well as a wealth of information about the menu, with excellent recommendations.

The food really is to die for. Whatever they can they source locally they do, so even when you’re tucking into one of their gorgeous specials (which change every day and are freshly bought in that morning), you won’t have that carbon footprint guilt. Veggie or gluten free diet? There is so much more than the standard ‘salad options’ and they even bake the gluten free bread on premises. They really cater for everyone.

It’s all so reasonably priced too. The panini are all under £6, with a range of fancy fillings and are definitely big enough to share between two with a bowl of chips. Their LEGENDARY Sunday Roast is under £10 (GASP!) and you can even choose from 3 different types of meat for all the uber-carnivores, or a homemade nut roast for the veggies. Perfect for a flat trip out on a weekend.

They also serve breakfast ALL DAY and although it’s not as cheap as Wetherspoons, the extra £1 is definitely worth it. We tried their brand new Breakfast Hash, a combination of egg, rashers of bacon, potato, beans and mushroom and have since been raving about it to everyone. It was lush!

If you’re not super hungry, TOTG is also great for a cuppa and a scone or piece of homemade cake (the carrot cake is immense). With seating outside on the cobbles for sunny days or a cute annex upstairs with quirky art and a lovely view of the cathedral, it is perfect for people-watching or simply a bit of work… Did we mention they have Wifi? Their teas and coffees are also cheaper than any high street coffee shop and their chai latte was the best we’ve ever tasted!

Although not your usual student restaurant (it’s definitely miles from Maccy D’s!) it’s really not one to be missed. Whether tucking into a big roast for a bit of flat bonding, or that chilled out cup of tea after a lecture-filled morning, Tea On The Green is one of Exeter’s little known gems.