A cosy, independent Turkish cafe-restaurant with broadly praised homemade food, generous dietary choice and friendly service, though some diners report variable portions, seasoning and value.
Dinosaur Cafe earns its standing through fresh, homemade Turkish cooking and attentive, friendly service that regulars have trusted for decades. An intimate but informal room and modest design polish keep it just short of the very top tier, while occasional uneven seasoning on off nights prevents a more flawless showing.
Dinosaur Cafe is the sort of small Exeter institution that wins people through warmth rather than showmanship: cosy, relaxed and often busy without feeling frantic. Diners describe it as a local oasis, with friendly staff, quick service and a loyal following stretching back decades. It is central and walkable, though the uphill approach from the station is worth noting. The cooking is traditional Turkish home-style food, built around kebabs, oven dishes, salads, mezze and very good baklava rather than elaborate modern technique. Moussaka, falafel, kebabs and the vegetable aubergine dishes are the most dependable bets, while a few diners report watery soup, salty dishes or smaller-than-expected meat portions. The menu is particularly welcoming to vegans, vegetarians and many gluten-free diners, and current pricing is moderate for a full meal. Families are well catered for: the menu includes £6 chicken or beef burgers with chips and chicken nuggets with chips, alongside familiar desserts such as ice cream and brownie. Adults can still eat properly from the Turkish menu, with vegetarian and vegan options for mixed groups. It is a better fit for relaxed family dining than for children expecting a dedicated themed kids’ experience.
Area vibe: Compact city centre blending historic architecture, student life, and local commerce.
Safety: Generally safe with active footfall in daytime; quieter residential streets in evenings though not high crime.
What's nearby: Close to Exeter St Davids station, University of Exeter campus, local shops, and suburban terraced housing.
The safest orders range from homestyle moussaka and kebabs to falafel and baklava, with several meat-free choices.
Expect a warm, casual meal at moderate prices, but plan around busy periods, limited parking information, and occasional portion or seasoning inconsistencies.
The atmosphere is cosy and local, with a relaxed family-friendly energy that can feel lively when the room fills up.