PHOTO CREDIT: INVOLVING MUSIC
Address: 5 New N Rd, Exeter EX4 4HH
Contact Person: John
Contact Email: john@thedinosaur.co.uk
Contact Phone Number: 01392 490951
Welcome to Dinosaur Cafe, ranked top in Exeter’s dining scene. It is located conveniently between St Davids and Central Station on New North Road.
Founded by Abdullah Kuzu and his wife Ayse, the Dinosaur Cafe first opened its doors after the couple arrived in the UK from Turkey. Although the Kuzus have since retired, they passed the torch to John and Perry in October 2019, who have done a fantastic job at invigorating the beloved cafe and preserving its renowned traditions.
While the name Dinosaur Cafe might suggest a place designed for kids – though it is child-friendly – visitors are always delighted to learn that the original owner’s young daughter chose the name 25 years ago. When asked “what shall we call the cafe?”, the any-type-of-saurus enthusiast suggested, “Dinosaur Cafe!”
Current owner John and Chef Perry are celebrating four years of serving up delicious homemade Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. Upon visiting, you can immediately recognise that this quaint eatery is an integral part of the local community and a favourite among music lovers and gig-goers.
Unique flavours with customers in mind
Dinosaur Cafe is dedicated to authentic, home-cooked Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. What makes this spot unique is not just the food, which is always ranked within the top five eateries in Exeter, but its flexibility and customer-focused approach to dietary requests are never a problem here! For those visiting for the first time, we recommend the Turkish Salad or the signature stuffed aubergine, which guests consistently rave about.
PHOTO CREDIT: INVOLVING MUSIC - PRICES CORRECT AS OF 28/07/2024
The perfect pairing: music and dining
Strategically located near key music venues like the Great Hall and Exeter Cavern, Dinosaur Cafe is ideal for a pre-gig dinner. It opens until 9 PM to cater to the evening crowd.
Recently recognised by Exeter’s Quality Business Awards for its vegetarian home-cooked food, the diverse menu offers a range of delicious options, and the staff are always happy to offer recommendations. The Mezze sharing plate is always a winner for those with menu FOMO, as is trying many small plates/sides – the best way to sample many tasty dishes at once.
PHOTO CREDIT: INVOLVING MUSIC
Pair all this with the great musical atmosphere; don’t be surprised to hear a patron remark on the vinyl classics playing in the background, adding to the relaxed, inviting environment.
Dinosaur Cafe is where music is often the main topic of conversation among customers, musicians, and even the staff. The cafe’s musical spirit is palpable, influencing everything from the ambience to the interactions within its walls. There is also a collection of Fanzines to flick through after you’ve flicked through the menu.
PHOTO CREDIT: INVOLVING MUSIC
Sound bites
What song gets you going for the day ahead?
Comfortably Numb – Radiohead
Describe Dinosaur Cafe in three words:
Accommodating, authentic, customer-focussed.
What's the next/last music event you attended?
John (Owner) – Sting – Plymouth Hall
Perry (Chef) Artic Monkeys in Swansea
Integrated in Exeter’s Music Tourism
Just steps from the museum and St David’s, Dinosaur Cafe is perfectly positioned for visitors exploring Exeter’s music and tourism scene. After enjoying some of the best plant-based dishes in town, guests are encouraged to check out nearby music hotspots like Exeter Phoenix, The Great Hall and the Northcott Theatre, making planning a full evening of entertainment easy. John and Perry have a good relationship with Exeter Phoenix, regularly providing their external catering services.
The Dinosaur Cafe is directly opposite the Clock Tower, a classic meeting place for people visiting the City. John and Perry recommend visiting the RAMM, Exeter’s world-class museum and art gallery, which is a ten-minute walk from the establishment.
Plan your visit
Reservations are recommended, especially on busy Friday and Saturday evenings, though walk-ins are often accommodated. To book a table or learn more about Dinosaur Cafe’s exceptional offerings, email john@thedinosaur.co.uk or call 01392 490951.
We proudly feature Dinosaur Cafe on Involving Music, highlighting it as a top destination for music tourists and locals looking to enrich their Exeter experience. Dinosaur Cafe promises a memorable visit.
A few more notes...
Access info: Three steps up to the restaurant
Toilets: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes
Outside seating: Yes
Wifi: Yes
