Lunch at the Powderham Bistro: Orangery Dining

Tucked within the Powderham Castle estate, just outside Exeter, lies a hidden gem that brings together thoughtful food, elegant design, and the slow charm of Devon countryside living — the Powderham Bistro, housed in a light-filled restored orangery.

Powderham Bistro

After a walk along the deer park or a browse through the nearby farm shop and gardens, the Bistro offers a dining experience that’s calm, beautiful, and quietly impressive. On our visit, it became more than just a lunch break — it was a highlight in its own right.

With its vaulted glass ceilings, tall arched windows, and tranquil atmosphere, the orangery provides a perfect setting to enjoy locally sourced produce from Devon’s coast and countryside. From the moment we stepped inside, we felt the pace of the day soften — here, you’re invited to sit a little longer, savour each bite, and let the surroundings do their gentle work.

We share our full lunchtime experience at Powderham Bistro — what we ordered, what made it memorable, and why this understated eatery deserves a visit of its own.

A Setting Full of Light and Calm

The Bistro is attached to the Powderham Farm Shop and sits beside a charming garden courtyard. It offers multiple dining options — outdoor tables ideal for sunny days, a covered terrace for fresh air with shelter, and the orangery itself, where we chose to sit. With its elegant architecture and abundant natural light, the space manages to feel both grand and completely relaxed.

The ordering process is casual and easy: you browse the menu at the counter, place your order, and drinks and food are brought to your table. We requested a jug of water and picked two soft drinks — a classic Coca-Cola and a Luscombe Hot Ginger Beer, the latter being a wonderfully spicy local favourite that added some bite to the meal.

What We Ordered

Each dish was presented with care and packed with flavour — hearty, honest food elevated by quality ingredients and thoughtful combinations.

Brixham Fish of the Day – Fish & Chips

A generous fillet of fresh Brixham fish, hand-battered and fried until crisp and golden, served with skin-on chunky chips, mushy peas, and a dollop of house-made tartare sauce. A wedge of charred lemon added a finishing zing. The batter was airy, the fish perfectly cooked — simple, satisfying, and exactly what you’d want in a proper fish and chips.

Crispy Mushroom Burger

A vegetarian option that didn’t feel like a compromise. A crispy fried flat mushroom, rich Somerset brie, and beetroot chutney layered inside a soft sourdough roll, with fresh gem lettuce and a side of house slaw and more chunky chips. It was earthy, indulgent, and surprisingly substantial — a well-balanced mix of sweet, savoury, and texture. If you prefer a beefy burger, there is that option too with locally sourced beef and bacon. Its on the menu as Powderham Butters Burger.

Brixham Crab Roll

A local highlight — hand-picked white Brixham crab, delicately bound in lemon mayo, with little gem lettuce in a warm sourdough roll. Served with a light dressed salad and a pack of Burt’s sea salt crisps, it was a fresh, delicate contrast to the richer dishes — full of flavour without being heavy.

A Relaxed and Memorable Experience

What made this lunch stand out wasn’t just the food — it was the setting, the pace, and the overall atmosphere. The orangery has a quiet elegance, with its high ceilings and filtered light creating a space that invites conversation and calm. Around us, couples and families enjoyed their meals, a few diners read or jotted in notebooks, and no one seemed in a hurry.

The service was great, we accidentally dropped a knife and the ever so attentive staff, fetched us a fresh set of cutleries immediately.

We lingered over lunch, taking in the peaceful rhythm of the space — the soft hum of conversation, the occasional clink of cutlery, and the scent of good food drifting from the open kitchen. It’s the kind of place where everything feels intentional, but nothing feels forced. It wasn’t long before the place quieter as the lunchtime rush dies down.

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IMG_8151powderham bistro fish and chip portrait H1280

Final Thoughts

The Powderham Bistro offers more than just a meal — it delivers a dining experience rooted in Devon’s local produce, rural elegance, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for a restful lunch mid-adventure or a destination in its own right.

Drawn in by the architectural charm of the orangery, the promise of seasonal dishes, or the simple desire for a quiet, flavourful pause in your day, you’ll find the bistro delivers with warmth and quiet style.

Next time you’re near the Exe Estuary or visiting Powderham Castle, make time for lunch. Your senses — and your appetite — will thank you.