Exeter, the historic cathedral city in Devon, has long been cherished for its winding streets, cultural events, and notable culinary highlights. Residents and visitors alike often crave a good old-fashioned chippy meal, prompting many to hunt for spots serving wheat-free fried favourites. Luckily, those in search of gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter will be pleasantly surprised by the city’s growing number of establishments that recognise the value of inclusive dining. Instead of missing out, coeliacs and gluten-intolerant diners can savour crispy batter and fluffy chips without fear of hidden wheat.
Several local fish bars have fully embraced this dietary requirement, adjusting recipes and kitchen practices to achieve fantastic textures and flavours. Typically, they employ alternative flours such as rice or gram flour, giving the fish a light yet crunchy coating that rivals the traditional version. Alongside that, staff routinely designate special fryers or separate cooking times to reduce cross-contamination. These measures help coeliacs dine with confidence, enjoying the iconic British meal free from anxiety.
In the sections below, we highlight nine fish and chip venues in Exeter that stand out for their gluten-free approach. Each one has its own distinct ambience, from bright and modern eateries to rustic takeaways steeped in local history. The food itself varies too—some places emphasise succulent fish fresh from the coastline, while others champion sustainability or regional produce. Regardless of their style, these shops share a commitment to delivering crunchy golden batter, fluffy chips, and satisfying sides.
Fish and chips remain a timeless British comfort dish, and for coeliacs, finding a reliable source is transformative. Whether you’re after a nostalgic portion wrapped in paper or a sit-down experience with a slice of lemon and tartare sauce, Exeter’s fish bars cater for every preference. Read on, and discover where to snag that perfect wheat-free bite in Devon’s captivating county city.
1. Smart Fish Bar
Smart Fish Bar, tucked away on a quiet corner of Exeter, welcomes customers with its bright signage and friendly service. Although it may appear unassuming at first glance, it has built a solid reputation for catering to a variety of dietary needs. Patrons on a wheat-free plan soon discover that this chippy has mastered the art of frying fish and chips without relying on the usual wheat-based batter. Thanks to this approach, Smart Fish Bar has become a go-to for coeliacs wanting gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter without skimping on taste.
Inside, the décor is straightforward—gleaming fryers, a service counter, and a modest seating area. The staff’s warmth and willingness to discuss potential allergens puts diners at ease, ensuring minimal cross-contamination. They use rice flour or similar blends to coat the fish, achieving a crisp golden shell that never feels excessively oily. The batter clings perfectly, offering that signature crunch each time you bite in. For many coeliacs, the real revelation is the realisation that wheat-free batter can replicate the savoury edge of standard versions, minus the gluten concerns.
No fish supper is complete without chips, and Smart Fish Bar excels there too. Double-fried to create a satisfyingly crunchy exterior, these chips remain delightfully fluffy within. If you’re inclined to sample more than fish, you can also find gluten-free adaptations for battered sausages, depending on availability. Nonetheless, checking with staff about fryer usage is always wise—especially during busy hours—to confirm that wheat-based products aren’t mixing with GF items.
Customers often remark on the bar’s affordability, praising the portions as both generous and fairly priced. Although you can take away, some opt to eat in, enjoying their battered cod or haddock fresh from the fryer. Conclusively, Smart Fish Bar demonstrates how a small neighbourhood chippy can do wonders by combining accessible prices, a welcoming environment, and a clear dedication to wheat-free fish and chips.
2. Fish & Chips at Polsloe Bridge
Fish & Chips at Polsloe Bridge sits near one of Exeter’s traditional residential areas, attracting a steady stream of locals seeking a comforting, no-frills meal. Yet beyond its community feel, this shop also understands the necessity of meeting dietary constraints—a trait that propels it into the realm of gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter. Here, customers find a warm welcome from staff who remain attentive to cross-contamination concerns, emphasising thorough cleaning and dedicated utensils.
One noteworthy aspect is the emphasis placed on freshness: The owners typically procure fish daily, ensuring each fillet is succulent and naturally flavoursome. Coeliacs can request a GF batter that’s derived from cornflour or rice flour, forming a crisp, golden layer around the fish. That extra crunch appeals to anyone, whether they must exclude wheat or not. In fact, many non-coeliac diners occasionally opt for this battered alternative, citing how the taste stands on par—if not surpasses—the conventional recipe.
Meanwhile, the chips prove equally enticing. Cooked to order, they’re often double-fried to balance a crunchy exterior with a soft middle. If you fancy a side, consider checking out their range of mushy peas or curry sauce, which may also be gluten-free. Staff members take pride in clarifying which sauces avoid thickening agents containing wheat, affording coeliacs a broader scope of flavourful dipping options.
Since the shop is relatively small, most folks grab takeaway, strolling home with a paper-wrapped portion or seeking out a nearby park bench. However, a few seats remain in the waiting area if you want to indulge right away. For a large lunch or a family treat, many local residents value the portion sizes, praising them as generous. All told, Fish & Chips at Polsloe Bridge honours the beloved British staple with an added level of mindfulness for those requiring a gluten-free diet.
3. The Fish Supper House
Tucked away from Exeter’s busy centre, The Fish Supper House offers a cosy haven where tradition meets dietary flexibility. Although the name conjures images of classic fish-and-chip suppers wrapped in paper, the shop has progressed to incorporate modern demands, providing coeliacs with a dependable option for gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter. For those seeking a homely meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavour for safety, it’s a spot worth noting.
Inside, the décor is simple but welcoming—a compact counter, sizzling fryers, and the faint smell of salt and vinegar. Once you mention your need for gluten-free options, staff outline how they segregate wheat-free batter mixtures and designate special fryers. By using corn or rice flour, they recreate a batter that forms a lovely golden crust around the fish, preserving moisture and taste. Meanwhile, staff maintain thorough cleaning protocols to ensure no stray wheat enters the cooking process.
Menu highlights frequently include battered cod, chunky chips, and a variety of side sauces like tartare or curry. If you desire something else, the restaurant occasionally experiments with GF battered sausages or fish cakes, although availability can shift week by week. Vegetarians and those wanting lighter fare can also consider the grilled fish or salad items. Regardless of your choice, the staff remain open to clarifying which items are safest for coeliacs.
Reviews often commend The Fish Supper House for its attention to portion size and pricing, with patrons appreciating the hearty meals that seldom leave them hungry. Some prefer grabbing takeaway, especially if it’s a mild evening perfect for al fresco dining by the quay or at home. Others relish the chance to sit in, chatting amiably with the staff. Through it all, the establishment’s ethos remains grounded in authenticity, ensuring that each battered fillet exudes crispness, warmth, and reassuring allergen-awareness.
4. Hook Fish & Chips
Hook Fish & Chips, perched amid Exeter’s vibrant dining circuit, aims to unify the old-fashioned charm of a British chippy with modern sensibilities around nutrition and allergies. Although classic cod and standard battered chicken remain integral to the menu, the team behind Hook has invested in offering a substantial gluten-free option. This strategy cements their position among the best gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter, ensuring diners who avoid wheat needn’t forego that cherished battered crunch.
From the moment you step into the shop, the aroma of golden fryers and fresh fish sets an appetising tone. Upon requesting GF, staff quickly affirm their commitment to coeliac-friendly cooking methods: separate utensils, distinct frying times, and possibly a different fryer altogether if the shop layout permits. Because the proprietors source their fish responsibly, each fillet typically arrives in pristine condition, allowing the GF batter, composed of alternative flours, to shine rather than merely mask subpar quality.
If cod or haddock doesn’t appeal, the restaurant also carries other seafood options—like scampi or battered prawns—subject to availability. To ensure these remain gluten-free, it’s wise to verify potential changes to daily specials. Meanwhile, chips exhibit that classic British crisp-meets-fluff texture, guaranteed to pair well with your fish. Should you fancy extras, curry sauce or mushy peas may be safe if staff confirm the thickening agents aren’t wheat-based.
Hook Fish & Chips tends to attract both local regulars and travellers eager for a hearty meal. Families appreciate the friendly ambience and the easy takeaway system, though a few seats might be on hand if you prefer eating in. Prices remain relatively affordable, which pleases diners looking for dependable, comforting fare. Ultimately, Hook’s well-rounded approach—balancing tradition with allergen awareness—embodies how small businesses can evolve without losing the soul of British fish and chips.
5. Fish & Chips On Alphington Road
Fish & Chips On Alphington Road, a popular mainstay within Exeter’s local chippy culture, unites convenience with a commitment to allergen-friendly cooking. From the outside, its façade evokes the classic fish-and-chip takeaway—bright signage, glowing fryers, and staff rushing back and forth. Yet, customers seeking gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter are often delighted to find that this unassuming shop thoroughly understands coeliac requirements, offering a reliable wheat-free alternative that matches the texture and taste of standard recipes.
The menu emphasises the usual suspects—cod, haddock, battered sausages, and so forth—but each can be modified upon request. Once you mention your preference for gluten-free items, staff detail how they change gloves, cleanse surfaces, and possibly even allocate separate frying periods for GF batter. This diligence ensures your fish emerges crisp and safe, embodying the ultimate comfort dish with zero hidden wheat. Chips, likewise, typically garner praise for their golden edges and pillowy interiors, a perfect foil to the battered fish.
If you’d like something additional on the side, the shop maintains a range of sauces and extras. The staff can confirm which dips are free from wheat-based thickeners—so you can enjoy curry sauce or gravy, providing they pass the gluten-free test. Despite the quick-service environment, employees exhibit a relaxed, welcoming demeanour, staying open to questions about cooking methods or daily specials.
Portion sizes run generous, catering to hearty appetites or families sharing one big order. Many people choose to pop in for a takeaway, especially during peak hours, though a handful of stools might be available if you prefer devouring your meal on the spot. Ultimately, Fish & Chips On Alphington Road demonstrates that a classic chippy with a high customer turnover can still devote time and care to ensuring coeliacs walk away satisfied and fully confident in their wheat-free feast.
6. Rockfish
Rockfish, perched near Exeter’s riverside, stands out as a contemporary seafood restaurant with a stylish maritime theme. Although it carries a polished interior and a broader menu featuring grilled fish, shellfish, and even salads, it firmly retains the essence of a classic chippy in certain respects. Coeliacs scanning local listings for gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter frequently highlight Rockfish, praising the attention staff give to those dodging wheat.
Step inside, and you’ll sense a breezy, coastal-inspired décor complete with nautical touches—wooden accents, pastel shades, and perhaps a chalkboard displaying daily fish specials. Once seated, staff bring over a menu that includes battered fish selections. When you specify your GF needs, they calmly guide you through suitable picks, confirming a dedicated fryer or scheduling that ensures no wheat-based batter touches the oil. The resultant fish typically boasts a crisp, appetising shell formed from rice or corn-based batter, giving an equally crunchy mouthfeel. Meanwhile, the fillets themselves, sourced from reputable suppliers, arrive flaky and full of flavour.
Chips here live up to the hype too: thick-cut, lightly salted, and simply scrumptious. If you desire a more balanced meal, side salads or grilled vegetables occasionally appear on the menu. In many instances, staff remain vigilant about verifying salad dressings for traces of wheat—an essential step for coeliacs. Some diners also enjoy Rockfish’s offerings of pickled garnishes, such as onion or gherkin, to complement the fish’s richness.
Despite being a notch above the usual takeaway, Rockfish preserves the laid-back comfort that fish and chips evoke. The floor plan accommodates both groups and couples, while the setting’s closeness to Exeter’s scenic waters invites leisurely post-meal strolls. Whether you prefer a refined dining moment or simply want an excellent battered cod, Rockfish merges restaurant elegance and coeliac-conscious cooking in a seamless manner.
7. The Clock Tower Fish Bar
The Clock Tower Fish Bar, situated near an iconic Norwich Road junction, has long been an Exeter favourite for hearty meals on the go. Its name references a local landmark, ensuring passers-by can find it easily for a quick bite. While it might seem like a humble chip shop at first glance, coeliacs soon notice that it serves up gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter with genuine care and expertise.
Crossing the threshold, you encounter that familiar chippy aroma of sizzling oil and battered fillets. The menu up front details the usual staples: cod, haddock, battered sausages, and an array of sides. However, a closer look reveals a wheat-free alternative for fish, accompanied by separate frying guidelines to avoid cross-contact. Staff frequently designate specific times for GF batter, removing the chance that wheat-based versions tangle with your order.
Tasting the fish, you’ll likely appreciate how the crispy coating—crafted from rice flour or a similar blend—encases moist, flaky flesh. Meanwhile, the chips deliver on that essential balance of crunch and softness. Whether you’re a fan of minted mushy peas or mild curry sauce, the bar typically offers GF-friendly versions of these condiments as well, though it’s worth double-checking for added peace of mind. The staff remain friendly and open to queries, clarifying any concerns about fryer usage or potential marinade ingredients.
Considering the shop’s modest layout, most patrons opt for takeaway. On pleasant days, the city centre’s green spaces become perfect spots to tuck in. Even so, a few seats might be available if you’d rather stay inside. Despite the casual environment, the Clock Tower Fish Bar impresses with dedicated allergen awareness, ensuring coeliacs can enjoy a traditional fish supper minus the anxiety. Prices stay reasonable, reinforcing this location’s popularity among students, families, and office workers seeking a comforting meal.
8. The Fish Shed at Darts Farm
The Fish Shed at Darts Farm breaks free from the mould of a typical urban chippy, offering a farm-shop atmosphere blended with a fervour for freshly caught seafood. Perched on the outskirts of Exeter, it welcomes day-trippers, locals, and families who come not only for food but also for a scenic experience at Darts Farm. Among fans of gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter, The Fish Shed has earned a special reputation for melding countryside charm with robust allergen management.
Approaching the building, you might first notice shelves of artisanal produce, from cheeses to preserves. Wander past them, and you’ll find the fish stall plus an adjoining area dedicated to the takeaway. The staff typically champion local fish, often landed in Devon’s coastal waters. Because the product arrives so fresh, minimal fuss is needed in preparation—just a crisp, golden batter that, if requested, swaps out wheat flour for an alternative mixture. This yields a crunchy shell that pairs beautifully with succulent fish fillets. Meanwhile, chips demonstrate a similar dedication, cut thick and fried until golden-brown.
Due to the brand’s emphasis on transparency, you can openly discuss coeliac concerns. Staff will outline how they keep GF batter separate, and they’ll confirm the fryer arrangement if you want to avoid any confusion. Thanks to this clarity, diners can combine mouth-watering battered cod with side orders like coleslaw or pickled onions. And, if time permits, a wander around the farm shop or a stroll by the scenic countryside finishes the outing in style.
While the takeaway format encourages quick dining, some guests bring their meals to the picnic benches if weather allows, merging the best of alfresco dining with an authentic fish-and-chip experience. Ultimately, The Fish Shed at Darts Farm showcases how local sourcing, farmland ambience, and gluten-free conscientiousness can harmoniously merge into a thoroughly satisfying meal.
Where to Discover the Best Gluten-Free Fish and Chips in Exeter
Devouring a plate of fish and chips remains one of Britain’s most comforting culinary pleasures, yet individuals avoiding wheat sometimes worry they’ll miss out on that crisp batter and fluffy interior. Thankfully, the city offers multiple choices for gluten-free fish and chips in Exeter, proving that coeliacs can enjoy the same savoury crunch as everyone else. By adopting rice or corn-based flours, setting aside designated fryers, and embracing careful staff training, local chippies have embraced an inclusive ethos that caters to varying dietary needs.
Smart Fish Bar and Fish & Chips at Polsloe Bridge uphold the tradition of neighbourhood chippies, pairing hearty portions with friendly customer service. The Fish Supper House stands out for its cosiness and willingness to adapt classic items, while Hook Fish & Chips merges old-fashioned comfort with coeliac-conscious procedures. Visitors to Fish & Chips On Alphington Road delight in the staff’s dedication to preventing cross-contamination, and those dropping by Rockfish enjoy a slightly more refined take, aided by the venue’s maritime-inspired ambience. The Clock Tower Fish Bar, although unpretentious, adheres to meticulous fryer protocols, preserving crispness without hidden wheat. Finally, The Fish Shed at Darts Farm merges fresh local catch with scenic countryside flair, rounding off Exeter’s robust gluten-free fish and chip circuit.
Throughout each place, a shared value persists: nobody should feel excluded from Britain’s favourite takeaway. Whether you like your cod battered lightly or prefer a deeper golden crunch, these destinations ensure that the meal remains safe, delicious, and reminiscent of everything that makes fish and chips special. So the next time you crave a satisfying dinner or a quick lunch break, rest assured there’s a chippy in Exeter ready to accommodate. With these tips, you’re well-equipped to explore the city’s unique shops, savouring that hot, flaky fish and crunchy chips devoid of gluten.
