Calvo Loco Tapas Bar in Exeter

It was an amazing experience and the food was stunning!

A very delicious place, a lot of people, but it is worth making a reservation, traditional dishes and warm attention

Overcrowded, far too many tables in a small place. We had to wait outside as our online booking was not recognised. Food was fantastic (although overpriced) but we will not be returning due to the overcrowding. It appears online bookings get overlooked on purpose in favour of phone bookings

I recently booked a table for two online, received email confirmation and looked forward to our night out. Arriving at the restaurant, I was told that they had no record of my booking and that there were problems booking a table in this way. However, after waiting approximately 20 mins, they sat us at a table. Shortly after, we were told that this was actually someone else’s table and we were asked to leave. This was a really disappointing experience and could have been better managed by the restaurant staff. We won’t be trying to book again.

I booked this restaurant weeks ago for a special birthday celebration, through the online booking app Dojo. However, on arrival, they had no record of our booking. I had email confirmation of my booking and had submitted my credit card to secure and had a reminder to say my table was secure and waiting for me. We were not the only party to be let down in this way. The staff asked us to wait outside for a while and then we were crammed around a barrel, obviously too small for our party. My seat was against the barrel, so I had literally no room for my legs. I had to stand to eat. And if sitting, I was facing away from the table. I am in my 70s and had the most uncomfortable time. I was unable to enjoy my food under the circumstances and would have left, but I was loath to spoil the party for the others. The staff did apologise, but the restaurant is small and too many tables are crammed in. Whose error was this? Dojo or the restaurant? I have eaten at Calvin Loco many times before, but I will never return after tonight. I am very upset that the evening was ruined.

Had a great night at Calvo Loco. Food & drinks & atmosphere all incredible. It gets a 4 rather than a 5 due to them adding service tax without me knowing. It was only 2 of us dining for an hour & it was on the bill but I didn’t notice until after I paid otherwise I would have asked for it to be removed. The service was amazing but surely the restaurant owners should pay their staff with the money paid for the meal. I definitely would go again but I wouldn’t pay that charge & I recommend anyone going there to ask for it to be removed.

Having been twice before and absolutely loving the food, I felt completely ripped off by the shrinkage in their dishes and inflated prices. £10.00 for 6 tiny pieces of pinchos lamb. Every dish was padded out with cheaper, boring boiled potatoes and didn't taste as good or authentic as previous times. To say the least I won't be going back!

A very last minute date night & so pleased we got a table here (our first visit) Once you get past the interesting seating (husband found it a little uncomfortable, but coped fine) you won’t be disappointed with the food! We chose….. Mixed meat & cheese platter Pork belly Olives Bread Goats cheese with fruit sauce Mushrooms in garlic & parsley Baby fried squid Blue cheese with honey Desserts: churros & basque cheesecake 2 very tasty mojitos each Service was pretty spot on: could have checked how our food was/ask if we would like more drinks (but they were very busy & it didn’t detract from the night) A very enjoyable time & will be back!

Would absolutely recommend! The food was delicious, with an excellent atmosphere, even on a midweek evening! The staff were all lovely. Can't wait to go back

Great place, delicious food, helpful staff, and a queue of people waiting to get in so very popular

Food was terrible. Very small portions and extremely expensive. Not worth the money! Service not particularly friendly either.

✨️🇪🇸 We had a delicious meal here to celebrate a friends birthday. Staff were lovely and full of recommendations when we weren't sure what to order. The food was plentiful and so delicious !! There were four of us, and we ordered two tapas dishes each to all share, which was enough 😆 highly recommend the meatballs, the peppers 🌶 and the cheese surprise ! Actually recommend all of it it was so delicious 😋 the Sangria as well just complimented the whole night 😍

Made a visit as two couples with a booking. The restaurant is fairly small but tables spaced out nicely, however the seats are very uncomfortable. Given 2 star as food was just average tasting and even for tapas was extremely small. In addition the service was terrible….£28 bottle of wine and they don’t even pour you a glass. They also forgot our last dish completely and still have the audacity to add 12.5% service charge on the bill without asking. Complete rip off, all 4 of us left hungry and got a pizza else where!

We’ve spent a lot of of time in Valencia and love tapas, Calvo Loco does not disappoint… this is authentic tapas! Excellent food and served by friendly staff, thoroughly deserves my 5 star rating.

Arrived without a booking, they had room. Great food, wine and staff. The food was amazing. As we finished the restaurant was full so we knew we’d chosen well.

Walked in off the street. Could not complain about the food. Had 8 different tapas and all of them were absolutely splendid 👌

You don't need to go to 🇪🇸 for the food anymore. It is a really good place.

Fantastic place, highly recommended. Superb food, great service and a brilliant atmosphere.

We had a fantastic evening celebrating my son's 30th birthday, a party of 8 people so they pushed 3 of the barrel tables together. Staff were really lovely, very attentive and the food is outstanding. Loads of choice, we kept asking for and getting more dishes, great wine and beer. We took a cake in with us and they very kindly lit the candles and brought the cake out to us after the secret code was triggered! Thank you to all the staff for making it a really special evening. We highly recommend everyone going there and we ourselves will be back for sure.

It's a small place so booking is crucial, but definitely worth it! The small space creates a great atmosphere that feels like a Spanish bar. Service is friendly and helpful. Food was fabulous, can't recommend anything in particular as it was all really good. Portion sizes are a little smaller than some tapas places, so definitely go for 3 each as recommended and you'll have enough space for one of their yummy desserts too!

I’ve been looking forward to going here but unfortunately the food was inedible we left most of it and came out at different times. It was very overpriced for what came out we were shocked. We did raise this with them when we asked for the bill and they offered to take off the service charge (which was automatically added to the bill) but service wasn’t the problem it was the food. We left hungry and very disappointed.

Absolutely phenomenal food. Best meal I’ve had in ages.

We ordered nearly all of the dishes and they all delivered. We recommend a min of 3 plates per person. The food is cooked fresh and is packed with flavour. I highly recommend the croquetas, spanish tortilla, chorizo, lamb skewers, deep fried squid and most of the menu to be fair! The rioja red wine is a must.

The best supper , staff and atmosphere. Outstanding tapas and service in every way

Second time and bit disappointing tbh. Arranged not to have a barrel table but still they gave us a barrel table despite 'discussions' and it was by the external door that was constantly opening and closing. Freezing and too small for 3 people. Lamb, chorizo, artichoke were tasty. Calamari not great and some portions def smaller. Shame as always keen to support local businesses.

Lovely little resturant .ask for a none barrel table as a bit uncomfortable tapas are lovely .sangria is great if you don’t want to pay service charge tell them as they do add it to bill without asking

Sangria was really nice!! Atmosphere, music with Spanish food was perfect combination Feels like I back to Spain!!

Lovely food and staff, loads of great choices

My partner really enjoyed his meal and would highly recommend. As a coeliac I wouldn't recommend... I was informed there is no guarantee regarding cross contamination and although informed prior to booking there was gluten free bread and options to cook in gluten free flour unfortunately this wasn't the case on arrival. Really lovely restaurant otherwise and great food but just not recommended from a coeliac perspective. My partner is keen definitely keen to visit again :)

Awesome food, super friendly staff, tons of choices on the menu, and they've got an interesting special menu too! Quick service without breaking the bank. Pro tip: book ahead, it's always buzzing. Perfect spot for a chill date night or any special celebration!

Try Paella and Sangria for Spanish Cuisine.

A really lovely little restaurant nestled in Magdelen Road. The food was all delicious, and the staff were all friendly and welcoming. The portion sizes are just right. It's a very small space so it can feel a little cramped, but other than that we had a great time!

Great food, personable service. Great for tapas. Quite small, but well worth it!

Loved this place, went for a friend’s 25th. The food was delicious, fast service and friendly staff. We definitely will be going back.

First time at Calvo Loco and it did not disappoint. I had heard great reviews from friends so had to try. The tapas options were plentiful and the food was delicious. I wanted more of everything. Will definitely be returning for another round of tapas.

My husband and I found this little gem last minute. We did not reserve a table (although we should have. It is a very popular spot with the only unreserved tables available that evening being outside). The food was glorious. So much flavour and variety. The staff were friendly and attentive with knowledge to suggest dishes and wines to suit our palettes. This was one of the food highlights of our trip. Thank you team, great work!!!

Fantastic, what a great atmosphere and food! We will be back.

Bit pricey but a great place and worth the visit

Great food, great service, great staff, great value. Support places like this and not the soulless chains in town

We really enjoyed Calvo Loco. Excellent food, friendly service and a great atmosphere. Lamb skewers from the specials board were excellent, as were the gambas and puntillitas.

Thank you so much for another great evening of lovely food!!

Food, service, atmosphere all fantastic. From the minute we walked in every aspect of our night was fabulous. I have celiac disease and was able to have the majority of dishes on the menu. Would definitely recommend.

Overall good experience. Good: the atmosphere, the service, some of the foods, and the owner. Bad: not an authentic Spanish place. The food was too salty- somewhat pub style. As the name suggests, it is a pub. So salty food go well with alcohol I think. A little pricy as well, considering the portion size- for example, mojito was £8.50.. unreal 😅😅 Important: please call them before going before reservations are important. We were lucky to get a place without reservation, but it was due to a good lady there. So call them before going. They are usually busy and for good reason. Overall worth trying once. :) cheers to the owner and other two staffs, I loved them.

What a gem! Perfect for a date night or an evening out with friends and family. I would recommend 2 or 3 dishes each and then a pudding. We had mini fried squid, fried goats cheese, meat balls in a delicious tomato and pea sauce, potats bravas and oxtail. The oxtail melted in your mouth. Truely delicious. The Sangria is fantastic, super refreshing and fruity! We had churros to finish the meal which were as yummy as the rest of the meal. Freshly made and piping hot! The chcolate sauce that came with it was gorgeously rich and extremely morish. There was inside and outside seating, if love to go back and sit outside in nice weather! I can't wait to go back again.

This place is just awesome? Atmosphere, food and service needs a 10! Well gone done guys!!

My first time here. Super impressed. We had a range of dishes, all of which were delicious. Great and cosy atmosphere. Friendly and helpful staff. All in all a fantastic evening. Thank you!

Not a good start had to return a beer as a chip on the glass it that could cut your lip Ordered 5 dishes and bread, which all came out extremely slowly, had one dish finished it and then sat waiting for the next one, not a great tapas experience. Completely forgot our last dish, squid which was rushed out when we pointed out it hadn’t turned up as a result it wasn’t particularly well cooked and most of it was left uneaten Then they automatically added service charge which made the whole deal poor value for what was charged, won’t be returning, suggest you give it a miss

Calvo Loco never disappoints. The food is varied & delicious, service really friendly and helpful & atmosphere full of fun. Will be back soon!

We’ve been here a few times now. The food is always fresh, perfectly sized portions and reasonably priced given the quality; I’ve not found better tapas in mainland Spain. The staff are also lovely and humour my attempts at Spanish! We’re gonna be customers for life.

Arrived early to find owner had lit a huge amount of incense which was clouding up the place. It felt like quite a strange place with uncomfortable and cramped seating. It was very cold. There was mould on the walls and the loos were unheated and freezing. Very nice sangria and palatable wine. The tapas were Ok but some were not great. The batter on the prawns was claggy and the prawns not de veined. Patatas bravas lacked flavour and texture. There was nothing that stood out. Even by todays standards it was over priced - a glass of wine would buy a bottle of the same stuff at the supermarket. Would not return as both the food and surroundings wouldn’t merit it.

Great night out. Tapas & sangria was amazing! Fantastic service, everyone was really friendly. Great atmosphere. Definitely going again

What a great place. This is our 2nd visit and yet again the food was superb. We dined with another couple who hadn't been before. We ordered lots of food and it was ALL excellent. Dishes included OX cheeks, chorizo, sharing meat platter, Spanish sausage, salted cod, sardines., and the list goes on. White Rioja was the wine of choice. The venue is small but the atmosphere was excellent. The staff were very friendly. I would recommend this eatery, but book in advance.

I would like to say we had a lovely time but it’s been impossible to book. Went into the restaurant itself as we were passing thinking we’ll try and make a reservation in person as you have to email to book, there’s no phone or booking system. Server’s face falls when he realizes we aren’t there to eat and we want to book and his tone is suddenly much colder. We’re told we can’t make a reservation there even though we’re right there talking to the person who will pick up the email request and we are sent away coldly. Ok, fine, I accepted at that point they want us to follow a system. So I emailed and asked for a table, and they offered one but suggested we come a bit earlier because they would need it back. Cool, I assume this table is reserved for me then? But by the time I reply by email to confirm the extra half hour is ok it’s gone because, guess what, booking by email is chaos. I don’t get offered another time just told sorry can’t have that one, but I asked if there was anything else because I was really trying to make this work. I do ultimately get offered another time but by then I actually don’t want to go any more and will be going somewhere else tonight instead. I’m really disappointed because I always hear good things about this place, but I don’t want to go where I’m not welcome until I’m spending money. Customer service starts at the door, and if that’s how you treat prospective customers who haven’t given you their money yet, I’m sure you’ve lost many more than just me.

Travelled down to Exeter for work, the restaurant was recommend by one of my clients. Although the venue is small, it delivers in a massive way. The staff were very kind and helpful. The owner can crack a joke. And the food... my goodness the food was sublime. Had a couple of dishes from the specials which were both rich in flavour and presented beautifully. Next time I travel down to Exeter, I will 100% be returning

The food is excellent, service is quick and efficient, prices are reasonable for the quality. Proper authentic Spanish tapas, better than a lot of places we went to in Andalucia. They even serve Vermouth, which was lush. Quick word of warning - one authentic tapas bar feature of this place is that it is small and crowded with some barrel tables and stools. The young crowd there were not bothered but my middle-aged bones were complaining by the end. However, there is some proper seating you might be able to request if you book in advance.

The second time visiting today and it was just as amazing as the first time. Great atmosphere and fantastic food... Staff friendly and welcoming. Specials board is a bonus as its always different. Can't wait till we book again.

Been a few times now, and without doubt this cosy little Tapas bar is quite superb, and probably the best Tapas we have had outside of Spain. We have visited Spain for 5 to 6 weeks every year for ages now, so feel well placed to offer this opinion. We had 6 tapas to share, 5 from the brilliant specials board, and a few pints of Cruzcampo, the Ox cheeks were simply melt in your mouth delicious, the sardines so fresh and again grilled to perfection, the Iberico pork croquettes stuff with meat, the plate of tempura vegetables were superb, and a delicious tomato salad, the only menu item was the deep fried cheese which was so good. A great eating experience run by a friendly bunch, but the food is so good, our feast with 3 pints cam to just over £70, terrific value. How this place is not higher on TA is a complete mystery.

Jan and I ditched the burnt gold people carrier and went out for a date night at Calvo Loco this week. The food was wonderful: really authentic: it took us back to the golf club trip to Andalusia. So delicious and the place had a cosy ambiance. Jan particularly loved the artichoke and I devoured the Patatas Bravas. Highly recommended. We’ll go again.

Ate there with my brother last night. Delicious food, warm and friendly service and small, colourful and intimate restaurant so typical of Spanish tapas places. A very agreeable and authentic experience.

Our 11 year old has wanted to go for Tapas here since we moved to Exeter in the summer - today 3 generations of our family went for his birthday and we had an absolutely delicious meal with fabulous friendly service too. The restaurant is...

It was my first visit to Exeter with friends. The men were part of a bowls tour so we women wanted to enjoy the lovely city and have lunch somewhere different. Through Tripadvisor we found this tapas restaurant which was ideal. We were spoiled for...

Had a lovely meal here tonight! Really friendly service and excellent food! Would 100% recommend and will be returning

We ate at Calvo Loco for the first time last night - the welcome and the service was great - very relaxed and friendly. Good selection on the specials board with a wide selection of drinks. Loved the old wine barrels as tables! We had...

Grabbed the last table outside to enjoy the sun for dinner. All the food that came out was really, really good. Waiters couldn’t have been more attentive and friendly throughout.

Went with a group of friends and we loved the food! Definitely recommend and i’ll be going on the regular.

Fabulous! Never disappoints. We come here every time we come to Exeter and this is the best tapas we’ve had outside Spain. Awesome. Delicious pun till it’s (baby squid) the Carilleras is to die for and the food overall is just delicious. An absolute favourite

Went here a few weeks back and we had a great time. Every tapas we ordered was absolutely delicious. The Sangria is great , so I recommend ordering a jug which goes so well with all the food. We were so impressed we booked our...

This is local to me but hadn’t managed to try it until I visited with two friends recently. There’s a wide variety of tapas including specials. Portions are generous and the food is well prepared and delicious. There’s a great atmosphere and the staff are...

Great quality delicious food and friendly, cosy atmosphere, I recommend the sangria too! Definitely worth a visit!

Had a lovely night here last week. So many nice sounding things on the menu, everything we had was delicious! The sangria was great and the staff were really friendly too. Looking forward to coming back!

Warm atmosphere and delicious food! It’s worth a visit. The service was very friendly and everyone enjoyed our evening including the Spanish person in our group!

Good food and service very reasonably priced., We went for my husbands birthday and can not fault lovely atmosphere too.

10/10 service and incredibly authentic food! Highly recommend!

Love this place. Small restaurant, but great food and wine! Looking forward to going back for valentines day!

Delicious food and excellent customer service ❤🙏🏼❤ such a delightful experience . Will come again 💚

Amazing food, every dish was a delight and great atmosphere. The staff are some of the friendliest I have ever come across. Will definitely be dining here again.

Lovely staff and the food is delicious. We had a gorgeous evening xx

Really lovely food and atmosphere. Staff were super friendly and attentive, will definitely be back to try more of the brilliant menu!

Christmas Market in St so open for a pulled pork butty and chicken and chorizo stew, both really tasty and all staff genuinely nice helpful people. Will be back to try the evening fare.

I’ve been here twice now and the food is absolutely incredible. Both times i’ve been, i’ve had to order a basket of bread after i’ve finished so i can mop up all the sauces (particularly the cider sauce that comes with the chorizo - absolute...

Excellent as always. Great service. Very friendly staff and owners. Love this place.

This is by far the best tapas I have ever had in England. Growing up on the Mediterranean in Spain I am a little sceptical about all Spanish cuisine restaurants. Come here, get the Chorizo Sidra and the Solomillo you will not be disappointed. The best.

This restaurant was a complete pleasure to visit. The staff were very helpful with first class service with a smile. We had an amazing meal and would recommend this as a welcoming, interesting and worthwhile place to go to.

We booked at table through Curly and we were not disappointed........ Real genuine flavours along with atmosphere. Great value and nothing was too much trouble. Was interested in our experience and we will visit again We will book so as to avoid disappointment. Tip -...

My partner and I really wanted to find a good tapas bar in Exeter and this is by far the best! the food is very reasonably priced, and we had the best patatas bravas and baby squid we've ever tried. We also tried the mushrooms,...

Delicious tasty tapas in a tiny restaurant. Booking advisable. Competitive prices.

Nice ambience and friendly service. Excellent fried artichokes and loved the truffle cheese. Slightly disappointed with the seafood platter though.

Awesome atmosphere and food. Staff were great..would thoroughly recommend

One of the best restaurants in the South West! Such incredible food, atmosphere and service

Best tapas I've had outside of Spain. Amazing service, great wine, great atmosphere 👌

Best meal for years ! Thank you.

Top notch tapas & friendly helpful staff. 👍

First time visiting this place and it didn’t disappoint. Food was amazing, sangria was tasty, entertainment was brilliant. It was like being in Spain. Will definitely be back.

Traditional, cultural, amazing. The food was so delicious and the vibes were immaculate. 100% would recommend visiting this establishment.

Really great little Tapas bar. Friendly staff, lovely food and a cracking atmosphere. Probably the best Tapas Ive had in the UK.

Fantastic evening!! Most authentic Spanish we have had in the UK. Fun atmosphere, all staff very friendly and knowledgeable. We were lucky enough to hear some Spanish acoustic tunes as well. Ox Cheek special and lamb pinchos were exceptional (as was all food). Next time in area will definitely visit again :)

The food was absolutely incredible! The service was brilliant and the staff were so friendly

Excellent food and service, can't wait to go back

Group of 6 celebrating a birthday - the food was some of the most delicious tapas I've ever had, and the service was friendly. Live music added to the experience. Highly recommended.

Great food, great atmosphere. Excellent!