Rusty Pig in East Devon

Robin is a man, a man of seemingly average stature upon first inspection, but after sharing just a few moments with him, it becomes clear he is no man, but a god. Thank you Robin for having us, we talk about you every few days.

Ok for some but not for me … the surprise menu was interesting but I was not impressed and I ended up giving most of it to my partner. I did enjoy the scallop appetizer despite having to scrape off all the salt. The chef was supposed to explain what was on the plate but was taking too long with other customers. For me it was disappointing as I had heard rave reviews.

Absolutely amazing the as always was fantastic

Highly recommend! The food was delicious and fresh and well worth the money. Suprise menu makes the evening more exciting, will definitely be returning!

We had the most fantastic evening, the staff; the atmosphere; the food are incredible. The fact that their is no menu is fantastic; because the food they serve is second to none. We have never had so much fun and eating food with so much flavour; its hard to explain you have to try it for yourself. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff for a most enjoyable evening. David & Dawn

I love everything about this place, it's definitely unique. The mysterious concept is something quite special. People who have particular pallet have always frustrated me, and this place would not be to their liking. Can't wait to return

Visited The Rusty Pig with my boyfriend for the Friday night supper club. All the staff were extremely attentive from the start. Both being slightly particular about food we were skeptical about not knowing the food we were eating but this experience forced us out of our comfort zone. What a delightful evening it was. All the food was delicious and when the chef came out at the end to explain the details of each course we were surprised at the local ingredients used. We both ate things we would never choose and thoroughly enjoyed it. Would highly recommend!

Really interesting concept, very well executed. The food was outstanding and I really enjoyed the mystery of each course. Probably not everyone's cup of tea, but if you love food, looking for something outstanding and different, then it's a must.

Update your Google opening hours so people don't travel a distance to reach you to find you closed in the middle of a Saturday.

We called at 5pm ‘do you have room for us this evening? One of us is vegetarian and can we bring our dog?’ ‘We’d love to have you, can you come at 7pm for drinks, we’ll eat together at 7.30, and you know there’s no menu, we serve six courses before the chef tells you what you ate.’ Grand. And so it was. Perhaps the most memorable thing, beyond the great food and friendly appropriately chatty staff, was when Chef Mark came and sat with us at the end and asked us …’so, what do you think you’ve eaten’, creating a lovely gentle discussion about what and why. Honestly, it’s a total treat, and very normal at the same time.

My husband and I loved our experience at the Rusty Pig. We did the 6 course tasting menu and we loved every dish. We would not necessarily have picked each course from a traditional menu - but that's the beauty of the tasting menu! We've come away with some new favourites. For anybody who is unsure whether they will enjoy the surprise element, I would recommend you give it a go. None of our courses were 'wild' options. They were all very accessible, and the chef took allergies and other dietary requirements/strong preferences into account. Also loved the atmosphere - it's small, intimate and relaxed. Talking with Robin at the end was a great way to finish the evening. He and the rest of the staff are lovely.

Brilliant. We had a suprise lunch here. Cost us £82 for three courses wine and coffee for 2 people. Which I thought was value for money. Especially as the food is exceptional. The service is so so friendly. The place has a jovial atmosphere which is very obviously due to the character of the owner and chef. It is what it is. Rustic, friendly, great atmosphere, excellent food.

An adventurous and delicious experience for a pescatarian and a vegan. The chef had just hours notice of our booking and pulled it out of the bag regardless. Highly recommend getting out of your comfort zone and eating here- you won’t regret it.

Beautiful food and stunning concept of the sunrise menu!!

A wonderful experience! Food was excellent with very helpful staff. The Chef made everyone feel like old friends when he came to explain the menu afterwards. Will definitely visit again!

We popped in on Thursday evening for a drink, and ended up staying for three hours! Robin and the team were so friendly; the atmosphere was just right and the food and drink were sublime. The fresh oysters and the delicious Beaujolais were particular highlights. After a bumpy couple of years with COVID-19 restrictions, it is so nice to be back at the RP!

Wow, what a meal, great flavours, beautifully created obviously with plenty of love. Loved the whole experience and excitement of not knowing what we were eating, it made the evening so interesting.

Amazing food/drinks, lovely atmosphere and a completely new eating experience for me. Love love love

Such an incredible eating and drinking experience. Thank you! Will be coming again.

It was absolutely fabulous. We enjoyed every bite of the three courses and the proprietors were just great.

Fantastic evening tasting menu. No menu you just turn up and have what has been cooked for you. All 6 courses were super. Would recommend

What a great place. Lovely staff, and incredible food. Vegitarians (and any dietary requirements) are well catered for. Love the ethos of reducing food waste by making the choice for you. We had a 2 course lunch and wow it was amazing. The warm food hug you get when you know you have eaten some incredible tasty food. We will be returning. Thank you

great food and atmosphere, loved the banter with chef.

Great concept (no menu just take what the chef got today) lovely food. Had no idea what we were getting, turned out to be well cooked and presented monkfish on pea risotto with lobster bisque starter and absolutely fantastic shortrib.

Excellent food. Great concept and the staff were all lovely. At the end of the meal the chef came and explained each course and the thinking behind it. Great fun.

Absolutely loved the Rusty Pig. The ethos - local food, low waste, minimal choice - is excellent and allows the kitchen to really showcase the brilliant local produce. We had no idea what we would get, and that is part of the fun, but every course was brilliant. We especially loved our Hereford Beef, which had been marinated in butter for a week and then slow cooked in more butter, served with tarragon and celeriac mash and a rich jus. There is an interesting wine list, a friendly atmosphere, and the front of house team are excellent. In my view, an absolute gem.

We had a lovely evening at The Rusty Pig with the in laws who live locally and had been previously.As others have said, there is no menu, you just get what the chef has available on the day. That said, we had given them advance warning that my wife needed no dairy, and this was easily accommodated, as was a flippant comment by my mother in law when we arrived that she isn't keen on fish - she was served the veggie version of our fish starter.The food was interesting and tasty - a great talking point to figure out what you have been served - and made us all try things we wouldn't have done otherwise, and our plates were all clear at the end of each course . All ended with the chef visiting each table to talk you through the menu. Delicious cocktails, great atmosphere, friendly staff. My only negative was that prices have increased which isn't reflected on their website, but still great value for high quality ingredients and a 6 course tasting menu. We will be back. Thank you for a great evening.

Absolutely insane eating experience. 5 course feasting menu... all a surprise and gluten free catered for throughout. If you're in the area we would highly recommend. Food, drink all wonderful and you get to meet the talented chef at the end who explains what you have just eaten.

Absolutely insane eating experience. 5 course feasting menu... all a surprise and gluten free catered for throughout. If you're in the area we would highly recommend. Food, drink all wonderful and you get to meet the talented chef at the end who explains what you have just eaten.

Amazing food and dining experience. We popped in while staying locally and absolutely loved it, having the chef decide the menu and being creative with local and seasonal produce is a great concept, atmosphere and service was excellent too, would recommend to anyone local or travelling through!

Bloody marvelous. Prior to this my absolute top dining experience was a little tasting menu/wine flight affair in Bordeaux. Move over France, Ottery St Mary is coming for you. Honestly, this place was on a different level. We went in with zero expectations and came out having just experienced food/drink/hospitality gold.

Awesome as ever! Go, it is covid safe and small businesses need support!

Absolutely brilliant - you must go! Fantastic food, brilliant concept, friendly and relaxed service. I wish I lived nearby so I could go again!

What an amazing dining experience. The staff were lovely and the food was divine, every course was a delight, all cooked with skill, love and the best local ingredients. We absolutely loved the mystery of all of the dishes and the explanation of what we have eaten given by head chef Robin at the end.. great personal touch. If you're looking for somewhere special to eat.. this is the place! Bravo! 5stars from us

Robin, Mark, Harry and B delivered an amazing experience once again, we just love this place! The food is always bang on, this time we had the best oysters any of us had had for a long time! Harry and B were great front of house and ensured there was a good buzz. For a small local Restaurant you cannot beat the quality of food, wine list and quality of service, atmosphere, vibe all spot on!!!!

So pleased that we visited the Rusty Pig. We were only in Ottery for 2 days but were able to have lunch as dinner was booked. What an amazing meal, I really wish I had had room for dessert!!! The food was surprising and perfect! I loved every mouthful. The waitress was so sweet. My friend was gluten free and they were able to accommodate her needs - a great experience, only sadness we live too far away!!

Visited with family for dinner. What an amazing experience! Chef decides on the menu daily and each course is a complete surprise. Thoroughly enjoyed the food, fresh and thoughtful dishes we wouldn’t necessarily have ordered ourselves but Chef does indeed know best 👍

Absolutely super restaurant, loved every moment. Good atmosphere, great food and brilliant service.

What a gem. I love the fact you do not need to make a decision with the food - just rock-up, tell them allergies/vegetarian or omnivore and they do the rest. Our food was fantastic. Best was a very slow cooked beef stew with pickled green beans and kale. Awesome. The team were charming as well. 5 well deserved starts from my family.

Amazing experience at the rusty pig today, no menus is a great idea Tried some stuff I never would have picked out of a menu normally and it was all delissicous and local

It would be unfair for me to give this place a poor review based on our experience, however it really isn't a place for everybody and certainly not for families with young children. Firstly, I am of the view that the website needs to be clearer as to what they offer because it doesn't really say anything. We initially booked for 630pm via Facebook, however upon emailing to ask if a highchair is available we were advised food isn't served until after 7pm. Upon arrival we were shown to our table and given a very vague spiel as to what would happen. No pricing was given and to be honest it was a bit of a shambles. It was my mother in laws birthday treat and despite our initial reservations, we decided to give it a go. They said food would be served just after 7pm and with our 7 month old this sounded perfect. However, food was not served until around 745pm, there were no plates and a sharing platter of oysters (not for any of our group, my husband ate one for good measure). By the time the second course arrived we were getting hungry and the baby was getting fed up. We queried how long food would be / how many courses and they said it was a surprise, but to be honest this for us was just a bit strange. At this stage we decided to cut our losses and spoke with management and agreed we would pay for our drinks and leave. They were, to be fair, very understanding. Definitely not for families and could really do with telling people how it actually works before arrival as we could have booked elsewhere. They could have a great little business but given Ottery is quite a sleepy town it really isn't the place to try hipster set-ups in my opinion.

Our first time having been recommended by friends. Harriet welcomed us with a big smile and was friendly and helpful throughout our visit. The set meal, which is Chefs choice of the day ( either 2 or 3 courses ), was absolutely delicious, and we would highly recommend this eatery

Excellent very nice staff excellent chiefs delicious food enjoy ,🙂

What an amazing surprise discovering this place! Delicious food, served as a daily surprise because they don't have a set menu for lunch and dinner. But be prepared to fall in love, with the fresh food and ingredients, the service and the place itself! A hidden gem that will make you come back for sure! Rusty Pig, you rule!

A while new experience, had no idea what we were getting but it was all fabulous, and half the fun was working out what each course was! Definitely be back, and the staff were brilliant too. Not for the fussy eater, it a definite for foodies. 🥰

Superb food, lovely atmosphere. A quirky place to go.

When we asked for a menu we were told that they do not offer an a la carte service and you get what the chef decides! Fixed price for food was (apparently discounted) £20pp. We decided to give it a try! We had a starter and a main course. Both were small and, while quite tasty, were nothing out of the ordinary.In our opinion the food was poor value for the money.We live locally but will not be back.

Great food and service. Would definately go back again. A veggie option would allow me to bring friends next time.

Lovely staff and great breakfast. Eggs benedict

Having had a lovely breakfast on my husband's birthday just before Christmas we decided to have another when our family got together just after. It was a Saturday morning but we had no problem being seated. We had a large,rustic table upstairs. Between the 6 adults and two children we pretty much covered what was on the menu and everything was delicious. Lovely food in a lovely atmosphere,and a reasonable price. Will be going again.

High quality, relaxed, informal dining. Focus on food waste and surprise dishes is admirable. The food is imaginative and well executed. Great selection of drinks, including a well chosen wine list, and tempting cocktails. Agata, the maitre d', sets high standards, and is also an engaging character.

Incredible food, wonderful staff, great prices. I love visiting this place every time I'm in Devon and look forward to it all year!

Met friends (who had eaten here several times)for lunch. We were delighted with the extremely tasty food, the impeccable service, and the general ambience.It was about 45 minutes drive for us, but we shall definitely be back. Absolutely delicious and we're already planning our next visit.

Best food around very welcoming

Great food, great atmosphere. Agata is just the most brilliant host. Will definitely return when we are in the area again

Knowing what you eat makes this place an experience in the real sense of the word. If its origin is not known it's not on the menu.

Excellent food and service and staff were really amazing. Couldn't do more such a warm welcome. Would definitely come again

This is a place I’ll revisit. Popped in for lunch, they also do breakfasts and dinner. Short menu but e cells to, based around the. Charcuterie. Had a fabulous Carbonara. People sharing table started with a meat platter that looked scrummy although too lunch for one. Open kitchen so lively discussions with customers ... a fun place. The food is fab. Even the rum and raisin ice cream was wonderful with crumbs on top .. crunchy. Will be booking for a dinner.

This restaurant is a little out of the way for us, but worth the trip. Cold November morning was much improved by breakfast at the Rusty Pig. Impressed that all the pig products are home-made as was the mushroom butter for my brioche toast, and the spicy tomato sauce which came with my fry up. Excellent hogs pudding, black pudding and sausage which was very lightly spiced with garam masala - nice idea. Partner enjoyed coddled eggs - brioche toast with lovely anchovy butter, and more bacon and sausage on the side. Good portion sizes and nice presentation.Good coffee, and really nice staff.Wine list looked very good, and on the basis of this morning, we are very tempted to come back for a meal, not to mention a re-run of breakfast. Obviously this place really cares about what they do...https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g1426109-d3321168-r728397958-Rusty_Pig-Ottery_St_Mary_Devon_England.html#

My partner and i popped in today for some lunch,service was spot on,the meal was great,and price was what you'd expect. Nicely laid out inside,quirky and retro all wrapped up together. Reason for 4 out of 5 is that the menu was limited to 3 different starters,mains and 2 sweets.1 of which was a cheeseboard.to be fair though,its probably a better way of doing things.do a limited menu really well or a massive menu averagely! We really liked it,and i tried food i normally wouldnt and was glad i did.

It was recommended and the reviews were read, so we were looking forward to a special culinary experience ! But what a disappointment ! Did the people that wrote those positive reviews really eat here ?The ambience, we expected rustic, but perhaps not so basic, a wash basin in the hallway between two dining rooms, where you wash your hands after using the loos ? That was a real surprise ! Basic tables and hard uncomfortable chairs ! All this could have almost been overlooked if the food had been a great surprise but it was not to be ! A surprise three course meal priced at £32 per head, but separated on the bill at £8 for starters, £18 for main course and £7 for deserts. Reasonably tasty, but nothing special and I consider chicken on kale and risotto as the main well overpriced, a sausage on cauliflower cous cous starter also over the top. Desert was good, but two chocolate items together, almost too much !So a basic establishment, probably ok for a breakfast cafe, but not for an evening dining experience. Basic ingredients and low key very loud environment. If this is what grabs you, then you will love it !Personally we like more comfort, less noisy surroundings and value for money, which this is not !It gives me no great pleasure to write this review, but.Never again will I trust a SURPRISE meal that is totally over hyped. Our first and last time unfortunately at this surprise establishment. £99.50 for two, really a joke.

A group of 11 women, enjoying a weekend in Devon, looking for Sunday lunch. What could possibly go wrong! Happy to report that nothing did. Lovely little place. Food was excellent. We were not given a choice (none of us had food issues other than shellfish) but don’t be put off. Special mention for the front of house. We were served by 3 young people, led by Agata, and the service was superb. We all came away feeling we had really had a lovely dining experience.

The aesthetic great, the food great, the staff, fantastic. We got caught in some flood water on our way over and so we rang to let them know we were running late for breakfast, the chef kindly agreed to cook us our breakfasts and the owners/waitress'/managers were all really friendly and helpful. There is a small roof top garden upstairs with a pleasant view of the town/village. 2 rooms upstairs one room downstairs, mind the step. Toilets are upstairs and there is no disabled loo so if you have mobility or other access needs arrange alternative toileting arrangements. Portion sizes are ample, in fact one could say large! My breakfast was good old traditional greasy spoon but with a twist, but you can get more upmarket eats here too. Breakfast for 2 came to £30 but that included 2 large breakfasts, one side, large pot of tea, Americano coffee, free homemade butter and ketchup, complimentary water for the table annnnd a tomato juice.

Great little place no views but the food and ambience make up for that; hard working team where food & the customer are the focus! Tasting menu was fabulous every detail the flavours choices of combinations portion size etc just up our street! We love lots of little courses not piles of gravy slop! In a fun lively atmosphere not dull and formal but you don’t lose the quality in doing so. ( only aside for us would be & it didn’t detract from the food only the ambience - go upstairs where I would expect it would be less bar in feel and less noise especially if you don’t want kids around while you’re trying to enjoy your hard earned night off!)

Friendly service excellent quality food. Mystery menu was a fun concept

We travelled 4 hours for this fantastic food experience. It is so worthwhile. We last visited in April and hoped it would be as good as the first time, when the chef even came to our table and talked about what would suit us! It's more than dining, it is more than just food, you are part of the experience and you are having the experience. Go here, it's one of the best choices of dining with your family and friends that you will have. It is a pleasure for them to serve you their beautiful food and fab choice of drinks, in their great environment, with style, great service, and delicious food. It did not disappoint and it is truly worth the visit !!! This is truly the meaning of hospitality.

Amazing!! Delicious food and friendly staff

Wow...stumbled across this great little restaurant mid week when camping...really friendly...great customer service....food out of the park and all round a brilliant evening...we were a family of 5 including a 6 yr old and we were made to feel really at home...playing games while we ate to keep the younger one on side as we wound our way through a 2 hr full on food experience...top notch grub in an unpretentious setting...loved it.

Simply superb. Friday dinner. Sunday lunch. What a weekend. Food heaven. And I'll be wanting smoked glazed carrot with every roast from now on.

First visit to the Rusty Pig having heard lots of positive reviews from previous diners.

Popped in for a quick snack before work. What a lovely intimate atmosphere and really helpful staff..... will definitely be back....

To celebrate my birthday, my family and I visited The Rusty Pig in Ottery St Mary and it was a totally enjoyable experience. The Chef told us it was going to be a surprise menu...and everything turned out to be a delightful surprise and absolutely delicious.

This place is a little gem. 8 of us went for Saturday lunch and we couldn't fault it. Chef served us up the most exquisite food and we were well looked after by the vivacious and amusing hostess.

Amazing food, warm welcome, nothing else needed!

Cosy atmosphere, fantastic seasonal food and cater for gluten free if you let them know in advance as menu is set courses and a suprise on the night!

We called at the last minute and luckily they had availability to squeeze us in. I’m so glad they did!

Agata, Paulo and the team ensure that your visit to this award winning feasting house is not just about the excellent locally sourced and carefully prepared food, but also that you will feel welcomed and involved in the evening’s preceedings. A unique place to enjoy a cocktail, hearty meal or light lunch.

We called by here for dinner whilst staying nearby on holiday.

We called by here for dinner whilst staying nearby on holiday. I would highly recommend this place, cosy atmosphere in a rustic setting. Food wise, superb, we went for the mystery 3 course meal (£32 pp). I was a bit unsure at first not knowing what could be served - but the food didn't fail to impress - chef done a great job. Great dining experience all in all. Cocktails we're okay. Agata, who served us excels in people and customer service skills, so polite and friendly. What a great restaurant.

Lovely place to go for breakfast very quintessential and quirky, the produce was excellent would highly recommend a visit

I love this restaurant. The food is excellent and the fixed menu works really well. It’s not expensive at all and always interesting. The drinks are good and a nice mix of prices on wines and good cocktails. The manager Agada (not sure how to spell her name) makes the evening and is a real character and very hospitable. She knows how to win everyone around and make them have a great evening.

Delicious surprise menu. Great staff. Really rustic and cosy interior with a cute terrace garden. Cannot believe this feasting house has ended up in my small town.. it is far more reminiscent of fine dining in London but without the stuck up atmosphere (it's super friendly and cosy) and with delicious local products. If you don't go you're missing out!

What a little treat, great staff, awesome food!!! Fully recommended!

Went for a birthday lunch and had the surprise three course menu. Every course was very tasty. Agata described and served the food. A great host. Loved the whole experience. Made a nice change not to spend ages choosing and looking forward to the next surprise.

My friend and I visited The Rusty Pig for lunch with a little trepidation as it would be a surprise lunch; no menu just presented with whatever the chef has prepared. It turned out to be a nice surprise.

Hunted out this little gem after finding it on TripAdvisor so we stop for lunch en route from Northern Ireland that morning into Bristol and car hire to Sidmouth and Exeter.

Fresh food cooked well. Will visit again if the opportunity arises. It was served quickly and I liked the chef talking us through the dishes he planned to cook and being able to watch preparation. The loo is upstairs, so not a good location for anyone with mobility problems.

Delicious food, friendly staff and an excellent atmosphere

The Rusty Pig have a great pop-up at Sidmouth Folk Week. I was told the Jerk Chicken was a "must try" by a few people. Yep. They were right. Just the right amount of heat and spice, chicken just fell off the bone and the Slaw was delish. Best Street food so far this week. Thanks guys x

Went here for breakfast on a road trip. Good value, great portions and variety. Very friendly staff, lovely atmosphere and great decor. Wish this was a local. I got the big breakfast but couldn't help feel it was a little over complicated. Still tasty and could not finish it. Great work and a great place. If I ever get the chance to pass through again I would love to return and have lunch or dinner and some drinks!

The food was fantastic, and the staff were really polite, friendly and knowledgable. I would definitely recommend this restaurant.

We love the excitement of the surprise menu and have always been really impressed with the food and service. The breakfasts are delicious too. Homemade ketchups and flavoured butter are a great touch.

On a long drive and hungry, found these guys on google. Called up and 5 minutes later they’d seated us even though they had two large parties to serve. Chef asked if we’d just like to be fed the main he was making that day. Said yes - good decision. Food was incredible, best pork belly we’ve ever had. Staff lovely and relaxed, really good atmosphere. 10 minutes after leaving and we’re planning how to come back.

Went for a Sunday roast today, and it was the best I have ever had. The food was very tasty with the beef being absolutely delicious. Every part of the meal was cooked to the perfection. Great beer and drinks along with brilliant service. Will definitely be back!

Just awesome, do not change what you do, it is perfect!

A little gem!! High quality fresh food at reasonable prices. Great service & really helpful. Definitely worth a visit.

Popped in on our trip to Cornwall for a big race weekend running Man vs Coast. Food was excellent, fresh & extremely tasty!!! Service was friendly & helpful. Highly recommended. 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sitting discretely amongst houses in Ottery St Mary, sits the Rusty Pig. Rustic and authentic within local community life. Fantastic service and great food! Thank you Rusty Pig - I hope to come and visit again soon.

Excellent food and drink (veggie options available) and the relexed vibe and friendly staff makes this the perfect spot for morning coffee or a slightly special dinner with a great wine

Visited regularly for breakfast and dinner. Both are fantastic, and different experiences. I'd strongly recommend you try both. The staff are incredible, probably some of the best in the south west and the food, while unique, is absolutely delicious. Worth travelling for!