The Black Horse, near Exeter

The Black Horse is situated just outside Exeter, just off the Honiton Road, Sowton Village turning. Not far from the M5 Motorway junction 29. It is a little off the "beaten track", so is therefore lovely and quiet, not so quiet that it lacks atmosphere but quiet enough that you can enjoy a lovely romantic night out.

As you enter the bar in winter there is always a welcoming log fire to warm you and comfortable seating to sit and have a drink if you have to wait a little while. The staff will find and prepare a table for you in the restaurant quickly if required, or you can just stay in the bar area for a drink. You can also smoke in the bar if you want to.

This is not what you would call "bar food" but real quality dining. The restaurant has a touch of class about it, and that is reflected by the way the staff treat you. Efficient and friendly but discrete and quiet leaving you to fully enjoy your superbly prepared cooked and presented meal in the company of your loved one. Their chef is fully qualified and it shows.

The tables are beautifully laid with pure white cotton tablecloths, cutlery and sparkling clean glasses, and white cotton serviettes, not paper, and of course, this would not be complete without a candle flickering in the centre. The restaurant area is non-smoking.

The menu changes regularly and there are always specials on the board. Their chef is excellent, everything is cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. We do not usually have a starter but the price is around £5-6. Main courses vary, steak is around £15, or mixed grill (which is enormous!) is around £16 or so. Some dishes slightly more expensive, some a little less. Sweets are around £5, again these are superb! Not just your average ice-cream sundae!

I am not a drinker so cannot recommend any particular wines, but they have a list of quality wines and champagnes to choose from, by the glass or bottle.

For the service you get in this restaurant, the superbly cooked meal and lovely romantic ambiance, I think the prices are very reasonable. I have put the price as £25 - £40, as that is what it would be around, for three courses, a drink and coffee (which is beautifully served on a tray, with mint chocolate and lump sugar).

My husband and I have enjoyed many meals here, and absolutely no complaints whatsoever. We like to visit different places for meals but this is one we are drawn back to, time and time again!