Lilac Bakery

Lilac Bakery took over a former William Hill betting shop on Cowick Street in St Thomas and turned it into one of the most talked-about bakeries in Exeter. Everything on the counter is handmade in-house - sourdough, almond croissants, filled loaves and a rotating cake selection - with a handful of seats for eating in alongside the takeaway counter.

The cruffins, cardamom buns, banana loaf and Basque cheesecake have built a devoted following, and the double-baked hazelnut pastry gets singled out as the one to beat regulars to. Sourdough toasties, filled with Cornish Gouda, mozzarella and chilli jam, are a lunchtime favourite. Popular items sell out daily, so arriving early matters if there's something specific in mind, and the coffee gets as much praise as the baking.