Michael Barrymore visits Brightside Exeter

Brightside Exeter has welcomed a familiar face this month, with entertainer and presenter Michael Barrymore visiting the restaurant twice in the space of two weeks - first to film a TikTok, and then returning to shoot a full YouTube vlog after enjoying his initial stop so much.

Tucking into The Big Breakfast, buttermilk pancakes and coffee, Barrymore’s first visit, captured for TikTok, caused quite a stir, with guests and team members delighted by his trademark warmth and wit.  He took time to chat with staff, pose for photos and speak with diners.

Dan Wiltshire, General Manager, Brightside Exeter said: “Michael brought such an infectious energy into the restaurant.  He was warm, generous with his time and genuinely interested in the team and our guests.  The fact he came back so quickly, and had even read all the comments on his first video, meant a lot to everyone here.  He’s welcome back any time so hopefully we’ll see him again very soon.”

The return visit, this time for a longer‑form YouTube vlog, showed just how much the experience had resonated with him.  Before coming back, Barrymore had read through every comment on his original post, including one from the daughter of a Brightside chef.  When he arrived for the second shoot, he made a point of speaking with the kitchen team again, demonstrating the same friendliness and attention that made his first visit so memorable.

Brightside Exeter, part of the Loungers family, continues to attract travellers, families and food lovers looking for a modern take on classic roadside dining. Barrymore’s visits have added an extra spark to an already busy summer season.