Discover the best restaurants in Cornwall, offering fresh seafood, local specialities, and diverse culinary experiences. Explore top dining spots from cosy cafes to upscale eateries. Plan your perfect Cornish culinary adventure with our comprehensive guide to Cornwall’s finest restaurants.
Cornwall‘s dining landscape is a true reflection of the region’s diverse cultural heritage and commitment to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming family-owned restaurants, the county offers a gastronomic experience that is elevated and deeply rooted in the local terroir. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, farm-to-table fare, or innovative vegetarian dishes, Cornwall’s restaurant will surely delight and surprise you.
Best Restaurants in Cornwall
The Seafood Restaurant, Padstow
- Owned by renowned chef Rick Stein, this iconic restaurant is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
- Situated overlooking the picturesque harbour of Padstow, the restaurant offers breathtaking views and a menu that celebrates the bounty of the local waters.
- Signature dishes include the Fruits de Mer platter, the Cornish crab salad, and the impeccably fresh fish and chips.
The Treby Arms, Sparkwell
- This Michelin-starred gastropub, helmed by chef Anton Piotrowski, offers a refined yet casual dining experience.
- The menu showcases seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on innovative flavour combinations and exceptional presentation.
- Standout dishes include the Brixham crab with avocado and lime, the slow-cooked pork belly with apple and cider, and the decadent chocolate delice for dessert.
The Gurnard’s Head, Zennor
- Nestled in the charming coastal village of Zennor, this award-winning restaurant offers a cosy and welcoming ambience.
- The menu features a mix of traditional Cornish fare and modern European influences, with an emphasis on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients.
- Highlights include the Cornish crab on toast, the slow-cooked beef cheek with horseradish mash, and the homemade ice cream and sorbet selection.
The Beach at Bude, Bude
- Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, this restaurant offers breathtaking views and a menu that celebrates the flavours of the sea.
- Specializing in fresh seafood and locally caught fish, the restaurant also features a range of meat and vegetarian options.
- Standout dishes include the Cornish crab linguine, the grilled mackerel with horseradish and beetroot, and the decadent chocolate tart for dessert.
PHOTO: UNSPLASH
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites in Cornwall
The Harbour Inn, Porthleven
- This charming, family-owned gastropub is a local favourite, known for its warm hospitality and exceptional pub fare.
- The menu features classic British dishes with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
- Highlights include the Cornish ale-battered fish and chips, the homemade steak and ale pie, and the indulgent sticky toffee pudding.
The Greenbank Hotel, Falmouth
- Situated on the waterfront in the picturesque town of Falmouth, this hotel’s restaurant offers a refined dining experience with stunning views.
- The menu showcases the best of Cornish produce, with a focus on fresh seafood and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
- Standout dishes include the Cornish crab bisque, the seared scallops with pea purée, and the decadent chocolate fondant for dessert.
The Cove, Maenporth
- This family-run restaurant, located in the charming coastal village of Maenporth, offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
- The menu features a range of classic Cornish dishes, as well as innovative vegetarian and vegan options.
- Highlights include the Cornish crab cakes, the locally sourced steak with Cornish blue cheese, and the homemade ice cream selection.
The Muddy Beach, Looe
- Nestled in the picturesque fishing town of Looe, this cosy restaurant is a local favourite, known for its casual ambience and exceptional seafood.
- The menu showcases the freshest catch of the day, as well as a selection of meat and vegetarian dishes.
- Standout items include the Cornish crab salad, the grilled local mackerel, and the homemade sticky toffee pudding.
PHOTO: UNSPLASH
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Cornwall
The Cornish Arms, St Merryn
- This traditional Cornish pub, located in the picturesque village of St Merryn, offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families.
- The menu features a range of classic pub fare, as well as a selection of dishes catered to younger diners.
- Standout items include the Cornish beef and ale pie, the homemade fish fingers and chips, and the tempting selection of homemade desserts.
The Watermill, Lelant
- Nestled in the charming village of Lelant, this family-friendly restaurant offers a beautiful waterside setting and a menu that caters to all ages.
- In addition to a range of traditional Cornish dishes, the restaurant also features a dedicated children’s menu and a selection of homemade, locally sourced ice creams.
- Highlights include the Cornish crab cakes, the grilled local fish with new potatoes, and the indulgent chocolate brownie.
The Pandora Inn, Restronguet
- This historic, 13th-century inn is a beloved local landmark, offering a cosy and welcoming atmosphere for families.
- The menu features a range of classic British dishes, as well as a selection of lighter bites and homemade desserts.
- Standout items include the Cornish ploughman’s lunch, the homemade beef and ale pie, and the tempting selection of local ciders and ales.
The Harbour, Mevagissey
- Situated in the picturesque fishing village of Mevagissey, this family-friendly restaurant offers stunning views and a menu that caters to all tastes.
- In addition to a range of seafood and meat dishes, the restaurant also features a dedicated children’s menu and a selection of homemade, locally sourced ice creams.
- Highlights include the Cornish crab salad, the grilled local fish with new potatoes, and the indulgent chocolate fudge cake.
PHOTO: UNSPLASH
Top-Rated Seafood Restaurants in Cornwall
The Fishes, Mevagissey
- Located in the picturesque fishing village of Mevagissey, this family-run restaurant is renowned for its exceptional seafood and stunning views.
- The menu showcases the bounty of the local waters, with a focus on sustainable sourcing and innovative preparation.
- Highlights include the Cornish crab linguine, the grilled whole sole, and the decadent lemon tart for dessert.
The Hidden Hut, Porthcurnick Beach
- This unique, off-the-grid restaurant is located on the stunning Porthcurnick Beach, offering a truly unique dining experience.
- The menu features a rotating selection of seasonal, locally sourced seafood, as well as a range of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Standout dishes include the Cornish mackerel with samphire and lemon, the grilled local lobster, and the homemade ice cream and sorbet selection.
The Seafood Cafe, St Ives
- Situated in the charming coastal town of St Ives, this casual and inviting cafe offers a menu that celebrates the region’s exceptional seafood.
- The focus is on simple, yet flavorful preparations that allow the freshness of the ingredients to shine.
- Highlights include the Cornish crab salad, the grilled local sardines, and the homemade lemon meringue pie.
PHOTO: UNSPLASH
Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Cornwall
The Stable, Falmouth
- This casual, family-owned restaurant in Falmouth offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu that focuses on affordable, yet delicious, Cornish fare.
- Specializing in wood-fired pizzas and a selection of local ciders, the restaurant also features a range of salads, sandwiches, and hearty main dishes.
- Standout items include the Cornish chorizo and roasted pepper pizza, the Cornish cider-battered fish and chips, and the homemade apple crumble.
The Cornish Barn, Newquay
- Located in the bustling town of Newquay, this casual eatery offers a menu of classic Cornish dishes at affordable prices.
- The focus is on simple, yet flavorful preparations that showcase the best of local produce, with a range of vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Highlights include the Cornish ploughman’s lunch, the homemade vegetable curry, and the tempting selection of homemade cakes and pastries.
The Fisherman’s Arms, Penzance
- This traditional Cornish pub in Penzance offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as a menu that features affordable, yet delicious, seafood and pub fare.
- In addition to a range of locally sourced fish and shellfish dishes, the restaurant also offers a selection of meat and vegetarian options.
- Standout items include the Cornish crab cakes, the homemade beef and ale pie, and the tempting selection of local ales and ciders.
Cornwall’s dining scene is a true reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage, commitment to sustainability, and passion for exceptional, locally sourced ingredients.
To truly experience the best restaurants in Cornwall has to offer, I encourage you to plan a visit and explore the diverse array of restaurants and eateries that this remarkable region has to offer. From the iconic seafood hotspots to the hidden local gems, your taste buds are sure to be delighted.
Start planning your Cornwall foodie adventure today!
