Who could resist a weekend away in Cornwall? Next to its stunning beaches and picturesque seaside towns, the county has some serious foodie credentials. Here are ten restaurants you absolutely have to try in Cornwall.
Ever wondered what dining in a former bank would feel like? Fitzroy not only benefits from an unusual setting – a fabulous seaside spot in a historic building – but also from the creative spirit of restaurateurs David Gingell and Jeremie Cometto, the team behind Primeur and Westerns Laundry in London. It’s the hottest place to dine out in Cornwall this summer!
Temple, Bude
Temple takes you on a culinary foodie journey around the world – so if you’re up for an exotic vacation right in the heart of Cornwall, this is the place for you. In the evenings, expect dishes like pea, feta and za’atar fritters and hake with XO sauce. If vegetarian comfort food tickles your fancy, don’t miss their famous kimchi grilled cheese sandwich.
With fantastic seafood and breathtaking views across St Ives Bay to Godrey Lighthouse, Porthminster Beach Café ticks all the boxes for a seaside supper. The restaurant has won several awards and continues to receive rave reviews from OpenTable diners. See for yourselves and try their culinary speciality: Mediterranean and Asian-inspired seafood dishes.
Penrose Kitchen, Truro
The award-winning Penrose Kitchen is in a peaceful, rural setting surrounded by lily ponds. Head chef Ben Harmer wows diners with a modern European menu that changes with the seasons. It’s the perfect location to be one with yourself and nature and enjoy some fabulous food.
The Idle Rocks celebrates sustainability and prides itself on using locally sourced produce. Head chef Guy Owen’s culinary offerings are a true celebration of Cornish delights with a strong emphasis on seasonal flavours. We recommend grabbing a table on the terrace just in time to catch the sunset whilst sipping on one of their superb cocktails.
Pavilion, Newquay
Pavilion is a firm favourite amongst the locals and it’s easy to see why. Their baked goods are outstanding – brunch fans will love it here. On Friday and Saturday evenings, they serve a tempting menu of seafood and vegetarian small plates. The bold flavours and no-fuss mentality makes Pavilion an absolute pleasure to visit.
Located on the cliffs of Pentire Headland, The Lewinnick Lodge benefits from spectacular sea views and makes for a perfect romantic setting. Tuck into Cornish delights (their specials change twice daily alongside a range of locally sourced seafood dishes) and enjoy the view – you’ll never want to leave.
Rojano’s in the Square, Padstow
Padstow is well known as Cornwall’s foodie spot and Rojano’s in the Square certainly explains why. Owner and multi-award-winning restaurateur Paul Ainsworth has been praised in the culinary scene for his outstanding entrepreneurial talent, so if you are in Cornwall and are serious about good food, then Rojano’s in the Square cannot be missed.
If old Cornish charm floats your boat, then The Wheelhouse will be the restaurant of your dreams. Set in a picturesque fishing village, this seafood restaurant dates back to the 1820s and it’s still a local favourite today. Check the specials board for their daily fresh fish and grill dishes. The Queen Mum once enjoyed a dinner here – if it’s good enough for royalty…
Visit OpenTable to discover more restaurants in Cornwall.
This is a guest post from freelance journalist Beatrice Clark. She has written for Vogue, Glamour and Vanity Fair, among others, and has spent the past 15 years living in France, England and Scotland. She is currently based in Berlin and is always on the hunt for the perfect Eggs Benedict.
