Cornwall’s secret summer sweet spots
Want to enjoy Cornwall in glorious Summer sunshine? Not so keen on sharing the beautiful beaches, cool cafes and enticing cliff paths with Summer holiday crowds?
Whilst experiencing the magic our chefs conjure up each evening would be our first recommend, you may wish to vary your dinner plans and tick a few places off the list. Cornwall is a foodie hotspot after all, from gourmet restaurants to some of the finest fish and chips in the UK, best enjoyed on soft sand, next to lapping waves.
Tip from the team: as our shores are a top destination for many this summer, we wouldn’t leave making dinner reservations until you arrive. Please book tables as early as possible to get your taste buds tingling, and to avoid disappointment.
To write home about
Barnaby’s
Barnaby’s pride themselves on bold flavours and a ‘round a friend’s house for dinner’ vibe. The baked cheesecake on their Instagram looks amazing, and you’ll be hard pushed to decide on which small plates to sample.
Emily Scott at Watergate
Beautiful décor and spectacular food - one to really look forward to. We hear on the grapevine that the roasted turbot to share is something special. If you’re looking for a table in August, you’ll need to book very soon.
Fitzroy
Marvel at the chefs as they work, enjoy the great atmosphere and delight in Michelin star dishes.
Casual dining
Catch Seafood Bar and Grill
For seafood lovers, with other options from the grill too. Locally-sourced, imaginative, dog-friendly and cocktails.
Woodfire at the Mill
Seemingly always a hit. Rustic, very cool, fresh, and cooked by fire. Expect to find stonebaked pizzas this summer and slow cooked, smokey dishes where flavour is key, the rest of the time. They’re popular and you need to book on Sunday for the coming week, from 12 noon.
The place for pizza, paired with an Aperol. A beautiful alfresco setting in the pretty village of Crantock. You'll find the usual favourites and more unusual flavourings such as fig, honey and brie. Walk in only - the team advises that you head their early evening and finish with a walk across the beach.
The Cornish Arms
Nestled in the pretty village of St Merryn, Rick Stein’s ‘simple British pub’ boasts an impressive wine list, and a familiar menu of pleasing classics. This gastro offers many fish dishes such as scallops, prawns, grilled sardines and lemon sole, but there are curries, salads and other options too.
The Falcon Inn
Their motto: good food, good ale, good atmosphere. If a wholesome Cornish pub is what you’re searching for, head to this picturesque spot. Walk-in only.
Mexican food served in an understated setting. Tacos, burritos, nachos and really good margaritas. Oh, and you can enjoy a round of mini golf too. Currently running an Indian pop up on Wednesdays. Walk in only.
Blue Fish Bar, Mawgan Porth
If all other options fail, or you’re craving traditional fish and chips, this is your place. They’re fried in beef dripping for extra flavour (something for vegetarians/vegans to be mindful of). Is there anything better than the feeling of unwrapping vinegary paper whilst gazing out to sea?
Best for last
Café Rojano
Serving impressive Mediterranean cuisine, in popular Padstow. Simply take a look at their gallery online and you’ll be compelled to try. Michelin quote: 'There’s always a lively buzz at this smart brasserie.'
