The Best Restaurants In Cornwall

Known for its dramatic coastline and mild climate, Cornwall as you may expect specialises in outstanding seafood most of which is caught just off the coast nearby. With no shortage of places to wine and dine in some incredible spots overlooking areas of natural beauty, we wanted to share a few highlights of the best restaurants in Cornwall…

TOLCARNE INN

Built in 1717, this 300 year old historic maritime pub, The Tolcarne Inn, Newlyn Harbour is definitely one for the foodie hit list. Working closely with local fishmongers, restaurant owner Ben Tunnicliffe keeps things simple with a chalk board style menu so that only the freshest most seasonal fish are used each and everyday. This not only makes for a different experience each time you visit, but also ensures the sustainability of Cornwall’s precious fisheries for future generations.

In 2013 (just one year after opening) the Tolcarne Inn was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand (meaning good food at affordable prices) and has kept it ever since. The perfect spot to enjoy a real ale after a long day of exploring or for a super special three course meal. Winter brings jazz music, roasts and the warmth of the wood burner, whilst warmer months can be enjoyed on the terrace for an al fresco seafood lunch in the sun. Top tip: Dog friendly!

To see the sample menu or find out more about the Tolcarne Inn visit the website here.

KOTA

Kota meaning ‘shellfish’ in Maori is perfectly positioned in the harbour of Porthleven. Run by head chef /  owner Jude Kereama (half Maori and half Chinese Malay) and his wife Jane (head of the front of house team), the restaurant offers a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Proud owners of a third AA rosette (one of only four in Cornwall) as well as an extensive list of other notable awards, Kota is definitely one of the best kept secrets in Cornwall.

The restaurant is set within a 300 year old building right on the harbour front and has a small B&B with two rooms available for guests who would like to extend their stay in the idyllic port. The menu is a creation of culinary magic by Jude who uses only the best local produce with his signature Asian twist. Find out more about Kota and the mouth watering menu here..Or for an even more relaxed family dining experience, discover Kota Kai (also in Porthleven) the sister restaurant to Kota here!

RESTAURANT NATHAN OUTLAW

The remarkable Restaurant Nathan Outlaw is situated at the top of Port Isaac. Earning the title of Britain’s number 1 restaurant by The Good Food Guide in 2018 and 2019, Restaurant Nathan Outlaw is the only fish restaurant in the UK to hold not 1 but 2 Michelin stars.

Exclusively serving one set seafood menu the restaurant aims to highlight the very finest and sustainable seafood caught by small day boats. The simple, honest and respectful approach to seafood at Restaurant Nathan Outlaw creates an unforgettable experience that sets it among the greats.

The first floor dining room of the restaurant is small and intimate, accommodating parties of up to 6 guests. Downstairs the kitchen bar overlooks the kitchen, and is suitable for parties of up to 8 guests. Don’t worry its not all about fish – we hear the desserts are absolutely amazing too!

If you would like to take the dishes home with you (sadly not literally) you can purchase the new Nathan Outlaw cookbook here. 80 of his favourite recipes features on the menu at the restaurant are brought to life within its pages. From spring crab and asparagus recipes right through to scallops in late winter, the book offers seasonal recipes that celebrate the Cornish coastline.

To make a reservation or find out more, visit the restaurant Nathan Outlaw website here.

THE SHORE

Channeling years of expertise and passion into each and every dish, The Shore, Penzance offers a small seafood menu crafted from the best ingredients available on a daily basis. Ethically sourced produce is at the head of every dish at The Shore restaurant building relationships with true specialists in their field which inevitably results in dishes worthy of praise.

“I source the best quality and freshest fish from Newlyn market daily with emphasis on sustainability and quality and supporting the local fishermen. By creating dishes focusing on local vegetables & herbs, some from my own garden, most from local farms, I write a menu which celebrates our county and country. The Shore is a small family owned restaurant with just me in the kitchen (I am also the decorator, handyman, receptionist and occasional waiter). I arrive early each day to make the bread (using organic flour from Jonathan Cook at Prior’s Flour Mill in Cambridge) and to prepare all of the fish and accompaniments for the menu. Everything here is made on site by myself so if you have any questions or dietary requirements, given notice, I can tailor my menu to suit you.” – Bruce Rennie.

Booking at The Shore is always essential due to the nature of service. For more information and to find out about the The shore cookbook which is due for release in August 2019 (which we can’t wait to get our hands on) visit the website here

Images, Luke Brown, Kate Whitaker, David Loftus and Nathan Outlaw Restaurants, Kota, Nick Hook Photography, Michelle Martin (on behalf of ‘A Way With Media’).