As a local expert in Cornwall, I can confidently say that it is one of the best foodie destinations in the UK. From fresh seafood to award-winning cream teas, Cornwall offers a diverse range of culinary experiences that cater to every palate. In this article, I’ll be sharing my personal recommendations on where to stay to indulge in the best cuisine Cornwall has to offer.
Where to Stay for the Best Cuisine
When it comes to finding the best cuisine in Cornwall, the first thing to consider is where to stay. There are plenty of options, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Here are my top picks:
St. Ives
If you’re looking for a picturesque seaside town with excellent food, then St. Ives should be your first choice. The town is known for its art galleries, but it’s also home to some fantastic restaurants.
- Porthminster Beach Cafe: This award-winning restaurant serves up some of the freshest seafood in the region, with stunning views of the beach and harbour.
- The Cornish Arms: Run by celebrity chef Rick Stein, this upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Cornish and Asian cuisine, along with a great selection of beers and wines.
Padstow
Another coastal town that’s worth visiting for its food is Padstow. The town is home to some of Cornwall’s most famous chefs, including Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth.
- Stein’s Fish and Chips: Located right on the harbour, this casual eatery serves up some of the best fish and chips in town, using the freshest local ingredients.
- Paul Ainsworth at No.6: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers contemporary British cuisine in an elegant setting, with an extensive wine list to complement the dishes.
Falmouth
If you’re looking for a town with a more laid-back vibe, then Falmouth is a great option. The town is known for its creative food scene, which includes everything from vegan cafes to traditional pubs.
- The Wheelhouse: This unique seafood restaurant is located in a converted fishing boat, offering fresh and delicious seafood dishes, along with stunning views of the harbour.
- The Pandora Inn: This waterfront pub offers classic British dishes, along with a great selection of beers and ciders, and a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Truro
If you want to stay in the heart of Cornwall, then Truro is a great option. The city is known for its Gothic cathedral and historic architecture, but it’s also home to some fantastic restaurants.
- Mannings Hotel: This historic hotel has been serving up delicious food since the 1930s, with a focus on classic British cuisine, and a great selection of cocktails and wines.
- The Rising Sun: This modern gastropub offers contemporary cuisine with a Cornish twist, along with a great selection of drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.
My Personal Story
One of my favorite foodie experiences in Cornwall was visiting The Hidden Hut in Portscatho. The Hidden Hut is a beachside cafe that’s only open during the summer months, run by a husband and wife team who serve up delicious, locally-sourced food. I went there for a lunchtime feast with friends, and we were not disappointed. We started with a platter of local cheeses and charcuterie, followed by a seafood paella that was bursting with flavor. The cafe has a relaxed, bohemian vibe, and it was the perfect spot to spend a lazy afternoon by the sea.
Final Thoughts
Cornwall is a foodie paradise, and there’s no shortage of delicious restaurants to explore. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of traditional British cuisine, you’ll find something to suit your tastes in Cornwall. The region’s food scene is diverse, with a mix of classic and modern cuisines, vegan options, and seafood that’s straight off the boat.
In addition to the towns mentioned above, there are many other places worth exploring in Cornwall for their food. The county has many small villages with charming pubs that serve up delicious homemade food, as well as food festivals and markets that offer a taste of local produce. Some notable ones are:
- The Old Coastguard, Mousehole: This waterfront hotel serves up fresh and seasonal dishes in a cozy atmosphere, with stunning views of the harbour.
- The Gurnard’s Head, Zennor: This pub is located in a remote village on the coast, and serves up delicious food made from local ingredients, along with a great selection of beers and ciders.
- Cornish Food Box Company: This online retailer delivers fresh, locally-sourced produce straight to your doorstep, making it easy to cook up delicious meals using the best ingredients Cornwall has to offer.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Cornwall, the food scene in the region is one that shouldn’t be missed. With a mix of traditional and modern cuisines, and an abundance of fresh, locally-sourced produce, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.