Top Ten Restaurants in Cornwall for Couples, Families and Special Occasions
Cornwall and great food go hand in hand. From beachside cafés to award-winning restaurants overlooking the coast, there's no shortage of memorable places to eat across North Cornwall. Whether you're planning a family holiday, a catch-up with friends, or a special meal for two, these restaurants in and around Padstow offer something for everyone.
Here are ten of our favourite places to book for a fantastic dining experience in Cornwall.
Just off Padstow harbour, Caffé Rojano is a warm and welcoming Italian restaurant perfect for relaxed lunches and laid-back evening meals. Families, couples and groups alike can enjoy seasonal small plates, Napoletana-style pizzas, and fresh pasta dishes bursting with flavour. It's a great spot for sharing good food in a lively atmosphere.
Caffé Rojano, Padstow
Laidback, delicious, and Bib Gourmand-awarded, Rick Stein's Café remains a Padstow favourite. With fresh local seafood, organic meat from nearby farms, and an excellent value three-course à la carte menu, it's ideal for everything from leisurely lunches to relaxed evening dining after a day exploring the coast.
Rick Stein's Café. Copyright James Ram
For a truly memorable dining experience, Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 is one of Cornwall's standout restaurants. Located in the heart of Padstow, the restaurant showcases bold seasonal flavours using the very best local produce, from Porthilly oysters to fish landed fresh from the day boats. Perfect for food lovers celebrating a special occasion.
Paul Ainsworth at Number 6
Small, intimate, and full of character, Prawn on the Lawn is one of Padstow's best-loved seafood restaurants. With only a handful of tables, guests can enjoy the freshest local fish and shellfish in a cosy and sociable setting. It's an excellent choice for seafood enthusiasts looking to sample Cornwall's coastal flavours.
Prawn on the Lawn
Overlooking the Camel Estuary, The Mariners combines stunning waterside views with comforting gastropub dining. From freshly landed seafood to hearty Cornish classics and small sharing plates, there's something on the menu for all ages and appetites. After a walk along Daymer Bay, it's the perfect place to warm up beside the roaring fire.
The Mariners, @lateef.photography
For a more casual dining experience, Burgers and Fish offers gourmet burgers and fresh fish cooked over an open charcoal grill. With a fun atmosphere and menus inspired by the day's local catch, it's a great option for families and groups looking for relaxed, flavour-packed dining in Padstow.
Burgers and Fish, Padstow
If cosy pub dining is more your style, the Cornish Arms in St Merryn is always a popular choice. Combining traditional pub charm with quality local ingredients, the menu features classic favourites alongside Rick Stein-inspired dishes. It's ideal for family meals, relaxed dinners, or a hearty lunch after exploring nearby beaches.
The Cornish Arms. Copyright James Ram
8. The Pickled Chef, Lusty Glaze Beach, Newquay
Set above the stunning Lusty Glaze Beach, The Pickled Chef is worth the trip from Padstow. After a stroll along the sand, settle in to enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, and seasonal specials with spectacular coastal views. A brilliant choice for a memorable meal by the sea.
Lusty Glaze Beach Restaurant
9. Zachary's, On the Sea Wall, Watergate Bay
Perched on the sea wall overlooking Watergate Bay, Zachary's offers incredible views across one of North Cornwall's most iconic beaches. Showcasing seasonal produce such as hand-dived scallops and locally bred pork belly, the restaurant is ideal for everything from family celebrations to relaxed seaside dining.
The view from Zachary's, Watergate Bay. Copyright Lewis Pinder.
Housed in a charming 15th-century fisherman's cottage in Port Isaac, Outlaw's Fish Kitchen has earned a big reputation for exceptional seafood. Chef Nathan Outlaw's sustainable tasting menus highlight the freshest fish landed by local day boats, making this a must-visit destination for seafood lovers visiting Cornwall.
With so many fanatstic restaurants in this area no wonder Gordon Ramsay lives here in this beautiful and DELICIOUS area!
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