Elianne Reed
13 March 2018
Cornwall brings two things to mind when it comes to food – exquisite cream teas with crumbly scones, homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream, and the county's most famous export: the delicious homely Cornish Pasty. Guaranteed to put a smile on your face on a cold winter's day, both of these sweet and savoury delights are also the perfect addition to any summer picnic.
With over 300 miles of beautiful coastline, the area also offers an abundance of freshly-caught seafood - Cornish crab and native oysters, plump mussels and whole lobster, served with crispy green salads and fruity dry white wines. So whether you are partial to a comfort food or prefer something straight from the sea, come to Polruan and Fowey where you will be sure to find something to tempt your taste buds!
Y Viva España!
Inspired by the Pintxo bars of San Sebastian in the North of Spain, this enchanting tapas restaurant is somewhat a surprise, tucked away in the typically English back streets of Fowey. The Chorizo picante, Albondigas and Gambas al ajillo are some of the spirited dishes that will leave you gasping for one of their famous sweet and dark sherries, while the Calamares, Jamon iberico and Patatas bravas will take you straight to the heady evenings of summertime Spain. Here in Pintxo you can also sit outside in warmer weather, Rioja in hand, waiting for postre (dessert) to arrive. But do you dare to add a shot of sherry to your pud like a true Spaniard?
Ibiza under the Cornish stars
Just along the coast in Polkerris is Sam’s On The Beach, one of four up-and-coming restaurants, all of which promise a really magical evening out. With a laid-back Cornish vibe and a great local menu including freshly caught seafood, salads and juicy steaks, you can check out what you'll be eating from the open kitchen with its enormous wood-burner pizza oven. Views of the pretty harbour and St Austell Bay can be seen clearly through huge atmospheric floor to ceiling windows which open in the summer while in the background, blissed out beats play as cool cocktails are served by attentive staff. You really don't have to head for the Balearics to get a touch of Ibiza as you have it right here in Cornwall!
Come in as a stranger and leave as a friend
This charming stone-fronted pub could be straight out of an episode of everybody’s favourite programme and Cornish resident, Doc Martin. Cosy in winter with a roaring open fire, it is also delightful during the summer months, with its beautiful harbour views. The food is typically coastal - sustainable fish, fleshy mussels from the River Fowey, as well as juicy burgers and a selection of plump seasonal vegetables. Your pooch is also welcome, so you might want to keep the burger under wraps.
View towards Fowey from the Lugger Inn
Food with a view
If you fancy something a little grander or you are in Cornwall to celebrate a special occasion, this lovely restaurant with its panoramic views of the Fowey River is the perfect setting. Delicious locally-sourced dishes ranging from Cornish crab and salty mussels to honey-glazed breast of duck and rosemary infused lamb will be sure to get your mouth watering; or pop over for afternoon tea on the terrace – homemade fruit and plain scones, locally made preserves and Cornish clotted cream - heaven!
Let them eat cake
A holiday is the perfect time to step away from generic coffee chains and spend some time in a traditional Cornish tea room. At the temptingly named Crumpets in Polruan, nestled in one of the cobbled streets just off the quay, you can choose between one of these humble griddle cakes with lashings of butter and homemade strawberry jam, a selection of cakes or a scrumptious Cornish Cream Tea. It is the ideal place for canines who fancy an afternoon treat as they extend their very warm welcome to dogs too.
Time for tea at Crumpets Tea Room in Polruan
A different kettle of fish
On sultry summer evenings, pop along to one of the theme nights at this little riverside delight. Here you can feast on freshly caught seafood, lobster, mussels and grilled fish under the Cornish night sky – all made to order. Grab one of the picnic tables dotted about at the side of the river and sit back as live music plays in the background. Without a doubt, Captain Hanks offers the laid-back Cornish vibe that this lovely area is famous for.
If any of these gorgeous eateries have tantalised your taste buds, why not have a look at our selection of cottages in Polruan and places to stay in Fowey, the perfect base to discover all of the wonderful dining options on offer in this lovely area.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.