on 26/07/2023
It’s tricky to whittle down to the top 5 rated independent seafood restaurants in Cornwall, so we have chosen those that offer more than just delectable dishes; they provide a genuine connection to the region's maritime heritage as they are based within the most picturesque villages and harbours in Cornwall. Relax with a beautiful meal and unbeatable coastal views from your table.
From rustic beachside huts to Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, each eatery is driven by a commitment to serve the freshest, most sustainably sourced seafood available from the Atlantic and offer a dining experience to cherish. These unforgettable seafood restaurants will leave you with the taste of Cornwall on your lips, longing to return.
Crowned best date night venue in the UK, TripAdvisor
A charming coastal gem, situated in the picturesque fishing harbour of Mevigissey. Salamander specialise in Cornish sourced produce and locally caught fish, serving food of the highest quality. There’s a reason they’ve reached over 1300 ‘excellent’ TripAdvisor reviews.
With a warm ambiance and a menu brimming with Cornwall's bountiful produce, the Salamander has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Watching the fishing boats return with their catch as you tuck into your meal adds an extra layer of magic to this culinary journey. So, what do you fancy - St Austell Bay scallops or catch of the day?
Voted #6 most exciting place to eat in the UK. Good Food Guide, 2022
If you’re wanting to come away from Cornwall with a deeper appreciation and connection with your plate, chef Nathan Outlaw will provide you with sea food cookery on another level. This luxurious dining establishment has earned multiple Michelin stars and has become a destination for food enthusiasts from around the world, with a terrace and large windows which provide breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline and harbour.
You may have the opportunity to watch over the kitchen preparation – Nathan’s commitment will be instantly clear. The restaurants passion for sustainable seafood is evident in every aspect. The menu features an array of locally sourced, seasonal seafood, ensuring that only the freshest and most responsibly caught fish and shellfish grace diners’ plates. This will be a special dining experience you will be mulling over for months.
‘One of the hottest places in the county’ The Telegraph
Found tucked away along the coast path near Portscatho, the Hidden Hut is a special spot nestled among sand dunes and overlooking the beach. This open-air, on the beach restaurant has been a hidden gem on the culinary scene for some time.
Dining here is truly memorable, with a focus on rustic group dining, doorstep produce, sensational views and a simple outdoor stove to gaze over. The feasts are made to be shared with friends and family and the menu regularly revolves around the freshest catch of the day. On selected summer evenings The Hidden Hut host open-air ticketed feast nights under the stars. Bring your own booze, it’s all about relaxed laid-back vibes!
Named Rum Bar of the Year 2023
A dreamy harbour front shack on the front of St Ives harbour, offering killer rum cocktails, hearty crab platters and views you won’t want to up and leave. Crab plays the star of the show. You can also expect the chefs take on Louisiana clam chowder, fish tacos, crab bao buns... or of course tuck into your classic half or whole loabster. You will not be leaving the Rum & Crab Shack hungry!
The Rum and Crab Shack goes beyond just being a place to dine; it's also a vibrant hub of live music. This makes it a magical and atmospheric place to dine. Look out on to the bustling streets and crystal-clear waters in the harbour and chill in nautical heaven.
‘The quality of the food is little short of miraculous’ The Times
With a focus on locally grown and Cornish sourced ingredients, Michelin star awarded Prawn on the lawn go the extra mile to focus on sustainability. The restaurant's charming and inviting seafood bar not only serves as a focal point but also offers guests a unique insight. Relax by the bar and watch as the skilled chefs prepare delicious tapas style dishes right before your eyes, infusing an element of theatre into your evening out. The sea food is expertly prepared to showcase its full flavour. Tuck in to freshly caught oysters, mussels, mackerel, scallops, and revel in some of the finest seafood in the UK.
