If you’re a foodie like me and you’re planning a trip to Padstow in Cornwall, you’re in for a real treat. This picturesque harbour town is known for its lovely views, charming streets and truly delicious food.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer something a little more exotic, Padstow has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from.
I couldn’t write a guide to the best Padstow restaurants without mentioning the pubs too!
From traditional pubs with roaring fires to modern gastro pubs with creative menus, I share my pick of the best spots for a pint or a meal.
Let’s dive into the best pubs and restaurants in Padstow, so you can plan your culinary adventure with ease.
Author Bio: Jessie Moore
Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.
Best restaurants in Padstow
1. The Seafood Restaurant
Address: Riverside, Padstow PL28 8BY
Best for: Mouth-watering seafood
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable seafood experience in Padstow, you can’t go wrong with Jill & Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant – one of my personal favourites.
Located right on the picturesque harbour, this restaurant has been serving up some of the freshest seafood in town for over 40 years.
A truly warm and welcoming atmosphere greets you at this Padstow restaurant.
The decor is simple and elegant, with white tablecloths and wooden chairs adding to the classic maritime feel.
Depending on where you’re sat in the restaurant, we also enjoyed wonderful views of the harbour while we dined.
But of course, the real star of the show here is the food. The Seafood Restaurant prides itself on using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients in their delightful dishes.
The menu changes daily depending on what’s in season, but you can always expect a fantastic selection of fish and shellfish dishes.
Some of the standout dishes at The Seafood Restaurant include the grilled lobster with garlic butter, the pan-fried scallops with black pudding and apple, and the whole lemon sole with caper butter.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can also try the seafood platter. It includes a mouth-watering selection of oysters, langoustines, crab and more.
The wine list is also impressive, with a great selection of white wines and champagnes to complement your meal.
And if you’re not a seafood fan, there are also some meat and vegetarian options available – my boyfriend doesn’t eat fish and is allergic to shellfish, and he got by just fine!
You can even stay overnight, as the restaurant has some rooms – discover my guide to the best hotels in Padstow.
2. Paul Ainsworth at No.6
Address: 6 Middle St, Padstow PL28 8AP
Best for: Michelin-starred dining
For a lovely fine dining experience in Padstow, Paul Ainsworth at No.6 is a must-visit – I’d recommend this one for a special occasion… or just because!
Known for its exceptional food and impeccable service, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a favourite among locals.
The menu at Paul Ainsworth at No.6 is a true celebration of modern British cuisine, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients.
Here, you can expect to find delectable dishes such as roast Cornish turbot with asparagus and wild garlic, and deliciously slow-cooked beef with smoked bone marrow and pickled walnuts.
The restaurant itself is elegant and sophisticated, with a muted colour scheme and plush furnishings.
The service is attentive and knowledgeable. Staff are on hand to guide you through the menu and help you make the impossible decision of which dish to choose.
A fan-favourite element of dining at Paul Ainsworth at No.6 is its tasting menu, which offers a selection of the restaurant’s finest dishes.
This is a great option if you want to sample a range of flavours and textures without committing to a full dish.
Good to know: Paul Ainsworth also owns the beautiful Padstow Townhouse hotel. One of the best luxury hotels in Cornwall – I’d highly recommend a stay here.
3. DuchyGrub
Address: Higher Harlyn Park, St Merryn, Padstow PL28 8SG
Best for: Cornish cuisine
Serving up delicious, locally-sourced food in Padstow, DuchyGrub is a cosy eatery located just a stone’s throw from the harbour.
I think this is the perfect spot to refuel after a day of exploring all of the things to do in Padstow.
The menu at DuchyGrub is a celebration of all things Cornish, with dishes that showcase the best local produce the region has to offer.
Start with a plate of freshly-shucked oysters, or opt for the brill sashimi – both are sure to whet your appetite.
Passionate about providing guests with mouth-watering dishes and also top-quality service, DuchyGrub sees diners coming back time and time again.
With its welcoming atmosphere, attentive service and delicious food, it’s no wonder this restaurant is a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike.
4. The Ivy House Restaurant
Address: Treveglos Farm, St Merryn, Padstow PL28 8NB
Best for: Family-run restaurant
Combining traditional and contemporary elements to create a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, I’d recommend The Ivy House Restaurant for a special occasion or a romantic night out.
Proudly family-owned, The Ivy House Restaurant is an off the beaten track establishment that puts customer experience at the heart of their business.
The menu at The Ivy House Restaurant will leave you struggling for choice – with traditional dishes taking on local favourites.
You can expect to find dishes like venison, fillet steaks and a range of seafood dishes.
The restaurant’s wine list is equally impressive, with a selection of carefully curated bottles from around the world.
The knowledgeable staff are happy to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal.
Make sure you save room for dessert at this Padstow restaurant – trust me, the crème brûlée is a show-stopper!
5. The Old Mill Bistro
Address: The Old Mill House, Little Petherick, Padstow PL27 7QT
Best for: Cosy dining
Tucked away in a charming 16th century former corn mill, The Old Mill Bistro offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The menu at the restaurant might be small, but it’s certainly mighty.
Featuring a range of classic British dishes with a modern twist, the menu is a true celebration of local Cornish ingredients, including seafood and meat.
As this restaurant prioritises using the finest fresh ingredients in their dishes, the menu does change often.
However, you can always expect to find tasty seafood and delicious traditional dishes on offer.
The wine list at The Old Mill Bistro is carefully curated to complement the menu, with a selection of delectable wines from a local vineyard.
If you’re not sure what to choose, the knowledgeable staff are always happy to offer recommendations.
One of the standout features of The Old Mill Bistro is the attentive service. From the moment you step through the door, you’ll be made to feel like a valued guest.
Good to know: As The Old Mill Bistro is a small establishment, they are unfortunately unable to accept bookings of more than six people.
6. The Journeyman Restaurant
Address: Mellingey Mill, Wadebridge PL27 7QU
Best for: Authentic Asian cuisine
For a dining experience that’s a cut above the rest, I’d recommend trying The Journeyman Restaurant in Padstow.
This stylish restaurant offers a fusion of flavour with dishes that are bursting with flavour.
A small restaurant, The Journeyman offers bold flavours in carefully curated dishes. Attentive and knowledgeable, the staff here are always on hand to assist.
The wine list at The Journeyman is extensive, with a range of carefully chosen bottles from around the world to perfectly compliment your meal.
As a small restaurant, you’ll definitely need to book in advance to secure a table.
7. The Pig at Harlyn Bay Restaurant
Address: Harlyn Bay, Padstow, Cornwall PL28 8SQ
Best for: 25 mile menu
I’m a huge fan of The Pig Hotels, primarily because their food offering is just wonderful.
Located in the stunning Harlyn Bay overlooking the sea, this restaurant is a must-visit for foodies in Cornwall.
If you opt to dine outdoors at The Pig at Harlyn Bay Restaurant, you can breathe in the salty ocean air as you enjoy some delightful dishes.
The menu at The Pig is based on the concept of using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create delicious, seasonal dishes.
In fact, the restaurant is committed to a 25 mile menu with the help of local farmers, small producers and fishermen.
The chefs work closely with local suppliers to ensure that the ingredients used in the dishes are always of the highest possible quality.
The restaurant’s interior is rustic but cosy; think shabby chic with mismatched tableware.
You’ll also find an impressive selection of wines to complement your meal, plus some fantastic cocktails for a pre or post dinner tipple.
I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad meal at any of The Pig restaurants (and I’ve had more meals there then I’d care to admit!).
8. Salt and Samphire Cafe & Restaurant
Address: Shop Road, St Merryn PL28 8NP
Best for: Sharing platters
If you are looking for a restaurant that offers a unique and quirky dining experience, then Salt and Samphire Cafe & Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
Located in the heart of Padstow, you’ll dine with a beautiful view of the Padstow harbour. I don’t think it gets much better than dinner and a view.
With monthly feature dishes to give you a taste of cultures far and wide, Salt and Samphire offers mouth-watering street food and delicious drinks to whet your appetite.
You can expect to find a range of seafood dishes as staples, including prawns, scallops, and mussels, as well as meat and vegetarian options.
One of the standout dishes at Salt and Samphire is the seafood platter, which features a selection of delicious fresh Cornish seafood.
The platter is perfect for sharing and is a great way to try a variety of different seafood from local fishermen.
The restaurant has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that really draws you in.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a sharing meal to enjoy with a group of friends and family, Salt and Samphire is a top choice.
9. Caffè Rojano by Paul Ainsworth
Address: 9 Mill Square, Padstow PL28 8AE
Best for: Italian-inspired dishes
Expertly combining Italian and British cuisine, Caffè Rojano by Paul Ainsworth is the perfect place to visit for hearty dishes with a side of soul.
Located in Padstow itself, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
The menu at Caffè Rojano is full of delicious dishes that are sure to excite your taste buds – from homemade pasta to fresh seafood, there is plenty of choice.
The restaurant also offers a vegetarian and vegan menu, as well as a gluten and dairy-free menu – so you can enjoy a meal no matter your dietary restrictions.
One of the standout dishes at Caffè Rojano is the mouth-watering braised ox cheek tagliatelle.
Another must-try dish is the flavoursome chorizo and feta pizza, made with pickled red onions, red chillies, parmesan and parsley.
The restaurant has a rustic and cosy atmosphere, with wooden tables and exposed brick walls.
Staff are knowledgeable about the menu and wine list, and are happy to make recommendations based on any preferences you might have.
Good to know: Caffè Rojano also offers takeaway pizzas and sides to enjoy on the go or at home.
If the weather is good I’d recommend finding a spot on the harbour to enjoy your pizza with a view – just watch out for those pesky seagulls!
10. Embers Wood Fired Pizza
Address: 16 Market Pl, Padstow PL28 8AL
Best for: Delicious pizza
Another of my Italian favourites – and perfect if you’re looking for a delicious pizza in Padstow – is Embers Wood Fired Pizza.
This popular eatery is known for its authentic, Neapolitan-style pizzas that are cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
The menu at Embers Wood Fired Pizza features a range of classic and creative pizza options, all made with fresh, flavoursome ingredients.
From the classic Margherita to the Embers House Special, Gambero Piccante, there are plenty of options to choose from in this Padstow restaurant.
One standout feature of Embers Wood Fired Pizza is their commitment to sustainability.
The restaurant uses eco-friendly packaging and is working alongside Plastic Free Padstow to reduce the amount of plastic waste in the town.
They also have a range of vegan and gluten-free options available, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
In addition to their delicious pizzas, Embers Wood Fired Pizza also offers a selection of starters, salads, and desserts.
Be sure to try their homemade gelato for a sweet treat to finish off your meal.
11. Prawn on the Lawn
Address: 11 Duke St, Padstow PL28 8AB
Best for: Tasty small plates
Another incredible seafood restaurant in Padstow is Prawn on the Lawn.
This restaurant is well-known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes, and it has a great atmosphere that makes it a regular spot for both locals and tourists.
Consistently featured in the renowned Michelin Guide, Prawn on the Lawn serves up mouth-watering seafood dishes with locally-sourced ingredients.
One of the standout dishes at Prawn on the Lawn is the Seafood Orzetto, which features a selection of fresh seafood that’s been expertly prepared.
You can enjoy prawns, clams and other seafood delights, all served with a selection of dips and sauces.
Another popular dish at this establishment is the Whole Padstow Lobster, served chilled on ice or hot with lime & coriander butter.
The drinks menu at Prawn on the Lawn offers a wonderful selection of wines, beers, and cocktails – from Chilli Cucumber Margaritas to Black Cherry Negronis – and the staff are always happy to help with decision making!
12. Rafferty’s Cafe & Wine Bar
Address: St Merryn, Padstow PL28 8NA
Best for: Seasonal ingredients
If you’re looking for a cosy and welcoming spot with great service to enjoy a glass of wine or a cup of coffee, I’d really recommend Rafferty’s Cafe & Wine Bar.
This charming establishment offers a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of drinks and light bites to choose from.
The decor is warm and inviting with comfortable seating. No matter if you’re looking to catch up with friends or enjoy a quiet moment on your own, you’ll feel right at home here.
Their wine list features a range of reds, whites, and roses from around the world, as well as a selection of sparkling wines and champagnes.
If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll appreciate their lovingly crafted espresso drinks and freshly brewed coffee – their expert touch makes all the difference!
If you’re feeling peckish, Rafferty’s Cafe & Wine Bar has a well-curated menu of light bites, mains, sharing dishes and sides.
From sharing Surf N Turf to a Grilled Cornish Scallops little plate, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
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13. Greens of Padstow
Address: North Quay, Padstow PL28 8AF
Best for: Panoramic views
Perched high above the lovely harbour with panoramic views over the Camel Estuary and town, Greens of Padstow is a wonderful dining option in Padstow.
Celebrating classic flavours and local ingredients, this Padstow restaurant combines delicious food with a spectacular view.
Serving breakfast, lunch and evening meals, Greens of Padstow has you covered whatever time of day.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Padstow, Greens of Padstow is a great option.
The menu features a range of tasty vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes.
Located in the heart of Padstow, this restaurant has a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
The decor is simple and modern, with wooden tables and chairs, and green plants dotted around the room.
Good to know: Greens of Padstow also has a mini-golf course for the whole family to enjoy before or after a mouth-watering meal.
Discover more of the best breakfast places in Padstow with my guide.
14. Rick Stein’s Cafe
Address: 10 Middle St, Padstow PL28 8AP
Best for: Cornish charm
For delicious seafood dishes in a relaxed setting in Padstow, Rick Stein’s Cafe is a must-visit.
Located on Middle Street, this cafe is part of the Rick Stein restaurant empire and offers a casual, cosy atmosphere.
The menu at Rick Stein’s Cafe is focused on fresh seafood, with a variety of dishes to choose from as a light lunch, relaxed dinner, or coffee and cake break.
Start with crab linguine, or try something more adventurous like the Tibetan noodle soup.
For mains, you can’t go wrong with the delicious grilled miso salmon or the mouth-watering chargrilled rump steak.
15. Mussel Box
Address: The Drang, 11 Broad St, Padstow PL28 8BS
Best for: Fresh shellfish and mussels
If you’re in the mood for some of the freshest seafood in Padstow, look no further than the Mussel Box.
This charming eatery boasts a fantastic location right on the harbour, giving you stunning views of the water while you dine.
With mussel deliveries twice daily from only a mile across the estuary, fresh means fresh at Mussel Box.
It’s no surprise that the mussels are the star of the show here, and they come in a variety of preparations to suit any taste.
Whether you prefer classic marinère or something a bit more adventurous, like the chilli or curry mussels, you’re sure to find something to love.
The atmosphere at the Mussel Box is casual and welcoming, with friendly staff and a relaxed vibe.
It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends and family, or to grab a quick bite while exploring the Cornish town.
Best pubs in Padstow
Now let’s take a tour of the best pubs in Padstow, so you can enjoy a pint or two in the town’s most popular watering holes.
Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional pub experience or a more contemporary vibe, Padstow has plenty to offer in its pub scene.
1. The Golden Lion
Address: 19 Lanadwell St, Padstow PL28 8AN
Best for: Traditional charm
If you’re looking for a classic pub experience in Padstow, The Golden Lion is a must-visit.
This historic pub has been owned by the same family for over 30 years, and it still retains much of its traditional charm.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy and welcoming atmosphere with low ceilings, wooden beams, and comfortable seating.
The pub is popular with both locals and tourists, so you can expect a lively atmosphere and friendly crowd.
The Golden Lion has a great selection of beers, wines, and spirits, as well as a range of tasty pub classics on the menu.
Their fish and chips are particularly popular and are made with fresh locally caught fish.
If you’re lucky, you might catch some live music at The Golden Lion as they often have local bands and musicians playing in the evenings. It all adds to the pub’s welcoming atmosphere.
2. Shipwrights Pub
Address: North Quay, Padstow PL28 8AF
Best for: Dog-friendly pub
Located on North Quay, this cosy pub is well-known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent selection of local beers and ciders.
Shipwrights Pub is dog-friendly, so bring along your furry four-legged friends too. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome from the staff.
The interior is decorated with nautical memorabilia, giving the pub a charming and authentic feel. The seating area is spacious, with plenty of tables and chairs for you to relax and enjoy your drink.
I’m not a big beer drinker myself, but one of the highlights of the Shipwrights Pub is its selection of real ales.
The pub features a rotating selection of local and regional beers, so there’s always something new to try.
In addition to its impressive selection of drinks, the Shipwrights Pub also serves up some delicious pub grub.
The menu features classic dishes such as fish & chips and ribs, as well as some more adventurous options like smoked tofu fajitas.
All the dishes are made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that you get the best possible taste of Padstow.
Good to know: Alcohol free? That’s not an issue at Shipwrights Pub. With a dedicated low and no alcohol menu, you’ll find a tipple that suits.
3. Harbour Inn
Address: Strand St, Padstow PL28 8BU
Best for: Family-run pub
Located right in the heart of the town, this Padstow pub has been a favourite among locals and tourists for many years.
Harbour Inn is a family-owned establishment that serves up freshly made dishes as well as a tipple or two.
Dedicated to showcasing Cornwall’s speciality spirits, small batch brews and fine wines, as well as some delicious cocktails, this pub is a real part of the Padstow community.
One of the highlights of The Harbour Inn is its food menu. The pub serves up delicious, hearty meals that are perfect for a post-beach lunch or a cosy dinner.
In addition to its food and drink offerings, The Harbour Inn also hosts regular live music events and quiz nights.
If you’re looking for some entertainment during your visit, be sure to check out their schedule.
4. The London Inn
Address: 6-8 Lanadwell St, Padstow PL28 8AN
Best for: Live music
The London Inn offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a cosy interior and friendly staff. This traditional Cornish pub oozes charm, atmosphere and character.
The pub has a great selection of beers, wines and spirits, as well as a menu of classic pub food, including burgers, pies and of course, fish and chips.
One of the highlights of The London Inn is its live music nights. The pub hosts regular performances from established and upcoming local musicians, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere for you to enjoy.
From fillet steaks and smoked haddock to mushroom bao buns and grilled halloumi, this Padstow pub is sure to have a dish that’s perfect for your tastes.
5. The Old Custom House
Address: South Quay, Padstow PL28 8BL
Best for: Pub classics
With a relaxed atmosphere and touch of local charm, The Old Custom House is a great choice for anyone hoping to grab a refreshing drink or bite to eat.
Located on the harbour front, this Padstow pub has been a favourite in the town for decades.
The Old Custom House offers a great selection of drinks, including local ales and ciders, as well as a variety of wines and spirits.
If you’re feeling hungry, the pub serves delicious pub food made with locally sourced ingredients.
With tasty sharing flatbreads, delicious nibbles and mouth-watering mains, The Old Custom House has a lot to offer.
Pair with a refreshing drink and you’re in for a real treat!
Discover more of my Padstow content:
Do you have a favourite spot in Padstow or Cornwall? Let me know in the comments!
For more foodie inspiration, discover the best seafood restaurants in Cornwall or the top spots for afternoon tea in Cornwall.
Looking for somewhere to stay? Read my guide to the best luxury hotels in Cornwall or discover the top hotels in Padstow.
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