Dining in Polkerris is an al fresco affair. It is one of the few places in Cornwall where you can eat dinner while watching your children play in the waves just a few metres away. It is relaxed, barefoot, and famous for its sunsets.
From wood-fired scallops in an old RNLI station to a pint of local ale on a sun-drenched terrace, here is our curated guide to eating out in Polkerris.
Our Top Picks
These are the two main restaurants that define the cove.
1. Sam’s on the Beach
Housed in the old RNLI lifeboat station, this is the coolest spot in the bay. It features huge glass windows that let you watch the sea regardless of the weather.
- The Vibe: Lively, loud, and incredibly fun. The kitchen is open-plan, centred around a huge wood-fired oven. It feels like a beach party every night.
- The Food: It is famous for two things: fresh local seafood (often landed in the bay) and stone-baked pizzas. The “Moules Marinière” with a side of garlic bread is a local staple.
- Good to Know: Booking is essential for dinner. However, they often keep some lunch tables free for walk-ins if you arrive early.
2. The Rashleigh Inn
Known locally as “The Inn on the Beach,” this pub sits right on the harbour wall. It has been serving locals since the days of smuggling.
- The Vibe: Traditional and friendly. It has a large outdoor terrace that is the prime spot for watching the sunset with a drink in hand. Inside, it’s cosy with a proper pub atmosphere.
- The Food: Excellent pub classics. They are renowned for their Sunday Roast and their fresh crab sandwiches. It is less “rowdy” than Sam’s, making it a great spot for a relaxed lunch.
Casual & Takeaway
- The Hungry Sailor Café: Located in the old pilchard store behind the beach. This is the place for quick bites. They serve fantastic Cornish pasties, loaded hot chocolates, and local ice cream. It’s perfect if you don’t want to stop building sandcastles for lunch.
- Pizza Takeaway: Sam’s on the Beach often offers a takeaway service for their pizzas. Eating a “Sam’s Special” out of the box while sitting on the harbour wall is a quintessential Polkerris experience.
Parking for Foodies
- The Private Car Park: Polkerris has one main car park, which is privately owned. It is about a 200m walk down to the beach.
- Warning: It fills up incredibly fast in the summer. If it is full, do not try to park on the narrow lane leading down to the beach—you will cause a traffic jam.
- The Alternative: Park at Par Sands (long stay) and walk the coast path around the headland to Polkerris (approx. 20-30 mins). It builds up an appetite!
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