Padstow needs little introduction. It is arguably the most famous dining destination in the South West. While Rick Stein put it on the map, a new wave of chefs has turned this harbour town into a diverse culinary playground.
From Michelin-starred tasting menus in Georgian townhouses to the best pasty you will ever eat on a harbour wall, here is our curated guide to eating out in Padstow.
The Padstow Food Map
Map coming soon! We are currently curating the interactive map for this guide. Check back shortly.
The “Best in Cornwall” Top Picks
These three restaurants are world-class. If you are booking a trip to Padstow specifically for the food, these are the tables you need to secure.
1. Paul Ainsworth at No.6 (Best for Fine Dining)
While Stein rules the seafood scene, Paul Ainsworth rules the fine dining scene. Located in a beautiful Georgian townhouse, this is the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the town centre.
- The Vibe: Warm, intimate, and thrilling. You can watch the chefs at work through a window into the kitchen. It feels special but never stuffy.
- The Food: Modern British with a playful twist. His signature dish, “Yesterday’s Scone” (a dessert using sourdough and clotted cream), is legendary.
- Good to Know: You need to book this 3–6 months in advance.
2. Prawn on the Lawn (Best for Seafood)
This started as a tiny fishmonger-cum-restaurant and has become a cult favourite. It is widely considered one of the coolest places to eat in the UK.
- The Vibe: High energy, rustic, and bustling. It’s small, loud, and fun.
- The Food: The menu changes daily based on what the boats land. It’s all about small plates—think seared tuna with chilli or whole crab to share.
- Good to Know: If you can’t get a table at the main restaurant, try their sister restaurant “Barnaby’s” just outside town at Trevibban Mill Vineyard.
3. The Seafood Restaurant (The Icon)
Rick Stein’s flagship restaurant. Opened in 1975, this is the place that started it all. It is still a bucket-list destination for food lovers.
- The Vibe: Grand, airy, and always busy. The central seafood bar is a great spot for couples to eat oysters and watch the chefs shuck.
- The Food: Classic, unpretentious seafood. The Fruits de Mer platter is the ultimate indulgence here.
Casual & Cool
- Duchy Grub: The ultimate “Insider Tip.” Located slightly out of town (St Merryn) in a holiday park, this tiny bistro serves some of the most creative small plates in Cornwall. It is a hidden gem that locals try to keep to themselves.
- Rick Stein’s Café: If you want the Stein experience without the flagship price tag, come here. It’s cosy, casual, and focuses on fresh fish with Asian flavours (the cod curry is famous).
- Greens of Padstow: Perched above the harbour, this is the best spot for a family lunch with a view. It has a mini-golf course attached, making it a winner if you have kids in tow.
Pubs & Pasties
- The Golden Lion: The oldest pub in town and the spiritual home of the ‘Obby ‘Oss festival. It’s a proper traditional pub with dark wood, local ales, and a roaring fire.
- Chough Bakery: You can’t leave Padstow without a pasty. Chough Bakery (on the harbour front) is an award-winner. Their pasties are famous for having an extra dollop of Cornish clotted cream mixed into the filling for richness.
- The Cornish Arms: Owned by Rick Stein but run as a traditional pub. Located in St Merryn, it has a huge beer garden and serves arguably the best scampi in the county.
Coffee & Cake
- Cherry Trees: A cute, pink-fronted cafe right on the harbour edge. It’s the go-to spot for a morning coffee or a massive slice of homemade cake. The “Breakfast Bap” here is a local ritual.
Parking for Foodies
Padstow is notorious for traffic. Plan ahead.
- Harbour Car Park: Right in the centre, but it fills up by 10am in summer.
- Link Road Car Park: A 5-10 minute walk uphill from the harbour. It’s your best bet for finding a space if you are arriving for lunch.
- Park & Ride: In July/August, use the Park & Ride at the top of the hill. It saves a lot of stress.
Staying the night?
You’ll need a nap after all that food. Check out our guide to the best places to stay in Padstow