With new independent eateries popping up, Newquay town centre is now the place to be for trendy foodies, whether they’re after a healthy salad box, a mixed grill or something from down under. Be sure to check out some of these spots when exploring Newquay.
The Jam Jar
If you’re looking for something tasty but packed with healthy ingredients then The Jam Jar is the place for you! Owned by Jessica Davis, former pastry chef in Australia, this cake shop and café uses local ingredients (sometimes from the back gardens of friends and family) to make homemade and mostly gluten free cakes, salads and smoothies. You may have guessed, but everything is served in jam jars and the building itself is designed to be completely eco-friendly. So far, it’s been a bit of a local hangout – popular with those coming in after a surf for an organic Origin coffee, hot chocolate or piece of cake! Find the car park entrance of Sainsbury’s and look directly opposite – it’s right there!
Gilmore’s Golf
Just a couple of minutes from Newquay town centre, this quirky café is a diner with a twist. Inspired by the owner Elsie’s surfing trips to California (check out the neon wetsuits hanging from the ceiling), this laidback venue offers a range of homemade Mexican and Southern-Californian inspired food at reasonable prices. Head there from 8am for a filling breakfast (Mexican Eggs are a personal favourite) or sip cocktails until 9pm, and don’t forget to try the tacos for lunch! Head towards Fistral Beach from Newquay town centre and turn left at Tower Road, then look for the big golf course – it’s just before that. Oh yes, the twist is the pitch n putt course!
Gusto Grill & Roast
This Cornish-Mediterranean takeaway has quickly become one of the most well loved places to lunch in Newquay. Serving flatbreads filled to the brim with delicious ingredients and salad boxes, it’s a filling and nutritious alternative to the Cornish pasty or fish and chips – choose from six vegan salads, two proteins, a chunk of freshly baked bread and a spicy dressing, and even try the Sunday Lunch Box for a twist on your usual Sunday roast. This place has some great reviews, so be sure to check it out and judge for yourself – head for the harbour from town and before you get to the steps it’ll be on your right. Enjoy!
Bush Pepper
This quirky contemporary restaurant combines Australia and Cornwall’s finest ingredients in some pretty daring recipes – kangaroo burger anyone? After 12 years of travelling, owner Chris has learnt to use food miles to his advantage, and incorporates the finest dishes from all over the world into his menu. More daring dishes include the Bush Tucker Breakfast and Crocodile Croquettes, but if you’re not feeling too adventurous, try his risottos, seafood, soups and vegetable dishes. Open from 10 until late every day, you’re sure to find something you love – head past the Animal shop in the town centre and it’ll be on your left.
The Fish House
Overlooking Fistral Beach, this is a seafood-lovers dream. Opened by Paul Harwood (who was taught by Rick Stein), this beachfront restaurant takes pride in serving local seafood accompanied by local produce – and making it delicious. The Sri Lankan prawn curry is to die for, but if you’re not a fan of seafood then don’t panic – they do a delicious steak too. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic meal, but if you’ve got little ones then it’s a great place to introduce them to the freshest seafood!
Little Italy
This small family-owned takeaway and restaurant offers tasty Italian food, great service and a lovely atmosphere both for kids and adults. The menu caters for pizza and pasta lovers, with stone baked pizza and simple Italian food cooked as traditionally as possible. There are child-sized portions available, so there’s sure to be room for some delicious gelato ice cream, as well as plenty of Italian wine, beer and liqueurs for the adults. Everything’s made fresh to order, and what ingredients they can they get from Cornish producers, or if not Italy. From town, head towards Fistral and turn left at the mini roundabout to Tower Road, it’ll be right in front of you.
