With the only Michelin-starred restaurants in the county, Port Isaac is Cornwall’s ultimate fine dining destination. But it’s not just those seeking a gourmet experience that are catered for; the village, and neighbouring Port Gaverne round the headland, have eating options for everyone, from sandy families with salty dogs in tow to ramblers after a simple pint and a pie. Here’s a round-up of places to eat in and around Port Isaac.
The Pilchard’s Café, Port Gaverne
With uninterrupted coastal views from its pretty garden, this cafe is probably as close as you’ll get to the sea without getting your feet wet. Sandy families and dogs pad in from the beach for delicious seafood tapas and flatbreads, food which has recently earned the cafe the coveted Michelin Plate. There are Cornish craft beers to wash it all down with, as well as cocktails and a great selection of wine, many of them from local growers. Check out their pizza nights. Walk-ins will be lucky to grab a table so best to book ahead.
The Port Gaverne Restaurant
For sensational seafood in a magical spot, the Port Gaverne Restaurant (pictured) is giving the Michelin-starred restaurants in neighbouring Port Isaac a run for their money. Ingredients, fresh from sea and field, are entirely Cornish and seasonal; fish is bought off the boat 50 yards from the door. The whitewashed 17th-century hotel and restaurant is just metres from the beach, with tables under parasols in summer, and flagstones, beams and log fires to warm up by in winter.
Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, Port Isaac
Michelin-starred chef Nathan Outlaw has not one but two restaurants in the village. The original, the Fish Kitchen, is located in an old fisherman’s cottage (naturally) just off the quay, and serves up a daily-changing taster seafood menu inspired by whatever local fishermen land that day (watch them haul their catch onto the quay from the window at the front). Knowledgable, friendly staff, amazing views, an extensive wine list, and beautifully cooked fish dishes designed for sharing …if you’ve come away for a special occasion, this is the place to book.
Outlaw’s New Road, Port Isaac
The latest addition to Port Isaac’s Michelin club, Outlaw’s New Road is located at the top of the village, with amazing views across the rugged north coast. It’s a slightly more casual affair than its posher sibling down the hill — its fixed menu features honest, unfussy fish dishes, perfectly cooked; dishes arrive when they’re ready.
Angry Anchovy, Port Isaac
If you want to take a break from the local seafood eateries, the Angry Anchovy is a welcoming, understated little place (pictured) just off Port Isaac’s main street, serving up the best pizzas this side of Rome (read the reviews if you don’t believe us). The staff are brilliant, the atmosphere warm and buzzing, the pizzas cooked to perfection — there are plenty of veggie options and gluten free bases, too. Dogs will be treated to their own complimentary mini pizza, their picture captured for the restaurant’s doggy wall of fame. It gets very busy so book ahead (well ahead during holidays) for both restaurant and takeaway.
Fresh From The Sea, Port Isaac
As the name suggests, seafood is landed daily onto the quay in Port Isaac, before being hauled up through the winding streets to this fish shop and cafe at the top of the hill. Husband and wife team Callum and Tracey catch crab, lobster, mackerel and Cornish varieties of fish from their own boat and have been championing sustainable fishing practices since 2003. Tuck into crab sandwiches, lobster salads and mackerel pate and toast on the sunny terrace in good weather.
