When chef Rick Stein’s series appeared on our TV screens in the mid nineties, Padstow suddenly found itself a food lovers’ destination. Today, as well as the Stein culinary empire, Padstow is full of fantastic places to eat and drink, from high-end bistros to cosy old pubs. And of course, there are always plenty of chippies, pasty shops and ice cream kiosks for those Cornish holiday must-haves.

Padstow Restaurants.

There’s a choice of Rick Stein establishments in Padstow: the Seafood Restaurant where it all began, or the relaxed St Petroc’s Bistro, where Ruby’s Bar serves cocktails. 

Rick Stein also runs The Cornish Arms pub in St Merryn, a café in the centre of town, and the fish & chips restaurant and takeaway by the quay. As you can imagine, all serve perfectly prepared seafood, along with other delectable Cornish produce.

Looking for a more relaxed meal out? Padstow and the surrounding villages have more than their fair share of cosy old inns, where you can enjoy a pint of local ale along with proper pub classics. In town, try the Old Custom House or the London Inn.

Padstow Pubs and Bars.

Drinks wise, don’t miss a pint from the local breweries, Sharps of Rock and Padstow Brewing Company (also try their Sunshine Cider), and there’s always plenty of St Austell’s finest on tap. Padstow is close to Camel Valley Vineyard (read more about Vineyards in Cornwall), which produces award-winning wines. A glass of their chilled sparkly on a warm evening is a true Cornish pleasure.

Special Meals in Padstow.

Planning something special? Try No.6, a Michelin-star restaurant from the Paul Ainsworth family, housed in an elegant Georgian building and offering a modern British menu. Caffè Rojano is a real locals’ favourite, serving authentic Mediterranean dishes. 

The Pig at Harlyn is definitely worth the short taxi ride. This country house restaurant grows a lot of its food onsite, the chef and gardener working as a team to create wonderful seasonal dishes.