Best restaurants in Padstow

French dining achieved with Cornish produce is the mantra of this Rick Stein outpost, with a menu full of impressive bistro classics. Take advantage of the terrace on sunnier days, where dogs are welcome too.

This unpretentious cafe has made a name for itself thanks to a daily-changing selection of delectable homemade cakes. Afternoon tea is also wildly popular and the light lunch options aren’t to be sniffed at either.

Traditional in look and feel, the Golden Lion places comfort at the heart of all it does, from the cosy atmosphere, to the tempting menu of pub classics including fish and chips with mushy peas. There’s also a stellar Sunday roast for those visiting on the weekend.

Chef Paul Ainsworth challenges Rick Stein’s dominion over Padstow with this fine-dining haunt set inside a Georgian townhouse. Local produce abounds while wow-factor is provided via fun touches including dessert served atop a miniature carousel.

Rick Stein’s inaugural site is still stellar 50 years later, with the seafood bar offering the best seats in the house. This family-run affair has been a key part of Padstow’s dining scene for decades, offering fish-focused menus and excellent ‘dine and stay’ packages.

If you’re not sure where to eat in Padstow, be sure to head to Barnaby’s. Part of the Prawn on the Lawn family, this casual haunt is situated on a vineyard, just a short drive from Padstow. Expect seasonal small plates and an extensive selection of wines.

The most casual of the ‘Padstein’ empire is this stylish chippy which champions fish sourced from non-threatened stock. Seaside tradition dictates enjoying your supper as a takeaway, but there are tables inside for brisker nights.

Mini-golf isn’t often accompanied by good food, but Greens bucks the trend with its menu of locally sourced fish and steaks. Panoramic vistas of the Camel Estuary are also a big part of the appeal, and can be best enjoyed from a seat on the tranquil terrace.

Doing what it says on the tin, this casual spot serves fresh fish dishes alongside gourmet burgers, cooked on a charcoal grill and (naturally) served with fries. Expect set menus and a surprisingly decent selection of vegan and veggie options too.

This waterside restaurant sits within the Harbour Hotel, boasting a la carte menus packed full of fresh seafood and other local produce. Chef patron Alex Aitken serves up fish-focused options, from crab croquettes, and Thai fish broth, to the signature Surf and Turf.

Specialising in wood-fired pizzas (with pasta, light bites and coffee as worthy support acts), Embers offers both traditional and contemporary pizza toppings. It’s also great for those with food intolerances, offering vegan and gluten-free varieties.

A short drive away in idyllic St Merryn, this cafe and wine bar is perfect for all occasions, whether that’s a cosy date night or a catch up dinner with friends. Explore the European-led selection of wines, while feasting on seafood sharing boards.

Need a break from Padstow’s endless seafood options? Head to this Italian kitchen instead, where you will find the likes of fresh pasta and creamy mushrooms atop bruschetta, served with a side of sea views.

Tucked away on the outskirts of Padstow, this relaxed hotel boasts a rather exceptional selection of home-grown produce across its menus. If you’re looking for simple food, done well, you’ll find it here, with sea views and plenty of beers on draught.

The Shorecrest Restaurant serves seasonal produce in a light and airy space, while the outdoor bar is the place to be for sundowner cocktails. Top orders include the Cornish lamb with pressed potatoes and grilled courgettes.

Near Padstow is this traditional boozer taken over by Rick Stein, although thankfully spared the gastropub treatment. Pool, darts and a beer garden ensure this is a pub first, as does the resolutely traditional menu.

Sister to the London original, Prawn on the Lawn combines a fishmongers and stylish seafood bar. Oysters and seafood platters are the main draw, but don’t forget to check out the daily-changing small plates either.

A sibling to No.6, Paul Ainsworth’s casual eatery Caffe Rojano is located right on Padstow’s harbour, offering a prime location and idyllic coastal views. Enjoy comfort food inspired by the Italian restaurants of New York - think fresh pasta, sourdough pizzas and stacked burgers.

A more family-friendly (and cheaper) alternative to Stein’s Seafood Restaurant, this casual cafe with rooms serves an approachable all-day menu of fresh fish and seasonal fare, as well as a dedicated offering for little ones.