One of the more casual outposts of celebrity chef Rick Stein’s ‘Padstein’ empire is this intimate cocktail bar, which is just a short walk away from the enticing views of Padstow harbour. Ruby’s Bar is found right next door to French-leaning St Petroc’s Bistro (another Stein establishment) and offers up a slice of cosy glamour - think a wood-panelled bar, banquette seating adorned with plump scatter cushions and walls covered in maritime inspired vintage portraits.
The menu at Ruby’s Bar is a departure from Stein’s other venues in the sense that here, it is all about the drinks. The offering consists of a wide selection of boutique gins, impressive wines and locally brewed beers, but the stars of the show are the house cocktails. You will find all of the usual classics available, such as Espresso Martinis and Negronis, as well as a few twists on famous sips, including a South and Stormy (gin, Bacardi Superior Rum, mint,
lime and ginger with an olive and mint garnish) which is dedicated to Padstow itself.
Other signature cocktails to try include the refreshing Appleflower Bellini (a blend of apple puree, passionfruit syrup and passiflora tea topped with Prosecco) and the Souk Cosmo, which combines Belvedere Pink Grapefruit Vodka with Birchall red berry tea, orange bitters and fresh lime. Your eye might also be drawn to Rick’s Margarita, concocted by the chef himself while he was writing his cookbook ‘Road to Mexico’; the lethal drink mixes Tapiato Blanco, lime juice, Cointreau, mango and Tajin.
For those who prefer wine, there is a selection of by-the-glass options available from across Europe, as well as a handful of Champagnes and Proseccos for those in the mood to celebrate. Of course, if you are staying away from booze altogether, you can instead opt for the likes of Wild Elderflower tonic.