Port Isaac, Cornwall is a charming fishing village and a popular holiday destination. With its picturesque streets, bustling harbour, and stunning coastal surroundings, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing cottage holiday. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving the freshest seafood and local Cornish produce.
To help you plan your Cornwall holiday, here are eight of the best places to eat in Port Isaac, from sea-view cafés to family-friendly pubs.
Famed chef Nathan Outlaw brings exceptional British seafood to Port Isaac. Located in the heart of the village, Restaurant Nathan Outlaw has earned two Michelin stars, four AA rosettes, and top ratings in the Good Food Guide. The set menu focuses on sustainable seafood caught locally, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers. Booking in advance is essential.
Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen offers a more relaxed dining experience, located in a 15th-century fisherman’s cottage with low ceilings and harbour views. The menu focuses on simplicity, allowing the quality of fresh local fish to shine. Tables are limited, so early booking is recommended.
The Golden Lion is an 18th-century pub with traditional Cornish charm and stunning sea views. The pub serves classic dishes and fresh seafood, perfect after a coastal walk. The bar area is dog-friendly, making it ideal for visitors with pets.
The Slipway, dating back to 1527, houses the Harbourside Café and Terrace. Enjoy traditional Cornish cream teas, freshly baked scones, local seafood, and a wide range of local ciders and beers. Takeaway fish and chips are also available for beachside dining.
Set in a restored 19th-century Methodist chapel, Chapel Café is family-run and focuses on locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include hearty breakfasts, jacket potatoes, and their award-winning fish finger sandwich. Don’t miss their freshly roasted coffee.
Pilchards is a coastal café located just a few feet from the sea at high tide. Ideal after a cliff walk or beach day, it offers sharing plates, flatbreads, main meals, and a children’s menu. Open seasonally in the high summer months.
The Mote is a romantic spot for fresh, locally sourced Cornish dishes. Perfect for a dinner after sightseeing, it serves both seafood and lighter lunch options. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.
Fresh from the Sea is a small café serving freshly caught fish, lobster, and crab, prepared to order. Enjoy meals in their sunny courtyard or cozy indoor space, with a glass of local wine or cider to accompany your seafood feast.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Port Isaac
If you’re visiting Port Isaac with dogs, the following restaurants welcome canine guests:
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Golden Lion
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The Slipway
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The Mote
After a delicious meal, return to your self-catering holiday cottage in Port Isaac for a relaxing evening by the sea.