The Good Food Guide, best seafood restaurants in Cornwall

The Good Food Guide - the longest-standing guide to good food and hospitality in England has named some of the top seafood restaurants in its Best Seafood Restaurants in Cornwall. 

Restaurants based in Newlyn, Port Issac, Padstow, and Fowey have all been named on the list, with three of them based in Port Issac.  

On its website, The Good Food Guide said: “Cornwall is known for its breathtaking landscapes, and of course, its abundant seafood. 

“With its rich maritime history and thriving fishing industry due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, it comes as no surprise that Cornwall boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in the country.”

So which Cornish seafood restaurants made the list? 

Argoe | Newlyn 

With plenty of positive reviews on TripAdvisor.com, Argoe has made a big impact on diners in Cornwall, particularly for one diner who said: “Fantastic food and service in a beautiful location on the water's edge. 

“The menu is designed for sharing with generous portions. We had mussels and hake to start, followed by the most delicious Cornish sole and hispi cabbage cooked in lobster butter and herby potatoes – the best meal we had all week. Puddings were also really special.” 

Fitzroy | Fowey 

Fitzroy, Fowey (Image: Google Maps)

Another firm favourite for plenty of people in the Duchy, Fitzroy has also received several positive reviews on TripAdvisor.com.

Although only open on Thursday to Sunday evenings, the restaurant was praised for its “excellent quality service”, and “superb food.” It was also complimented on its selection of wines. 

Fresh From the Sea | Port Issac

More than 400 reviews have been posted on TripAdvisor for Fresh from the Sea in Port Issac. One review left said: “This is the best seafood spot in north Cornwall – and we have been to a few. 

“Great service and atmosphere. The food was so delicious, if we weren’t full, we could have kept eating. This is a must-go-to-place.”  

Mackerel Sky Bar | Newlyn

Mackerel Sky Bar, Newlyn (Image: Google Maps)

More than 1,000 people have rated the Mackerel Sky Bar as ‘excellent’ on TripAdvisor with a full rating of five out of five.

Praised for not only its amazing seafood, and its five-star hygiene rating, but also its staff who were said to be “very polite” by one diner. 

Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen | Port Issac

Outlaw's Fish Kitchen, Port Issac (Image: Google Maps)

Described as “top-notch”, Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen is another restaurant with a lot of high praise on TripAdvisor.

One review left by a very satisfied diner said: “As good as the reviews say – impeccable service, wonderful small cosy restaurant and historic fresh fish. 

“How can a small fillet of mackerel be so wonderful and unforgettable? Raw bass in ginger – amazing as was every dish and great value at £88 for seven courses.”

Outlaw’s New Road | Port Issac

Outlaw's New Road, Port Issac (Image: Google Maps)

Nathan Outlaw has certainly made a big impact on Cornish diners, with his seafood restaurant in Port Issac. Diners have described the service and food as “truly outstanding”, and “mind-blowing”, on TripAdvisor. 

Rick Stein’s Café | Padstow 

Rick Stein's Cafe, Padstow (Image: Google Maps)

Another Padstow favourite, Rick Stein’s Café was praised by one customer who described her California Chicken sandwich as ‘life changing’. 

The Seafood Restaurant | Padstow 

The Seafood Restaurant, Padstow (Image: Google Maps)

According to TripAdvisor, The Seafood Restaurant was opened in 1975 by Rick and Jill Stein and has secured an ‘international reputation’ for serving very fresh fish and shellfish using Rick’s signature classic flavours.