With trendy gastropubs, seafood restaurants and specialist eateries aplenty, Falmouth is renowned for its bustling foodie scene. We pick eight of the best places to eat out in this pretty portside town.
33 High Street
With previous spells cooking in some of London’s most prestigious kitchens, head chef Ken quit the Big Smoke for the shores of Falmouth in 2009 - and with good reason. The Symonds’ husband and wife team opened the intimate and homely restaurant Oliver’s to rave reviews and full-bookings. The restaurant recently changed hands to Matthew and Ceri Unwin-Springett with their four children and was given a brand new look (and name) in 2020. They've continued the legacy and promise delicious meals from seasonal local produce.
Upton Slip
Decked out in sunburned wooden chairs and tables, fairy lights hung on the bar, this place is the hidden treasure when it comes to Falmouth’s nautically themed restaurants. Hidden off the beaten track, The Wheel House has a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for enjoying seafood on the quayside. Their policy: modesty and taste - literally. With only four seafood dishes on the menu, you’d be forgiven for trying them all. Choose from oysters, mussels, crab or prawn, all served in Portuguese cataplama dishes (so made for sharing) with chive butter and squeezed lemon.
30 Arwenack St
The Brig has a brand new cocktail menu and an inspired menu (Rum & Raisin rack o’ ribs, anyone?). Described as a London cocktail bar with a Pirate twist’, the restaurant itself is located downstairs in a low-lit bar area; think long wooden banqueting tables and leather upholstery. If you're feeling brave enough, take on board the 666 Challenge; eat six incredibly hot chicken wings in as many minutes and you'll be rewarded with a free cocktail and your name above the bar. Good luck!
16 Arwenack St
Replacing beer with cider as the ultimate soulmate to pizza, The Stable has a low-key ambiance to their restaurants and has different menus in each of its locations. Falmouth is naturally home to such creations as The Pendennis Piggy (in reference to it famous landmark), The Blazing Saddle and The Mignonette featuring Cornish blue cheese and Spanish onions. If pies are more to your taste, look out for the Lamb Bam Boogie, featuring the title act alongside rosemary, garlic, potato and honey. Keen to try before you buy? Don’t miss the Flight of Fancy option with five flavours to experience for £10. This rustic dining experience – with exposed brick walls and original beams – is set out over two floors with two private first-floor dining rooms.
Saint Michaels Hotel, Gyllyngvase Beach
Combining their 2 AA rosettes with floor to ceiling panoramic views of Gllyngvase beach, Brasserie by the Bay is not to be missed. Their promise to take food seriously’ is reflected in the focus on a 'Farm, Field & Ocean' menu, as well as their dedication to have produce caught in the morning and served by lunchtime. Cornish Executive Head Chef Darren and his brigade work closely with local producers, farmers and fishermen so the menu is always changing and always delicious. Finally, enjoy a nightcap at the bar in the round with soft glow lighting for a romantic ambience.
Maenporth Beach
For an elite dining experience you should probably give the Cove restaurant a visit. Known for their world-class seafood and impeccable service, not to mention the breath-taking views of Falmouth Bay, The Cove offers customers the chance for every kind of dining experience, whether it’s a four-course dinner or tapas at the bar.
33 Arwenack St
With a menu packed full of Caribbean favourites, Cribbs transports you from the beautiful beaches of Falmouth to the sunny Caribbean Isles without leaving the restaurant. Whether you’re after some traditional Jamaican akee and salt fish, or your taste buds are tingling for some spicy jerk chicken, there are plenty of delicious dishes to satisfy your appetite. To finish the meal, sip a thirst quenching Caribbean cocktail at the bar whilst soaking up the lively atmosphere.
29 High Street
Our last choice in Falmouth takes you across the channel with delicious and hearty French cuisine. Owners, Andy and Freyja, set out to create La Cave having been inspired by their many trips to France and have previously run eateries in Ireland and Cornwall. They have a simple ethos that the food should be great and the atmosphere just as good. Relax by the piano with a bottle of wine as you peruse the menu.
This article was updated by Martha Griffiths in July 2021.
