The top 9 Polzeath restaurants and pubs

The popular seaside village of Polzeath is renowned for its magnificent beach, a sweeping arc of golden sand loved by families for bucket-and-spade days as well as surfers looking to catch some great waves. Also a favourite of royalty and celebrities, Polzeath offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and lively holiday atmosphere. There are many delicious Polzeath restaurants for visitors to choose from, such as seafood restaurants and cosy pubs.

Everything you need is within easy reach, from surf shops and boutiques to a choice of pubs and restaurants. And whether you’ve spent the day in the sea, playing golf or walking the South West Coast Path, you’ll be ready to reward yourself with a sunset cocktail, a seafood platter or a gourmet dinner. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of restaurants in Polzeath, ranging from informal cafes and classy dining destinations to a cool rum bar on the beach itself.

If your mouth is watering at the thought of trying Polzeath’s restaurants and pubs, check out our selection of holiday cottages nearby. You’ll find relaxing destinations of all kinds, from indulgent couples’ escapes to houses suitable for large groups, many of them welcoming your canine companions too. Simply click below to find out more. 

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Polzeath Restaurants

The Waterfront

With gorgeous views over the beach and to Pentire Point, The Waterfront is one of the best Polzeath restaurants. It is a family- and dog-friendly restaurant that serves food and drink all day. You can pick up takeaway fish and chips too, and in the winter, Friday nights are Thai-takeover nights. Portions are generous and the menu is broad, with a good choice of fresh fish and seafood. Not surprisingly, The Waterfront is popular, so it’s a good idea to book for dinner. 

The Atlantic

If you’re searching for Polzeath restaurants with a relaxed atmosphere, at The Atlantic, everyone is welcome, even if you’ve come straight off the beach or are bringing a four-pawed friend. With a frontline position overlooking the Atlantic, you can watch the surfers and enjoy spectacular sunsets. The restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired food with a Cornish influence, changing seasonally and with daily specials. Don’t miss the Treleavens ice cream, made on a farm just a few miles away.

The Cracking Crab

Another great Polzeath restaurant and place to sit and watch the surf is The Cracking Crab, which is set on the clifftop above Polzeath Beach. There’s something for everyone, whether you want coffee and cake, an ice cream, a sandwich or salad, or a more substantial supper. Fresh, local seafood is a speciality, but there are also veggie options, West Country steaks and more, complemented by an extensive wine list and fully stocked bar. Booking is advisable for dinner.

TJ’s

Relaxed and friendly, this beachside Polzeath restaurant accompanies an indie surf shop of the same name, and has been a fixture in the village since 1987. TJ’s roof terrace and bar offers breakfast, lunch and evening meals, with a kids’ menu. Expect simple, beachside favourites, delicious cakes and daily specials often inspired by world food, made using locally sourced ingredients. There are regular live-music sessions too. It’s a good idea to book for lunch and dinner during school holidays.

Flo’s Kitchen

Beachside bar and coffee shop Flo’s Kitchen claims to serve the best cup of joe in town, plus healthy, home-made alternatives to the usual seaside fare, and some naughty treats too. Sweet and savoury offerings range from nibbles to hearty meals, with veggie, vegan and gluten-free choices available. 

The Mowhay

Tucked inland about half a mile from Polzeath Beach, The Mowhay is one of the best Polzeath restaurants. It is the place to go for globally inspired dining using the best local produce. Much of the inventive menu is inspired by fresh seafood, and the wine list is curated in association with Wadebridge Wines. Expect awesome flavours and a friendly atmosphere, in a rustic/chic barn surrounded by local art. It’s worth booking if possible, and do note that in the evenings, children under 14 are only permitted on bookings until 6.30pm. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the daytime, but not allowed in the restaurant in the evenings. 

The Point at Polzeath

The Point at Polzeath offers golf, tennis, a health club and a restaurant and bar – the latter two open to anyone. The first-floor restaurant has stunning views over the golf course towards Pentire Point through its floor-to-ceiling windows, making this yet another lovely place where you can watch the sun set as you dine. The chefs use locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to produce favourites such as steak, burgers, fish and chips and katsu curry, with Sunday roasts another delight. Note that dogs are welcome in the bar but not the restaurant. 

Pubs in Polzeath

Oystercatcher

Dine indoors or outside at Oystercatcher, a contemporary Polzeath restaurant and pub just a stone’s throw from the sea. It’s managed by St Austell Brewery and, as you’d expect, there’s a great choice of beers, lagers and specialist brews, plus carefully selected wines, including several from local vineyard Camel Valley. Food-wise, it’s pub classics and some contemporary twists, with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. If live sport is your thing, you’ll find big-screen action here, and there’s a monthly pub quiz too. 

Surfside

The clue’s in the name – Surfside is tucked into the cliffs on Polzeath Beach, right next to the waves. The atmospheric beach bar and cafe is not only one of the best Polzeath restaurants but one of the best in Cornwall, serving up more than 90 rums for your delectation, along with beer, wines, spirits and soft drinks. Set over three floors indoors plus a bar area on the sand, there’s all-weather drinking and dining with gorgeous views, accompanied by either live music, a DJ or carefully selected vinyl. Food options include locally caught fresh fish and seafood, plus traditional and modern tapas dishes, with options for non-meat eaters. 

Stay with us in Polzeath

Can’t wait to try the variety of Polzeath restaurants and pubs? We have a superb choice of holiday cottages nearby to suit families, couples and large groups, many of them dog friendly too. Book your next holiday in Cornwall with us today. 

Written by Katherine Sorrell

Freelance Content Writer

Cornwall-based writer aiming to share my love of this inspiring place far and wide.