The 12 best Port Isaac restaurants

Once visited, never forgotten. In charming Port Isaac, pretty, whitewashed cottages tumble down the slopes to the historic harbour, and there’s a surprise to be found around every corner of the village’s winding, cobbled streets. If the name rings a bell, it’s probably because Port Isaac is home to the global phenomenon The Fisherman’s Friends, aka the local sea shanty group, and is renowned as the filming location of the BBC series Doc Martin. 

Despite its small size, there’s a variety of things to do in Port Isaac, and when you’ve hiked the up-and-down coast path, played a round of golf, been for a bike ride or learnt to sea kayak, you’ll be ready to explore its surprising number of places to eat and drink. In Port Isaac – renowned among foodies – you’ll find the freshest seafood served both in Michelin-starred establishments and casual cafes, and there’s also excellent pizza, pub favourites and, of course, pasties and cream teas served with a smile. 

Feeling hungry? Book one of our holiday cottages and experience Port Isaac’s pubs, cafes and restaurants for yourself. We have dog-friendly cottages, family getaways and romantic boltholes for two – click the link below to find out more. 

Skip to:

• Port Isaac restaurants
• Port Isaac cafes
• Port Isaac pubs

Restaurants in Port Isaac

Outlaw’s New Road

This destination restaurant from leading chef Nathan Outlaw boasts a Michelin star for its unique seafood menus that explore Cornwall’s bounty from coast to field. At Outlaw’s New Road, pared-back, ultra-fresh dishes reflect the location and season of the ingredients gathered using a subtle combination of classic and modern techniques. Choose from the seafood tasting menu, the a la carte lunch menu, or the four-course menu, for which you should allow up to 3.5 hours to enjoy the experience. Booking is highly advisable.

Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen

Another Michelin-starred offering from Nathan Outlaw, Fish Kitchen, is located in a 15^th-century fisherman’s cottage on the harbour in the heart of Port Isaac. Sustainability is a focus here, with fresh fish and seafood sourced from local fishermen who employ low-impact fishing methods. The menu changes daily according to the catch, and some dishes are designed for sharing. Booking is highly advisable. 

The Slipway Bar & Restaurant

The Slipway has one of the best views in Port Isaac: a large, covered outdoor terrace where you can sit overlooking the picturesque harbour. Inside, there are two floors where you can appreciate the quirky 16th-century building that was once a smugglers’ hideaway. Turn up for a casual lunch or a more formal dinner; specialities are locally sourced crab, lobster and mussels.

The Mote

While The Mote describes itself as a seafood restaurant, its selection offers something for most people to enjoy, including meat lovers and vegetarians. Innovative, delicious meals are beautifully prepared and elegantly presented, using fresh, high-quality ingredients from local suppliers. There’s a cosy atmosphere and dogs are welcome too. 

The Angry Anchovy

The only pizzeria in Port Isaac, The Angry Anchovy is a quirky, relaxed shack by the sea, offering handmade, thin-crust pizzas made using ingredients sourced both locally and from Italy. With dough and a rich tomato sauce made on the premises every day, each pizza is freshly made to order, and there are gluten-free bases and vegan cheese options too. Save room for some sweet potato fries. Takeaways are also available. 

The Black Wine Bar & Cafe

Set at the top of the village, this stylish, black-painted hut serves up local shellfish, meat and fresh-from-the-garden dishes prepared with passion. The Black has an extensive wine and cocktail list too. With a small number of tables inside and out, space is limited, so it’s a good idea to book at busy times. 

The Old School Hotel

The restaurant at The Old School Hotel is open to residents and the public alike. Experienced chef Jake Pattenden utilises the best local Cornish produce from both sea and land to create a range of dishes served up in the atmospheric surroundings of the old school hall. Diners can sit out on the decked area outside in good weather. 

Cafes in Port Isaac

Pilchards

Less than half a mile around the headland from Port Isaac, the hamlet of Port Gaverne sits above a delightful, sheltered cove. It’s home to Pilchards, a modern, timber-and-glass cafe with a distinctly laid-back vibe. Only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in busy months, it’s a great choice for coast path walkers or beachgoers looking for a light bite or a leisurely meal just metres from the sea. 

The Chapel

In this quintessential Cornish village, many of the buildings have a great deal of history, and The Chapel is no exception. As its name suggests, the cafe is located within a converted 19th-century Methodist chapel, where visitors (and their dogs) find a warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere. Options range from cream teas to the acclaimed Cornish bouillabaisse, with Sunday roasts sometimes available. 

Fresh from the Sea

While you’re browsing fresh fish and seafood in this family-run seafood shop at the top of town, why not linger in Fresh From the Sea’s small cafe and enjoy a hand-picked crab sandwich or a lobster salad in the sunny courtyard (or inside if wet)? The seafood is landed daily in the cafe’s own boat, and the menu is complemented by artisan coffee, wine, cold drinks and cake. 

Pubs in Port Isaac

The Golden Lion

With sea views from its harbourside terraces and open fires inside, The Golden Lion is often the place to be in summer or winter. As well as an award-winning selection of St Austell ales, the bar is stocked with gins, rums and local spirits, while the menu is based around locally sourced produce and changes with the seasons. Families and dogs are always welcome, and there’s live music on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons.

The Port Gaverne

Just steps from Port Isaac, and with fabulous sea views, The Port Gaverne is a whitewashed former sailor’s inn that blends rustic charm with modern comforts. Hearty meals are made from locally sourced ingredients and complemented by St Austell Brewery ales. On the menu are pub classics and fresh seafood; you can dine from breakfast through to a late dinner, and get a Sunday roast too. Families and canine companions are welcome.

Stay in Port Isaac

Book with us and enjoy the wide variety of restaurants on your doorstep in Port Isaac. We have self-catering cottages for couples, families and large groups, as well as dog-friendly cottages so you can bring your furry friend along to enjoy the fun. Click the link below to book your next holiday in Cornwall.