An acclaimed beachside restaurant that serves up one of the most memorable dining experiences in Cornwall – if not the UK. Over the course of 33 years, the team has built an enviable reputation for combining Asian and Mediterranean influences in dishes showcasing the freshest seafood, garden-grown produce, and foraged coastal ingredients.
The Setting
The iconic whitewashed restaurant and terrace enjoys spectacular panoramic views of St Ives Bay. The town’s historic harbour, Godrevy Lighthouse and miles of golden sands can all be enjoyed from this special vantage point.
In the summer, providing a retreat from the sun-scorched sands below; it is the ideal spot to indulge in vibrant dishes infused with flavour, accompanied by bottles of crisp, refreshing wine pulled dripping from their coolers. A glass enclosed, heated terrace makes year round outdoor dining a pleasure. In the colder, wilder months the restaurant becomes a comfortable sanctuary for watching the storms roll in.
The Food
The award winning restaurant has become an essential destination for those keen to experience Cornwall’s vibrant food scene.
Although not exclusively a fish restaurant, the location lends itself naturally to putting seafood centre stage. Much of the sustainably sourced fish is from St Ives Bay itself, or from small day boats operating from the Cornish harbours of Newlyn, Looe and Mevagissey. The Fal River, Helford and Rock estuaries are plentiful sources of shellfish, including mussels and oysters.
Vegetarian and vegan dishes are created with love and care, as the talented team of chefs revel in access to superb fresh produce from the kitchen garden and other local growers.
Rosette 2022
We are pleased to announce that we have retained our 2 Rosette award for culinary excellence for Porthminster Beach Cafe 2022.
Ethos & Sustainability
Recycling – The restaurant recycles as much as possible to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill sites. There are recycling bins available across the beach to encourage visitors not only to keep our beaches clean but also to help the environment by recycling as well. Food Miles – We use local suppliers where possible to help the environment by reducing the products’ journey thus cutting down on transportation and gas emissions. One of our biggest suppliers is Matthew Stevens & Son who catch fish using a minimal stress regime. Much of their fish comes from the South West such as St Ives, Newlyn, Looe and Mevagissey. Shellfish are in some cases live and stress free. Sustainable Fish – We are currently one of the top restaurants in the country and have been awarded one of the highest ratings from fish2fork for our sustainable fish policy.
The Garden
A coastal kitchen garden has been created to take advantage of the unique location. Salad leaves, vegetables, fruit and herbs are grown to enhance seasonal dishes and cocktails dreamed up by the inventive kitchen and bar teams.
Porthminster chefs can be seen daily on the South West Coast Path, which passes the door of the restaurant, foraging for wild foods to add another dimension to daily specials.
To book a table please follow the link below.