With trendy gastropubs, seafood restaurants and specialist eateries aplenty, Falmouth is renowned for its bustling foodie scene. We pick the best places to eat out in this pretty portside town.

1. Water’s Edge Restaurant at the Greenbank Hotel

Harbourside

Water’s Edge was a finalist in the Cornwall Life Food & Drink Awards 2017 for ‘Hotel Restaurant of the Year’. At this fine dining restaurant you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, supper or afternoon tea overlooking one of the best sea views in Falmouth.

Our favourite menu is the dinner menu which includes a tempting array of seafood, meaty mains and vegetarian options to sate the appetite. Make sure you leave room for the cheeseboard; a selection of melt-in-the-mouth cheeses, all sourced from local farms and dairies.

2. Restaurant Four

33 High Street

Previously Oliver's, Restaurant Four was revamped and changed owners in 2019. Chef Matthew Unwin-Springett, his wife, and the team produce delicious seasonal meals from daily delivered and local produce. This means the menu changes often to fit the time of year, so you can much down on anything from seafood to pigeon to sea bream to mushroom risotto. Customers love the friendly atmosphere and delicious cocktails. We recommend you book ahead to avoid disappointment.

3. The Brig

30 Arwenack St

The Brig has a cocktail menu of over 50 creations 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!

4. The Stable

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 Cider Tasting Board with five flavours to experience for £7.50. This rustic dining experience – with exposed brick walls and original beams – is set out over two floors with two private first-floor dining rooms.

5. The Brasserie on the Bay

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 sophisticated menu with centrepieces such as the Cornish Seafood Platter and their dedication to have produce caught in the morning and served by lunchtime. To clear the palette, finish with the Coconut Panna Cotta on the roof terrace over a bottle of Briccotondo Arneis for an al fresco dining experience. Finally, enjoy a nightcap at the Cornish Cocktail bar in the round with soft glow lighting for a romantic ambience.

6. Cove Restaurant & Bar

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. On a budget? No problem. Take advantage of the Prix Fixe’ menu and enjoy three courses for £24, washed down with some Knightor Trevannion (Cornish wine) or Rhubarb G&Ts.

7. Cribbs

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.

8. The Shack

Tidemill House

The Shack has a hands-on approach to seafood so prepare to get your hands dirty whilst you tuck into succulent crab, lobster, oysters, scallops and mussels caught locally and sustainably. Keep an eye on the specials board as fishy favourites such as squid and flatfish often make an appearance at the restaurant. Seafood is caught fresh so check for availability before ordering.

Not into seafood? No problem! Diners can also tuck into steak, pasta and vegetarian specials from the menu.


This article was updated by Martha Griffiths in June 2021