
There's more to Cornwall than pasties - although they are still a staple in most touristy pubs. The county's meandering coastline means that fish is a feature of many specialist restaurant menus: mackerel, crabs, lobsters and Helford oysters are regulars, and the once-famous pilchard occasionally puts in an appearance.
The county may be bleak in parts, but its climate and geography ensure early supplies of spring lamb, potatoes, soft fruit and other staples for local restaurant kitchens.
Both Padstow and St Ives have established themselves as high-profile gastro-empires.
The Wellington Hotel, Waterloo RestaurantOriginally called the Bos Castle Hotel, this impressive sixteenth-century coaching inn was re-named after the death of the Duke of Wellington, and its historic Castilian tower still dominates the exterior of the building.
The Harbour, Boscastle, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Langmans RestaurantDinner at Anton and Gail Buttery's exclusive little restaurant is a special treat. The old listed building (once a bakery) has been done out with real style, and the whole experience is about the leisurely enjoyment of good food and wine.
3 Church Street, Callington, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
WreckersWe are pleased to introduce Wreckers as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2011. A full review will be published shortly.
, Charlestown Harbour, Cornwall - Cuisine:
The Old Sail Loft RestaurantTucked away in one of the oldest buildings in Looe, The Old Sail Loft is an atmospheric restaurant which was once the haunt of smugglers and local fishermen.
Quay Street, East Looe, Cornwall - Cuisine: Seafood
Trawlers on the QuaySitting pretty right on the quay, with good views of the East Looe harbourside action, this welcoming sea-blue fronted restaurant, Trawlers on the Quay, is proudly Cornish through-and-through.
The Quay, East Looe, Cornwall - Cuisine: Seafood
Bistro De La MerA stone's throw from the National Maritime Museum, Tony and Alison Ward's lively seaside bistro has rapidly become a Falmouth landmark since opening in 2004.
28 Arwenack Street, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Budock VeanBudock Vean is a privately owned, friendly 4 star hotel nestled in 65 acres of award winning gardens and parkland on the banks of the Helford River.
The Hotel on the River, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Traditional
Harbourside RestaurantThe Greenbank Hotel will remain an unforgettable experience with its fine food and wine, impeccable service and one of the most sensational panoramic waterfront views in England.
Greenbank Hotel, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Rick Stein's Fish & ChipsRick Stein's Fish & Chips in Falmouth is the latest addition to the celebrity chef's burgeoning empire of restaurants and shops and his first venture outside Padstow.
Discovery Quay, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Fish and Chips
The Cove RestaurantFantastic sea views over Maenporth Beach and Falmouth Bay are a great asset at Arty Williams' relaxed restaurant. The place has a laid-back, contemporary feel with clean-cut modern furnishings and a big patio area outside.
Maenporth Beach, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
The Flying Fish RestaurantWith stunning sea views out across the Atlantic ocean and Cornish coastline, the award winning Flying Fish restaurant in Cornwall's bustling Falmouth offers a stylish and contemporary dining experience to seafood lovers.
St Michael's Hotel & Spa, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
The Pandora InnThere are three different ways to reach this ancient thatched Cornish inn: you can walk, cycle or arrive by boat.
Restronguet Creek, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Gastro pub
The Royal Duchy HotelTwo AA Rosettes and an award-winning team of chefs makes the gourmet British cooking on offer at the Terrace in Falmouth's Royal Duchy hotel worth a coastal detour.
Terrace Restaurant, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: British
Three Mackerel'We could have been on the Côte d'Azur!' enthused one visitor after soaking up the sun on the glorious terrace looking out onto Falmouth Bay.
Swanpool Beach, Falmouth, Cornwall - Cuisine: Mediterranean
Food for ThoughtLocated right on the quayside, a few yards from the water's edge in the beautiful town of Fowey, Restaurant Food for Thought has now been running for some 23 years and at the helm are husband and wife Martin and Caroline Billingsley.
4 Town Quay, Fowey, Cornwall - Cuisine: Seafood
Fowey Hall, Hansons RestaurantCommanding a spectacular elevated position overlooking the Fowey towards Polruan, this fine luxury family hotel (part of the Von Essen group) was built in 1899 by the Lord Mayor of London and its château-like façade is thought to be the inspiration for 'Toad Hall' in that classic literary tale 'The Wind in the Willows'.
Hanson Drive, Fowey, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Fowey HotelThis grand old Victorian edifice, dating from 1882, remains one of Cornwall's hidden treasures. Built high on the cliffs above the harbour and waters of the Fowey estuary, it's a relaxing and peaceful retreat conveniently close to must-see sites like the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
The Esplanade, Fowey, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Old Quay HouseOriginally a seaman's mission, this Victorian house by the quay is now a twenty-first century boutique hotel with glorious views of the Fowey estuary from many of its rooms and sun terrace.
28 Fore Street, Fowey, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Hell Bay HotelOriginally part of an old farmhouse on the smallest of the Scilly Isles, Hell Bay makes the most of uninterrupted views across the headlands and the Atlantic Ocean.
Bryher, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall - Cuisine: International
New InnPart of the Tresco Estate and the only pub on the island, the New Inn is a godsend for locals and visitors alike.
Tresco, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall - Cuisine: European
St Martin’s on the Isle, Teän RestaurantThere cannot be many hotels that can claim the Prince of Wales as their landlord, but this gem on the Scilly Isles is one of them.
Lower Town, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
St Mary's Hall Hotel, Café de FerrariSue and Jamie Le Friec have pulled off quite a coup by regenerating St Mary's Hall and transforming it into a showcase boutique hotel.
Church Street, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall - Cuisine: Eclectic
Star Castle HotelThe Castle, dating from 1593, forms an eight-pointed star, and stands on the fortified Garrison Hill commanding impressive views out to sea.
The Garrison, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall - Cuisine: International
The Boat ShedA converted boat shed on Porthmellon beach, overlooking St Mary's harbour, is the dream location for this animated bistro/restaurant. The original building has been cleverly converted into a split-level venue with hardwood floors, groovy lighting and a decked area outside: catch the amazing summer sunsets or take in the glorious views of Samson, Bryher and Tresco.
Porthmellon, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall - Cuisine: Mediterranean
The Island HotelA glorious setting and enviable views make this delightful hotel a real treasure on the sub-tropical 'Island of Flowers'. From the balconies and terraces you can gaze over the vast expanses of private sandy beach towards clear blue waters, Old Grimsby Sound and the Cromwellian fort known as the Blockhouse.
Tresco, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall - Cuisine: International
The CoveLamorna is set in a wonderful location looking down on a small cove. There is a steep path from the hotel down to the water's edge and the small fishing boats.
Lamorna, Lamorna, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
The Well HouseThe Well House is an enchanting small luxury hotel hidden in the beautiful Looe Valley and set in three acres of tranquil gardens, complete with an all weather tennis court, swimming pool and croquet lawn.
The Well House Hotel, Liskeard, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
New Yard RestaurantTrelowarren is the bright new face of tourism in Cornwall. The 1000-acre private estate on the Lizard peninsula has been transformed into a 'green', eco-friendly enterprise, with the aim of becoming totally self-sufficient in fuel and food.
Trelowarren, Mawgan, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
2 Fore Street RestaurantWidely tipped as a hot ticket on the south-west Cornish coast, this bright new restaurant has caused quite a stir since it opened.
2 Fore Street, Mousehole, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
The Cornish RangeOnce a pilchard-processing factory in a dreamy village near Penzance, the Cornish Range is now reckoned to be 'the smart place to stay in Cornwall' - according to the Observer.
6 Chapel Street, Mousehole, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
The Old Coastguard HotelSet in glorious sub-tropical gardens leading down to a rocky beach and the sea, the Old Coastguard Hotel is the hub of Mousehole.
The Parade, Mousehole, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Fifteen CornwallThe location is as hip as they come, there are jaw-dropping views of the two-mile stretch of sands at Watergate Bay.
Watergate Bay, Newquay, Cornwall - Cuisine: Italian
Watergate Bay Hotel, The BrasserieWatergate Bay now ranks as Cornwall's funkiest surfing and water-sports hotspot, and this hotel is right at the centre of the action.
On the Beach, Newquay, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Margot'sMargot's is a cheery, welcoming little Padstow bistro that puts on a happy face and it's all thanks to owners Adrian and Julie Oliver, who run the place with love, dedication and great good humour.
11 Duke Street, Padstow, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 RestaurantIt was high noon in Padstow when a brigade of young guns from Pétrus and other hot London venues rode into 'Padstein' and pitched camped right on Rick's doorstep.
6 Middle Street, Padstow, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Rick Stein's CafeWhen Rick Stein opened this cheery place a stone's throw from Padstow quay, he wanted to create 'the sort of café you find on every street in London or Sydney'.
10 Middle Street, Padstow, Cornwall - Cuisine: European
St Petroc's BistroSet up some years ago as the cut-price alternative to the nearby Seafood Restaurant, this crowd-puller is now a senior member of the Rick Stein dynasty.
4 New Street, Padstow, Cornwall - Cuisine: European
Stein's Fish & ChipsStein's Fish & Chips is part of the thriving empire of restaurants and shops this celebrity chef has established in Padstow, although there is now a sibling restaurant, Rick Stein's Fish & Chips in Falmouth.
South Quay, Padstow, Cornwall - Cuisine: Fish and Chips
The Seafood RestaurantRick Stein is now famous as the man who put Padstow on the gastronomic world map, but it was a long time coming.
Riverside, Padstow, Cornwall - Cuisine: Seafood
Bay RestaurantThere's a fine prospect over Penzance harbour and Mount's Bay from the outdoor 'deck' of this privately run hotel (formerly Mount Prospect), but the place is equally renowned for its food.
Hotel Penzance, Penzance, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Bakehouse RestaurantTrue to its name, this bright modern restaurant was once Penzance's old bakery, and the original bread oven is still in place.
Old Bakehouse Lane, Penzance, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Harris'sRoger and Anne Harris has been plying their trade in this little restaurant up a cobbled street since 1972 and - more than three decades down the line - are still as enthusiastic as ever.
46 New Street, Penzance, Cornwall - Cuisine: Anglo French
The Beach Restaurant'It is lovely having a restaurant in the bay with stunning views, great food and friendly service that I can take family and friends who come to visit.
Sennen Cove, Penzance, Cornwall - Cuisine: European
The Summer House HotelRing the doorbell to gain entrance to Ciro and Linda Zaino's curious hexagonal Regency house in a quiet mews a short stroll from Penzance seafront.
Cornwall Terrace, Penzance, Cornwall - Cuisine: Mediterranean
Victoria InnReputedly one of the oldest pubs in Cornwall, the Victoria Inn is handily placed some five miles east of Penzance and is within easy walking distance of Perranuthnoe's delightful beach.
Perranuthnoe, Penzance, Cornwall - Cuisine: Gastro pub
Kota Restaurant with RoomsJude and Jane Kereama hail from New Zealand but have made quite a name for themselves in Porthleven. Their latest venture is Kota – a skilfully restored 300-year-old corn mill close to the local harbour; formerly Critchards, it now operates as a cool restaurant-with-rooms dealing in modern British food with fusion overtones.
Harbour Head, Porthleven, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
DriftwoodA wonderful location is one of the prime attributes of Paul and Fiona Robinson's personally run hotel. The building is perched high above the sea and even has its own private beach.
Rosevine, Portscatho, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Whitsand Bay Hotel'Leisure and golf' are high on the agenda at this impressive family-run hotel nestling between Crafthole and the sea at Portwrinkle.
, Portwrinkle, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Lamplighter RestaurantExperienced restaurateurs Robert and Mairead Vogel recently took over the reins at this long established Cornish restaurant, which has been a fixture of the local scene since the 1950s.
Fore Street, Probus, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Nathan Outlaw Seafood & GrillA dramatic location on Cornwall's rugged north coast makes this striking hotel a favourite destination for tourists. The estuary is a summertime Mecca for sailing types and the water sports crowd, there are rocky coves and sandy beaches close by, plus the undulating landscape of St Enodoc golf course behind the hotel.
St Enodoc Hotel, Rock, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Restaurant Nathan OutlawA dramatic location on Cornwall's rugged north coast makes St Enodoc Hotel with its Michelin starred Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, a favourite destination for tourists and foodies alike.
St Enodoc Hotel, Rock, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
The Dining Room RestaurantA converted corner shop in a tiny village across the Camel River from Padstow is the setting for this appropriately named restaurant ('l'estuaire' is French for estuary).
Pavilion Buildings, Rock, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Boscundle ManorBoscundle Manor is a small country house hotel in a beautiful wooded setting about 1 mile from the sea with luxury accommodation and it is only 1 mile from the world famous Eden Project, making Boscundle Manor the closest hotel.
Tregrehan, St Austell, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Porth Avallen HotelPorth Avallen is a country house hotel by the sea with spectacular views over St Austell Bay. The a la carte menu in the Apple Tree Bay Restaurant will offer you some of the finest Cornish meats, produce and fresh seafood you'll ever experience.
Sea Road, St Austell, Cornwall - Cuisine:
The JourneymanMellingey is a gem of a place, hidden away between Little Petherick and St Issey. It's home to a Willow Workshop and Trout Farm, as well as the highly distinctive, laid-back Journeyman restaurant, which is housed in the converted village mill (complete with original water wheel).
Mellingey Mill, St Issey, Cornwall - Cuisine: Eclectic
Alba RestaurantHoused in the old lifeboat building on St Ives wharf, Alba now spreads itself over two tastefully refurbished floors: fine harbour views are the big attraction upstairs (although the displays of local art are also worth a look).
Old Lifeboat House, St Ives, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Alfresco Café Bar'A real gem', according to one UK Restaurant Guide user, who praises the 'excellent food' at this eclectic venue in a glorious setting overlooking St Ives harbour.
Harbourside, St Ives, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Porthgwidden Beach CaféYounger sister to the nearby Porthminster Café, and run along very similar lines, this trendy beach hangout is an all-day set-up providing everything from breakfast with all sorts of coffee to fully blown evening meals.
Porthgwidden Beach, St Ives, Cornwall - Cuisine: Global
Porthminster Beach Café'Café' hardly does justice to this slick beachside venue in a glorious spot beneath the slopes of Porthminster Point. Sit on the covered terrace and gaze out across St Ives Bay to Godrevy Lighthouse, or stake your claim at one of the tables inside the Art Deco building.
Porthminster Beach, St Ives, Cornwall - Cuisine: Seafood
Seafood CafeThe procedure couldn't be simpler: make your way to the refrigerated cabinets displaying the day's fresh local seafood (as well as some Cornish meat and free-range poultry), decide how you want it cooked, then add your choice of sauce, potatoes, salad and vegetables.
45 Fore Street, St Ives, Cornwall - Cuisine: Seafood
The Loft Restaurant and TerraceThe Loft Restaurant and Terrace opened in July 2009 in the heart of the old St Ives' artists' quarter and new owners Tony and Louise, have done a great job restoring this former sail loft to its original glory.
Norway Lane, St Ives, Cornwall - Cuisine: Seafood
The Wave RestaurantA bright, sunny feel pervades this contemporary restaurant not far from the harbour. It's divided up into two dining areas, with blond wood, tiled floors, a lofty windowed ceiling and splashes of maritime blue.
17 St Andrews Street, St Ives, Cornwall - Cuisine: Eclectic
Hotel TresantonTresanton is one of Cornwall's most famous hotels, situated at the edge of the unspoiled village of St. Mawes. All of the rooms have stunning views across the sea and look towards St.
27 Lower Castle Road, St Mawes, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Rising SunA quick stroll from the harbour in the prosperous holiday village of St Mawes, The Rising Sun is perfectly placed if you want to take in the views across the water to the Roseland Peninsula.
The Square, St Mawes, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Water's Edge RestaurantThe view from The Idle Rocks is the Cornish dream brought to life; a small, idyllic harbour, narrow streets of fisherman's cottages, green fields that slope down to the sea and sandy beaches.
Idle Rocks Hotel, St Mawes, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern
Rosel & Co. RestaurantRosel & Co. Restaurant is a delightful small neighbourhood restaurant in the village of St Merryn, just a few miles from Padstow.
The Dog House, St Merryn, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
The Cornish ArmsThe Cornish Arms is located in a small hamlet of St Merryn, just outside Padstow on the beautiful North Cornwall coast.
Churchtown, St Merryn, Cornwall - Cuisine: Gastro pub
Viners Bar & RestaurantKevin Viner was Cornwall's first Michelin-starred chef and continues to champion the produce of the county in his latest venture - a converted pub among the timeshare cottages of Carvynick Country Club.
Carvynick, Summercourt, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Trewarmett InnSituated a short drive from magical Tintagel and the ruins of its legendary castle, the 300-year-old Trewarmett Inn, has stupendous views overlooking the Trebarwith Valley and Port Isaac Bay, with Trevose Head lighthouse in the far distance.
Trewarmett, Tintagel, Cornwall - Cuisine: Gastro pub
Alverton ManorRight at the heart of the beautiful Cathedral City of Truro, Alverton Manor is an impressive sight on its hillside setting with fine sandstone walls; outstandingly comfortable in a quiet, elegant way, it retains all the character and atmosphere of times gone by.
Tregolls Road, Truro, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern English
Saffron RestaurantThe prospect of fine food 'at any time of day' brings crowds to Nik and Traci Tinney's bustling venue in the centre of Truro.
5 Quay Street, Truro, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
Tabb's RestaurantFollowing a move from rustic Portreath to a converted pub in the centre of Truro, Tabb's has lost none of its allure as a consistent local restaurant with that personal touch.
85 Kenwyn Street, Truro, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern British
The Lugger HotelNestling by the water's edge of tiny Portloe harbour, with cliffs rising up on either side, the nautically-titled Lugger started life as a seventeenth-century smugglers' inn.
Portloe, Truro, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European
Gurnard’s Head HotelThe great rocky outcrop of Gurnard's Head, with its ancient hill fort and abandoned tin mines, is visible below this imposing roadside inn and gives the place its odd name.
Treen, Zennor, Cornwall - Cuisine: Modern European