Looking for the best places to eat in Looe, Cornwall?
Looe is a charming and quaint coastal town located in the county of Cornwall, in the southwest of England. Looe is situated on the east side of the Looe River estuary, where it flows into the English Channel. The town is divided into two very distinct areas – East Looe and West Looe – and are connected by a bridge stretching across the river.
Looe has a long well-known history as a fishing village, and the town’s harbor is still a working port today. Visitors can sit and watch the fishing boats come and go, and sample some of the fresh local seafood caught locally in the town’s many restaurants and cafes. In fact, there are many delicious places to eat at in Looe, and you’re in the right place to learn about the best places to dine during your visit!
The town itself is full of narrow streets and alleys, lined with quaint shops and cafes, and there are plenty of traditional pubs where you can sample some local ales and ciders. There are also several galleries and art shops, showcasing the work of local artists.
If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ll love to know that Looe is surrounded by beautiful countryside and coastal walks. The South West Coast Path runs through the town, offering stunning views of the coastline and sea. There are also several beaches within easy reach, including East Looe Beach and Hannafore Beach.
Throughout the year, Looe hosts a range of festivals and events, including the Looe Music Festival, the Looe Literary Festival, and the Looe Carnival. There’s always something going on in this vibrant and welcoming town, making it a great place to visit at any time of year.
But now, let’s dive into what you’re really here for – the absolute best places to eat in Looe, Cornwall!
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Best Places to Eat in Looe, Cornwall
Smugglers Cott
Smugglers Cott is a delicious family-run restaurant located which serves a range of the best fish and locally sourced food. The restaurant is situated in an old fisherman’s cottage overlooking the seafront, which adds to its charming and rustic atmosphere. All of this, plus the great views, makes dining here a unique experience in one of Looe’s oldest buildings.
The extensive menu at Smugglers Cott features a range of seafood dishes, including locally caught fresh fish and shellfish, as well as meat and vegetarian options. Some of the most popular dishes include the seafood platter, the crab linguine, and the sirloin steak.
In addition to the main menu, Smugglers Cott also offers a daily specials board, which showcases the freshest local ingredients available on the day. The restaurant prides itself on using only the highest quality ingredients, with a focus on local produce and sustainable fishing practices.
The restaurant has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with a small dining area that can accommodate up to 30 guests. It’s a great place to enjoy a romantic meal or a special occasion, and the staff are always happy to provide recommendations and advice on the menu and wine list. Sometimes, there is even live music!
Smugglers Cott is a must-visit destination for foodies and seafood lovers in Looe, Cornwall!
Old Sail Loft Restaurant
The Old Sail Loft Restaurant is a popular seafood restaurant located in Looe, Cornwall, which offers stunning views of the harbor and estuary, and offers a very warm welcome to visitors. The restaurant is situated on the quayside in East Looe, and its historic building was originally a sail loft for the town’s fishing fleet.
The menu here is focused on fresh seafood, with a range of dishes that feature locally sourced fish and shellfish. Some of the most popular dishes include the seafood platter, the fish and chips, and the grilled seafood skewers. There are also meat and vegetarian options available, such as the sirloin steak and the roasted vegetable risotto.
The restaurant has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with a nautical theme that reflects its coastal location. There are large windows throughout the restaurant, offering views of the harbour and the comings and goings of the fishing boats.
The Old Sail Loft also has a bar area where visitors can enjoy a drink or a light snack. The bar serves a range of local beers and ciders, as well as wines and spirits. This is indeed one of Looe’s best restaurants that you have to try during your visit!
Papa Nino
Papa Nino is a small Italian restaurant located on Fore Street, which is one of the main streets in the town center. It has been a popular dining spot for locals and visitors alike, and is known for being lively and fun!
The menu here features a wide range of traditionally loved italian dishes, including classics like pasta, pizza, seafood, and meat dishes. They use fresh and locally sourced ingredients to prepare their dishes. They also offer a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options, and the restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with a selection of Italian wines and other international options.
Papa Nino’s is cozy and inviting, with warm lighting and rustic decor. It has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the staff is known for being welcoming and attentive. Papa Nino also offers takeaway and delivery services, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home.
Papa Nino is a well-regarded Italian restaurant in Looe, Cornwall, known for its delicious food, friendly service, and cozy atmosphere! It’s the perfect place to stop by for a delicious meal!
The Courtyard Cafe
The Courtyard Cafe is a family-owned restaurant located in the heart of Looe, Cornwall, UK. This lovely restaurant is situated in a charming courtyard off Fore Street, and it has been a popular dining spot for locals and tourists alike.
The menu at The Courtyard Cafe features a variety of breakfast and light lunch dishes, including full English breakfast, sandwiches, salads, soups, and homemade cakes. They use fresh and locally sourced ingredients to prepare their dishes, and they offer a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as light bites. They also have an extensive coffee menu, with a selection of freshly brewed coffee, tea, and other hot and cold drinks.
The restaurant itself is cozy and inviting, with indoor and outdoor seating options available. It has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the staff is known for being welcoming and attentive. The Courtyard Cafe is one of the best local cafes to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch, or simply stop by for coffee and home-made desserts.
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Coddy Shack
The Coddy Shack is a seafood restaurant located in the coastal town of Looe, Cornwall, UK. The restaurant is situated on the seafront, overlooking the harbor, and it has become a popular dining spot for locals and visitors alike.
The menu at The Coddy Shack features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including fish and chips, grilled fish, shellfish, and seafood platters. They use locally sourced fish and other ingredients to prepare their dishes, and they offer a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. The restaurant also has an extensive drinks menu, with a selection of beers, wines, and other beverages.
The restaurant itself is casual and relaxed, with indoor and outdoor seating options available. It has a lively and bustling atmosphere, and the staff is known for being warm. The Coddy Shack is a great place to enjoy a seafood meal while taking in the stunning views of Looe harbor.
The Sardine Factory
The Sardine Factory is a popular seafood restaurant located in the heart of Looe, Cornwall run by award-winning chef Benjamin Palmer. The restaurant is situated in a historic building that used to be a sardine processing factory, hence its name. The restaurant has been beautifully refurbished to reflect its heritage, with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and vintage decor.
The menu at The Sardine Factory focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood caught by local fishermen, with a variety of dishes featuring the freshest fish, shellfish, and other seafood delicacies. They also offer vegetarian and meat options for those who prefer something different. The restaurant’s signature dish is the sardine platter, which showcases the fresh, locally caught sardines that Looe is famous for.
The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with a selection of wines from around the world, and the staff are knowledgeable about wine pairing to help you choose the perfect wine to accompany your meal.
The Sardine Factory has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly and attentive staff. It’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family, or for a romantic dinner with a loved one. This is one of the most fantastic restaurants in Looe with excellent food and good value.
Ocean & Earth
Ocean & Earth is the home of authentic Thai food located on Higher Market St. The restaurant serves authentic Thai cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The menu at Ocean & Earth features a variety of Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, soups, and noodles. They use traditional Thai spices and flavors to create their dishes, and they offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options as well. The restaurant also has an extensive drinks menu, with a selection of beers, wines, and other beverages.
The restaurant itself is cozy and inviting, with indoor and outdoor seating options available. I recommend to visit Ocean & Earth to experience a great place to enjoy a delicious Thai meal while taking in the stunning views of Looe harbor.
Looe, Cornwall is a beautiful coastal town with a vibrant food scene, featuring a variety of restaurants offering everything from traditional fish and chips to modern cuisine. These restaurants are known for their delicious food, welcoming atmospheres, and beautiful locations, making them popular dining spots for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, hearty pub fare, or international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Looe.
During a visit to Looe, Cornwall, any of these restaurants recommended above will leave you wanting more and planning to come back again and again! Enjoy!
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