Exploring culinary delights: Where to eat in Looe

Waterfront restaurants, tasty seafood and elegant wine menus

A food lovers paradise, the historic fishing port of Looe offers a variety of dining options, ensuring every palette is catered to. From fresh seafood to international flavours and British fare, the towns eateries provide a delightful gastronomic experience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite to eat, Looe has something to satisfy every craving. To help narrow down your dining options, here are some of our favourites we think you should try during your visit. 

The Fish Market  

© The Fish Market via Instagram

Style: Restaurant 

Price range: ££

Menu: Shellfish and Fish 

Website: Click here

Situated directly on the quay in East Looe, this bar and restaurant enjoys uninterrupted river views. Conscious of keeping their food miles to a minimum, their menu changes regularly depending on the season and the fisherman’s daily haul, meaning guests will always get the best of the local produce on offer. For the seafood lovers, pair Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine with Porthilly Cornish oysters to start before diving into a main course of chargrilled octopus and seared Bluefin Tuna. 

Talland Bay Hotel 

© Talland Bay Hotel via Instagram

Style: Restaurant

Price range: ££

Menu: Shellfish and Fish

Website:  Click here

Located a short drive from the centre of Looe, this historic county home allows you to dine away from the crowds. With food being served in both the restaurant and the conservatory, you can soak up views over a secluded stretch of the Cornish coastline while casting your eyes over the bay below. Keeping things local, the menu reflects the best produce the county has to offer, including Looe-landed lobster and Cornish grass-fed steak.  Within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and boasting clear waters, take a leisurely stroll down to nearby Talland Sands to walk off your delicious lunch. 

Yamas

© Yamas via Instagram

Style: Restaurant

Price range: ££

Menu: Traditional Greek dishes

Website: Click here

For those looking for something a little different, this newly opened restaurant is the perfect place for you. Offering a diverse menu that showcases the flavours and ingredients of Greece and the surrounding regions, Yamas serves up a range of traditional dishes including souvlaki, moussaka and tzatziki prepared with authentic recipes and techniques. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or looking to indulge in some delicious meze plates, explore Mediterranean delicacies from Cornwall’s south coast. 

The Old Sail Loft

© The Old Sail Loft via Instagram

Style: Restaurant

Price range: £££

Menu: Steak and Seafood

Website: Click here

Reputed to be a former haunt for smugglers and sea faring men of the 16^th century, The Old Sail Loft's commitment to quality and friendly service make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Positioned on the quayside overlooking the harbour, this restaurant offers a delightful menu featuring fresh catches of the day that are expertly prepared and beautifully presented. Book a table on the terrace to sip cocktails in the sun before tucking into their famous Sail Loft Surf N Turf. 

The Sardine Factory 

© The Sardine Factory via Instagram

Style: Restaurant

Price range: ££

Menu: Seafood

Website: Click here

Since returning to his hometown of Looe to turn his dream of opening a restaurant into a reality, Chef Benjamin Palmer has brought a taste of modern coastal cuisine to Cornwall’s South Coast. Two years after opening its doors, The Sardine Factory was awarded its first Michelin Bib Gourmand and has continued to provide guests with high quality food and service year after year. Tuck into crispy fried squid, fish finger tacos and Cornish crab linguine as you look out across the harbour and if you have little ones in tow, their children's menu is complete with macaroni cheese and fish and chips. 

The Coddy Shack

© The Coddy Shack via Instagram

Style: Restaurant

Price range: ££

Menu: Seafood

Website: Click here

No visit to Looe would be complete without indulging in some traditional fish and chips. Located near the beach, this family-run establishment serves up generous portions of crispy battered fish, perfectly cooked chips and mushy peas. For a truly memorable family day out, wander down to the sand to enjoy your meal while taking in the coastal views. 

Luxury homes nearby

Above: Sea Edge and Eden

Previously noted as one of the best places to live on the coast, plan a visit to the quiet and unassuming seaside village of Downderry. From a bright and breezy tropical beach house to a deliciously designed family retreat, our luxury homes are the perfect boltholes for exploring this part of the coastline. 

Staying with us soon? Get in touch with our Concierge team to book your favourite restaurants ahead of your trip to Downderry.

Image credits: The Fish Market, Talland Bay Hotel, Yamas, The Old Sail Loft, The Sardine Factory and The Coddy Shack all via Instagram. All other images are our own.