Award-winning seafood suppers: our favourite restaurants in the South West

Inspired by Padstow’s very own Prawn on the Lawn

The South West is famed for its seafood. With shoals of great restaurants lining our shores from the tip of Cornwall to the Dorset coast, it’s no surprise that for many of us, seafood is top of the list when it comes to holiday dining. Taking the prestigious title of Seafood Restaurant of the Year 2019, Padstow’s very own Prawn on the Lawn has inspired us to pull together some of our favourite seafood restaurants across the South West.

Whether you’re loyal to your favourites or looking to try something new, enjoy the freshest fish in some of the region’s most iconic foodie locations.

Prawn on the Lawn in Padstow, Cornwall

© Prawn on the Lawn

Impressing 2019’s Seafish judges with its varied menu, visible fish counter and fantastic wine list, this award-winning Cornish restaurant is a firm favourite with locals and visitors. Already featured in the Michelin Guide and named as one of the Times’ Top 100 restaurants in the UK, the family-owned Padstow restaurant has now cinched the title of Seafood Restaurant of the Year 2019.

Serving a range of classic and showstopping dishes, from monkfish and turbot to POTL fruits de mer on ice, the restaurant prides itself on sustainability and changes its menus daily to reflect the fishermen’s catch. 

Nearby properties – Trelawn, Pentyak and Tater Du in Harlyn Bay.

If you're planning a trip to Padstow, take a look at the 10 best restaurants nearby.

The Jetty in Christchurch, Dorset

For first class dining by the water’s edge, head to The Jetty. Already a critically acclaimed Dorset restaurant, this high end seafood eatery has a string of accolades to its name – from the Taste of South West Tourism Excellence award, to winner of Seafood Restaurant of the Year back in 2016.

Looking across to Mudeford Quay, The Jetty enjoys spectacular views and an impressive menu to match. Fish lovers will be in their element, with the catch of the day bringing in sea bream, squid, plaice and crab, all caught fresh from local waters.

Albatross in Taunton, Somerset

© Albatross Fish and Seafood

An independent restaurant proudly bringing its local flavours to the county town of Taunton, Albatross combines the best ingredients from land and sea. With a handpicked menu featuring River Fowey mussels, shellfish linguine, sirloin steak and curried butternut squash, dining here is the perfect way to savour a taste of the west country. Chilled seafood platters are available on request, but be sure to save space for dessert – we hear the chocolate and poached pear choux bun is to die for.

Nearby property – Upcott Farm in Dulverton. A little drive away tucked into Dulverton’s rolling hills is this beautiful hideaway. 

The Seahorse in Dartmouth, Devon

Overlooking the banks of the River Dart, The Seahorse specialises in seafood cooked over an open charcoal fire. Headed up by Mitch Tonks and showcasing some of the best fish and shellfish in the world caught just across the water in Brixham, it’s an inviting riverside restaurant for fine dining.

While menus change daily, our seasonal favourites include braised cuttlefish, Atlantic white prawns and cacciucco – a rich seafood stew to ward off the winter chill. Also making the shortlist for 2019’s Seafish award, The Seahorse offers a memorable private dining experience in The Cantina, promising to make any occasion extra special.

The Idle Rocks in St Mawes, Cornwall

Another Cornish favourite and winner of 2018’s Seafish award, The Idle Rocks specialises in French and Asian flavours. Standout starters include cured mackerel and lobster raviolo, while from the main menu, expect curried Newlyn hake and freshly caught cod served with seaweed.

With all meat, fish and dairy being strictly Cornish, this much-loved waterside restaurant reimagines the county’s best seasonal produce all year round. Overlooking the peaceful St Mawes harbour, a drink on the terrace is a must.

Rockfish in Brixham, Devon

Located in the world famous Brixham fish market, Rockfish made the shortlist for this year’s Seafood Restaurant of the Year. With a huge al fresco terrace, well-stocked bar and fresh-as-can-be seafood menu, the restaurant, takeaway and café is among the most loved dining spots in Devon. Featuring on the menu are line caught haddock, chargrilled calamari and Portland pearl oysters, while little ones are catered for with cod bites and crisp fried prawns. 

Nearby properties – Beachfront and Overcombe in Bigbury-on-Sea, Waterside in Salcombe and Tamarisks in Hope Cove.

Hix Oyster and Fish House in Lyme Regis, Dorset

Hix Oyster and Fish House is one of Dorset’s most popular seafood destinations. A la carte dishes include Lyme Bay huss curry and grilled Torbay lemon sole, while a tempting range of sides, puddings and farmhouse cheeses ensure there’s something for everyone. Accompany your meal with a ‘twisted black cow’ martini or a seasonal ‘ginger grey’ before winding down the evening with a walk along the waterfront.

For something special, we recommend booking ahead to join head chef Mark Hix at his Charmouth home for a four course cookery masterclass.