Move over Margate, it seems the tide has turned to Cornwall. Known for its under-the-radar but serious culinary scene (Fifteen, Rick Stein, Nathan Outlaw…), this seaside town has always been on our radar, but now, thanks to some new hotel openings, restaurants and a not-to-be-missed beachside culinary event, if you’re craving the salty sea air, the only way is Cornwall.
First up, if you’re looking for a home-away-from-home experience, the newly reopened Padstow Townhouse could be just the ticket. Owned by Michelin-starred chef Paul Ainsworth of restaurant Number 6, the six bedroom 18th century hotel has all the traits of a luxury private home: all rooms are suites, there’s a help-yourself kitchen brimming with everything from Champagne to cakes, and BMWs for guests.
Or, if you would prefer to stay on site at a restaurant, book a room at Coombeshead Farm, a working farm and dining room by the acclaimed chef April Bloomfield (of The Spotted Pig in New York) and Tom Adams (of Pitt Cue London). Aside from the all-encompassing culinary experience, where guests can stay, dine and familiarise themselves with the working farm, come autumn, there’ll be workshops such as butchery, sausage making, curing, pickling, preserving, and bread making.
But it’s the news that London’s top chefs are planning beach barbeque in August that has us prepping for a trip to the rugged coast. The Cornwall Project Beach Banquet will include chefs such as Shuko Oda from Koya Bar, Ben Chapman from Smoking Goat, Eryk Bautista from Newman Arms and Paul Weaver from Noble Rot who are all part of the stellar line up taking place on Carlyon Beach on August 6. Aside from the four course banquet, we’re told to expect live music, beach games for kids, two bars and a fire pit. Buy your tickets here.
