From harbourside takeaways to cosy pubs and high-end restaurants, this Cornish harbour town has something for every fish and chip lover. Whether you’re craving the classic cod and mushy peas combo or something with a flavourful twist, we’ve rounded up the best spots in Padstow to get your fix.
The Golden Lion, 19 Lanadwell St
The oldest pub in Padstow and family-run, The Golden Lion offers a warm and inviting cosy pub feel and is well-loved for their classics, including traditional beer battered fish and chips with mushy peas and homemade tartare sauce. If you fancy something a bit lighter, they also offer cod fillet with new potatoes or a delicious fish pie. Children are more than welcome in the daytime and it’s only a six minute walk from Prideaux Palace – a perfect day out.
Best for: Dine in
Price: ££-£££
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Stein’s Fish and Chips, Unit 1 S Quay
There’s so much to choose from – hake, cod, haddock, sea bass and chips with goan curry sauce, or if you’re feeling like something a little different, opt for the fish chilli burger or fresh fish tacos. You can take away your fish of choice to enjoy wherever you can find the best view, or choose to dine in and try a sharing platter with friends or family. You can’t go wrong! We recommend a walk along the scenic Camel Trail afterwards.
Best for: Dine in or takeaway
Price: ££-£££
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Shipwrights, 5 North Quay Parade
A traditional brick-built pub that originally served the fishermen and tradespeople of Padstow’s bustling port. Shipwrights serve up their south-west fish of the day for their classic fish and chips, served with mushy peas, tartare sauce and a wedge of lemon. If you’re in the mood for sharing, they offer fish and chips as a small plate, which you can pair with two other small plates of your choice for just £19 – winning! They even serve pints of Proper Dog for your furry companion.
Best for: Dine in
Price: ££-£££
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Chip Ahoy, 8 Broad Street
Looking to grab your fish and chips to take away and enjoy overlooking Padstow’s harbour views? Chip Ahoy is the one for you. Known for their deliciously crispy fish and chunky cut golden chips. You can’t miss their sunny yellow and white shiplap exterior, right next door to Padstow Brewing Company, so you can grab a cold one while you wait – a winning combination in our books. We must warn you, if you’re taking the kids, they may demand their deep-fried crème eggs! A wonderful end to a beach day – check out the nearby Harlyn beach, which is dog friendly.
Best for: Takeway
Price: £
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The Seafood Restaurant, Riverside
Quite the special treat, The Seafood Restaurant by Rick Stein offers the classics and then some. Turbot, Dover Sole, yellowfin tuna, ray wing and lobster are just some options to choose from. A fabulous choice if you’re a fan of all things seafood. They cater for the whole family with a kids’ menu and some land lover options for those who don’t like fish. Start with oysters and finish with a refreshing sorbet or an indulgent affogato.
Best for: Dine in
Price: ££££
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Harbour Inn, Strand St
The Harbour Inn is your classic Cornish pub. Their traditional fish and chips include cod wrapped in St. Austell ale batter, beef dripping chips and mushy peas. Finish it off with a knickerbocker glory, toffee pudding or apple & rhubarb crumble. There’s a cosy fire and live music, so you can settle in for the evening and enjoy a few small-batch brewed beers with your fish and chips. The Harbour Inn are family and pooch friendly, so your four-legged friends don’t have to miss out!
Best for: Dine in
Price: ££-£££
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Paul Ainsworth at No.6, Middle St
If you’re in the mood for a culinary experience, something that makes you ooh and ahh, then we suggest indulging your tastebuds in the Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth at No.6. The restaurant is set in a delightful Georgian townhouse. They take a creative approach to seafood with the best Cornish ingredients. It’s refined yet welcoming.
Best for: Dine in
Price: ££££
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Whether you choose to tuck into a tasty takeaway by the harbour or enjoy a seafood feast at one of Padstow’s top restaurants, it’s time to soak up the salty sea air and enjoy some of the tastiest fish and chips Cornwall has to offer.
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