On the Roseland Peninsula, the charming fishing village of St Mawes is more than just a picture-postcard spot with bobbing boats and boutique hotels — it’s an absolute dream for foodies. Whether you’re craving Cornish crab rolls, a cheeky cream tea, or Michelin-worthy fare, you’ll find something to tickle your tastebuds here. So grab your fork, loosen that waistband, and discover the best places to eat in St Mawes.
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St Mawes Pubs and Restaurants
St Mawes may be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to pubs and restaurants. Expect fresh seafood, cosy pub grub, and sea views that turn every meal into a scenic treat – all served up with a warm Cornish welcome.
1. Hotel Tresanton
This stylish hotel is a must for seafood lovers and Instagrammers alike. With a Mediterranean-inspired menu and a terrace that gives you one of the best places to eat in St Mawes with a view, Hotel Tresanton is an upscale spot where the lobster might change your life.
On Sundays in July and August, there’s a BBQ with salads, seafood, grilled meat and a selection of desserts.
The dining space is chic but relaxed – think whitewashed walls, nautical touches, and that swoon-worthy view across the bay. It’s definitely worth splashing out for a special experience.
👨👩👧👦 And yes, it’s totally family friendly. There is a playroom, children’s garden, and three family suites.
🐾 Dog friendly in the bar, named Dogs Bar
Stay the Night
The Hotel Tresanton in St Mawes offers a luxurious retreat with stunning sea views and exceptional service. Set across a cluster of whitewashed buildings, the hotel features 30 individually designed rooms, each offering a unique charm.
2. Idle Rocks
If you’re hunting for Michelin Star restaurants in St Mawes, Idle Rocks doesn’t hold a star (yet!), but many say it tastes like it should. This restaurant is all about elevated cuisine using locally sourced Cornish ingredients. Expect elegant plates like Fowey River mussels or perfectly cooked hake with saffron potatoes. Dine on the terrace, and you’ll enjoy an uninterrupted view of the harbour.
Fancy a private dining experience? Ask about their bespoke group menus.
🐾 Not dog friendly
3. St Mawes Hotel
The St Mawes Hotel is a stylish spot that offers a bit of everything – great food, cosy rooms, a lively bar, and even a hidden cinema! Yes, you read that right. The food is unfussy and comforting with modern twists: think Cornish lamb, tempura prawns, and a killer Sunday roast. It’s ideal for a laid-back lunch or hearty dinner after exploring the coast.
📌 Pro Tip: the cocktails are lush!
🐾 Dog friendly in the bar
Stay the Night
The St Mawes Hotel offers a boutique stay right on the harbourfront, blending coastal charm with contemporary comfort. With individually designed rooms, some boasting a sea view. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the Cornish coast.
4. St Mawes Bakery
A proper Cornish holiday isn’t complete without a pasty, and St Mawes Bakery has you covered. This charming little spot has been serving golden bakes since 1912. Their traditional steak pasty is a local legend, but don’t sleep on the saffron buns or homemade sausage rolls. It’s one of the best cheap places to eat in St Mawes when you want a tasty grab-and-go lunch.
Get your goodies and enjoy them sitting on the harbour wall. The seagulls may have other plans, though!
🐾 Not dog friendly
5. St Mawes Seafood Bar
Tucked away in the harbour, this small but mighty bar serves up ultra-fresh local shellfish. Expect fresh fish, shellfish and seafood. It was one of the finest crab sandwiches I’ve ever had, using the very best locally hand-picked crabmeat. No frills, just unbeatable freshness and sea air. It’s a no-reservations spot, so grab a table when you can!
🐾 Dog friendly
6. Cafe Chandlers
Cafe Chandlers, a laid-back cafe beloved by locals and visitors, is perfect for a relaxing coffee, cake, or cream tea. The brunch options, especially the full Cornish breakfasts and local eggs, are a must-try. The friendly and relaxed vibe will make you feel right at home.
🐾 Not dog friendly
7. Da Bara St Mawes
If you know, you know. Da Bara Bakery is famous in Cornwall for its life-changing cinnamon buns, and their St Mawes outpost delivers the goods. Great for a quick stop or stock up before a day out. Their sourdough sandwiches and toasties also deserve a mention — especially the local cheese & onion chutney combo.
🐾 Dog friendly
8. Ship & Castle Hotel
This traditional hotel pub is located in the centre of the village and is ideal for relaxed dining with a pint in hand. The extensive menu at The Ship & Castle offers sandwiches, burgers, hotdogs, salad bowls, pasta dishes, pizza, and pub classics. The restaurant has fantastic views.
🐾 Dog friendly on the hardwood floors
Stay the Night
The Ship and Castle St Mawes has comfy, modern rooms (especially if you upgrade to one with a sea view), welcoming staff, a dog-friendly attitude, and one of the best harbourfront locations in England. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the charm of this pretty little village.
9. Victory Inn
The Victory is the kind of place you pop into for one drink and end up staying for dinner. It’s the oldest and only traditional pub in St Mawes, with low ceilings, wooden beams, and a roaring fire in winter, full of character. Food-wise, the menu is all about home-cooked comfort. You also get a free dessert with your Sunday lunch!
🐾 Dog friendly
10. The Watch House
This harbourfront restaurant is a local gem, serving modern British dishes with a Cornish twist. It’s all about the day’s catch at The Watch House, what seafood dreams are made of! We had an incredible meal here – a shellfish platter with prawns, scallops, crab claws, mussels and scallops, and a lemon sole katsu curry! Book ahead, especially in summer — it’s popular for a reason.
🐾 Dog friendly
10b. Watch House Takeaway
Right next door to its fancier sibling, the Watch House Takeaway is a classic Cornish chippy serving golden fish and chips, scampi, and hearty portions of mushy peas. It’s a must if you’re after a fuss-free, flavour-packed feed with proper seaside vibes. Perfect for a sunset dinner on the harbour wall (just watch out for those cheeky gulls), the batter is crispy, the chips are chunky, and the cod? Flaky perfection.
11. Rising Sun
The Rising Sun is a classic inn that exudes coastal charm. Its terrace offers lovely views. The solid pub fare, including pie and mash, burgers, and roast dinners, served with a smile, will make you feel like a part of the local community.
🐾 Dog-friendly – there’s even a selection of dog bowls and treats inside, which you can help yourself to.
Stay the Night
The hotel offers a selection of boutique-style rooms – singles, doubles, twins, and family options – some boasting sea views over the Roseland Peninsula. Each room features en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee-making facilities.
12. Mr Scorse Gourmet Deli & Wine
Mr Scorse Gourmet Deli & Wine is the go-to place for a cheeky picnic setup or some foodie souvenirs. The deli offers a variety of options, from charcuterie and Cornish cheeses to homemade quiche, freshly made sandwiches and a well-curated wine selection. It’s the perfect place to pick up supplies for a beachside feast or a lazy lunch back in your rooms.
🐾 Dog friendly
13. The Bohella Bar
Tucked away in the St Mawes car park, this lesser-known bar offers stonebaked pizza – which you can eat in or take away. It’s the experience you stumble across and can’t wait to tell your mates about. An excellent spot for watching live sports or soaking up the sun on the large outdoor terrace.
🐾 Dog friendly
14. Take a Picnic
Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and head to one of the beautiful Cornish beaches. Enjoy the sound of waves lapping the shore and catch a stunning sunset.
Devon Hampers sends the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream, and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider, and BBQ hampers.
Devon Hampers Promo Code
Get 5% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. There is no minimum order amount. Use DEVON5 at the checkout.
Ready to Eat Your Way Around St Mawes?
From posh plates to pasty perfection, St Mawes is bursting with flavour. Whether you’re booking a table at a restaurant, popping into a deli for picnic goodies, or craving a hearty pub meal with a sea view, this little Cornish village punches well above its weight in the foodie scene.
So, next time you visit, explore these amazing places to eat in St Mawes. And remember – always book online or book direct when you can because the secret’s well and truly out.
Get 50% off Food
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Cornish Days Out
There are so many unusual things to do in St Mawes; it’s full of surprises. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or just exploring solo, this charming Cornish town has something for everyone. So, the next time you visit, be sure to venture off the beaten path and enjoy these unique activities.
Book a Tour
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
Cornwall Hideaways
Cornwall Hideaways have a massive selection of luxury holiday homes to make your next staycation perfect. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll be able to find properties with the things on your tick list, including dog-friendly, sea views, walking routes or even a log fire. There are barn conversions, cottages, lofts and manor houses – perfect for self catering holidays.
🐾 Dog friendly
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