The Food Lover: Your September Itinerary

September in Cornwall is a month made for food lovers. The summer crowds drift away, but the harvest arrives in full force – orchards heavy with apples, hedgerows rich with berries and fishing boats still returning daily with their late-summer catch. Menus shift with the season, welcoming heartier flavours, slow-cooked stews and feasts that taste of the sea and land in equal measure.

It’s the perfect time to indulge your taste buds while exploring Cornwall’s most delicious destinations. From harbourside fish and chips to fine dining overlooking the ocean, here’s your guide to five foodie towns where every day feels like a feast.

Few places capture Cornwall’s food story as vividly as Padstow. This picturesque harbour is a mecca for seafood lovers, where fishing boats supply the restaurants just steps from the quay.

Start your morning at The Cornish Bakery in Padstow, where the scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air. Take a seat by the quay, sip your coffee and watch the harbour slowly come to life – the perfect September start to a day of Cornish flavours.

Head to St Petroc’s Bistro, serving French-inspired plates with Cornish produce. Their lunchtime specials are perfect for grazing before an afternoon stroll along the harbour.

Grab an ice cream from Roskilly’s and wander the quayside – September’s mellow sunshine makes for a perfect backdrop.

End your day with a seafood feast at The Seafood Restaurant, Rick Stein’s flagship, where the late‑summer catch becomes art on a plate.

Perched on the banks of a winding estuary, Fowey is a feast for the senses. Cobbled streets tumble towards the water, where yachts and fishing boats sway side by side, and the town’s food scene is every bit as captivating as its views. From lazy riverside lunches to fine dining with a maritime twist, Fowey blends Cornish charm with culinary flair.

Start your day at Brown Sugar Cafe, a cosy spot on the main street. From a hearty Full English to lighter vegetarian options, every breakfast is made with care. Pair it with freshly brewed coffee and watch the town wake up.

Book a riverside table at North Street Kitchen, where seasonal menus showcase the best of Cornwall’s harvest in a modern, elegant setting.

Wander into Kittows Deli, a family‑run gem for Cornish cheeses, cured meats and picnic supplies – perfect for nibbling by the estuary.

For a more relaxed vibe, head to Sam’s on the Beach in nearby Polkerris, where wood‑fired pizzas and seafood are served with uninterrupted views of the ocean.

St Ives may be famed for its galleries and golden beaches, but it’s also a haven for food lovers. The town’s winding lanes hide everything from rustic cafes serving fresh-from-the-oven bakes to restaurants plating up inventive seafood with a view of the bay. Here, the creative spirit of St Ives spills onto the plate – colourful, vibrant and always inspired by the sea.

Begin with your toes in the sand at Porthminster Beach Cafe, where Cornish breakfasts come with panoramic sea views.

For small plates and a Mediterranean twist, try Ardor, known for fresh seafood, tapas and a beautifully curated drinks menu.

Tuck into homemade cakes and coffee at The Yellow Canary, a light-filled cafe perched amongst the iconic cobblestone streets.

Head to Porthgwidden Beach Cafe for relaxed dining at sunset – a classic crab sandwich and a chilled glass of wine, with the waves as your soundtrack.

At the very edge of West Cornwall, Penzance blends history with a modern food scene that’s quietly making waves. From cosy pubs serving hearty Cornish classics to contemporary restaurants championing local, seasonal produce, this harbour town offers flavours as diverse as its landscapes. Here, every meal feels connected to both land and sea – rooted in tradition, yet brimming with creativity.

Enjoy fresh croissants and artisan coffee at The Cornish Hen Deli, which champions local produce.

Settle in at Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar in Newlyn, just down the road from Penzance, where small plates shine – think crab nachos and tempura monkfish.

Stop at Jelberts in Newlyn for a scoop of their famous clotted cream ice cream, unchanged since 1947.

Book a table at The Shore Restaurant, where Bruce Rennie crafts one of the most creative seasonal tasting menus in Cornwall. Be sure to book ahead, as this intimate dining space hosts only 10 guests per evening.

Perched around a historic harbour, Porthleven has quietly built a reputation as one of Cornwall’s most exciting food destinations. Small but mighty, this coastal town is a feast for the senses, with waves crashing over the harbour walls and restaurants that rival anywhere in the county.

Start with a strong coffee and flaky pastry from Origin Coffee Roasters, where beans are ethically sourced and roasted just down the road. Their sleek cafe overlooking the harbour is the perfect spot to watch the fishing boats head out.

Wander over to The Square at Porthleven, a relaxed yet refined restaurant serving fresh, seasonal dishes. Think crab linguine, seafood risotto or hearty Cornish chowder that warms you right through.

For an afternoon treat, head to Nauti But Ice for creamy Cornish ice cream or a quick pick-me-up coffee by the water. If you’re in the mood for something savoury, their deli counter is stocked with homemade bakes and light bites.

As the sun sinks, settle into Kota Kai, a harbourside restaurant by Jude Kereama, which blends Cornish ingredients with Asian-inspired flavours. Whether it’s miso-cured monkfish or local beef with a twist, every plate is a work of art.

September in Cornwall is a feast for the senses. With harvest at its peak and summer crowds gone, every meal – from fresh seafood to orchard-pressed cider – tells a story of the county’s rich food heritage. Take your time, follow your appetite and let Cornwall show you how to truly savour the season.