Grazing at Greens

We try out the culinary delights of Cornwall’s north coast.

Being based on the south coast of Cornwall, I don’t often explore the further reaches of the north coast. Taking just under an hour to drive to Padstow, it was actually so nice to be doing something different and going somewhere new for a change, made better by the fact that it was an absolutely beautiful evening for a long drive and a delicious dinner. As we arrived in Padstow an array of boutique shops greeted us. We parked in the heart of town and wandered up the hill towards the restaurant with the sound of a choir singing to accompany our walk, and an increasingly spectacular view of the harbour and Camel Estuary beyond.

“…the views blew me away and the food was delicious”

Greens affords an absolutely stunning position at the top of the hill, just outside the main hubbub of town and close by to a beautiful coastal walk, making it an ideal place to stop and refuel for lunch after a long walk; or dinner as the sun descends. The restaurant lends itself wholeheartedly to good weather, with a spacious outdoor seating area and bi-fold doors that, once opened, allow a gentle sea breeze to enter into the room.

My dining partner and I were shown to a table for two, from which we could admire the stunning view. The blue skies and indigo ocean contrasted with the sandy hues of the surrounding countryside, scorched by the glorious heat-wave we’ve been experiencing, and as we sat gazing at the panoramic ocean vistas I could fully appreciate the soft light and incredible surroundings that have inspired countless artists. The interior of the restaurant is modern and contemporary with funky blue tiles drawing on the deep indigo of the ocean and the light blue sky. I could easily have sat all night and watched the sun set however, my tummy was rumbling in anticipation and I couldn’t wait to try out the deliciously summery menu on offer.

To drink, I ordered a white wine spritzer which was incredibly refreshing alongside the warm summer’s evening and my partner chose a light and fruity sparkling elderflower cordial. All the staff were extremely helpful and the service was well timed between courses. To start, I ordered the goat’s cheese and beetroot salad and was impressed by the delicate balance of flavours – the creamy goat’s cheese complemented the sweetness of the beetroot relish perfectly and was set on top of a fresh summer salad with walnuts strewn throughout. My partner chose the warm crevettes in salsa verde and got stuck in peeling the shells off the prawns and dunking them in the tangy lemon mayonnaise, before mopping up the remaining sauce with artisan bread.

In the interim between courses we wandered out to the balcony to look at the view and watched as the coastguard made its way out of the harbour. Then on our return we were greeted with two beautifully presented dishes. My partner chose the crab linguine on recommendation and wasn’t disappointed; referring to it as: “The best linguine I’ve ever had,” the meaty and fresh crab was tossed through the linguine with red chilli, garlic, ginger and green herbs scattered on top. My dish was full of colour with deep red roasted peppers filled with light, fluffy cous cous and a crisp salad on the side. For dessert, we shared a warm chocolate brownie with honeycomb ice cream and a jug of chocolate sauce to drizzle on top. The ice cream provided the perfect respite from the decadence of the rich, chocolaty brownie and we finished the dish between us in seconds.

All in all, I couldn’t have asked for a better evening to spend at Greens; the views blew me away and the food was delicious. In my eyes it’s the perfect cliff-top getaway from which to enjoy a summer’s evening, and one I’ll be recommending to anyone who will listen!

TRIED AND TASTED

Every issue, we dine undercover at a different restaurant, tasting the menu and putting the team through their paces in search of the finest eateries, freshest produce and best service. It’s a tough job but someone has to do it! Look out for our ‘Tried and Tasted’ seal of approval.

Discover More

Adding another string to their already laden bow, Greens has its very own crazy golf course. Recently refurbished, the course will imminently be up and running and promises to be a fun-packed family day out this summer.

Greens is accessible for all with a lift for disabled access and dogs are welcome for those who want to enjoy delicious food with their canine companions in tow.