Cornwall Living

Tides of flavour

Sustainably sourced seafood and thoughtful cooking on the Roseland Peninsula.

The Nare has long made a case for the value of tradition. This five-star country house hotel sits above the curve of Gerrans Bay, offering guests a slower, more considered kind of hospitality. Its recently refurbished Quarterdeck Seafood Restaurant is no exception – smart but relaxed, with polished service, timber panelling and views that stretch out to Nare Head.

The focus here is firmly on the food. Seafood is sourced locally through Wing of St Mawes, one of the region’s most respected fish merchants, ensuring quality and freshness are never in question. The kitchen’s approach is clear and seasonal, allowing top-tier ingredients to speak for themselves in dishes that are refined, but not showy.

Among the highlights is a delicately prepared Cornish octopus, served with care to bring out its natural flavour and texture. Bluefin tuna, now returning to local waters, is offered in a single large raviolo – a rich, rewarding dish that reflects both the excitement and responsibility of sourcing locally. The Monkfish Wellington, a seafood take on a familiar classic, is fast becoming a firm favourite. And for those seeking variety, the Fruits de Mer platter delivers a full spread of oysters, crab, lobster, mussels and more. Elsewhere, hand-dived scallops are paired with gentle citrus or crisp foraged elements, and there’s always a thoughtful vegetarian option – a quiet nod to inclusivity rather than compromise. Puddings lean towards the traditional, and the wine list is both well-chosen and generously stocked.

Sustainability runs through the menu. As well as foraged garnishes such as wild garlic and samphire, The Nare supports the National Lobster Hatchery’s “Buy One, Set One Free” scheme. For every lobster bought in, a donation is made by the hotel to support the release of young lobsters back into Cornish waters.

The Quarterdeck is open to both guests and visitors, offering a clear-sighted and quietly confident seafood experience that reflects the standards and character of The Nare itself.