Places to eat: Michelin Guide

MICHELIN GUIDE RESTAURANTS

There are big names aplenty in the Michelin Guide, but here are some of the smaller (and newest) entries from Cornwall, quietly plying their trade in hidden and quirky venues.

Rocket Store

Listed in December, this “compact” restaurant is based in the 19th century store which once housed the coastguard’s horse-drawn rocket firing equipment. What the Michelin Guide says: “The blackboard lists small plates and whole fish dishes; most of the produce is supplied by the owner’s father who, as well as being the harbourmaster, owns a boat and runs a small farm.” The Harbour, Boscastle, PL35 0HD. Tel 01208 871714 www.asquithsrestaurant.co.uk

Barley Sheaf

This 18th century village pub draws upon the Roseland peninsula for produce, and made its Michelin debut in December. What the Michelin Guide says: “This attractive pub has a deceptively large interior, with a rustic, pine-furnished dining area, a capacious bar and space to dine upstairs too. The well-priced menu lists pub classics alongside more ambitious dishes.” Gorran Churchtown, PL26 6HN. Tel 01726 843330 www.thebarleysheafgorran.co.uk

Asquith’s, Lostwithiel

Chef proprietor Graham Cuthbertson serves modern British cuisine in this shop conversion, with contemporary styling and wood panelled walls hung with modern Cornish art. What the Michelin Guide says: “Confidently executed dishes feature some original flavour combinations and won’t break the bank. The atmosphere is intimate, relaxed and inviting.” 19 North Street, Lostwithiel, PL22 0EF. Tel 01208 871714 • www.asquithsrestaurant.co.uk

Emily Scott Food

Emily took over new premises at the popular Watergate Bay complex last summer, having cooked for world leaders during the G7 summit in Carbis Bay, so it was no surprise to see her in the Michelin Guide by December. What the Michelin Guide says: "The room is elegant and contemporary and there are far-reaching views... Local produce features in refined dishes with a seafood focus.” On the Sea Wall, Watergate Bay, TR8 4AA. Tel 01637 818184 • www.emilyscottfood.com

Sardine Factory, Looe

A laid-back first floor restaurant in a converted sardine factory, with views across the harbour to bustling east Looe. What the Michelin Guide says: “The extensive menu champions Cornish seafood, including mussels from Fowey and fish from Looe itself – much of it cooked on the bone.” Quay Road, West Looe, PL13 2BX. Tel 01503 770262 www.thesardinefactorylooe.com

Mexico Inn

A mainstay of the far west for more than 200 years, this roadside inn offers superior food, regular events including Sunday roasts and Wobbly Wednesdays (discounted midweek tipples for members), plus quizzes and live music nights. What the Michelin Guide says: “It has a touch of the shabby-chic about it... Classic pub dishes are gutsy and flavourful." 4 Riverside, Long Rock, TR20 8JD. Tel 01736 710625 www.themexicoinn.com

Pilchards, Port Gaverne

A modern timber and glass building with a large terraced garden, overlooking the bay where Cornish pilchards were once landed. Park in Port Isaac and saunter over. What the Michelin Guide says: “The seafood-orientated menu offers both small and large plates, with whole fish grilled over charcoal a speciality.” Port Gaverne, PL29 3SQ. Tel 1208 880891 portgavernehotel.co.uk/restaurant/pilchards-cafe

Tabb’s

Tucked away in a former pub, Tabb’s has been in Truro for over a decade and boasts two AA rosettes. Chef-proprietor Nigel Tabb has worked in busy city kitchens, but his own restaurant is small but perfectly formed. What the Michelin Guide says: “The owner works alone in the kitchen, cooking refined, classically based dishes with masculine flavours. Sauces are a strength and the deep-fried courgettes are a must.” 85 Kenwyn Street, Truro, TR1 3BZ. Tel 01872 262110 www.tabbs.co.uk

The View

Situated on the wild Rame peninsula in Cornwall’s southeastern reaches. Don’t let the remote location fool you – The View is close to Plymouth, so booking is essential. Set to reopen under new ownership. What the Michelin Guide says: “Bright local art hangs on the walls and the bar is packed with Cornish spirits. Cooking is simple and unfussy and the fresh fish dishes in particular are a hit.” Freathy, PL10 1JY. Tel 01752 822345 www.theview-restaurant.co.uk