The best places to eat in Looe
Nestled on Cornwall’s stunning south coast, the charming fishing town of Looe offers more than just beautiful coastal walks and picturesque views; it is a haven for foodies.
If you love seafood, hearty pub classics, a dining experience at a luxurious restaurant, or you want a meal with a view, Looe’s culinary scene has an eatery for whatever you want.
From traditional Cornish pubs to modern restaurants showcasing local ingredients, this guide highlights the best places to eat in Looe and shares information about what makes each spot special and some of the great dishes you can try.
- Fifty
- The Coddy Shack
- The Sardine Factory
- Smugglers Cott Restaurant
- Ye Olde Salutation Inn
Fifty
Fifty is a family-run restaurant and bar that is well-known for its great food and cocktails. Whether you are looking for somewhere to go for a relaxed meal or a cheeky drink, Fifty is a place where you can enjoy both experiences.
This small independent restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its carefully curated menu changes with the seasons. Some of its standout dishes include fish stew, pan-roasted hake, and fillet steak. With a strong focus on quality wines, local gins, and creative cocktails, Fifty is as much about the drinks as it is the food.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Looe, Fifty offers a dining experience that feels personal, heartfelt, and distinctly Cornish. In fact, they say, “At Fifty, you’re not just a customer — you’re part of something special.”
The Coddy Shack
The Coddy Shack is a vibrant and much-loved seafood restaurant that has become popular amongst both locals and visitors seeking top-tier fish and chips. Nestled at Great Tree Farm just outside the town centre, it offers a laid-back, rustic atmosphere with a modern twist, especially since its reopening in 2024 following a fire.
Despite the updated surroundings, the Coddy Shack has retained its signature charm and friendly vibe, making it a go-to spot for casual dining. The menu showcases local, Cornish produce, including scallops, mussels, whitebait and the classic cod and chips.
It’s not just about dinner either, as the Coddy Shack now serves breakfast and Sunday meals, expanding its appeal throughout the day. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, it caters to a wide range of dietary needs.
If you are staying at one of the caravan parks in Looe, Cornwall, The Coddy Shack is certainly one place that should be on your must-visit list.
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The Sardine Factory
Located on the historic quayside of West Looe, The Sardine Factory is a modern restaurant that blends heritage with innovation. Set within the beautifully restored Old Sardine Factory building, it offers stunning views over Looe Harbour and a menu that celebrates the best of Cornwall’s seasonal produce.
Using the freshest of day boat fish from Looe market, the restaurant has earned a number of prestigious accolades, including a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2019, which it has retained ever since.
Some popular dishes on the menu include smoked haddock scotch egg, Cornish crab linguine, and Looe lobster, but there is plenty of choice!
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Smugglers Cott Restaurant
Built in 1420 and located in the heart of East Looe, in the famous backstreets just off the seafront, the Smugglers Cott Restaurant has been serving quality food for over 50 years and has a history dating back some 600 years.
Inside, the restaurant retains its old-world charm with low beams, stone walls, and a cosy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a traditional smugglers’ tavern.
The restaurant, which can seat over 60 diners, specialises in local seafood and prime steaks along with its famous Sunday carvery. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available, making it a versatile choice for groups with varied dietary needs.
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Ye Olde Salutation Inn
If you are staying at our Looe camping site and you want to eat at a traditional, friendly pub, then the Ye Olde Salutation Inn is the perfect choice. The pub has been family-run for over 30 years and offers home-cooked food such as lamb hot pot, fish pie, steak and ale, and chicken and mushroom pies.
There’s also a great selection of drinks, including local ales, wines, and speciality gins. So, whether you’re popping in for a pint, sitting down for a full meal, or just looking for a dog-friendly spot to relax, Ye Olde Salutation Inn is one place to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions about places to eat in Looe
Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Looe?
Looe offers a great selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries. Whilst most restaurants, pubs and bars will offer vegan and vegetarian dishes on their menu, there are a few standout:
Where can I find traditional Cornish food in Looe?
For authentic Cornish foods, Smugglers Cott, The Sardine Factory, The Coddy Shack and Fifty are all eateries where you can enjoy Cornish food and drink. Sarah’s Pasty Shop is also beloved for its handmade Cornish pasties, filled with traditional ingredients like potato, swede, and beef skirt.
Is Looe good for family dining?
Looe is packed with family-friendly restaurants. There are eateries that offer relaxed, welcoming atmospheres, and many restaurants and pubs in Looe have special kids’ menus with a variety of meals on offer.
Do I need to book restaurants in advance during the summer?
Yes, booking ahead is highly recommended during peak summer months (July to early September). Popular restaurants like Smugglers Cott, The Sardine Factory, and Fifty often fill up quickly, especially in the evenings. While some pubs may accept walk-ins, queues are common, and takeaway spots can get busy too. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on your preferred dining experience.
Places to eat in Looe
There are so many amazing places to eat in Looe and its surrounding areas, which range from the freshest seafood you can find to some classic Cornish cuisine. If you are looking for caravan holidays in Cornwall, our holiday park has everything you need.
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