For days when you want to enjoy Cornwall’s culinary scene from the comfort of your own Cornish cottage. Delicious and decadent, we’ve put together a list of the very best takeaways from restaurants in the Falmouth and the Helford River area.
Ever since the pandemic, Cornwall’s restaurateurs did whatever they could to remain open, for the most part this translated into takeaway and delivery options, and in other cases, transforming their brick-and-mortar offering into pop-ups and event catering. Now that things have returned to normal, it is a pleasure to know that many of our favourite eateries have kept their take out menu items so that we can choose to dine in, takeout to our favourite view point, or order straight to the doors of our Cornish cottage.
Star and Garter Cocorico
Perched at the top of the Old High Street, the fabulous Star and Garter eatery has recently undergone a menu change. In addition to offering their famous Sunday Roast accompanied by a gorgeous view of the harbour and a tasty cocktail menu, they are now delighted to share their new venture ‘Cocorico’. Free-range chicken breast, brined overnight, smoke-roasted on the barbecue and served with a choice of classic and healthy sides such as tenderstem broccoli with green beans and roasted baby potatoes with garlic and thyme. A takeout like no other, enjoy in the comfort of your own holiday abode or amongst Cornwall’s magical scenery.
Wilder Kitchen
Originally based at Mount Pleasant Eco Park, Bradley has recently moved his business to Falmouth, taking over the spot that Sloth and Sparrow occupied down Upton’s Slip. Serving Indian street food influenced by his trip to the southern regions of India, Wilder’s Thalis have all the components you need for a flavourful feast. Make sure to check out his daily dessert special, suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Examples of menu items include tofu paneer aubergine roll, carraway flatbread, lime, coconut and chile gratin potatoes, black rice mushroom congee and homemade mango chutney.
Nude Canteen
A firm office favourite, Nude Canteen is one of Cornish Holiday Cottage’s go-to’s when ordering a lunch to enjoy together in Mawnan Smith. Jess’ nourishing poke bowls are layered and lovely. Colourful, healthy toppings cover sticky rice mixed with magical mayonnaise and crispy onions. Filling yet morish, build your own bowls with ingredients such as avocado, pickled eggs, raw fish, teriyaki tofu and bbq jackfruit.
Sasparella
If you’re seeking a sweet treat like no other, make sure to pop to the Moor in Falmouth on a Saturday from midday to try one (or buy a box) of Sasparella’s vegan doughnuts. Each weekend locals flock and form an orderly, but lengthy queue to indulge in these decadent delights.
Sasparella’s claim to fame lies in their artisanal vegan donuts. Each donut is a miniature work of art, lovingly crafted with an assortment of flavours, fillings and toppings that cater to every taste bud. From huge, glazed cinnamon buns to whipped peanut butter cheesecake-filled wonders topped with chocolate ganache, these round confections are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
If sweet isn’t your thing, their plant-based bagels are also incredible and fillings include seitan pastrami with sauerkraut, smoked carrot ‘salmon’ and vegan cream cheese and tofu bacon with coconut bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise.
If your Saturday is chockablock, Sasparella also deliver to your Cornish cottage on Fridays. Simply choose which box size you would like (four or nine donuts), select your flavours and make sure to order before 10pm on Thursday for your Friday treat.
Sabzi Deli
From the moment you step into Sabzi Deli in Falmouth it’s evident that this is no ordinary takeaway joint. The air is fragrant with a harmonious blend of spices and aromas, a prelude to the culinary delights that wait. The front counter is a visual spectacle, with vibrant colours and beautifully-presented, nutritious dishes that showcase the artistry and passion behind each creation.
Fill a lunch or supper box with your selection of Sabzi’s daily salads, topped with a generous dollop of rich hummus and seeds. Choose if you would like to add house dhal to your order, a slice of sweet love cake, or a few salty chocolate cookies. With an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients, each dish is a testament to the deli’s commitment to wellbeing. A takeaway that feels like a gourmet experience, elevating your everyday meal into a moment of indulgence and yet it is health-packed too.
Harbour Lights Fish and Chips
Trying fish and chips in Cornwall is not just about indulging in a classic British dish; it’s about experiencing a culinary tradition deeply rooted in the region’s maritime heritage and breathtaking coastal beauty. Harbour Lights is a highly acclaimed establishment known for its exceptional fish and chips. With its stunning harbour views and commitment to quality and sustainability, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable fish and chip experience. There’s something inherently comforting about tucking into a warm serving of fish and chips by the sea, it’s a meal that’s perfect for both sunny days and chilly evenings.
Dakuu
Offering authentic Indian food with seasonal Cornish produce, Daaku’s small but high-quality menu features dishes packed with flavour and presented with care and attention. In addition to dining in their Falmouth town-centre eatery, their meals can be collected and taken home to enjoy in the comfort of your own Cornish holiday cottage. Daaku is a local’s favourite, with its online reviews speaking for itself. The changing menu allows them to work closely with the seasons to utilise the best produce from land and sea as it arrives. Dish examples that can be enjoyed include sweetcorn and spring onion chaat, aloo gobhi, jjera piaz pulao rice and tarka daal.
Pizza Pls
Pizza can be an easy choice when you’re feeding a large group; the topping options are endless, you can skip on the washing up, the box is recyclable, it travels well and it’s the ultimate comfort food. Falmouth and the Helford River area aren’t short on takeaway pizza options but our favourite has to be Pizza Pls in Penryn. Located in trendy Bohl’s Yard, guests can choose to dine in or order for collection/delivery.
Woodfired and wonderful, their dough is delightfully thin and there are toppings to suit every palette. Their vegetarian Portobello with white base, ricotta truffle cream, wood roasted garlic mushrooms and ‘fior di latte’ mozzarella is a must try. Vegans will be pleased to discover their vegan Salsiccia, and those with a sweet tooth will delight at their Pizza ‘Dolce Frutta di Bosco’ which is a sweet pizza of a custard base and cooked fruits of the forest, dusted in icing sugar.
Stones Bakery
Focusing on quality ingredients and using traditional fermentation techniques, artisan bakery and cafe Stones Bakery on Falmouth’s Old High Street, is a must-visit for all of those who adore buttery pastries, blooming sourdough bread and moreish savoury bites.
Stone’s Bakery started life as a stall at the Falmouth Moor Market, and while owners Rosie and Oliver Kingdon sat outside through the harsh, cold Cornish winters they dreamt of a warm place to bake and sell their goods. And so in 2009, they opened their own shop and bakery on the High Street in Falmouth.
They make bread, cakes, pastries, savoury tarts, muesli, biscuits and crackers. During certain days of the week, they have also been known to offer rustic pizzas and humble breakfasts. Locals queue up for fresh, warm sourdough bread right out of the oven and take away a collection of sweet and savoury treats in paper bags, to enjoy while browsing Falmouth’s collection of independent shops or for rambles along the coast path.