Long-standing and staple eatery within Padstow by Rick Stein

In my crammed visit to Padstow, I was able to cram in a visit to Mr Rick Stein’s much fabled café in Padstow. I’ve always wondered what the reputation and almsot hysteria is about this venue. I like Rick Stein a great deal as he is very amiable and watchable in his love of seafood so, naturally I was curious. Padstow has basically become dominated by the Stein brand so it was interesting to see what his central café was about.

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Firstly, it is first come first served, so no bookings if that was a concern and with the thousands of people walking in and around Padstow on my half term visit I was amazed that we managed to get a table – not only that it was a lovely sofa bench table right by the bar. The look and feel of this little café was actually what most struck me – it just has the look of a really cosy, casual and pleasant interior without being over the top at the same time.

The offerings were visually on the simple side and the prices did not appear to be as eye-watering as the horror stories I was led to believe before my visit. The flavours were fresh and appealing without question but in all due fairness, I think it would be difficult to say this was advanced cooking. It clearly doesn’t want to be which is obviously great in a way – I was just a little surprised the fish burger for example was as basic as it was noting the brand which is where I think some may take issue.

So all in all, not incredibly special for the food, but certainly not damaging and was pleasing enough. It is a delightful little place regardless and I can see why it is absolutely perfect for those looking for a comforting experience with children without breaking the bank and I wouldn’t say no to going in the evening but thought it was at its forte in the afternoon hours.

Food Grade: 62%