Where to Eat in Watergate Bay, Newquay

Watergate Bay is a 3 mile long stretch of golden sand in Newquay, and is a bit of a foodie paradise too.

I’ve only been a handful of times, as it can be tricky to find a good parking spot in summer, but with so much going on down there in terms of restaurants and bars, I thought it was high time to write about this seaside resort!

Special Occasion Lunches at Fifteen

Watergate Bay is perhaps most famous for it being the location of Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant, and casual fine dining eatery serving Italian inspired dishes for lunch and dinner (with a 6 course Tasting Menu available in the evenings too!).

I visited recently for a press lunch to try out the new summer menu, which is full of mediterranean flavours and seasonal ingredients. My favourite dishes were definitely the ‘Dunderi’ pasta (ricotta dumplings in a lemon butter sauce with peas & mint) – so delicious! For dessert I’d highly recommend the Femme de Virunga chocolate mousse – you won’t be disappointed.

Relaxed sunset dinners at The Beach Hut

I’ve written a full review of our dinner at The Beach Hut back in October last year, but I’m keen to go back again during summer where I can catch more of an evening view (the nights were getting dark too quickly for us back then!). Owned by Watergate Hotel and perched at the edge of the beach, this relaxed hang out spot is perfect for casual post-surf food with big portions and hearty menu options like burgers, steaks and tasty seafood.

Cool Cocktails at Watchful Mary

Watchful Mary is Watergate Bay’s newest and trendiest bar on the beach, with super relaxed, continental-style decor that looks straight out of an Ibiza Instagram pic. From what I’ve heard the cocktails are delicious (I’ve only so far stopped in for a soft drink!) and the views across the bay are to die for. Open every day in summer from 9am ’til 11pm, Watchful Mary also serves small plates in the evening and hosts live music and DJs at night. Can’t wait to go back!

Watergate Bay has also always been famous for its clifftop fields being the site of Boardmasters festival, which means during the first couple of weeks in August it can be insanely busy in this area. But for the rest of the year, it’s a lovely beach to come for a long walk or practice your surfing!