Experience exquisite dining at this elegant country house by the sea where traditional elegance meets contemporary flair. Words by Hannah Tapping.
The Nare’s reputation for fine dining has been established over many years, with both of its sea-view restaurants receiving recognition for culinary excellence. Cornwall itself has become a destination for some of the finest chefs and restaurants in the country, owing much to the excellent local produce on offer from the sea and land.
Step into The Dining Room at The Nare and prepare yourself to be transported to a world of refined elegance and culinary delights. With spectacular sea views on three sides, this opulent dining space sets the stage for an unforgettable gastronomic journey. The table d’hôte menu, which changes every evening, is a testament to the hotel’s commitment to showcasing the best of Cornwall’s culinary bounty. The Dining Room experience is a classic silver service affair, where diners are treated to a five-course extravaganza of epicurean delights. Start your meal with a selection of hors d’oeuvres from the fabulous trolley, expertly presented by the attentive staff. Then, indulge in guéridon-served flambés, prepared tableside with flair and finesse. Save room for the homemade puddings, which are sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
As a country house hotel by the sea, the heart of The Nare’s dining experience is a dedication to showcasing the finest local produce, with an emphasis on seafood and Cornish specialties. Portloe lobster takes pride of place on the menu every night, alongside an abundance of other seafood treasures sourced from the pristine waters of Gerrans Bay. For meat lovers, the Cornish beef sourced from local farms is among the best on offer, ensuring a truly indulgent dining experience, and The Nare’s renowned Sunday lunch held in The Dining Room, is an experience not to be missed.
And let’s not forget about dessert! The Nare is renowned for its selection of West Country cheeses, expertly curated to showcase the rich diversity of flavours and textures found in this corner of England. And no dessert is complete without a generous dollop of Cornish clotted cream, the crowning glory of any sweet treat. The Nare has an extensive wine cellar with classic and interesting wines from around the world, selected and laid down with the experience and insight of Proprietor, Toby Ashworth. The wine list also includes several of the best wines from local vineyards, who owe much of their success to the subtropical climate enjoyed on the south Cornish coast.
For a more relaxed dining experience, head to The Quarterdeck, where classic yachting decor, teak panelling and large windows meets stunning sea views. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a candlelit dinner, The Quarterdeck provides the perfect backdrop for good food, good company, and unforgettable moments. During the day, the atmosphere is light and calming, with large windows bathing the space in natural light and offering sweeping views over Gerrans Bay. Those sea views are even more spectacular from the terrace which affords a delightfully sheltered sun trap in the summer. In the evening, the ambiance becomes more intimate, reminiscent of The Dining Room as diners gather to savour fine cuisine by candlelight.
Afternoon Tea is a long-standing tradition at The Nare, and residents are invited to partake in this indulgent ritual each day. Served in the elegant Sitting Room and Drawing Room from four o’clock onwards, afternoon tea at The Nare is a feast for the senses. Indulge in warm scones, served with a choice of local jams and lashings of Cornish clotted cream. Sample a daily selection of homemade cakes and pastries, expertly crafted by the hotel’s talented pastry chefs. And, of course, no afternoon tea would be complete without a wide range of teas to choose from, ensuring that every cup is a perfect match for your palate. In the summer months, afternoon tea spills out onto the cocktail bar terrace, allowing guests to soak up the sunshine and enjoy views of the hotel’s lush gardens and the sparkling sea beyond. And in the winter, cosy up by the log fires and enjoy the sea view from the comfort of your armchair as you indulge in this quintessentially British tradition.
As a family-friendly hotel, children are never left out of the dining experience. For the very young, The Nare’s chefs prepare a delicious early supper, which is always eagerly anticipated after a day building sandcastle on the beach. Early dinner is served in The Dining Room, and for those aspiring gourmands who wish to dine in style, older children are welcome to enjoy the full a la carte menu in The Dining Room. The dress is code is formal, as a nod to this elegant experience both in terms of atmosphere and dishes. Residents and visitors alike are welcomed at The Nare, where dining is not just a meal; it’s a journey of culinary discovery that celebrates the rich bounty of Cornwall’s land and sea. Whether you’re savouring the five-course extravagance of The Dining Room, enjoying the relaxed elegance of The Quarterdeck, or indulging in the timeless tradition of afternoon tea, every meal is a celebration of the finest local ingredients and expert craftsmanship. So, why settle for anything less? Experience the magic of dining at The Nare for yourself, and embark on a foodie journey that will leave you refreshed, revitalised, and longing to return.
