Porthleven feasting with Asian flair

This flagship restaurant from Jude Kereama, Great British Menu veteran and recipient of the Award for Special Contribution at the Trencherman’s Awards 2020, is the go-to for dynamic fusion dining in Porthleven.

Discerning foodies make the trip to sample Jude’s three-AA-rosette menus, which major on seafood (Kota means ‘shellfish’ in Māori).

Standout dishes – such as kombu-cured weever fish, turnip and XO sauce, and gurnard cooked over coals paired with a brown crab sauce – utilise fresh local produce. They’re inspired by a diverse mix of the chef’s travels across the globe, his Cornish fishing village home and his Chinese‑Malay and Māori heritage.

Small plates recently became a permanent fixture on the lunch menu, offering guests the opportunity to order as many (or as few) dishes as they like for leisurely grazing. Must-eats include Porthilly oysters doused in homemade beetroot vinegar, and deep-fried ox cheek and oyster croustillant with watercress emulsion and horseradish mayo.

Jude’s menus are skilfully executed by newly appointed head chef Ross Sloan. A good friend of Jude, Ross was head chef at Kota a decade ago and made his comeback to this creative kitchen in late 2022.

Trencherman’s tip: take full advantage of the tasting menu wine pairings by staying in one of three harbour-view bedrooms above the restaurant. After a good night’s sleep, swing by sister bar and kitchen Kota Kai (also in Porthleven) for a laid-back lunch.