The Harbourside Refuge Restaurant and Bar

Haven of hospitality

Porthleven is legendary for its stormy weather and dramatic seas, so it’s great to have a gourmet safe haven up your sleeve, where you can cosy up and enjoy delicious food prepared by Michael Caines’ team.
Tucked into the port’s pretty horseshoe cluster of pubs and restaurants, Harbourside Refuge lives up to its name as a snug hideaway in a gale. However, a rooftop terrace and alfresco tables make it an equally lovely destination when the weather is clement. Picture windows, too, make it the perfect spot for grazing on succulent seafood while gazing over the harbour’s pale blues and bobbing boats.

All‑day flexible and family‑style menus make this welcoming restaurant an ideal destination for all manner of occasions: from morning lattes and quick bites after walking the dog (downstairs is pooch friendly) to casual dinners with friends and blow‑out celebrations.

Popular dishes such as rump of lamb and sirloin steak are crafted with utmost attention to detail while, for those pushing the boat out, the seven‑course tasting menu with accompanying wine flight is a wonderful opportunity to sample Michael Caines’ signature dishes.

Michael and head chef Jack Wilkinson see to it that dishes are crafted from the abundance of world‑class ingredients grown and reared nearby. Fish is sourced from Cornish waters, making dishes such as wild cod with globe artichoke and watercress feel in perfect harmony with the glorious waterside setting.