This iconic dining pub has long held a special place in the hearts of those in the know, having built a formidable reputation in the 2010s under Emily Scott. A decade on, the St Tudy Inn is enjoying another exciting new era, this time under head chef George Buckley and his band of bright young Cornish chefs.
Kitchens have been George’s sanctuary from the age of seven, as he grew up helping his dad at the family restaurant. As a teenager, he worked at The Mill House before claiming his first head-chef position at a local golf club. His big break came at Tintagel Brewery Bar & Bistro, which won a coveted finalist spot for Best Newcomer at the Trencherman’s Awards 2023.
At St Tudy, George leads a dynamic kitchen crew who are clearly having a lot of fun with this venture, while also creating some seriously good food. The dishes that flow from the pass exude a confidence that belies George’s informal training.
Starters might include Cornish white crab with brown crab emulsion, almond and cucumber, while mains such as hake with chanterelles, herb gnocchi, wild garlic and butter sauce showcase skill and seasonal ingredients. For plant-based diners, roasted maitake mushroom with green tahini and teriyaki is a flavour-forward find.
The pub’s AA-rosette-awarded rooms in a converted barn offer a cosy retreat just steps from the action and turn dinner into a foodie getaway. Live music and a busy calendar of seasonal events are further reasons to visit.
Trencherman’s tip
Look out for excellent value lunchtime offers, especially in the low and shoulder seasons.