Set just above the sands at the beautiful Sennen Cove in far west Cornwall, Ben Tunnicliffe’s Restaurant is the perfect beachside bistro. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor decked terrace, the views from this restaurant are worthy of a visit alone – whatever the time of year.
My husband and I visited Ben Tunnicliffe’s (or Ben’s at Sennen as it is known locally) on Boxing Day last year, after a cold and windy yet refreshing walk along the beach. I hadn’t planned on going for lunch, and was surprised to find the restaurant open – but seeing as I have been meaning to visit for ages, it seemed the perfect time to try it out!
Although the decked terrace looked lovely and offered the best views of the sea, it was too cold to sit outside, so we made our way indoors where it was lovely and warm – and with sand (inevitably) covering the floor of the restaurant, it was almost like we were still on the beach anyway. The restaurant has a really relaxed, chilled out atmosphere, and is decorated with all things nautical and surfy. There is a very cosy-looking area next to the bar, with a log burning stove and big sofas, which I imagine would be the perfect spot to enjoy a hot chocolate or comforting Cornish cream tea!
The lunch menu offered a good selection of fish, meat and vegetarian options; I chose scallops and Chris went for the haddock. We shared a side of chips, which were just as they should be - lovely and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and served with delicious aioli.
We decided not to go for dessert this time, although they did sound very appealing – and there was also a very tempting display of pastries and cakes to choose from. I would also love to come back and try their breakfast one day; I would have gone for the breakfast this time had we been there earlier!
If you are in the far west next holiday, why not treat the family - children and dogs are most welcome. There is a separate children’s menu, and water is provided for your thirsty four-legged beach explorer!
Verity Langley
Part of the Guest Experience Team, I am your personal holiday planner and concierge - in short, my job is to help you get the very most out of your stay! Ask me about anything, from dog-friendly beaches to the best places to eat out and where to take the kids when it's raining. Let me arrange a taxi or book an in-house spa treatment for you - and don't forget to let me know if your holiday is to mark a special occasion and I'll arrange a little something to help you celebrate...
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