Alex Fisher eats at St Petroc’s Bistro in Padstow, Cornwall

WHET MY APPETITE Rick and Jill Stein’s restaurants are now world famous, but as the Stein empire expands, does the food still live up to its excellent reputation? After visiting St Petroc’s in pretty Padstow I would say yes, it does.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU? To start, the very best scallops I can ever remember eating: honestly. My mouth still waters at the thought of the baked scallops flavoured with a touch of truffle butter. St Petroc’s doesn’t just produce fantastic seafood, it also offers melt-in-your-mouth steaks. I tried one, with a flavoursome bone-marrow gravy, which was superb. I didn’t have room for dessert, instead I stole a spoonful of my companion’s local Treleavens ice cream, which was also excellent. This really is a special place to eat.

HOW’S THE MOOD? Relaxed, but stylish and high-end. Lots of families and birthday celebrations, with couples coming in later in the evening. A nice lounge with sofas where you can browse the menu, sipping a glass of Cornish sparkling wine from nearby Camel Valley. There’s also a small garden patio for warmer weather and elegantly decorated rooms upstairs for those who want to stay for the weekend.

CAN I SEE THE SEA? No, but Padstow Harbour is just a few minutes’ walk away.

WHAT’S THE DAMAGE? Starters from £5.95 and mains from £15.95. During the winter months there is a lunch menu offer of three courses for £25. Dishes range from barbecued mackerel or Cornish hake, to pork terrine and pavlova.

OPENING TIMES Open seven days a week, from 12pm-2.30pm for lunch, then from 5.30pm-10pm for supper. To book call 01841 532700 or visit rickstein.com.

If you’re searching for a staycation hotspot for your Cornish break, try these top Cornwall hotels.

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