Cowell’s Cuisine

Muddy Beach – Café, bar & restaurant - Penryn

I discovered Muddy Beach one Sunday morning after Mrs C and I had got up rather late (and fuzzy-headed), and went in search of somewhere in Falmouth to get brunch. Of course, by then, most places were serving lunch – but we wanted brunch! Which is exactly what Muddy Beach serves all day on a Sunday regardless of what time you happen to get up!

On our last visit, on a sunny Sunday lunchtime, I chose a Cornish Seafood Bouillabaisse which was stunning. Mrs C had the whole dressed crab with chips, and judging by the gentle sound of slurping drifting over the table I can only assume she enjoyed it. We were also introduced to a delicious Rose wine made by a former Falmouth man now living in deepest Provence. It certainly hit the spot and thwarted any attempt of Mrs C hitting the fizz again…

There is also a kids menu (Mini Muddys) which includes a home-made Cornish cheese burger, local fish gougons with chips and roasted tomato pasta and garlic bread. You can also order from the all-day brunch menu which is extensive and has plenty of veggie options.

Muddy Beach opened in 2016 and is run by the very charming and ultra-efficient, Christian Dann. Christian, and his family’s’ big idea is a simple one – to offer excellent food and drink in the sort of friendly, relaxed atmosphere that you’ll want to return to time and again. It that sense it certainly succeeds. Christian’s love of the restaurant trade is a trait passed on through several generations.

The name Muddy Beach comes from the local nickname for the beach opposite the café, situated on Jubilee Wharf – a great place to watch for wildlife and wading birds on the river while seated on the outside terrace. Essentially it’s a summer place but there is plenty of tables inside for when it’s cold and windy.

The cafe is definitely a family affair and the smiley staff go that extra mile by making the service both efficient and friendly. They also provide a special dog area where dog walkers can go to hang out in the warm after a walk along the riverbank.

As I stood on the decking, gazing down the river, I realised what I like about Muddy Beach is that it really is a cafe for locals. It is not overly touristy and has that real family-friendly feeling. Prices are very reasonable and you can always choose smaller, starter sized plates. On my last visit, the outside terrace was full of families and dogs and it felt as if we had just arrived at a private party.

This is another of my favourite places that certainly deserves to succeed. It’s the perfect place for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. I like their attention to detail, some restaurants in Cornwall can suffer from poor service - Muddy Beach doesn’t – it delivers on all fronts.

Muddy Beach - Jubilee Wharf, Penryn. 01326 374424 - www.muddybeach.com

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