A restaurant in Porthleven has re-opened following an extensive refurbishment.
Kota Kai, which was originally launched by Jude Kereama in 2011, is situated in front of Porthleven Harbour and is just moments away from its sister restaurant, Kota.
This week, the Packet revealed that Kota has been named a finalist in this year's Trencherman’s guide for best restaurant of the year.
The restaurant was created to provide a family-friendly option with integrity – a restaurant that offered a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere with a delicious menu that stood out from the usual family-friendly fayre and was a nod to Jude’s heritage (Jude was born in New Zealand and is half Māori and half Chinese Malay) with Asian elements to its dishes.
Now, 13 years later, with head chef Marcus Houghton, and Jenna Sawle leading front of house, Kai is being relaunched with a full refurbishment and renovation, with a version that retains its warm welcome but has become a little more sophisticated.
Kereama explained why the time was right for the restaurant to be refurbished. He said: “After 13 years, it felt like the right time to evolve the offering at Kota Kai to something a little bit more grown-up.
“It is important to us that it still feels like a welcoming place for families but is also a destination for drinks and snacks.
“The open plan layout highlights our special location, drawing the eye to the views across the harbour. We also have a slightly different menu format with some great new dishes, we’ve been working on, accompanied by an extensive drinks list. We are excited to introduce the changes to our guests.”
Jude and his team worked with Steve Coombe from 3idog to refurbish the restaurant interiors and deliver the vision for the refresh. A new colour scheme has been introduced alongside more natural materials and textures to create a calmer, more cohesive space.
A long statement bar and new dining furniture have been installed.
Bespoke handmade lighting by Lovelinkin baskets, artwork by local artists including Felix Griffiths, Zee Van G, and Jo Hague, and photography by Jack Johns are now featured on the restaurant walls.
With an extensive cocktail menu by The Bearded Barman, Chris Jarret, a wine list with many New World wines and a new bar area, Kota Kai is the ideal place for a cocktail and snack with friends or overlooking the harbour. In the summer months, guests can sit outside, and enjoy sea views, whilst ordering from their ground-floor bar.
Opening hours: Kota Kai is open Wednesday through to Monday for Lunch and Dinner (closed Sunday Evening, all day Tuesday, and all day Wednesday) from Easter Kota Kai is open seven days a week.
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