Renowned celebrity chef Rick Stein, the man who put Padstow on the culinary map, has finally revealed where he chooses to dine when he's not cooking in his own celebrated restaurants.
In a surprising revelation, the seafood specialist confessed that while he's famous for his coastal establishments, his personal favourite spot for a meal isn't one of his own creations.
The Unexpected Favourite
"When I'm in London, I always try to get to The Wolseley," Stein disclosed, praising the iconic Piccadilly restaurant. "It's just one of those places that does everything right - the atmosphere, the service, and of course, the food."
The celebrated chef particularly admires how The Wolseley maintains its exceptional standards across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service. "There's a consistency there that's really remarkable," he noted.
A Cornish Local with Character
Closer to his Cornish home, Stein's heart belongs to a traditional pub that embodies everything he loves about British dining. The Cornish Arms in St Merryn, just a short drive from Padstow, holds a special place in his culinary affections.
"It's a proper pub with great atmosphere and wonderful food," Stein enthused. "They serve exactly what you want from a country pub - fantastic Sunday roasts, excellent beers, and that warm, welcoming feeling that makes British pubs so special."
What Makes These Spots Special?
Stein's choices reveal much about what the seafood expert values in dining establishments:
- Authenticity: Both locations stay true to their identity
- Consistency: Reliable quality across different visits and times of day
- Atmosphere: The importance of environment and service
- British classics: A celebration of traditional fare done exceptionally well
The chef's revelations show that even culinary legends appreciate stepping out of their own kitchens to enjoy someone else's cooking - proving that great food appreciation transcends even the most accomplished chef's own creations.
