With everything from quirky independent cafes to gourmet delis, Penzance has a lunch menu to delight even the toughest foodie.

One thing’s for sure: there really is something for every taste, including delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, simple snacks and all-out indulgence. Narrowing the selection is no mean feat (and we haven’t even started on the pasty shops…)

1. Archie Browns

Bread Street

You really don’t need to be vegetarian or vegan to love Archie Browns. Even the most devoted of meat-eaters will be converted by the fresh, healthy options on offer, including some of the best salads you’ll find anywhere, ever.

2. The Terrace

15 The Terrace, Market Jew Street

Stop by The Terrace for a sandwich done very, very well. Tailor-make your perfect lunch, with a choice of breads, fillings and extras. If the sun’s out, get it to take away, or pull up a seat by the window and watch the town move around you. 

3. The Cornish Barn

20 Chapel Street

This rustic restaurant has its own smokehouse and a commitment to fresh, local Cornish produce. The Cornish Barn’s lunch menu is deliciously simple, featuring creative burgers and hearty salads. 

4. Mr Billy’s Cafe

13-14 Market Place

Venture inside this trendy coffee bar and you’ll find much more than a good cuppa. As well as the frankly fantastic drinks menu, there’s a varied lunch offering, with fresh salads, soups and daily specials.

5. The Granary

15D Causewayhead

Get food to go at The Granary: a small but perfectly stocked wholefood shop. As well as fresh bread and salad boxes, you’ll find imaginative picnic options like pizza slices, rissoles and vegetarian scotch eggs.

6. The Front Room

83 Market Jew Street

Tucked away at the bottom of Market Jew Street, The Front Room is all about brunch (whatever the time of day). Go here for a full English, pancakes, or the ultimate eggs benedict: a real local favourite. 

7. Canapes and Deli Shop

39 Causewayhead

Known for its friendly service and great value, Canapes and Deli Shop is a TripAdvisor favourite. The menu contains Polish specialities and a range of savoury tarts served with salad. Top tip? Leave room for dessert.

8. Waves Cafe Bar

29 Causewayhead

This modern and refreshingly informal cafe serves a varied lunch menu encompassing everything from deep-fill sandwiches and paninis to fresh pasta and burgers. When the sun smiles, sit outside Waves and feel gloriously continental.

9. The Cornish Hen Deli

27A Market Place

Create your own upmarket hamper at The Cornish Hen and head out into the great outdoors; or bag a window seat and eat in. There’s a tempting selection of pies, pasties and sandwiches, along with deli favourites like olives and cheeses.

10. The Honey Pot

5 Parade Street

This cosy cafe is packed with character and very popular (do book a table). Food here is reliably delicious, with healthy but filling options for all dietary needs. If you’ve got any room left, the cake menu comes highly recommended.

And that’s not all… Take a look at our full guide to food and drink in Penzance.