The Falmouth Arms

This was disappointing. We were really looking forward to our ‘celebrity chef’ night out in Cornwall that we do a couple of times a year. The service was good and we had a pleasant welcome. The bar area lacked something, I think ‘warmth’ it felt a bit dated in its decor. We sat facing a cold wood burner. We didn’t really like all of the ‘award’ plates hanging on every hook and again felt this was a bit dated. Most of the food was delicious, however, we ordered the lamb as a main course and no where on the menu had it stated that it was going to be half a plate of offal. I feel this is unforgivable. I was faced with heart, liver and kidney on my plate which completely ruined the dish. My husband had the beef which again (unmentioned on the menu) had liver pate in the dish which spoilt it completely as it permeated everything. Also of note was the Australian Pinot Noir that we ordered was actually South African. Again an unforgivable mistake from an establishment of this price point. I did raise this with the staff and received an apology but I really felt let down by the experience and we certainly won’t go back. In my day, working in top class restaurants, we would definitely have offered the customer some complimentary drinks or actually I think some reimbursement off the bill would have been an appropriate gesture. But that was not forthcoming.

Having booked a holiday in Ladock, we were excited to see that Kevin Viner had opened a restaurant in The Falmouth Arms, so booked Sunday lunch. We were placed in a delightful small dining room. Mrs Viner brought us dog treats and a bowl of water. The lunch was fabulous, the star turn for me was the twice baked soufflé, stunning. My wife’s bread and butter pudding was also fabulous. The beef and the pork were of the highest quality, and delicious. Thank you so much, we really enjoyed our lunch. Sadly for us you are taking a break or we would have been back.

We had dinner here and stayed over as we were celebrating a wedding anniversary. We were made to feel very welcome by Gill and Kevin and were quickly checked in and shown to our room which was very cosy with a very comfy bed. The bathroom was a bit on the small side but did the job and everything was to hand e.g. plenty of towels, soap, flannels. A fan in the room would have been nice and if we had asked for one, I am sure it would have been provided. The pub and restaurant was beautifully presented, freshly painted and very clean with some interesting artefacts throughout the building. The food was very good. We were given little appetisers while we were waiting for our main course which were exquisite. The menu was a bit limited. We were hoping for some specials but we understand and appreciate that Kevin is the only person in the kitchen and having to cater for a larger menu would be difficult. The food was all freshly cooked. The four main course choices: vegetarian (maybe vegan), fish, beef and lamb. Maybe have chicken instead of two red meats as some people don't like red meat? We didn't have a dessert as we were full but they sounded nice. The cooked breakfast was also good. There was also fresh, warm croissants and fresh melon. The only gripe is the seating. All the locals had taken up the armchairs and sofas and we were left standing at the bar and then sitting in small upright chairs at a table. The bar area is quite small. It's like sitting in someone's front room with everyone engaged in conversation. Unfortunately, after we had eaten and went back to the bar there was still no comfy seating and had to sit back where we were before dinner so retreated to our room. Maybe have some comfy bar stools at least? Overall, they are very generous with everything, very attentive and you won't go hungry. Good value for money.

We found the whole experience just wonderful. Jill and Kevin are excellent hosts. The main meals and breakfast were all outstanding. We were particularly impressed with Kevin's small delights as a starter. The lounge bar was remarkably cosy with very friendly locals. We spent the night there. Room was comfortable and welcoming. 100% recommendation.

Fabulous Sunday lunch. Prawn Cocktail then melt in the mouth pink Beef, great selection of vegetables with very generous portions.