Welcome to Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar
Nestled by the serene Nowiyn Coombe river in Newlyn, the Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar offers a delightful escape for seafood enthusiasts. This charming spot is celebrated for its innovative dishes, like the crab nachos and crispy squid, which capture the essence of fresh, local ingredients. Patrons rave about the relaxed atmosphere, complemented by outdoor seating and warm service that makes every visit special. With a focus on quality and creativity, Mackerel Sky transforms traditional seafood fare into memorable experiences. Whether you’re savoring indulgent lobster fries or delicate anchovy bites, the flavors here linger long after the meal ends, making it a must-visit gem in Cornwall.
Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar: Reviews & Ratings
Tucked away by the gentle Nowiyn Coombe river stream, this little outdoor spot felt like a hidden gem. We sat outside, wrapped in the soft glow of a nearby fire heater that kept the early evening chill at bay. The sound of the flowing water and the flicker of the fire created a cozy, almost magical atmosphere — the kind of place where time slows down and conversation flows effortlessly. The food was a standout. The crab nachos were a creative twist — crispy tortilla chips piled high with fresh, sweet crab, tangy pickled onions, and a creamy drizzle that brought everything together. Easily the star of the meal. The lobster loaded fries were indulgent comfort — golden fries topped with generous chunks of lobster, a creamy sauce, and a squeeze of lime that lifted the whole dish. Messy? Yes. Delicious? Absolutely. We also shared a plate of anchovy bites, which were clean, fresh, and surprisingly delicate. The sun-dried tomatoes added a hint of sweetness that paired beautifully with the saltiness of the fish. A simple, elegant little plate. Between the food, the fire, and the peaceful riverside setting, it was one of those meals that stays with you. Definitely a spot to return to — next time, maybe with a blanket and a few extra hours to spare.
What an amazing gem! We were lucky enough to get a table straight away and the food was some of the best we had in Cornwall. The muscles were the highlight along with the crispy squid. A perfect casual dining spot with the freshest fish!
Fabulous place, great service and food. Be prepared to wait for a seat although I I have been lucky and got a seat right away both times I have been here. Worth it though, the crab tacos are amazing, you can’t make a wrong choice, only ordering too much perhaps!
This is such a cosy, rustic, spot nestled in Newlyn. The food was absolutely outstanding, with seafood dishes reimagined! I loved the crab nachos, crab sandwich, scallops and sundried tomatoes and the weever fillets in a tomato and caper sauce. The service was warm and welcoming too. You could tell many customers were regulars and it was a lovely local spot which I will definitely be returning to if I’m in the area. (Ps it gets busy so I would arrive around 12pm)
The food was awesome. They serve very good seafood and the presentation was good as well. It’s tasty, fresh and the price is reasonable. If you find people standing over the small bridge over the canal then, the queue is for the restaurant and not for the bus .
My husband declared this was the best seafood restaurant in Cornwall and quite frankly, I absolutely agree. We ate at the extension to this place, the Seafood Shack, which is just a short distance down the road. This was our second visit, after having visited a couple of years ago and having good memories. Dishes are served tapas style and you are given a wipe clean menu and a pen to highlight your choices. All of our choices were delicious but my favourite was the grilled John Dory with samphire and capers. The host (Ruth?) was lovely and welcoming. If you only visit one seafood restaurant in Cornwall, make it this one.
What a super special place, we had a wonderful meal, the highlights for us being the lobster and crispy lemon sole, though it’s hard to choose your favourites when each dish is 10/10!! The staff were very attentive and we loved the atmosphere. We will absolutely be coming back for our next trip!
This little seafood bar is just superb. A very friendly atmosphere, although only a small venue, we were seated without booking and given a very warm welcome. It soon became clear that it is popular for good reasons. The food was gorgeous, went for the half lobster special and it was a treat. Sharing a table was no trouble and all the diners seemed happy. Highly recommended, you won’t be disappointed
Location
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New Rd, Newlyn, Penzance TR18 5PZ, United Kingdom Hotline: +44 1736 366626
Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar is a delightful culinary destination nestled along the tranquil banks of the Nowiyn Coombe river in Newlyn, Penzance. This seafood haven offers not only a feast for the palate but also an inviting atmosphere, where diners can bask in the warmth of outdoor heaters while immersing themselves in the soothing sounds of flowing water. The charming surroundings create an enchanting ambiance, making it the ideal spot for a leisurely meal.
Here, the focus is on fresh, local seafood, brilliantly reimagined in innovative dishes. One standout, as noted by patrons, is the crab nachos. This clever twist on a classic features crispy tortilla chips lathered with sweet, succulent crab, tangy pickled onions, and a creamy sauce that ties the dish together perfectly. Another crowd favorite is the lobster loaded fries, a lavish comfort dish that doesn't skimp on flavor or generosity. These golden fries come topped with succulent lobster chunks, a rich creamy sauce, and a zesty squeeze of lime, creating an indulgent experience that guests rave about.
- Specials: The John Dory fillets served with samphire and semi-dried tomatoes offer a refined touch, highlighting the bar's commitment to quality seafood.
- Sides: Complement your meal with grilled samphire or classic chips, perfect for soaking up all those delicious sauces.
- Desserts: Don’t miss out on the decadent chocolate mousse or the delightful misc caramel with amaretti, sweet endings that promise to satisfy your cravings.
The numerous positive reviews echo a common sentiment: Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar is more than just a place to eat; it’s a treasured experience. Visitors appreciate the attentive service, the lively atmosphere, and most importantly, the vibrant dishes that taste as good as they look. The convivial spirit of regulars and newcomers alike adds to the charm of this quaint establishment. Whether you're indulging in the sophisticated texture of scallops or enjoying the simplicity of anchovy bites, every dish is crafted with care and precision.
In summary, Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar is not just a restaurant; it is a culinary gem that welcomes all to indulge in the freshest catches of the day, reinterpreted with creative flair and a touch of local charm. Be prepared to experience a dining adventure that lingers long after the last bite.