If you’re anything like me then your first consideration when going to a new town or city is always wine related. Where can I find a nice glass of decent wine? Specifically in Padstow?
Of course ‘decent’ and ‘nice’ are all pretty subjective and my tastes might differ to others but as a minimum I want to drink wine out of an actual wine glass – not a tumbler – which seems to be a thing now (why?!), and I want to see a bit more of a selection on the wine list to choose from than just a Chilean Sauv Blanc…I also don’t always want a pub environment with TV’s on the walls playing sport, and mostly prefer a quieter place to sit and chat…(fussy or what?!)
Living in Padstow, we have so many choices of drinking establishments all catering for different areas of the market, and so I’m pretty lucky that I don’t have to struggle too much to get my decent glass of wine, with or without food. So where do I recommend? Here is a nice little list giving you a run down of my favourites…
- BinTwo, The Drang. What can I say about this place that hasn’t already been said? It is without doubt a super, little, dedicated wine shop that has a couple of tables inside and a handful outside which makes for the best atmosphere. It overlooks the Drang and the harbour and my favourite spot is sat outside by the window. Many times I have sat here and ended up chatting to the table along and have certainly lost a few hours here with friends over the years. Going to BinTwo is one of my favourite past times when I am at home, and to sit outside, people watching while enjoying a glass of something delicious is just the best. The menu is always changing and that means that I always have a chance to try something new, and that in my opinion is the best way to learn about wines and what styles you prefer. They do light bites – think – olives, bread, biltong, lobster rolls etc – the ideal pre-dinner nibble or light lunch. Pop in and see Mike, Kate and the rest of the gang next time you visit Padstow!
BINTWO
2. Greens, North Quay. Boasting one of the best views (which overlooks the estuary) in Padstow makes this an easy choice for me. They have a good selection of wines by the glass (local stuff too from Trevibban Mill!) and its very relaxing sat in the sun catching up with friends or over a bite to eat. Afternoons are my favourite when its in between meal times, and a little quieter. Although this is all about the wine, I am partial to the odd cocktail now and again, and Greens do a mean ‘English Gin Garden’ or if you’re after a little pick me up, I find their Espresso Martinis work wonders!
(photo credit: www.greenspadstow.co.uk)
GREENS PADSTOW
3. Rojano’s in the Square, Mill Square. If you love Italian then you will love this place. Food aside – which is pretty special I must admit – the wine list is also very impressive. A broad range of wines, from Italy and beyond, there really is something for everyone. Traditionally they used to serve Italian wines only, but last time I visited I enjoyed a lovely Gruner Veltliner and was really impressed at the choice they offer, as well as catering for all budgets. Although you’ll be hard pushed to find a table to just have a drink due to its popularity for food (side note: in summer I’m pretty sure you can’t just have a drink, it must be with food) its the kind of place that you will want to spend a couple of hours enjoying the wine while indulging in the full ‘Rojanos’ experience. Try the arancini balls (heaven!), and the Prawns on the starters menu.
ROJANOS IN THE SQUARE
4. Ruby’s, Broad Street. I love this place best in the winter months, it has a very cosy feel to it and was a house until fairly recently. No views to be had, but when its rainy and cold this is a perfect place to hide out. Getting a table can sometimes be tricky in the busier months because it is very small but thats half the charm. Its now an extension of St Petrocs Bistro next door and means you can head here before dinner for pre-drinks downstairs. Although probably best known for its cocktails and impressive range of gins, they also have a nice selection of wines on the menu from around the globe, and is a great alternative to the modern pub atmosphere while still feeling a bit like an old pub with its interesting decor, artwork and the odd bit of taxidermy thrown in for good measure! You can also compliment your wine with some nibbles.
(photo credit – Ruby’s Bar (Copyright Chetwode Ram Associates LTD 2015.)