The Sardine Factory, Looe

Restaurants

Using the freshest of day boat fish from Looe market opposite the restaurant.

Opening Times

The Sardine Factory is a great spot for you to really be able to make the most of local cuisine, whether you’re joining us for a light lunch, dinner with friends or family, a romantic night out or a big celebration. Innovative and modern coastal cuisine served in the historic fishing port of Looe in Cornwall.

Our food philosophy is to keep it simple and fresh, let our ingredients do all the talking!

Award-winning Chef Benjamin Palmer returned to his home town of Looe to open The Sardine Factory Restaurant in July 2018. It has always been a dream of his to open a restaurant in the town that he grew up in. Ben has worked in many different restaurants across the UK and Europe, before settling back in Looe, with his wife and young family.

Ben’s passion in the kitchen has bagged him a number of awards, including winning the starter at the Parisian banquet for BBC Two’s Great British Menu 2024. Ben & his team were delighted to receive the prestigious accolade of a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2019 & have retained it since.

The Sardine Factory has 80 covers overlooking the stunning harbour with a menu reflecting the ethos of Looe and a passion for local seasonal produce, with an abundance of sustainable fish dishes.

Location

The Sardine Factory, Looe

Address

Quay Rd, The Quay, Looe PL13 2DD, UK

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01503 770262

www.thesardinefactorylooe.com

enquiries@thesardinefactorylooe.com

Driving from our parks

Tamar View: 19.53 miles / 36 mins
Notter Bridge: 12.48 miles / 25 mins

Rating

★★★★★4.6

Based on 799 reviews

Info correct at time of publish: April 26, 2026. Always check with location before visiting.

Reviews

Victoria Clark

2 months ago

This is one of our favourite restaurants- Ben and his team are always so welcoming and the food is fabulous. My parents drive down from London to come here as often as they can. We had a lovely week recently trying a few places all over cornwall and all said this was by far the best ! Worth the visit for sure.

Robert Saxon

5 months ago

The Sardine Factory has quickly become one of our absolute favourite places to eat. Everything about it just works — the food is exceptional, the service is warm and professional, and the setting has that perfect mix of style and comfort.
The menu shows real creativity without losing touch with what makes good food great. Every dish we’ve had has been beautifully balanced and packed with flavour — clearly made with top-quality ingredients and real attention to detail. The seafood, in particular, is outstanding.
It’s the kind of restaurant that makes you want to linger over every course, enjoy a good bottle of wine, and just soak up the atmosphere. Whether you’re after a relaxed lunch or a special evening out, The Sardine Factory never disappoints — a genuine gem that’s earned its place as one of our favourites.

Mairi Chapman

7 months ago

A fantastic find while visiting Looe. We booked a last min holiday to Looe, and while there we walked and searched for good food. This restaurant was outstanding. We loved every bite. The crispy squid was divine. The crab mac n cheese was the best mac we have ever tasted, and even after the selection of small plates and sides as a tapas style meal, we still had room left for dessert. Which didn’t disappoint. The lemon posset with meringue and raspberries was a creamy perfection.
Thank you to Ben and all of the chefs for our gorgeous meal today.
We really had a fantastic time, and our tummies are very happy

Charlotte McHugh

8 months ago

Wonderful restaurant serving the best local seasonal seafood dishes (plus other options for anyone not a fan of seafood). The staff were friendly and attentive and the presentation of the food was amazing. Highly recommend if you are visiting Looe.

Rajesh Rathod

8 months ago

Our experience of having lunch at The Sardine Factory was lovely, right from the warm welcome of the staff to the absolutely delicious selection of seafood. Service was excellent, ambience was beautiful. Thank you for giving us such a good time