What should I order at The Old Forge Cafe?
The Old Forge Cafe
Fish and Chips
The fish and chips are overwhelmingly praised as the best in Cornwall and possibly the best ever tasted by many reviewers. The fish portions are described as huge, cooked to perfection, and served with generous chips. The traditional preparation, including cooking chips in beef dripping, adds to their authentic and delicious appeal.
Mushy Peas
Several reviews mention mushy peas as a complementary side that is 'lush' and adds to the traditional fish and chips experience, highlighting its freshness and quality.
Chips with Cheddar
Some reviewers enjoyed the chips topped with cheddar, noting them as 'mint' and adding a unique twist to the classic chips, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Hours
| Monday | 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, 4:30 to 7:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, 4:30 to 8 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, 4:30 to 8 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About The Old Forge Cafe
The Old Forge Cafe is a fish and chips restaurant, cafe, and fast food restaurant in Saint Austell, Cornwall. Reviewers consistently praise the large portions, freshly cooked fish and chips, and welcoming atmosphere. The shop is described as casual, with dine-in and takeout available, and it is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. It is also noted for using beef dripping and serving cod with thick-cut chips, mushy peas, and other classic chippy sides.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Coffee
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is The Old Forge Cafe known for?
It is best known for traditional fish and chips, especially cod with thick-cut chips and mushy peas. Reviewers repeatedly mention the generous portion sizes, crispy batter, and the fact that the food is cooked in beef dripping.
What dishes are most recommended at The Old Forge Cafe?
Reviewers most often highlight cod and chips, the special fish supper, and the Ultimate fish and chips. The salt-and-chilli chicken-loaded chips also gets a specific mention, and several people note the meal comes with mushy peas and bread as part of the value.
What is the atmosphere like at The Old Forge Cafe?
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with staff described as warm, friendly, and polite. It suits solo diners, groups, and tourists, and reviewers mention ample seating and a clean, well-organized cafe.
Is The Old Forge Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, reviewers consistently describe it as good value, and the listed price range is £10–20. One review mentions a fish supper with cod, chips, mushy peas, bread, and a drink for £10, while others say the portions are large enough that they could not finish their meals.
What should I know before visiting The Old Forge Cafe?
Expect a wait, especially at busy times, because the planning info says there is usually a wait. Parking is available with a free lot and free street parking, but reviewers note spaces can be somewhat difficult to find, so arriving prepared is helpful.
Is parking available at The Old Forge Cafe?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Is The Old Forge Cafe kid-friendly?
Yes, The Old Forge Cafe is good for kids.
Restaurants like The Old Forge Cafe in Saint Austell
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