Once used as a storeroom for fishing nets and sailing canvas, this building also did duty as an aquarium and café before being transformed into a bustling all-day eatery in 2002. More than a decade on, and despite increased competition, The Basement continues to go from strength to strength with menus that showcase locally reared meat and seafood from the Padstow boats. A starter of pan-fried mullet with crab and mussel risotto might be followed by cod with triple-cooked chips, Cornish spring lamb tagine or free-range chicken breast with asparagus, peas, broad beans and consommé. Children get their own menu, breakfast is a good shout, light bites suit the lunch crowd, and the place also serves some of the best coffee in town. The wine list includes bottles from Cornish vineyards such as Camel Valley and Knightor.