Hi, I’m James and I run Mackerel Sky in Newlyn, Cornwall.
Here’s our Secret List chat at the Penzance Food Festival.
In this chat at the Penzance Food Festival, James shares his insider knowledge of Cornwall’s food scene, revealing his favourite local spots and the secret tips.
Set in the heart of Newlyn’s bustling fishing village, this beloved seafood bar proves that the best fish comes from being literally steps away from where it’s landed. What makes Mackerel Sky truly exceptional? It’s straight off the boat, literally – with suppliers bringing in whatever’s freshest that day, from their famous crab nachos that have been on the menu since day one to their mouth-watering sole katsu that keeps the queues forming outside.
Opened in 2015 by Nina and James MacLean, who fell so in love with Cornwall they never left, this small but perfectly formed space operates on a no-reservations basis that adds to its authentic, come-as-you-are charm. Hosting up to 200 customers a day during summer, they often have to re-order fish mid-service to keep up with demand – a testament to just how special their tapas-style taster plates really are.
The setup couldn’t be more perfectly positioned for seafood lovers – customers can walk to the harbour in a matter of minutes and see the boats coming in that supply the very fish they’re eating. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a direct connection to Cornwall’s maritime heritage served up fresh daily.
The Secret List guide is part of how we create exceptional experiences for guests staying in our Cornwall Airbnb collection. We’re Cornwall’s Airbnb management experts. Learn more >
Featured in this Secret List chat
Mackerel Sky
Swordfish Inn
45 Queen Street
Pocket Full of Stones
Frasers Fish & Chips
Kota Kai
Paul Ainsworth
Ugly Butterfly
Adam Handling
Rick Stein