Ben Tunnicliffe Set to Make Waves at Sennen
Ben Tunnicliffe, one of Cornwall’s top chefs, will open a new restaurant in a stunning beach-side setting this March, when he takes over The Beach Restaurant at Sennen.
Ben, whose pub The Tolcarne Inn in Newlyn is one of the best places to enjoy fresh Cornish seafood, said: “We’re thrilled to announce that we will be taking over The Beach Restaurant in Sennen this Spring. Having a restaurant in a location like this is a dream come true; I can’t wait to welcome people through the doors to enjoy relaxed dining and really good food for all the family.”
Ben is the new tenant of the Shannon Family, who built the original beach cafe at Sennen in 1959 – later to become one of the most impressive dining locations in Cornwall. As a result of a remarkable building project in 2004, the wood-frame building now blends into the sand dune setting like a piece of architectural driftwood, and a large terrace commands spectacular views over the rugged and unspoilt bay.
Ben is the perfect guardian of this iconic building. The enterprising chef gained a reputation for his flair with seafood; first at The Abbey in Penzance where he received a Michelin Star for his efforts, and later at The Scarlet Hotel – Cornwall’s prestigious eco and spa retreat at Mawgan Porth.
Ready for another project of his own, Ben took the reins at The Tolcarne Inn in Newlyn almost three years ago, transforming this humble pub in a working harbour into a dining destination which rivals those of Padstow, Rock and St Ives.
The Tolcarne will remain as it is, with Ben splitting his time between the two, supported by his experienced team.
At Sennen, Ben will be serving a menu of classics executed with his usual flair and attention to detail – for example Fish Soup and Rouille and his Monkfish Scampi, as well as dishes featuring local shellfish including Mussels, Scallops and Crab. Family favourites like Fish and Chips and Burgers will be given the special Tunnicliffe treatment and turned into a memorable meal made the finest local ingredients.
Ben will also celebrate the catch of the day and make the most of his seaside location with a small specials board reflecting the best of the catch from Newlyn market, or landed at Sennen itself, served with that masterful understanding of texture and flavour which Ben has become known for.
The restaurant and the menu will be designed for the whole family to enjoy. Open all day and with a relaxed atmosphere, dogs and walkers will be welcome, as will outdoor enthusiasts who want to refuel after a surf or cycle.
Sennen itself has two faces: a sun-drenched paradise for families in the summer, who enjoy the long stretch of golden sand, safe swimming and occasional glimpses of dolphins and basking sharks, while in the winter it takes the full brunt of the Atlantic waves, making it a favourite spot for storm watching. Ben is hoping to stay open all year, only closing briefly in January for maintenance, creating a year-round dining destination as well as a hub for the local community.
Ben is keen to hear from experienced chefs or front of house staff with high aspirations who would like to join his team. Contact ben@tolcarneinn.co.uk.