Duo behind The Tolcarne to launch The Packet Inn next month

Chef and restaurateur Ben Tunnicliffe and head chef Matt Smith will relaunch The Packet Inn, an old coaching inn located near Prussia Cove, on 2 September with a menu of small plate dishes.

The pub will serve local produce ‘guided by seasonal cycles’ and will work directly with local butchers and smallholders as well as growers and fishermen.

Tunnicliffe took on harbourside pub The Tolcarne in 2012 with Smith joining as head chef in 2019. The pair say they have been looking for a second site for some time and that although the pandemic has made things much more challenging are confident they can make it a success.

“The timing is challenging and there’s not many people launching new enterprises right now, but The Packet will be very accessible – both in terms of location and price – and the site lends itself well to adaptation and social distancing,” says Smith.

“It’s really great to be doing something positive - our staff and suppliers have received a much-needed boost as a result of this launch.”

“I will always be an optimist; I just can’t help myself! I have so much faith in the quality and reputation of the Cornish food and hospitality scene, in the talented people who deliver and supply it, and in the level of support and appreciation from the public that I can’t help but feel we’ll come out of this stronger eventually, ” adds Tunnicliffe.