Adam Handling opens sustainable pub The Tartan Fox, the chef’s second venture in Cornwall

Chef Adam Handling, known for his commitment to sustainable dining, is set to open today his latest venture, The Tartan Fox, in Cornwall. Located strategically between Newquay and Truro, this new pub promises to offer guests a unique dining experience that marries local luxury with a zero-waste ethos. The opening, earlier than initially planned, allows eager diners to reserve their tables at this Cornish location, which sits a stone’s throw away from Handling’s coastal restaurant, Ugly Butterfly.

The Tartan Fox is nestled in the picturesque Cornish countryside, boasting a spacious garden where Handling and his team aim to grow their own produce, further shortening the journey from field to fork. The pub has already started to harvest its own edible flowers, wild fruits, herbs, and vegetables, complementing these with produce from trusted local suppliers, a practice established with the opening of Ugly Butterfly in 2021.

Drawing inspiration from its sister pub in Windsor, The Loch & the Tyne, which has been recognised with a Michelin Bib Gourmand and three AA rosettes, The Tartan Fox’s menu is a testament to Handling’s innovative approach to British cuisine. The menu revitalises traditional pub dishes with refined touches and the finest Cornish ingredients, infused with a hint of Handling’s Scottish heritage. Highlights include Beef Tartare with St Ewe Yolk and Crispy Potato, Cornish Crab Cocktail, and the signature dish Mother, alongside heartier options like Roast Rump of Lamb with Peas, Mint, Asparagus, and a selection of steaks from their own dry-aging meat fridges.

Desserts promise to be equally compelling, with offerings such as Chocolate Pudding with Sour Cherries and a Deep-Fried Mars Bar with Frozen Honeycomb, paying homage to Handling’s roots. Notably, the King’s Trifle, created for HRH King Charles III’s Coronation, will also be available.

For Sunday lunch, diners can expect exceptional roasts, with options like Half Roast Wickett’s Chicken with Lemon Thyme and Dry-Aged Beef Wellington Wrapped in Haggis and Black Pudding. The Tartan Fox also caters to younger guests with its Tartan Cubs menu, encouraging children to explore the world of food with smaller portions available from the main menu.

The wine list reflects Handling’s ambition to offer a diverse and playful drinks selection, curated by Group Wine Director Kelvin McCabe. The pub’s interior, inspired by the building’s 400-year-old heritage and adorned with artwork from some of Handling’s favourite artists, aims to create a cosy yet luxurious den in the countryside.

With 87 seats spread across two floors, The Tartan Fox also features a wine room, restaurant, and private dining spaces, with an antique barn set to host supper clubs and weddings, promising a magical setting for special occasions. 

Food Desk

To book a table at The Tartan Fox, Carvynick Farm A3058 Newquay TR8 5AF, call 016 3780 0023 or visit their website here.