Wow, wow, wow. Last weekend we had the absolute pleasure of visiting Ugly Butterfly by Adam Handling to try their new autumn tasting menu, and I'm still thinking about it.
The last time I visited Ugly Butterfly it was in Carbis Bay, but honestly, the team have seriously upped their game since making The Headland in Newquay their home. The Michelin star they were awarded this year is a clear sign that all the hard work has paid off.
The restaurant
The restaurant itself is stunning. Sitting high above Fistral, with arched windows looking straight out to sea, it's light, calm and beautifully put together, with garlands of dried flowers and foliage strung across the ceiling. We visited on a crisp November afternoon and the low sun turned the whole room into a golden sun trap. An absolute dream for a gal like me with her camera.
The autumn tasting menu
Everything about our experience was impeccable, and all 12 courses were, obviously, insane. Each plate is a work of art, as considered in its balance and flavour as it is in its presentation.
The Cornish hot-smoked lobster with mussel butter and the "not an oyster" were my favourites, though it was pretty tricky to narrow it down because everything was just so good. There's a real sense of theatre to it all too, from courses arriving in clouds of smoke to sauces being poured at the table.
The wine pairing
Our sommelier, Olivia, paired a wine with each course and was incredibly knowledgeable. She kept us entertained all afternoon with stories about the produce, the suppliers and basically anything else we quizzed her on. If you're going for the full tasting menu, I'd really recommend the pairing. It makes the whole thing feel like even more of an occasion.
Is Ugly Butterfly worth it?
If you're looking for a special-occasion meal in Cornwall, I don't think you can do much better. It's fine dining without any stuffiness, in one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the county, and the food more than lives up to the Michelin star. Personally, I’d recommend booking a lunch or early sitting, so you get the sea views and that golden light.
Thank you so much to Adam Handling and the Ugly Butterfly team for making it such an unforgettable experience.
Ugly Butterfly by Adam Handling is at The Headland Hotel in Newquay, Cornwall.
This was a press visit. Our meal was provided free of charge, but as always, all views are my own.