If you’re anything like me, you can’t truly get to know a place until you’ve sat down with a good cuppa (and ideally a slice of cake) to watch the world go by. Luckily, St Ives, that sun-soaked gem on the Cornish coast, is absolutely packed with little cafés, each with its own personality.
Whether you’re after a sea view, a hearty breakfast before a coastal walk, or just a cosy nook to escape the Cornish drizzle, there’s something here for every mood.
Market Place Tearooms: A Quintessentially Charming Cafe
This picture perfect cafe serves up freshly baked scones daily; perfectly warm and generous, paired with classic Cornish cream teas (jam first, cream on top, of course). Their homemade cakes, and light lunches featuring local ingredients like Cornish crab sandwiches.
This is one of our absolute favourite spots in town -so much so we included it on our game The Great St Ives Pasty Dash!
LOCATION MAP: Lifeboat Hill, St Ives, TR26 1AE
Click to view the Market Place Tearooms Facebook page >>
The Yellow Canary Cafe: A Local Classic
Right in the heart of town, The Yellow Canary has been serving St Ives folk (and plenty of happy visitors) for decades. It’s the kind of place that feels a little retro in the best way. Unfussy, cheerful, and brilliant for a Cornish cream tea. If you’re wandering Fore Street and need a pit stop, this is the one.
This is another St Ives stalwart which we included on our game The Great St Ives Pasty Dash!
LOCATION MAP: 12 Fore St, St Ives TR26 1AB
Click here to view The Yellow Canary Cafe website >>
Olive's Cafe: A Hidden Cream Tea Haven
Nestled quietly in Island Square, Olive’s Cafe is the perfect peaceful escape from the lively bustle of central St Ives. This charming, unpretentious spot is celebrated for its homemade scones, Cornish cream teas, and a tempting array of light lunches and cakes. It's all served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy your treats indoors or at the quaint sidewalk tables outside, where you can gently watch the world go by.
Olives had to feature on our game, The Great St Ives Pasty Dash. I honestly don't think a visit to St Ives is complete without a Cream Tea at Olives.
LOCATION MAP: Olives Cafe, Island Square, Island Rd, St Ives TR26 1NX
Click here to view Olives Cafe Facebook page >>
Hub St Ives: For the Brunch Crowd
A little bigger and buzzier, The Hub is all about brunch, burgers, and coffee with a bit of a city vibe. Think exposed brick, upbeat playlists, and oat milk lattes as standard. It’s great if you want somewhere lively. Plus, if you’re travelling with a group, everyone will find something they like.
LOCATION MAP: 4 Wharf Rd, St Ives TR26 1LF
Click here to view Hub St Ives website >>
Scoff Troff Cafe: Quirky and Comforting
With a name like that, you know you’re in for a good time. Scoff Troff is bright, colourful, and full of hearty options. From stacked breakfasts to chunky sandwiches. The portions are generous (to put it mildly), so bring your appetite. It’s also super dog-friendly, which is handy if you’ve got a four-legged beach buddy in tow.
LOCATION MAP: 11 Market Pl, St Ives TR26 1RZ
Click here to view the Scoff Troff Cafe Facebook page >>
Sky's Diner: Relaxed and Comfy
The charming Sky's Diner offers everything from hearty full-English breakfasts and big club sandwiches to vegetarian and vegan-friendly option, including their much-loved vegan pasties.
It's a great choice of cafe whether you're craving a sit-down meal or something to grab on the go. We love the new pink exterior too, very pretty!
LOCATION MAP: 43 Fore St, St Ives TR26 1HE
Click here to view Sky's Diner Instagram page >>
Porthmeor Beach Cafe: Coffee with a View
Imagine sipping your flat white while surfers tumble about on the waves below. That’s Porthmeor Beach Cafe.
It’s a proper favourite for its unbeatable location, but the coffee and cakes hold their own too. If you’re staying for longer, the tapas-style plates are perfect for sharing after a swim. Just don’t be surprised if you lose track of time watching the sunset!
LOCATION MAP: Porthmeor Beach, St Ives TR26 1JZ
Click here to view the Porthmeor Beach Cafe website >>
Chapel's Cafe: Traditional British Cafe
Hidden away down Chapel Street, Chapel's Cafe is a delightful little spot where traditional British "greasy spoon" charm meets a clean, cozy atmosphere.
It provides hearty breakfasts and honest, satisfying fare. Its friendly, family-run vibe and beautifully presented food make it a gem in St Ives.
LOCATION MAP: 20 Chapel St, St Ives TR26 2LR
Telephone: 01736 799344
Final Sip
St Ives might be famous for its beaches and art scene, but I honestly think its cafes deserve just as much love. Each one has its own little slice of Cornish charm, and half the fun is trying as many as possible while you’re there.
My advice? Mix it up: start with a leisurely sea-view coffee, wander the harbour with a takeaway pastry, and end with something indulgent at a local favourite.
After all, isn’t that what holidays are for?
