Kota’s Bold New Chapter: Jude Kereama Reinvents Porthleven Favourite

New menu, new concept, same passion for food and wine

Kota in Porthleven is shaking things up as it enters its 20th year, with chef Jude Kereama unveiling a brand-new concept centred around “Cornish pinxos” – small, flavour-packed dishes designed to complement a carefully curated wine selection.

Jude said, “Kota’s style of food has continually evolved since we launched back in 2006, but we are ready to shake things up, and are re-opening this month with a new approach. It has been exciting to totally rewrite the menu.”

A Fresh Approach to Dining

Inspired by the Basque country’s sociable food culture, the new offering celebrates the historic links between Cornwall and this part of Spain, from their shared maritime heritage to their strong cultural identities. Jude explained that the spelling of “pinxos” was chosen to reflect both the tradition and Kota’s forward-thinking approach to food and service.

Head chef Ross Sloan has helped design a menu that encourages a more relaxed and interactive dining experience. Guests can order a selection of small dishes, each paired with a matching wine served at a tasting size and price.

What’s on the Menu?

Kota’s revamped menu will include:

• Oysters (Kotas – ‘Kota’ means shellfish in Maori)
• Kroketas (Basque-style croquettes with different flavours)
• Gordal olives and daily specials
• Meat dishes, including tartare or carpaccio, and slow-braised options such as pork cheeks, beef short rib or grilled lamb
• Vegetarian options focusing on seasonal vegetables
• Fish dishes varying by the catch of the day, with grilled fish, ceviche and crudo
• A simple dessert selection of three options for those with a sweet tooth

Wine Pairings and Feast Nights

The new bar and restaurant space has been designed for guests to enjoy a few pinxos with matched wines, and selected bottles will be available to purchase at wholesale prices to take away. Kota is also working closely with winemakers, vineyards and suppliers, who will be visiting throughout the year to engage with customers. Special wine feast nights will be announced in due course.

For those who still love Kota’s renowned creative tasting menus, a six-course chef’s menu will be available for £75.

Jude added, “We will still be focusing on beautiful organic vegetables, fish and meat, and creating intense, flavourful, punchy small dishes to match with wine, but believe this more flexible, and relaxed offering will better suit our customers and team.”

Kota’s bold new concept is set to launch this month.