About Us

Kota Kai has been part of Porthleven’s food scene since 2011, earning an AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence in 2018.

Created by award-winning chef Jude Kereama, Kai offers a relaxed approach to dining, with bold, Asian-inspired flavours, fresh Cornish produce and a welcoming atmosphere.

Now sharing a home with its sister restaurant, Kota, the two bring distinct dining experiences together under one roof — from relaxed lunches and lively evenings at Kai to refined tasting menus at Kota.

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Location

Perfectly situated at the head of Porthleven harbour, Kota Kai enjoys uninterrupted views across the inner harbour, towards the iconic Clock Tower and out to the Atlantic beyond.

Celtic House is now home to both Kota Kai and Kota, bringing two distinct dining experiences together under one roof. Enjoy the relaxed, vibrant atmosphere of Kai, or step into Kota for Jude Kereama’s more refined tasting menu experience — all overlooking the harbour in the heart of Porthleven.

Jude Kereama

You may have seen the main man here at Kota and Kota Kai, chef Jude Kereama, showcasing his creative culinary skills in 2015, 2016, 2019 and again in 2021 on the popular BBC2's ‘Great British Menu’ as one of the three representatives of the South West.

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Sample Menus

LOCALLY SOURCED, AND WHERE POSSIBLE, ORGANIC

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Sample small plate

Korean fried chicken, ranch dressing, gochujang sauce

sample big plate

Grilled flat iron steak - Asian green herb chilli sauce, soy garlic jus, organic leaf salad, Goma dressing, fries

Sample dessert

Eton mess sundae - Elderflower, strawberry, soft serve, basil, matcha meringue

sample cocktail

Espresso Martini, Reyka vodka, Mr Black coffee liqueur & Solo Coffee

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Perfectly positioned on the Harbour Head in the idyllic fishing port of porthleven, Kota has quickly become one of the best-kept secrets in the South West

Jude Kereama

Having won awards in both Auckland and London before heading to Porthleven to open Kota with his wife Jane, Jude’s dishes are individual and exciting, taking inspiration from his half Maori and half Chinese Malay origin. Jude has appeared in four series of The Great British Menu and has proved to be one of the most popular figures in the competition. In 2021, he reached the final stage of the competition by cooking at the banquet.

Location

PERFECTLY POSITIONED ON THE HARBOUR HEAD IN THE IDYLIC FISHING PORT OF PORTHLEVEN, KOTA HAS QUICKLY BECOME ONE OF THE BEST-KEPT SECRETS IN THE SOUTH WEST

Set on Cornwall’s south coast, Porthleven is a historic fishing harbour with a character all of its own. Colourful fishing boats, traditional cottages and the iconic Clock Tower surround the harbour, with the Atlantic just beyond. Today, Porthleven brings together its fishing heritage with a thriving food and drink scene, independent shops and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Whether you’re here for a walk around the harbour, a day exploring the coast or simply something great to eat and drink, it’s a pretty special place to spend some time. You’ll find Kota Kai right at the head of the harbour, with views across the water and everything Porthleven has to offer just outside the door.

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