16 Feb 2024
London February 2024: Chef Jude Kereama's popular family-style restaurant, Kota Kai, has re-opened this month after an extensive refurbishment.
The restaurant, which was originally launched by Kereama in 2011, is situated in the heart of the historic Cornish village of Porthleven, overlooking the harbour, and just moments from sister restaurant, Kota, which opened to critical acclaim in 2006.
Kota Kai was originally created to provide a family friendly option with integrity – a restaurant that offered a laid back, welcoming atmosphere with a delicious menu that stood out from the usual family-friendly fayre, and was a nod to Jude's heritage (Jude was born in New Zealand, and is half Maori and half Chinese Malay) with Asian elements to its dishes. Now, 13 years later, with head chef Marcus Houghton, and Jenna Sawle leading front of house, Kai is being relaunched with a full refurbishment and renovation, with a version that retains it's warm welcome, but has become a little more sophisticated.
Kereama said, “After 13 years, it felt like the right time to evolve the offering at Kota Kai to something a little bit more grown up. It is important to us that it still feels like a welcoming place for families, but is a destination for drinks and snacks too. The open plan layout really highlights our special location, drawing the eye to the views across the harbour. We also have a slightly different menu format with some great new dishes we've been working on, accompanied by an extensive drinks list. We are excited to introduce the changes to our guests.”
Kereama and his team worked with Steve Coombe from 3idog to refurbish the restaurant interiors and deliver the vision for the refresh. A new colour scheme has been introduced alongside more natural materials and textures, to create a calmer, more cohesive space. A long, statement bar, and new dining furniture has been installed. Bespoke handmade lighting by Lovelinkin baskets, artwork by local artists including Felix Griffiths, Zee Van G, Jo Hague and photography by Jack Johns adorn the walls.
With an extensive cocktail menu by The Bearded Barman, Chris Jarrett, a wine list with many New World wines and a new bar area, Kota Kai is the ideal place for a cocktail and snack with friends, or a meal overlooking the harbour. In the summer months guests can sit outside and take in the sea views, ordering from their ground floor bar. With 90 covers, Kai is a buzzing and popular destination with unbeatable views, laidback atmosphere and delightful menu. A Josper grill will be a new feature at Kota Kai, giving dishes cooked over the charcoal embers, a smokey touch. Jude will be sourcing some of the best ingredients from Cornwall and the West Country and will feature dishes such as Cornish Hanger steak with Asian herb dressing, and Charsiu Monkfish on grilled Gear Farm greens.
Located on the South West Coastpath, Kota and Kota Kai are ideal stop offs for walkers, and for guests of all ages to enjoy some Cornish hospitality and a warm welcome. Jude is a hands on and passionate chef, and alongside his late wife Jane, one of the founders of the Porthleven Food Festival (26-28 April 2024). He has represented the South West on the BBC's Great British Menu, and regularly donates his time and skill to charity events throughout the South West. His warmth and enthusiasm for Cornwall and its bounties comes across in his restaurants, and it is little wonder so many guests return so often.
Press Contact
Charlotte Allen and Diana Massey
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Notes for Editors
Jude Kereama was born in New Zealand where he honed his skills in the kitchen with Simon Gault, before travelling to the UK where he met his wife Jane. Searching for a restaurant in the UK, they settled in Porthleven and opened Kota in 2006, before launching Kota Kai in 2011.
Kota Kai
Head Chef – Marcus Houghton
General Manager - Jenna Sawle
Address: Kota Kai, Celtic House, Harbour Head, Porthleven, Cornwall TR13 9JY
Telephone: 01326 727 707
Opening hours: Kota Kai is open Wednesday through to Monday for Lunch and Dinner (closed Sunday Evening, all day Tuesday, all day Wednesday) from Easter Kota Kai is open 7 day
Kota Kai reopens on 8th February with a refurbished look, new bar area and outdoor seating. With 90 covers, the restaurant can also provide private dining and a function room for celebrations and weddings.
The menu at Kota Kai is family friendly locally sourced dishes with an Asian twist, extensive New World wine list and cocktail menu by The Bearded Barman Chris Barrett. Kota Kai is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week.
Main plates are from £15.50
Well-behaved dogs are welcome during lunchtime service.
