CJ's At The Sanctuary
About This Spot
Tucked away on School Hill in Budock Water, CJ’s At The Sanctuary feels like a quietly cherished discovery among Falmouth’s vibrant coastal offerings. From the moment you arrive, there’s a gentle balance between warmth and a hint of whimsy—an inviting pace that encourages you to settle in, breathe, and savor the moment without hurry.
Inside, the atmosphere is intimate yet unpretentious, where friendly faces and genuine smiles carry the kind of welcome that turns first-time visitors into regulars. The space has its own unique charm, peppered with touches that hint at the chef’s personality and passions, inviting guests into a setting that feels both comfortable and thoughtfully curated.
The heart of CJ’s speaks through its kitchen, where the menu unfolds as an honest celebration of local flavors and comforting traditions with an adventurous spirit. Whether it's the delicate play of fresh seafood, the reassuring heft of a Sunday roast, or a vegetarian dish that surprises with rich, earthy notes, each plate feels like a story — crafted with care, generous in portion, and true to the region's bounties.
What stands out is not just the food itself, but how each course arrives alongside thoughtful attentiveness that’s never intrusive. Guests often linger a little longer, drawn by a relaxed vibe and the chance to connect with the chef who clearly takes pride in the food and the experience shared around the table. It’s a place that holds a comfortable rhythm — lively enough to feel alive but calm enough to feel like a retreat.
At CJ’s, whether you come with friends, family, or your four-legged companion, you’re welcomed into a space where the joys of good food and pleasant company are quietly celebrated — an intimate corner of Cornwall where something heartfelt is always on the table.
What’s Available Here
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Great beer selection
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Great coffee
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Great dessert
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Great tea selection
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Great wine list
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Alcohol
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Beer
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Cocktails
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Coffee
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Healthy options
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Late-night food
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Small plates
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Spirits
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Vegetarian options
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Wine
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Bar on site
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Historic
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Romantic
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Trendy
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Family friendly
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Groups
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Tourists
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Dinner reservations recommended
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | Closed | |
| Tuesday | Closed | |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM | |
| Friday | 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM |
Emily Hamblin 04 Jan 2026
Visiting the area for my birthday meal and this place exceeded our expectations! All staff were very friendly and patient! All food was cooked and served perfectly with very generous portions! Chef Owner was very attentive and despite us being the last two in the restaurant we were not rushed out, instead chef took time to talk to us about his insane collection of toys! Would 1000% recommend here and if we are in the area again would love to come back and try a roast!
stephen knight 25 Dec 2025
Every once in a while you find a place where the food is faultless. Visited twice as it was amazing. Hand cut chips superb, lobster amazing. Hake delicious, chicken to die for. Cannot fault the food. This chef is amazing. It was a pleasure & dog friendly too. It’s quirky too so don’t be put off if you’re not into Star Wars !
Mat Stocks 15 Dec 2025
We turned up as a group of 8 having not pre-booked. Honestly I thought we would be lucky to get in, but we had just missed the lunch rush I think! We had the most fantastic Sunday roast. Everything was hot and fresh. They veges had a nice crunch to them (not mushy!) and the meats were delicious. The portions were amazing. Overall, absolutely loved our meal there! Thanks very much!
Brett “Recovery Motivation” Ralph 09 Dec 2025
A hidden gem. We've actually had several of the amazing takeaway roasts they offer but had never dined in previously. The food was incredible and every dish looked amazing and tasted even better. The head chef took great pride in what was brought to our table by the polite staff and we were so happy with every course. If you haven't been I can't recommend it enough. If you have been you'll know exactly what I mean.
Jackie 17 Nov 2025
Just had a wonderful meal at CJ’S and what can I say. The food is fresh and the mussels were the best I’ve tasted for a while. The hake was cooked to perfection as was the steak. Every part of our meal was delicious, bountiful and beautifully presented. The staff were attentive and we will certainly be returning soon. Whether you’re a meat eater or a seafood lover you won’t be disappointed and you certainly won’t leave CJ’S hungry.
C Jeavons 05 Nov 2025
Highly recommend this place!! Went for a late Sunday night roast and it ended up being one of the best I’ve ever had. Huge portions, everything delicious. We literally rolled out of the restaurant. Super friendly kind staff, the owner / chef even gave us a pudding on the house. Will definitely be coming back and bringing all the family. Quirky old church building too with stained glass windows! Thanks for a lovely evening
chris barrow 19 Oct 2025
I can't believe that I forgot to write an instant review! What a find! We can honestly say that this was the best food that we have eaten out before! We both had the leek and potato soup which was beautiful and then I had pork belly and my wife had seafood linguine. Each was the best that we've ever had. It was a little cold in the building but it was early Feb. Would definitely go again!
Jim Putland 15 Oct 2025
Amazing. Amazing food. Amazing service. Amazing drink. Amazing. We came here a few years ago and that visit left an impression. Whilst visiting the area we came again. I dont know if its even better than the first visit, or whether the memory had faded a little leaving an even bigger impression this time out. We both had roast. Good choice of meats, loaded plates, everything cooked to perfection. Potatoes were crispy outside, fluffy inside. The veg was all cooked extremely well with so much flavour. The veg all comes out on a tray and it can be refilled if you only but ask (neither of us had room). Staff were welcoming and checked in regularly to see if we needed anything. And the beer... cracking locally brewed ales. Bought some to take home. Love every single thing about the sanctuary. That sounds gushy, but im not going to apologise, honestly, best roaster I've enjoyed in a long, long time. Probably since the last time we were here!