If you’re looking for the perfect place to get away and take in some spectacular views, look no further than Big Sur. This gorgeous stretch of California coastline is home to some incredible restaurants that serve up some of the freshest food, craft drinks, and stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an elegant dinner, here are some of the best restaurants in Big Sur!
Best Places to Eat in Big Sur
Nepenthe Restaurant
Situated atop a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Nepenthe offers an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere alone is worth coming for. As you soak in the breathtaking views from every table in the house, you won’t be able to help but feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Some menu highlights include their world-famous Ambrosia Burger and the shrimp BLT paired with the amazing steak frites and hand-crafted cocktails!
Big Sur Roadhouse
Open for breakfast and lunch, the Big Sur Roadhouse is attached to the Glen Oaks Hotel (where we stayed for our trip). Their menu features classic roadhouse fares such as burgers and chicken sandwiches. Perfect spot to drop by for a quick lunch as it is centrally located in Big Sur!
Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant
If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale yet still casual, then Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant should definitely be on your list. With an ever-changing menu featuring locally sourced ingredients from local farms and ranches, there’s something here for everyone—from meat lovers to vegetarians alike. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with reservations recommended for dinner. They have an outdoor patio area where you can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the stunning views!
Big Sur River Inn & Restaurant
Located right off the highway, this casual eatery overlooks the river and serves up classic American fare. The restaurant specializes in fresh fish dishes and hearty burgers. This place is known for offering to-go plates where you can grab your food and eat down by the river!
Big Sur Taphouse
This cozy neighborhood taproom offers craft brews along with pub grub like fish tacos, burgers, and the pulled chicken sandwich (menu highlight!). The staff is friendly and helpful too, so don’t be afraid to ask for help picking out the perfect refreshing beer!
Wild Coast Restaurant
Wild Coast Restaurant at the Treebones Resort is one of the most unique restaurants in Big Sur thanks to its delicious cuisine in the setting of a 15-course tasting. The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients sourced mainly from their own garden, as well as sustainably caught seafood from Monterey Bay fisheries. If you are looking for something different, Wild Coast is definitely a place you will remember!
The Lodge at Treebones
Another restaurant located inside Treebones Resort is The Lodge at Treebones – offering guests a unique culinary experience with four courses of local, seasonal ingredients, many of which are grown on-site in their organic gardens. You can grab a glass of wine and dine at the outdoor bar which faces the expansive Pacific ocean!
Big Sur Lodge Homestead Restaurant
This family-run restaurant has been around since 1950 serving up classic American fares like burgers, sandwiches, salads, pasta, and more. They also have an espresso house attached to the main dining room where guests can grab coffee drinks made from locally roasted beans along with other treats like scones and muffins baked fresh daily. You can enjoy your food inside their dining room with beautiful views of majestic redwoods or on the outdoor patio that overlooks the Big Sur River!
Big Sur Deli & General Store
Big Sur Deli & General store is located right in the heart of Big Sur, California. It’s been a popular local spot for over 30 years, offering a wide selection of deli sandwiches and general store goods. Perfect for an on-the-go lunch!
Coast Big Sur
Coast Big Sur Restaurant is an exquisite, family-owned eatery located in Big Sur, California. With views of the Pacific Ocean from its rooftop terrace, this restaurant is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Coast offers a picnic-inspired menu with a delicious sourdough pizza being the menu highlight, wines sourced from California’s Central Coast, pastries, and amazing soft-serve ice cream!
Big Sur Smokehouse
Located inside the famous Ventana Resort property, Big Sur Smokehouse offers that of a classic barbecue joint with a California twist. They have a variety of house-smoked meats with sides made from farm-fresh ingredients. You can eat inside the dining area or outside on the patio right along the highway!
Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn
Perched on the Big Sur cliffs, Sierra Mar offers a fine dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning ocean views. For lunch, there is a prix fixe menu that consists of a shared platter of seasonal small bites, a farmers market salad, and a choice of a dinner entree. For dinner, the chef offers an everchanging seasonal dinner menu with items from the chef’s garden. If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, highly recommend stopping by Sierra Mar!
The Sur House
The Sur House restaurant in Big Sur is a favorite for travelers and locals alike. Located right along the coast inside the Ventana property, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of some of California’s most iconic landscapes. The menu features fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and unique cocktails crafted with local ingredients. Some of our menu favorites were the fish tacos, quesadilla, and guacamole with chips to start.
Deetjen’s
The cozy interior of Deetjen’s features rustic wooden furniture and walls that are adorned with local art. The atmosphere is warm and inviting with indoor and outdoor seating. I highly recommend grabbing a table on the patio for breakfast or brunch, but get there early or be okay waiting for a bit during peak season. Some menu highlights include the eggs benedict and huevos rancheros!
Whether you’re looking for casual eats or something more upscale, Big Sur has a little bit of it all. With its stunning views and delicious food options with locally sourced ingredients — plus plenty of craft beer and cocktails — this stretch of California coastline is sure to please even the pickiest eater. No matter which places you choose, you’ll find excellent quality food coupled with breathtaking views that make for a spectacular dining experience. So if you’re ever on the California coast, don’t forget to check out the top restaurants in Big Sur; I can guarantee that your taste buds won’t regret it!
xx,
Ashley
Related Reading: Must-See Stops in Big Sur, California
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