*Nepenthe – 48510 Highway 1
(831) 667-2345
$$$ Lunch & Dinner with View
Stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere draws locals and visitors alike up stairs that zigzag through fountains and fersn to sip a cocktail on their sunny patio or have lunch in the deck overlooking miles of pacific coastline. Enjoy the vista from either location and soak up what Big Sur is all about.
Big Sur Bakery – 47540 Highway 1
(831) 667-0520
$$ Coffee, Pastries, Lunch & Dinner
Using acclaimed Acme coffee roasted in Monterey, Big Sur Bakery’s baristas churn out spectacular espresso drinks. Quality is in the baked goods too. This converted small house among the redwoods has comfortable grounds to stretch the legs after a long drive and takes pride in the quality of wood fired pizzas and local game entrées.
Big Sur River Inn – 46840 Highway 1
(831) 667-2700
24.2 miles South of Rio Road
$$$ Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on the River
Easily spotted alongside the highway, this restaurant makes some mean appetizers and has some nice wines to chose from. Thie colorful bar and dining room spill out onto two levels of decks. Beyond, the lawn leads down to the Big Sur River where visitors can sit in wooden chairs set in the water with their feet in the current.
The Maiden Public House – The Village Shops, Highway 1
(831) 667-2355
24.2 miles South of Rio Road
$$ Beer, Lunch & Dinner
Tucked behind the General Store next to the River Inn, this local hangout is all about the beer, with nearly 100 to choose from. Their beer menu is divided into categories named “ales,”“stouts,” “porters,” “IPAs,” “Belgians/ strong ale/ sours,” and “shit beer.” The food is overshadowed by the interesting local vibe and beer selection, but menu items include burgers, fish n’ chips, etc.
Ventana Inn– 48123 Highway 1
(831) 667 2331
$$$$ Lunch & Dinner with View- slightly more casual than Post Ranch
Post Ranch Inn– 47900 Highway 1
(831) 667-2200
$$$$ Lunch & Dinner with View- Reportedly nicest upscale restaurant in Big Sur. Further details await funding for firsthand research.
nick's guide 