World-Class California Cuisine
Fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farmers’ markets. The fusion of myriad cooking styles. Unique presentations. These are the defining elements of California cuisine. Add in the magical setting of Big Sur, and you are rewarded with a truly authentic and remarkable dining experience.
BIG SUR SMOKEHOUSE
An homage to the historic roadside diners of Highway 1, Big Sur Smokehouse is a classic barbecue joint with a California twist—serving home-smoked meats and sauces along with salads and sides made from farm-fresh local ingredients.
Directions: Big Sur Smokehouse is located in the restored Postt family homestead, right on Highway 1 at the entrance to Ventana Big Sur.
Info: 831.667.2419; www.BigSurSmokehouse.com
Sierra Mar
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean with a spectacular view of the California coast, Post Ranch Inn’s restaurant serves world-class cuisine with an award-winning wine selection. Sierra Mar features an innovative lunch and four-course, prix-fixe menu, which changes daily and utilizes organic, seasonal fare.
Hours: Lunch — 12:15-2:30 p.m. / Dinner — 5:30-9 p.m. Reservations typically accepted for outside guests at 5:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.
Directions: The restaurant is located inside the Post Ranch Inn, directly across Highway 1 from Ventana’s entrance. Be careful crossing the highway.
Info: 831.667.2800; www.postranchinn.com
Nepenthe
Sitting high above the Pacific Ocean, Nepenthe has been a social mecca and community gathering place since the late 1940s. This legendary restaurant offers breathtaking views of the coast from a vantage point 800 feet above the surf. Aside from its stunning views, Nepenthe offers an award-winning list of local wines and homemade desserts. Its famous Ambrosia burger keep guests coming back for more.
Hours: Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Directions: From Ventana, drive south on Highway 1 for 1 mile. The entrance is on the west side of the highway.
Info: 831.667.2345; www.nepenthebigsur.com
Deetjen's
Sit by candlelight and listen to classical music while you dine in this quaint and quirky old-world, Big Sur setting. The organic menu changes often and reflects what is seasonably available.
Hours: Breakfast — 8 a.m. to noon / Dinner — from 6 p.m. Reservations recommended.
Directions: From Ventana, drive south on Highway 1 for 1.7 miles. The entrance is on the east side of the highway. Note: The sign reads Big Sur Inn.
Info: 831.667.2377; www.deetjens.com
Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant
The best bread in town, hands down, is at Big Sur Bakery, where you’ll find gourmet sandwiches and baked goods for lunch. For dinner, the restaurant has gained locals’ votes for best quality in a casual setting.
Hours: Bakery — daily from 8 a.m. / Dinner – Wednesday through Sunday, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. / Brunch — Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Directions: From Ventana, drive north on Highway 1 for 0.3 miles. The entrance is on the west side of the highway.
Info: 831.667.0520; bigsurbakery.com
Big Sur Roadhouse
Delicious California cuisine with fresh, local ingredients, using a variety of house-made products. In keeping with their Big Sur ethos, the seasonal menu is filled with locally-sourced organic ingredients.
Hours: Breakfast — 7:30-9:30 a.m. / Lunch —11:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. / Small Bites Menu — 4-9 p.m. / Dinner — 5:30-9 p.m. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Call for reservations.
Directions: From Ventana, drive north on Highway 1 for 3.6 miles. The entrance is on the west side of the highway.
Info: 831.667.2370; www.glenoaksbigsur.com/roadhouse.html
Big Sur River Inn
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily inside by a huge stone fireplace and outside on a deck overlooking the bubbling Big Sur River. Enjoy live entertainment on Sunday afternoons, and sip refreshments while dangling your feet in the river.
Hours: Breakfast — 8-11 a.m. Lunch — Noon to 5 p.m. Dinner — 5-8 p.m.
Directions: From Ventana, drive north on Highway 1 for 4.2 miles. The entrance is on the west side of the highway.
Info: 831.667.2700; bigsurriverinn.com