California’s Pacific Coast Highway Top Restaurants
Spanning from Mendocino County, North of San Francisco, to San Juan Capistrano, South of Los Angeles, is the Pacific Coast highway, it is a 656 mile long highway along the California coast! Across this famous, scenic, California highway, are not only unbelievable views of expansive beaches, trees, and immaculate mountains, but also hundreds of buzz-worthy restaurants. Keep reading to learn about the best places to visit when driving along.
Top Restaurants to Stop Along the Pacific Coast Highway in California:
Broad Street Oyster Co.- Malibu, California
When driving along Pacific Coast Highway, stopping to grab a bite in the sun-drenched, quintessential Southern California beach town of Malibu is essential! Founded by Christopher Tompkins and situated in Malibu Village, Broad Street Oyster Co. is a rip-roarin' good time. Nautical meets partying pirate vibes at this New England-style seafood joint that is beloved by travelers, surfers, beach goers, locals, and foodies. Broad Street Oyster Co. has become LA’s ultimate surfy-seafood destination known for shellfish towers, oysters, caviar-and-uni-adorned lobster rolls and much, much more. It is rated the Top Seafood Restaurant in the U.S, so it is a must stop for seafood along the pacific coast Highway.
The Galley Seafood Bar & Grill- Morro Bay, California
The Galley Seafood Bar & Grill is a fine dining experience, offering views of Morrow Rock and its surrounding bay. They serve fresh, high quality seafood from local waters, and focus on simple ingredients. The menu offers a selection of meat, poultry and vegetarian dishes featuring seasonal veggies.
Nepenthe- Big Sur, California
For those looking for an incredibly beautiful dining experience, head to Nepenthe in Big Sur. This eatery overlooks the Pacific Ocean and Saint Lucia Mountains, creating panoramic views that make for a sensory experience that will make your trip to Nepenthe even more enjoyable! The Ambrosiaburger, a grilled 6-oz steak sandwich served on a chewy French roll, with a chili-salsa secret sauce, is a fan favorite, and stand-out on the menu.
The Deck- Laguna Beach, California
The Deck is one of the only oceanfront dining experiences available in Orange County’s beautiful town of Laguna Beach. Known for their fresh seafood and creative, specialty cocktails, this restaurant is also an ideal spot for happy hour. They serve a variety of options, including locally-caught seafood, salads, burgers.
La Super-Rica Taqueria- Santa Barbara, California
La Super-Rica Taqueria is an authentic Mexican restaurant, known for their fresh and delicious fish-tacos! Closed on Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s, The New York Times said of this taco joint, “It’s not just a taqueria, it’s the best restaurant in town.” Offering modest, patio seating, this Santa Barbara restaurant staple beloved by famous cook, Julia Child, typically has a line out the door.
Big Sur Bakery- Big Sur, California
Big Sur Bakery is the ideal restaurant for anyone looking for creative takes on traditional comfort food! In the morning, they serve soft, delicious pastries which sometimes lead to a line out the door! Their menu is subject to change, as they aim to provide the freshest local ingredients. Currently, a few of our favorites include, wood fired SOURDOUGH levain, niman ranch ribeye, and wood fired sourdough levain, with cultured butter & buttermilk.
Loquita- Santa Barbara, California
Loquita, located in Southern California’s gem of a beach town, Santa Barbara, serves Spanish food and tapas, wood-fired grilled seafood, and seasonal paella. The food is Farm–fresh, with craft cocktails that pair with their delicious seafood options and other entrees. The decor in the restaurant is Spanish influence, with the overall vibe of the restaurant being cozy. D Magazine called this top rated, authentic Spanish eatery, “outstanding.”
The Pacific Coast Highway:
The famous Pacific Coast Highway is a destination in and of itself, not only because of its incredible views of the spectacular California coastline, but also because of the great restaurants that are available to travelers at their disposal!
Rated Top Seafood Destination along the Pacific Coast:
Broad Street Oyster Co. is known for their freshly shucked oysters, world famous Lobster Roll, and fun, laid-back ambiance, however, remains our favorite restaurant on this list. Be sure to visit it if you are wanting to try the top seafood in California along the beautiful pacific coast highway.
There are plenty of aforementioned eateries during your next road trip or visit to the California coast, while experiencing the top restaurants along the pacific coast for a foodie outing!