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    Big Sur Restaurant

    3.6 (397 reviews)
    Open 7:30 am - 2:00 pm, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Big Sur Restaurant Photos

    BIG SUR RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Outdoor seating
    Dogs allowed

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    Recommended Reviews - Big Sur Restaurant

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    12.27.25
    Sheri M.

    Great Customer Service, very personable and friendly. Food was delicious and delivered within a timely manner. The portions are huge and the food was hot and cooked to perfection.

    Chicken Marsala
    Christine L.

    This cute spot is right in front of our motel and with 17% off when showing room key... it was perfect. The waiter greeted us with a nice warm smile and told us to have a seat wherever you like. Casual dining with booths in front with large windows that allowed the beautiful sunset to glow inside. My husband ordered the California Chicken Sandwich with fries. I got the Chicken Marsala. Both items were very good. My chicken was pounded thin breaded and was still tender and juicy. The sauce was so good. It came with steamed veggies (were not tasteless at all) and fancy rice pilaf. Nice size portion too. I'll have a tasty breakfast tomorrow for sure. I told the waiter the food was great and he was thankful and told us it is a family business and his bother-in-law is the chef tonight. If you are staying at the Comfort Inn please don't pass this restaurant on by... worth trying.

    Dinner Menu 1 of 5 - July 2025
    Ron B.

    Wife and I were eating light so we split the Grilled Chicken with Mushrooms (which came with a salad and mixed vegetables, rice and a slice of garlic toast) and a bowl of chowder. All was very tasty. Friendly service and simple but clean interior. Also had plenty of outdoor seating. Would certainly return when in the area again to see the elephant seals.

    Outdoor dining
    James A.

    Situated in the same parking lot as the Comfort Inn - Cambria that we were staying in, Big Sur Restaurant served up a varying mix of diner dishes and some dishes that you would expect. Looking at the signage, this location has had a lot of different restaurants in its time, with Big Sur being the latest iteration. It was definitely chosen because of convenience, and ended up being a decent place to eat. It wasn't too busy, so got a seat right away and was served by Jose. From the dinner menu, we ordered a deluxe chicken quesadilla ($12 plus $5) and a Shrimp and Chips platter ($19). Also got a pint of Modelo draft ($8). The quesadilla was excellent, expertly made with plenty of chicken and cheese and vegetables, diced together. With the added sour cream, guacamole, and salsa, and served hot from the flat top, I really enjoyed each bite...didn't think I was hungry but ended up eating every bite, especially with the Modelo. My wife and her mom shared the shrimp platter, which was prepared well, but the size of the shrimp was disappointing, basically popcorn shrimp. The fries were battered and expertly deep fried. I liked the house-made simple cole slaw. There is an automatic 18% service fee added with credit card accepted. Service was good.

    Short Stack Pancake Combo
    Tom V.

    Great little stop over. Prices seem average for a traveler's restaurants. Service was quick and courteous. Had pancakes, eggs, and bacon. I must say the pancakes were really thick and fluffy. Also they gave five strips of bacon. Others restaurants usually give 2 strips, 4 at the most. Location is within walking distance to many motels. I do recommend this location

    Fisherman's combo, Clam chowder & garlic toast
    Val G.

    We were a little hungry and the fog was out so we decided to stay local and eat at the restaurant near our hotel. We were going for the Fish n Chips but decided to add the Fisherman's combo which also included shrimp and calamari. I also got a bowl of clam chowder. The food was not bad but it was not great either. My clam chowder really lacked salt and the batter on the fish and shrimp was way too think and lacked flavor. Again, not bad but certainly not great and at these prices; well I don't know that I would return. The family was nice enough and the service was good. This place looks like an old beach diner, which is exactly what it is. But it was clean. It was cold so outside was NOT an option.

    Jasmin H.

    We stopped there as there were not much breakfast choices around. I feel it was somewhat overpriced for the quality of food. It was a below average diner. The menue was vast though. I had the eggs benedict which were not well prepared. The hash browns were dry and pale. The staff was friendly though and even refilled our water bottles.

    I  got hit with an automatic gratuity service fee! Ouch! I wasn't expecting that. It was only 2 adults and two children.
    Erikita E.

    I was not expecting the automatic gratuity service fee for a party of 4. Good to know for next time. I didn't see it anywhere or on the menu.

    Server Jose modified the dinner portion pasta to omit chicken and mushrooms, but still charge me full price for those items.
    Cristo R.

    I was instantly met with unfriendly, unaccommodating, and abrupt service by the individual behind the counter. No smile, no welcoming greeting, nor was there a thank you ever said. I wouldn't have written this review if it weren't for his resistance to prepare a simple kids pasta with Alfredo sauce. The kids pasta is $8. He charged me $28 for pasta with Alfredo sauce. This is dishonest and poor business practice. This place seems to applaud ripping off the customer. I will not be coming back! Make sure to review your itemized receipt!

    Shrimp and chips
    Mary P.

    We stopped in after a visit to the Hearst Castle. Small restaurant along the way but food was first rate. Jose took care of our every need. Highly recommend this place.

    The Calamari and chips

    Such a cute place! Just went in for dinner with my mom and brother, we loved it! The owner(?) was super nice and the food was delicious - Calamari - Mushroom Burger - Ceaser Salad - Clam Chowder Soooo good!!!

    Inside
    Jo L.

    Family owned restaurants with quick and polite service. The food was made fresh and quick, and everything was great. The chorizo con huevos were loaded UP (comes with tortillas), and the country fried steak was crunchy and fresh. French toast was also super yums. Great place for breakfast, would def recommend.

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    10 months ago

    Good portions, fresh vegetables. Very kind and attentive service! Felt like an old-timey diner. Would come here again!

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    8 months ago

    Great food. Staff was friendly. Nice and clean location. Good location next to hotels.

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    10 months ago

    Food was very good and service was great! Our food was brought quickly and was reasonably priced for the area.

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    Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill - Hand painted waiting room mural

    Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill

    3.8(2.2k reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $$

    I usually go here once a year. I always try to get something new when I go. I have had some hits…read moreand some misses. I feel like you can't go wrong with oysters, which I usually always order here. This time I also ordered the calamari to share with everyone. I really like their calamari as well. For my main meal i ordered the burger. The burger was good but had so much lettuce. I took some off. And for $18 I would think French fries would be on the plate with the burger. Who doesn't have French fries with a burger? Our waitress was so nice. She was probably the nicest server we have had here. She was very helpful. I wanted spicy margarita and she said they could make it for me even though it wasn't on the menu. It was the best spicy margarita I've had!! She also came over to check and make sure I liked it. She was very attentive even though she was so busy. I always love going here because of the location. I love being by the ocean and having an ocean view on vacation. I will go back but I do t know if I would get the burger again. I will or try something else next time.

    Stopped by Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill after visiting Hearst Castle and it ended up being a great…read moredinner spot. We came around sunset and the views were absolutely beautiful overlooking the water. Definitely one of those relaxing Central Coast moments. The food portions were huge and everything we ordered was tasty and satisfying after a long day of sightseeing. Service was friendly overall too. Only downside was that my beer came in a dirty glass. You could tell because the bubbles were sticking to the inside of the glass instead of rising cleanly. Not a huge deal, but something the restaurant should pay more attention to. Overall though, still a nice spot with great views and solid food.

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    Manta Rey Restaurant - Their Homemade orange ice cream

    Manta Rey Restaurant

    3.7(375 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    Don't be fooled by the roadside location and beachside vibe…read more The food is fantastic! The sea bass was incredible, perfect, and even the sides were perfectly prepared. How perfect? I hate broccoli, and I liked this broccoli. And the shrimp Alfredo was amazing. The shrimp prefect, and the taste a step above. Check it out, you won't be disappointed.

    Food was so good, way better than expected especially considering this is a small town!…read more Stopped by San Simeon with the folks for a one-nighter in preparation for a visit to Hearst Castle the next day. The dinner options I presented was either Manta Rey or Moonstone Grill and we decided to stay local. For the 3 of us we ordered 1 clam chowder (to try out), dad ordered the New York, I got the filet mignon and mom ordered the salmon. Everyone was exceptionally pleased with the food! You can tell the chef prepared everything carefully and paid attention to presentation. The complimentary sourdough dinner rolls were also served hot which was a nice touch. Overall portions are not overwhelming and a good size. Pricing is as expected for the type of food and location. As many other Yelpers already mentioned there was only one server manning the entire restaurant. He was extremely polite and attentive given that he waited every single table, bussed, hosted, and managed the take out orders. Expect dining time to be a little longer during rush hour but it's not terrible and the food is worth it!

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    Ahi tuna dinner

    Manta Rey Restaurant - Clam chowder in the bread bowl with the bay shrimp add-on

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    Clam chowder in the bread bowl with the bay shrimp add-on

    Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar - steamer

    Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar

    4.1(1.4k reviews)
    3.3 mi
    $$$

    Another fantastic experience! Saturday night in late March and arrived at 4:25. We scored the last…read moretwo spots at the bar. We enjoyed cocktails in the parking lot and met some nice people visiting from Evergreen, CO. We love the atmosphere when you first arrive, with all of the chefs prepped in anticipation of the bustle of the first patrons arriving. We split the Rockefeller for a starter. It went great with the Markham Sauv Blanc!! We had the shrimp scampi over pasta--so ridiculously good, it should be illegal. We also had the sea bass which was tasty. The potatoes on the side are perfectly done every time. I would say a 4pm arrival is probably the right time to get in line. Worth the wait!!

    Not worth the hype…read more We went to Sea Chest Oyster Bar last night. Honestly, it was extremely disappointing. The food was lackluster and bland. The Clam Chowder tasted like flour and needed salt. The Soy Ginger Mahi Mahi was presented with the Soy Ginger sauce on the side, rather than being cooked in. It was so bland you had to search for the flavor of the sauce. I'm not sure how a dish with soy needed more salt, but it certainly did. Rather than it being a reduction or the fish actually cooked in it, it was just flavorless. And don't get me started on my Halibut. All of the fish is cooked in butter, which should give it some flavor, but it did not. We are usually plate-cleaners, but we both ate only about half of our meal. Lackluster, boring, bland. I would say it was a one-note flavor, but you'd have to have some flavor for that to be true. The only positive I have about the fish is that it was fresh, so I guess there's something. The service was fine. I can imagine what it's like to have an entire restaurant sat at the same time, so there should be some forgiveness there. But for $200 for two people for one appetizer, two entrees, and three glasses of wine, I would expect to be able to get through the meal.

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    Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar
    Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar - Swordfish

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    Madeline's - Apple Crumble Alamode

    Madeline's

    4.4(1.1k reviews)
    4.1 mi
    $$$

    so glad we were able to snag last minute reservations!…read more there are two madeline's, this one, is located on main st in the east village and the other madeline's is on moonstone beach drive that faces the ocean! madeline's on main is dog friendly. they have two - two person table in their patio. the madeline's on moonstone beach drive is not pet friendly. after a long day of traveling. we were so hungry and tired. but still wanted to go somewhere nice for dinner. it was warner weather that wknd, so we were glad to sit outside! we ordered: Crab Cakes Stuffed Chicken Breast Filet Mignon everything was so delicious!! i was getting so full but kept eating lol. the also provide complimentary house bread with butter (10/10) its so fresh and tasty! parking: no issues. lots of street parking everywhere.

    I've been here a couple of times and last time it was good but not as good as the time before so I…read moregave it only 4 stars but I will come again and maybe I will give it 5 stars like I remember it deserves. Great French bistro with very good food with great ambiance. Everything is good on the menu and they have a very big selection of wines. Don't expect big portions, it's a French bistro! The service is good but as much as I like sitting at the bar, I wouldn't come here again by myself. The best way to enjoy this place is to sit at the table and share dishes and try different wines

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    Madeline's - Madeline's - inside seating

    Madeline's - inside seating

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    The Sow's Ear - Bread

    The Sow's Ear

    4.0(829 reviews)
    4.9 mi
    $$$

    While visiting in Cambria, we had dinner at The Sow's Ear. It is a beautiful and cozy, quiet place…read moreand we both had a delicious dinner. The crowning jewel was that we had used Uber to get there, but could not get one to return to our hotel! In a bit of a panic, we asked the Manager ( Owner?) if she knew how we could get back. She immediately offered her daughter, who happened to be there visiting! The daughter laughed and said " sure!". We had a fun ride back...she was charming. She refused payment ( but we left money on the seat)....said " this is what we do here!". We will definately always eat here when in town, just because of the people ( and the yummy food).

    On my yearly trip to Cambria, the Sow's ear is always a must. The food is always consistent and…read moregood. And the flower pot bread is one of my favorite things. They are known for their fresh out of the oven flower pot bread. It's a little crispy on top and as you work your way to the bottom, it gooey, and almost slightly undercooked deliciousness. I love getting to the bottom of the pot and adding some butter. It's so good! I usually always get the same thing. I love the steak and mashed potatoes. It's so tasty that's it's had for me to try something else. This restaurant is very small and cozy. It's like an old school family restaurant with a cute fire place. I always try to arrive right when they open so I can get a table right in front of the fireplace. It's so cozy! And then I have to get my glasses of wine. The ambience is just very quaint and cozy. I always recommend this restaurant to my friends when they are going to Cambria. Everyone that I have recommended it to has gone always had good things to say about it.

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    The Sow's Ear
    The Sow's Ear - Dinner salad

    Dinner salad

    The Sow's Ear - Sign fom sidewalk

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    Sign fom sidewalk

    Big Sur Restaurant - seafood - Updated May 2026

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