The Cliff House Photos
Business Info
The Cliff House Popular Dishes
THE CLIFF HOUSE ATMOSPHERE
You might also consider
More like The Cliff House
Recommended Reviews - The Cliff House
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Literally one of the worst meals I've ever had. The bartenders were great, great personality great service great drinks. I wish I had kept it to drinks but sadly I went upstairs and got dinner. We ordered the steamed clams and ribeye. The clams were old and dry and the clam juice just tasted off. The ribeye comes and it's old and tough and just basically raw. We had the chef recook it but it was still incredibly bad, The drinks were good the lounge is beautiful the views are beautiful but the food is completely inedible a Swanson Salisbury steak would be 100 times better than this ribeye.
After watching a video, my husband and I decided to visit The Cliff House for happy hour and to catch a view of Mt. Rainier. Unfortunately, the day we visited, Mt. Rainer was not visible, but we decided to have a cocktail since we were there. We both ordered an espresso martini, and they were fine. It wasn't busy at all; actually, my husband and I were the only customers until two more guests came. The restaurant is extremely outdated and, based on other reviews, seems to be living off of its history, as not much has changed and it could have been a bit tidier. I am sure on a prettier day, the view may have been worth it, but our trip there was a bust.
This review is specific to Thanksgiving 2025. We had an early evening reservation. We did walk in about a half hour early and sat at the upstairs bar. There were three bartenders and they were all moving very slowly. There was just a few other people in that area so it seemed overstaffed. But I guess that's better than understaffed. There were several dirty glasses on the bar top. We had to ask them to wipe the countertop where we sat. With three bartenders those glasses should never have been there. Plus, it's just a gross look for a nicer establishment. The bartenders were friendly and the drinks were good. We did have to repeat our two drink order a few times because the bartender kept forgetting it. And we would've liked to see handwashing after finally moving the dirty glasses, and before making fresh drinks with clean glasses and garnishments. We moved downstairs with the friendly host staff seated at a nice little table away from the windows. We were hoping for a view, but we got just a partial. Next time I will specify, but I understand limited seating. The downstairs bartenders were friendly, efficient and attentive. It seemed that they were bartending for the lower part of the restaurant and also served us our dinner. I actually prefer this because typically we get better drinks and service. This was the case. We ordered the shrimp appetizer, the turkey dinner, and the prime rib. The portions on the two dinners were outstanding, and the food was absolutely perfect. The shrimp presentation had a lot to be desired for, but the flavor was good. This is our second visit for Thanksgiving and I am sure will do it again in the future. Delicious!
I live nearby and really wanted to love this place. The building has that unmistakable historic feel the moment you walk in, and the view is spectacular--honestly one of the best in Tacoma. Unfortunately, everything beyond the view just didn't keep pace. Our server was kind and kept apologizing, but she was clearly covering too many tables. Simple things--water, drinks, even checking in--took far too long. I felt bad for her, because the issue seemed like management and staffing, not effort. By the time anything arrived, the moment had already cooled off. Food didn't rescue the night. I ordered two rounds of steamed clams because I was craving seafood; both plates came out uneven--mostly warm, but with some clams still cold, which is a hard no for me. The cocktails were fine, but nowhere near the level set by that view. For a meal that was just two drinks and two orders of the same starter, nothing was handled with care. Overall, it felt like a dinner without attention--from the kitchen or the floor. I'm leaving this review because I'm a local and want them to succeed: tighten staffing, speed up basics (waters/drinks), and, most importantly, temperature-check the seafood. If they can bring the service and kitchen execution up to the standard of the setting, this could be a destination--not just a great view.
Food was surprisingly pleasant. The service was great as well. The waitress was super patient and did have good recommendations. I loved the appetizers esp the calamari, mussels, and the caprese. It was a lot better than I expected but one thing was that the appetizers tasted a lot better than the entree itself; which was a tad bit sad. I got the cioppino and a lot of the mussels tasted like it's gone bad. The cod was a bit bland the best was the salmon. Overall, didn't expect it to be spicy? But it was. New York cheese cake overall for me was a miss. The crust was the not good and the cheese cake itself was very mediocre. I recommend you order another. Many parking spots up front. The water front view was amazing.
This is my favorite place in the area! Happy Hour from 4-6 daily. Great food! Never had anything bad here. Highly recommend the curry mussels, sourdough and blue cheese, and the truffle fries!
2.5, not quite 3. We got a gift card to this restaurant and were curious to try it out. Obviously the location has great views of the Port of Tacoma, water, etc. We were greeted by a hostess who sounded sick (sniffly, congested) but was otherwise nice. We were sat by the windows and that's where I began to freeze my butt off. Fairly certain the AC was on and the output was on the walls by the windows. I spent the entire night wrapped up in my bulky coat, which made for eating comfortably pretty much impossible. Our waitress was very nice but also sniffly and congested. When we left, we ensured we used a lot of hand sanitizer. Ambiance wise, yes the restaurant is very nice, and also filled with senior citizens. I think it was us 2 and a small birthday party under 60, so that gives you an idea to whom this restaurant caters. Food wise, we were disappointed. I got the 14 oz steak and added the salmon and mushroom/onions. My steak had a lot of fat, which I don't care for, and the mushrooms had like 4 slivers of onions. That was $9. The salmon was good, the mash was okay, kind of insipid honestly. I'm a huge fan of brussel sprouts but goddamn, these were steamed for 2 seconds and unseasoned. My husband got the surf and turf, his steak was tough and the lobster tail was left on the plate for god knows what purpose. Melted butter was margarine, which made the lobster taste gross. Those two dishes alone came out to almost $200, which...why?? We also ordered the clam chowder, which was very tasty, and the bacon jam scallops, which weren't too bad. Needless to say, for that and a cocktail and 2 drinks, we paid over $300. Overall, the price for what you get is ridiculous. You are paying for *historical location* and the marine views. Even the current health rating is blaringly orange ("okay"). I wonder if the health inspector knew about the sick staff working on a Saturday night. Very disappointing, won't be back.
I grew up and lived in the Tacoma/BP area for a good portion of my childhood and never knew The Cliff House existed. I learned of it since moving back in recent years and never had the chance to stop in, but finally did! First of all, let's state the obvious... Absolutely gorgeous location. The view is stunning and you'd be hard pressed to find another like it in the BP/Tacoma area. We sat in the lounge downstairs but I'm sure it's just as great upstairs. I did notice, however, parking is not that great. On a night where they have a good amount of patrons I can imagine it gets rough. I only came by for happy hour in their martini lounge but it was a great experience. Staff was kind and personable, and food and drinks were served up quick. I got an espresso martini that was nice and strong and followed up with a Sauv Blanc that was also delicious. I got the Thai Chili Prawns off the HH menu and was definitely satisfied. Delicious flavor, great sized prawns cooked well. What more can you ask for?! Cliff House seems to be staple in the area for some, but a hidden gem for me. With no doubt, I'll be returning for dinner in the near future. Their main dinner menu sounds delicious and with that gorgeous view? Can't be beat!
Not sure why this place has such low ratings. We had a late lunch there in their lounge since they hadn't opened for dinner yet. The view of Mt Rainier and the water was great, we really enjoyed sitting outside. The salmon salad and house salad with grilled chicken that we had were good, not exceptional. What was exceptional were the fried oysters - fine the way they should be, with a light crispy coating outside and a large juicy oyster inside. Service was good, no issues there. Our experience there was good, even without the view the food was well done, it's worth a visit.
Oh What a Night!!! The Cliff House did its thang!! We decided on an early dinner so we made a reservation for 4:30-5 pm. The staff from the Hostess to our waitress was gracious spoke in very calm tones. I love that! My husband and I began with salads. I had the wedge salad. It was so good. The salad dressing was very light vinaigrette with bold flavors. I customized my salad and they did everything exactly the way I asked. We had several drinks as always I ordered a Cosmo and the bartender definitely knows what they are doing! My husband had a dark and stormy. He also enjoyed his drink. For my main course I had the Chicken Marsala with whipped Yukon potatoes and sautéed green beans. My mouth celebrated each and every bite! The Marsala sauce was perfectly seasoned. The chicken was cooked just right. And the portion size was the right amount to be full and not stuffed. The next dish was the Prawns and Scallop Risotto. This dish was beautifully plated. My husband raved about this dish. That first bite all he could do was smile and lean back in enjoyment. We closed the night with a lovely piece of Red velvet cake! Babe get it! Sooo good! Cliff House is not a place to rush in and out. Come here take time enjoy the view of the sound, sip on a drink and fall into a great conversation. The staff encouraged us to just chill. This is what is missing from so many restaurants. Too loud over crowded and impersonal. Not the Cliff House. Hope you stop by for a spell.
We drove by this often in the summer and decided we had to try happy hour. The view of Commencement Bay was incredible and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Monique was our server,and she was excellent. Food was delicious however a bit pricey, but for a special treat we splurged. Definitely a place to enjoy a cocktail and some bites! read more
1 month ago
I was invited to a wedding dinner, and it was a very beautiful venue. There was an amazing view of the Commencement Bay, and the restaurant was super spacious. There was an upstairs and downstairs area, and it seems like the downstairs area is where they hold larger parties. The servers were very friendly and attentive to what we needed that night. They were working hard the whole time and communication was great from what I've noticed. We had a pre-set menu where we could choose our starter and entree. I chose the clam chowder. It was filled with clams and tasted good. But, the only thing was that the soup came out cold. I believe there were multiple people who had cold soups. Then I ordered the filet mignon, and it was cooked perfectly. It was also served with mashed potatoes and green beans which were also delicious. I highly recommend going regardless because of the ambiance. This would make a great place for a date night or family dinners for special occasions. read more
1 month ago
We visited The Cliff House for the first time on a Saturday night and were glad we made a reservation because it was pretty busy and there was a wedding downstairs. The view was stunning!! My fiancé said they make a mean old fashioned and I enjoyed the Italian Pinot Grigio. The food was delicious! The Thai chili prawns were a great starter and served warm. I loved the bright flavors in the smoked salmon fettuccine. My fiancé thought the chicken marsala was tasty. We topped off the evening with cannolis, yum! read more
Literally one of the worst meals I've ever had. The bartenders were great, great personality great service great drinks. I wish I had kept it to drinks but sadly I went upstairs and got dinner. We ordered the steamed clams and ribeye. The clams were old and dry and the clam juice just tasted off. The ribeye comes and it's old and tough and just basically raw. We had the chef recook it but it was still incredibly bad, The drinks were good the lounge is beautiful the views are beautiful but the food is completely inedible a Swanson Salisbury steak would be 100 times better than this ribeye. read more
After watching a video, my husband and I decided to visit The Cliff House for happy hour and to catch a view of Mt. Rainier. Unfortunately, the day we visited, Mt. Rainer was not visible, but we decided to have a cocktail since we were there. We both ordered an espresso martini, and they were fine. It wasn't busy at all; actually, my husband and I were the only customers until two more guests came. The restaurant is extremely outdated and, based on other reviews, seems to be living off of its history, as not much has changed and it could have been a bit tidier. I am sure on a prettier day, the view may have been worth it, but our trip there was a bust. read more
2 months ago
This review is specific to Thanksgiving 2025. We had an early evening reservation. We did walk in about a half hour early and sat at the upstairs bar. There were three bartenders and they were all moving very slowly. There was just a few other people in that area so it seemed overstaffed. But I guess that's better than understaffed. There were several dirty glasses on the bar top. We had to ask them to wipe the countertop where we sat. With three bartenders those glasses should never have been there. Plus, it's just a gross look for a nicer establishment. The bartenders were friendly and the drinks were good. We did have to repeat our two drink order a few times because the bartender kept forgetting it. And we would've liked to see handwashing after finally moving the dirty glasses, and before making fresh drinks with clean glasses and garnishments. We moved downstairs with the friendly host staff seated at a nice little table away from the windows. We were hoping for a view, but we got just a partial. Next time I will specify, but I understand limited seating. The downstairs bartenders were friendly, efficient and attentive. It seemed that they were bartending for the lower part of the restaurant and also served us our dinner. I actually prefer this because typically we get better drinks and service. This was the case. We ordered the shrimp appetizer, the turkey dinner, and the prime rib. The portions on the two dinners were outstanding, and the food was absolutely perfect. The shrimp presentation had a lot to be desired for, but the flavor was good. This is our second visit for Thanksgiving and I am sure will do it again in the future. Delicious! read more
1 year ago
I live nearby and really wanted to love this place. The building has that unmistakable historic feel the moment you walk in, and the view is spectacular--honestly one of the best in Tacoma. Unfortunately, everything beyond the view just didn't keep pace. Our server was kind and kept apologizing, but she was clearly covering too many tables. Simple things--water, drinks, even checking in--took far too long. I felt bad for her, because the issue seemed like management and staffing, not effort. By the time anything arrived, the moment had already cooled off. Food didn't rescue the night. I ordered two rounds of steamed clams because I was craving seafood; both plates came out uneven--mostly warm, but with some clams still cold, which is a hard no for me. The cocktails were fine, but nowhere near the level set by that view. For a meal that was just two drinks and two orders of the same starter, nothing was handled with care. Overall, it felt like a dinner without attention--from the kitchen or the floor. I'm leaving this review because I'm a local and want them to succeed: tighten staffing, speed up basics (waters/drinks), and, most importantly, temperature-check the seafood. If they can bring the service and kitchen execution up to the standard of the setting, this could be a destination--not just a great view. read more
Food was surprisingly pleasant. The service was great as well. The waitress was super patient and did have good recommendations. I loved the appetizers esp the calamari, mussels, and the caprese. It was a lot better than I expected but one thing was that the appetizers tasted a lot better than the entree itself; which was a tad bit sad. I got the cioppino and a lot of the mussels tasted like it's gone bad. The cod was a bit bland the best was the salmon. Overall, didn't expect it to be spicy? But it was. New York cheese cake overall for me was a miss. The crust was the not good and the cheese cake itself was very mediocre. I recommend you order another. Many parking spots up front. The water front view was amazing. read more
4 months ago
8 months ago
This is my favorite place in the area! Happy Hour from 4-6 daily. Great food! Never had anything bad here. Highly recommend the curry mussels, sourdough and blue cheese, and the truffle fries! read more
2.5, not quite 3. We got a gift card to this restaurant and were curious to try it out. Obviously the location has great views of the Port of Tacoma, water, etc. We were greeted by a hostess who sounded sick (sniffly, congested) but was otherwise nice. We were sat by the windows and that's where I began to freeze my butt off. Fairly certain the AC was on and the output was on the walls by the windows. I spent the entire night wrapped up in my bulky coat, which made for eating comfortably pretty much impossible. Our waitress was very nice but also sniffly and congested. When we left, we ensured we used a lot of hand sanitizer. Ambiance wise, yes the restaurant is very nice, and also filled with senior citizens. I think it was us 2 and a small birthday party under 60, so that gives you an idea to whom this restaurant caters. Food wise, we were disappointed. I got the 14 oz steak and added the salmon and mushroom/onions. My steak had a lot of fat, which I don't care for, and the mushrooms had like 4 slivers of onions. That was $9. The salmon was good, the mash was okay, kind of insipid honestly. I'm a huge fan of brussel sprouts but goddamn, these were steamed for 2 seconds and unseasoned. My husband got the surf and turf, his steak was tough and the lobster tail was left on the plate for god knows what purpose. Melted butter was margarine, which made the lobster taste gross. Those two dishes alone came out to almost $200, which...why?? We also ordered the clam chowder, which was very tasty, and the bacon jam scallops, which weren't too bad. Needless to say, for that and a cocktail and 2 drinks, we paid over $300. Overall, the price for what you get is ridiculous. You are paying for *historical location* and the marine views. Even the current health rating is blaringly orange ("okay"). I wonder if the health inspector knew about the sick staff working on a Saturday night. Very disappointing, won't be back. read more
I grew up and lived in the Tacoma/BP area for a good portion of my childhood and never knew The Cliff House existed. I learned of it since moving back in recent years and never had the chance to stop in, but finally did! First of all, let's state the obvious... Absolutely gorgeous location. The view is stunning and you'd be hard pressed to find another like it in the BP/Tacoma area. We sat in the lounge downstairs but I'm sure it's just as great upstairs. I did notice, however, parking is not that great. On a night where they have a good amount of patrons I can imagine it gets rough. I only came by for happy hour in their martini lounge but it was a great experience. Staff was kind and personable, and food and drinks were served up quick. I got an espresso martini that was nice and strong and followed up with a Sauv Blanc that was also delicious. I got the Thai Chili Prawns off the HH menu and was definitely satisfied. Delicious flavor, great sized prawns cooked well. What more can you ask for?! Cliff House seems to be staple in the area for some, but a hidden gem for me. With no doubt, I'll be returning for dinner in the near future. Their main dinner menu sounds delicious and with that gorgeous view? Can't be beat! read more
2 months ago
6 months ago
2 years ago
6 months ago
Not sure why this place has such low ratings. We had a late lunch there in their lounge since they hadn't opened for dinner yet. The view of Mt Rainier and the water was great, we really enjoyed sitting outside. The salmon salad and house salad with grilled chicken that we had were good, not exceptional. What was exceptional were the fried oysters - fine the way they should be, with a light crispy coating outside and a large juicy oyster inside. Service was good, no issues there. Our experience there was good, even without the view the food was well done, it's worth a visit. read more
Oh What a Night!!! The Cliff House did its thang!! We decided on an early dinner so we made a reservation for 4:30-5 pm. The staff from the Hostess to our waitress was gracious spoke in very calm tones. I love that! My husband and I began with salads. I had the wedge salad. It was so good. The salad dressing was very light vinaigrette with bold flavors. I customized my salad and they did everything exactly the way I asked. We had several drinks as always I ordered a Cosmo and the bartender definitely knows what they are doing! My husband had a dark and stormy. He also enjoyed his drink. For my main course I had the Chicken Marsala with whipped Yukon potatoes and sautéed green beans. My mouth celebrated each and every bite! The Marsala sauce was perfectly seasoned. The chicken was cooked just right. And the portion size was the right amount to be full and not stuffed. The next dish was the Prawns and Scallop Risotto. This dish was beautifully plated. My husband raved about this dish. That first bite all he could do was smile and lean back in enjoyment. We closed the night with a lovely piece of Red velvet cake! Babe get it! Sooo good! Cliff House is not a place to rush in and out. Come here take time enjoy the view of the sound, sip on a drink and fall into a great conversation. The staff encouraged us to just chill. This is what is missing from so many restaurants. Too loud over crowded and impersonal. Not the Cliff House. Hope you stop by for a spell. read more
4 months ago
1 year ago
Going to the Cliff House reminds me of my late mother. She brought us there once when we were kids and it was a treat because we didn't eat at fancy places like that. Now as an adult I brought my granddaughter, my brother that lives in Minnesota and others. The food is always delicious. The vibe is always a bit different. It seems like seating and time of day and weather all play a role of experience. I love the view from Cliff House, both inside and outside. read more
1 year ago
Went there cause my love for SMASH BURGERS is right on top as fresh poke and spam musubi. Never been here but kept hearing about happy hour and the smash. The view is beautiful, even if it wasn't a clear day and it's called "the cliff" cause it actually sits off a cliff. So ... I got the smash, it was good not DA BEST. However Bronson really enjoyed the blue cheese dip with sourdough and a fresh wedge. Would I go back DEFINITELY to re visit the smash and a beautiful sunset... btw I got to see beautiful Miss Cindy read more
10 months ago
2 years ago
Great clear views of Commencement Bay on a sunny Wednesday afternoon. Sat on the patio during happy hour and enjoyed the BBQ Smash Burger and mozzarella sticks. Their servers were very attentive and food/drinks came out fast. Kind of an older crowd so I assume most people who go there are regulars. Interior is outdated and food is a little on the blander side but I they are probably catering to the demographics. That's why I knocked off a star. Would visit again, can't beat the views! read more
2 years ago
The good; nice staff and stunning views, however this does not make up for the bad food and super long wait time for service. The food in general was extremely bland. The seafood Caesar had poached prawns that were completely unseasoned and the dish was served without fresh ground pepper. The salmon and veggie dish was served with a mashed potato, just very underwhelming. The risotto was sticky and was very salty, more like over seasoned white rice. The beef tips were good, kind of like what you get at the teriyaki shop. The fish and chips and sourdough bread were also good. We were there for 2.5 hours, a lot of time in between ordering appetizers, drinks and mains. The bottles of white wine weren't placed in chilling buckets and warmed up on the table. Would I go here for a cocktail downstairs during HH and the views? Sure. But I wouldn't order food or go to the dining room. read more
Came here for the first time today and I loved it. The restaurant itself could certainly use some TLC. The views are beautiful and I loved how quaint the restaurant was. We ordered margaritas, old fashioned's, the bacon jam scallops, chef special copper River salmon, and the ribeye with lobster. For dessert we got the limoncello cake and the turtle brownie. We loved everything. I couldn't believe how delicious every bite was. Even the drinks were sooo tasty. I will say that the service was slow so if you are on a time crunch, I wouldn't recommend this place. But we had nothing but time so it didn't bother us much. We will certainly be back. Can't wait to try all the other items on the menu. read more
2 years ago
Made reservations on a Saturday night to have an upscale dining experience. Came here for cocktails a couple weeks ago and the view was outstanding. On a dark and rainy Saturday night, it's still a gorgeous view. That's the good news. The bad news... The food and the prices. I split fish and chips with my sister, and we got a baked potato instead of the chips. When it came, the fish seemed quite small so we asked how much it would be to add a second baked potato and the waitress said there would be a small up charge. When the bill came, the potato was $14. $14 for a baked potato with a tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoons of sour cream and an eighth of a piece of bacon crumbled up? The fish was very small, overpowered by a lot of breading. They don't serve any bread while you're waiting for your food. The rest of the party had the beet salad and pesto pasta and felt mediocre about the flavor. None of the hot food was hot, the butter didn't even melt in the $14 potato. The service was OK. We weren't offered any cracked pepper for the salads we got before hand and the dirty dishes were not cleared until just before we were leaving. We sat with dirty dishes for a good 10 minutes. I may return in the summer for a cocktail and a view, but I probably won't eat here again. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
2 years ago
Went for valentine's dinner my steak medallion was completely rare when I ordered medium rare. I couldn't cut through it Dinner was supposed to come with asparagus which I love. It came with beans which I don't love I gave to my hubby. He also ate what he could of my steak. So for over 80 dollars plus an implemented 20 percent tip and hubby also gave an extra tip I got just potatoes which where good but not 80 dollars good read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
4 years ago
The Cliff House is definitely a hidden gem and holds special meaning for us. We had our Rehearsal dinner there and we have gone back to eat on our wedding anniversary for the last 3 years. We typically go on weekdays, around 4:30/5 to beat the dinner rush. We have never had to wait for seating. At that time, the dining room upstairs is still closed, but the dining area/bar downstairs is open and seat yourself. The restaurant has incredible water views and you can see and enjoy the view from pretty much any table in the restaurant. They have indoor and outdoor seating. Staff is always so kind, welcoming, and attentive. We typically go for seafood when we go and everything we've had has been delicious. This last visit we tried the chowder in the bread bowl and it was AMAZING. My husband and I both enjoyed our main courses - he had the Fettuccini Neptune and I had the Northwest Cioppino. The serving sizes are just right, large enough to feel satisfied but not so much that you're stuffed or need to bring food home. We will continue to make the long drive out to eat at the Cliff House! read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
2 years ago
Page 1 of 13
More info about The Cliff House
6300 Marine View Dr
Tacoma, WA 98422
Directions
(253) 927-0400
Call Now
Visit Website
http://cliffhousetacoma.com
Full menu
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Health Score
Ask the Community - The Cliff House
I see that it says this place is not good for kids but like, how strict is that? I have a very well-behaved 2 year old but if it's a strict rule that there are no kids then I won't bother.
Hello, We welcome children. We have a kids menu with some great selections! We just ask that any children are supervised and remain seated at their tables, so as not to…
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
23 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
10 years ago
10 years ago
14 years ago
11 years ago
7 years ago
15 years ago
2 years ago
5 years ago
3 years ago
13 years ago
13 years ago
13 years ago
7 years ago
7 years ago
5 years ago
12 years ago
15 years ago
8 years ago
7 years ago
1 year ago
