Eatery perched on a Big Sur cliffside offering California fare & a terrace with breathtaking views.
Luis Raygoza
First and foremost, thank you to Richard for the incredible hospitality on Valentine’s Day. He truly made the experience special for my wife and I… We also really appreciated the entire staff everyone was welcoming, attentive, and professional throughout the evening.
And that ocean view table… absolutely amazing! It made the night unforgettable. Thank you for such a memorable experience , we’ll definitely be back!
… moreLiv
I had a road trip to Carmel from LA. This place was one of my saved lists and I am so glad I made it!!!!! I waited about an hour to be seated, but so worth it. Foods and cocktail were delicious. Staffs were super nice Highly highly recommend!!!!!!
… moreJustin Nguyen (JNguyen20)
This was a delicious dinner with a view! You don’t necessarily need to buy anything to enjoy the deck and view but the wine was great, the food was delicious, and the cozy fire place inside kept us warm. The service was phenomenal and if you want a nice, fancier dinner, this is a great spot around sunset. Just arrive early as it is fist come first serve!
… moreKEITH Q.
This was a wonderful visit merely because of the spectacular views.
The food was good, it was okay. Nothing great, nothing bad. The worst thing was the price, but OMG the views are breathtaking. Choose your seat well because the views are gorgeous. The story of how this became open to the public because the view was too good to deprive from the public says it all.
The facilities were meticulously maintained inside and outside.
Overall you come for the views, expect little more than a decent, overpriced menu….but oddly enough you will love it overall and become a repeat customer for every season of the year.
… moreKyle
Beautiful views and great vibe, pretty average (still good) food. Service was pretty slow but we still had a great time. For sure worth a visit, you won’t find many restaurants like this. Views were amazing and make the stop, highly recommended.
… morespace cadet
Went for the view and was not disappointed, we were there at sunset time and the view was perfect. I loved my veggie burger (one of the best veggie burgers out there) and my son said those were the best fry’s he has ever had… they were nice and crisp. Christian was our server and he really made us feel welcome, we definitely stayed a little longer because the service was great can’t wait to go back Big Sur and Nepenthe
… moreKytka
A timeless Big Sur experience. The grounds at Nepenthe are a destination all their own — perched high above the Pacific, where ocean mist meets redwood air. Between the sweeping coastal views, the lush terraces, and the inviting mix of locals and travelers, this spot captures the spirit of Big Sur like nowhere else. Whether you’re here for coffee, a glass of wine, or simply to watch the sunset melt into the horizon, the atmosphere feels both lively and sacred. Every visit reminds you that beauty doesn’t need to shout — it simply exists, effortlessly, right here.
… moreSara Volpatti Knutson
Nepenthe honestly felt like a little slice of magic tucked into the cliffs of Big Sur. The second we walked up to the terrace, the view just stopped me — ocean for days, the cliffs, the breeze… it’s one of those spots that makes you instantly slow down and just take it all in.
We ordered drinks and just enjoyed the moment, and the food did not disappoint. The Ambrosia Burger is famous for a reason. It’s juicy, flavorful, and that house sauce is perfection. Everything tasted so fresh, and the whole experience just felt easy and relaxed in the best way.
The vibe is unmatched — warm, inviting, and a little bohemian. You’re basically having lunch or dinner in one of the most beautiful places on earth, and it actually lives up to the hype. It’s definitely pricier, but honestly, the views alone make it worth it.
If you’re heading through Big Sur, make Nepenthe a non-negotiable stop. It’s one of those meals you remember long after you leave.
… moreAdam Rowe
This is hard to beat on all levels. Go for the atmosphere, the views, the service and the great wine. We loved it so much on our first night in Big Sur, we went back for sunset cocktails on the deck the next night. Go, it’s a crown jewel and the rewards are rich!!
Get the chicken!! Wow!!
… moreAlka Chamrolia
Can I give this place 10 stars?! The outdoor patio and large dining room with awesome vistas are dreamlike. Sipping hot chocolate on a cool night watching the sunset from Nepenthe’s patio will be one of my favorite Big Sur memories. Portions are large and service super friendly.
… more