14 Restaurants Not To Miss On Your Trip From LA To San Fran
Taking a trip between Los Angeles to San Francisco should take you about six hours on any given day, but what's the fun in that? Consider a road trip sprawled over the course of five to six days, making stops in large cities and small towns. You have several options in the route you take. The I-5 proves to be the fastest, but it's also the most boring — just a straight shot — and that's not what we're looking for.
The next option is US-101, which follows the coast only part of the way. Take this route and miss some of the most amazing views you'll ever get to see.
The winning option? Take US-1 all the way up. It's long (about nine hours), but by going this way, you'll be able to enjoy the majestic views of the Pacific Coast Highway, look up at mountains on one side and down at the waves crashing on the other. Truly, very little compares to this "Big Sur" drive up the coast.
On such a long drive, you're sure to build up an appetite. Consider the following stops along your drive from Los Angeles: Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Big Sur, Carmel, Monterey and finally, San Francisco. And definitely — definitely — consider these places to dine. For some of these hot spots, I used the redesigned Foursquare which used my personal palette to pull some recommendations. Enjoy your travels!
FIG Santa Monica, as complemented by its mirrored wall decor, boasts a seasonal menu that reflects the simple taste of locally grown and organic ingredients. The bistro-inspired dishes are served in a casual yet inviting atmosphere. Go here for brunch and try the eggs benedict, chilaquiles, or a breakfast burrito.
The self-proclaimed neighborhood restaurant in Silver Lake provides comfort and social release to its patrons. The seafood eatery is a mix of a Parisian bistro with an urban vibe specializing in — you guessed it — oysters. Get a table by the patio and try oysters L&E, knife and fork fried oyster po'boy, or the smoked trout salad.
If you're already feeling homesick, stop by a Souplantation or a Sweet Tomatoes for a taste of comfort. This all-you-can-eat dining experience lets you create a customized meal from more than 45 feet of fresh salad ingredients. On the side, indulge in homemade soups, pastas, or baked treats.
The harbor in Santa Monica is actually an active one, and on Saturday mornings you can buy fish directly from the fishermen. This is great news for the establishments like Chuck's Waterfront Grill, who serves up fresh seafood amidst the boats. Get the wild-caught king prawns, fisherman's stew, or their award-winning clam chowder.
This establishment has been a welcoming atmosphere in San Luis Obispo since 1927. Its history is deeply rooted in a "friendly corner market" tradition and maintains it by embracing its inherent vintage charm. Stop by here for lunch and order the Nashville club, "mother nature," or the hot pastrami.
This cliffside restaurant is located at the Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur. A five-course lunch tasting menu will set you back $95 per person, but includes such dishes as venison tartare, Monterey red abalone, and Morro Bay oysters.
The 90-mile stretch of curvy Big Sur highway begs for you to take a pitstop in this tiny, converted ranch house. Built in 1936, the building has continuously been used as a place to restore hungry travelers and Big Sur Bakery keeps that tradition alive to this day. Stop in and try grilled octopus, any of their wood-fired pizza, or a latte and a ginger scone.
This hot spot is located in the Cypress Inn, which is co-owned by legendary Hollywood actress Doris Day. It's nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and has been a landmark hotel since 1929. So if you're spending the night there, you won't have to travel far for good food. Terry's Restaurant offers a diverse menu of American fare, serving lunch and dinner. Try Monterey Bay calamari, grilled veggie baguette, or the crab and mango salad for lunch.
Revisit traditional fare of the rustic, regional cuisine of France and Italy, sprinkled with some Belgian influences. With generous portions, Casanova's menu is designed to create a festive and family-style experience at the table. They use locally sourced produce and their meat, game, and poultry are vegetarian-fed, and hormone-free.. Dinner must-haves include the duck, risotto, and gnocchi Casanova.
Operated out of one of the oldest homes in the Monterey, Restaurant 1833 has variety when it comes to both ambiance and menu. Choose from one of the five indoor areas, each with their own personality, or opt for outdoor seating on the terrace or by the fireside patio. Must-try menu items include bacon Cheddar biscuits, lemon butter chicken, and any of their seasonal pies.
Schooner's Coastal Bar and Kitchen
Anywhere you look, you'll see the stunning waters of Monterey Bay at this restaurant with a view. Executive chef James Waller prepares a creative menu of fresh, sustainable seafood. Schooner's gets extra points for impeccable service from its staff. Ask for an outside table overlooking the Bay and try lobster risotto, fisherman's cioppino, or the bacon-wrapped filet and prawns. [pullquote:left]
Located on the grounds of the Presidio inside the Presidio Officers' club, Arguello is helmed by award-winning chef Traci Des Jardins. Des Jardins offers up a menu inspired by Mexican food and drink. Dine in an ultra-chic and clean atmosphere, enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner. Snag a seat outdoors and try taquitos, tacos, or the huevos rancheros.
Referencing the Bay Area's latitude line, Parallel 37 is located in the stunning Ritz Carlton San Francisco. Executive chef Rotondo prepares and presents unique dishes from locally sourced ingredients, creating a culinary journey for the patron. Menu items are based on the season, but you can't go wrong with any of the chef's many tasting menu options.
Preserving the spirit of its namesake, Michael Mina is the crown jewel establishment of the restaurant group. Dishes are rich in flavors, drawing on Japanese and French influences. Don't miss the Kona Kampachi Sashimi, Bolinas Black Cod, or the Campfire S'mores.