Central California Coast

Sierra Mar, located in the Post Ranch Inn, blends comfort with elegance in natural surroundings — cliffs, mountains and the ocean below. — Forbes Travel Guide

For dinner, pull the kids away from Bubba Gump and head for Passionfish in neighboring Pacific Grove. — Travel + Leisure

It's a ramshackle but romantic historic inn on the mountain side of the highway nestled in a forest glen. Cabins and rooms have fireplaces, cozy blanket-heavy beds, and no TVs. — Afar Magazine

The food was delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed taking our time exploring the interesting gift shop below. — Afar Magazine

L'Auberge Carmel restaurant featuring the cuisine of executive chef Justin Cogley. — Gayot

Inside a 1910 firehouse, Montrio looks dolled up with leather walls and iron trellises, but the tables have butcher paper and crayons for kids. — Lonely Planet

The surroundings and finessed service set the stage for an elegant meal you’ll long remember. — Gayot

Great food, decor. They even have a table that belonged to van Gogh. — Afar Magazine

Big, fresh flavors, a chef's garden, creative cocktails and genuine hospitality make Tarpy’s a hotspot. — Gayot

A major draw in Downtown Monterey, this craft brewery and New American grill offers West Coast-style ales and Belgian-inspired pints alongside plates featuring local ingredients. — Zagat

Carefully prepared California cuisine is the draw at this airy restaurant...for lighter fare with a worldwide flair, head to the bar. — Fodor's

They have all sorts of great food but I found the Chimay beer and cheese soup to be particularly appealing. — Afar Magazine

Casanova's sweet French cousin charms locals and visiting wine tasters. — Gayot

Rustic it is, with a wooden interior and wood-fired pizza oven. — Gayot

The Big Sur Bakery and Restaurant serves housemade granola, ginger scones, and seasonal fruit strudels in a cabin built in 1937. — Afar Magazine

An amazing breakfast place! The restaurant is small; but it's ambiance, food, and staff make is giant. — Afar Magazine

Pacific Grove is often foggy, especially in the mornings. Head to the cozy Red House Café, sit by the fire and enjoy a hearty breakfast while watching the fog waft by. — Afar Magazine

Well-executed and consistently tasty Asian-Fusion food. — Gayot

The Ventana Inn's restaurant sits high on a ridge, and a magnificent terrace offers stunning ocean views. — Fodor's

Notorious eatery with a distinguished past on Cannery Row. — Gayot