Dining room
1 / 10

The Sur House

,

Upscale American cuisine with breathtaking Pacific views in a warm, woodsy setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Dining room

The Sur House

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Upscale American cuisine with breathtaking Pacific views in a warm, woodsy setting.

"Dining at The Sur House offers an unforgettable experience where nature's beauty meets culinary art."

TIP

Reserve for Ocean Views

Book ahead to ensure a table with the best panoramic ocean views.

Worth the Trek

Even if not staying at the hotel, dinner at The Sur House is highly recommended.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 5PM

Cuisine

American

Price

$$$

Phone

(831) 667-4242

Address

48123 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Breathtaking Ocean Views

Breathtaking Ocean Views

Dine with unparalleled panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and rugged Big Sur coastline.

Best Restaurants in Big SurThe Best Ocean View Restaurants in Monterey County
Locally Sourced, Creative Cuisine

Locally Sourced, Creative Cuisine

Savor innovative dishes crafted from fresh, regional ingredients, highlighting California's bounty.

Dining - Big SurBest Restaurants in Big Sur, California
Exceptional Service & Ambiance

Exceptional Service & Ambiance

Experience attentive, proactive service in a warm, woodsy atmosphere, perfect for any weather.

Google Review+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dining above the sky😍 📍The Sur House #surhouse #thesurhouse #bigsur #bigsurcalifornia #pch #hiddengemcalifornia #secretrestaurant #surhouse #monterrey #restaurantwithview #restaurantwithaview #dinnerlocation
@ollyoffe
5.5K likes • 118.2K views

Reserve for Ocean Views

Book ahead to ensure a table with the best panoramic ocean views.

Worth the Trek

Even if not staying at the hotel, dinner at The Sur House is highly recommended.

A day well spent in #bigsur 🤍 #thesurhouse #cafekevah
@alexaandraa_uribee
21.8K likes • 304.1K views
First stop in Big Sur 🌊 Sur House at Alila Ventana #bigsur #alilaventana #alilaventanabigsur #himyfans #ilovemyfans #norcal #norcalfoodie #michelinstar
@petitefoodiee
25 likes • 660 views

Don't Skip Dessert

The coconut sorbet is a must-try, frequently praised by diners.

Indoor Ambiance

Enjoy a romantic, cozy vibe indoors during foggy or rainy weather.

“Paz, vista al mar y un brunch que sabe a cielo. Big Sur vibra diferente. 🌊🤍 #thesurhouse #luxuryescape “
@dianabustos5543
6 likes • 219 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Reserve for Ocean Views

Book ahead to ensure a table with the best panoramic ocean views.

Worth the Trek

Even if not staying at the hotel, dinner at The Sur House is highly recommended.

Don't Skip Dessert

The coconut sorbet is a must-try, frequently praised by diners.

Indoor Ambiance

Enjoy a romantic, cozy vibe indoors during foggy or rainy weather.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Sur House garners praise for its absolutely stunning ocean views and creative, locally sourced cuisine. Diners frequently highlight the attentive service and the restaurant's warm ambiance, which is enjoyable in any weather. However, some reviews mention inconsistent service and value for money, with a few instances of cold food or slow service, leading to disappointment for some guests.

"What a beautiful restaurant! We ate here three times total for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For dinner, it took quite awhile to get our main entree. Without us complaining or even bringing it up, our waiter proactively checked on us and offered us a free drink for the delay. The other two meals were great. The location is perfect, snd the views are stunning."

Logan Williams

"My three days staying at Alila Ventana Big Sur have been one of the best three days of my life, and the Sur House is a big reason why. We came here every single day for our complimentary breakfast, lunch, dinner as hotel guests. I believe that breakfast and lunch are for hotel guests only but Sur House is open for non-hotel guests for dinner time.

Even if you are not staying at Alila, the Sur House is still worth the trek if you’re in Big Sur. The dining here is world class and I was told that the chef is actually from the Michelin restaurant nearby. Every single thing we ate was extraordinarily delicious, and believe me, we tried the whole menu during our stay!

Below are some of my favorite selections from the menu for each meal.

BREAKFAST
— Bagel & Lox (colorful and IG worthy)
— Egg Omelet (with fresh eggs from the onsite farm)

LUNCH
— Habanero wings (perfectly spiced)
— Fish & Chips (fantastic fry, not too oily)
— Churrasco (this steak is actually my favorite dish of our whole stay)
— Market Fish (ours was a beautifully cooked salmon)
— Coconut sorbet (DO NOT SKIP THIS!)

DINNER
— The Hen Egg (sounds simple but has big flavor)
— Spanish Octopus (soooo tender)
— Squid Ink Spaghetti (but honestly all the pastas are amazing)
— Steak, Salmon or Halibut (are the best because for me the poultry options were a bit dry)

All the desserts are great and we’ve tried them all, but I just cannot stop thinking about the coconut sorbet. It lives in my mind rent free.

Not only was the food excellent, the service was equally as amazing. Our server for most nights was Leo - he is fantastic. He always remembered our names and what we ordered and made sure to wish me a happy birthday. We really felt taken care of and seen.

On nice days and nights, Sur House is located in a patio area of Alila Ventana and overlooks the huge blue ocean and Big Sur cliffs. It’s a really stunning sight especially at sunset. On days with very foggy or rainy weather, the party is moved indoors for a more romantic, cozy, wood surroundings dining vibe.

I will be dreaming about Alila Ventana and the Sur House for a long time!"

Michelle Tzou

"Went here from alila, it was one of the most incredible meals from recent memory. The best salad I’ve had, then some crazy egg dish with popcorn that also blew my mind. Both entrees were executed perfectly, and dessert and service were all stellar."

Ken Chen

What People Like

Unbeatable ocean views
Creative, local ingredients
Attentive and friendly staff

What People Dislike

Inconsistent service quality
High prices relative to portion/execution
Occasional food temperature issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Diners rave about dishes like the U10 scallops, hen egg appetizer, squid ink spaghetti, and the churrasco. The coconut sorbet is a must-try dessert.

Google Review

Yes, The Sur House is open to non-hotel guests for dinner, and is worth the visit.

Google Review

Reservations are recommended, especially if you want to secure a table with a view.

While not explicitly stated, the upscale nature of the restaurant suggests smart casual attire.

The restaurant boasts stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Big Sur coastline.

Best Restaurants in Big SurDiscover the Best Big Sur Restaurants: Insider Tips on Where to Eat in Big Sur

During foggy or rainy weather, the dining experience moves indoors to a romantic, cozy setting.

Yes, the menu indicates vegetarian (v), vegan (vg), and other dietary options like nut-free (nf) and gluten-free (gf).

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

The Points Guy

Review of Hyatt's Ventana Big Sur

The Sur House restaurant is about a 0.3-mile walk from the gym area on a gravel path through the redwood forest or a quick golf cart ride from your doorstep.

Visit Source →
travel.usnews.com

Alila Ventana Big Sur Reviews & Prices

Recent diners also rave about the delicious cuisine served at The Sur House, which features a menu composed of locally sourced ingredients prepared in creative ways and served alongside the restaurant's fine wine list. And, although the accommodations vary in size from approximately 414 to nearly 1,200 square feet, all of the rooms feature comfortable beds, artisan-curated minibars and private decks offering breathtaking views of Big Sur's scenery. Ventana Big Sur is located about 30 miles south of Monterey along Highway 1.

Visit Source →
goop

Everything You Need to Know to Plan a Weekend in Big Sur

If you’re a guest at Ventana, it’s easy to lean on the rustic vibe of the Sur House for all your meals. Even if you’re not staying here though, it’s worth coming for breakfast in the morning, which is served on the sprawling patio (we’re talking mountains and redwoods on one side, ocean on the other). Chef Paul Corsentino pulls out all the stops: whole grain pancakes are served with an apple and maple compote, a take on Eggs Benedict includes guacamole and smoked turkey, and a solid menu of all manner of pressed juices.

Visit Source →
Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association

Dining - Big Sur

The Sur House restaurant, helmed by Executive Chef Paul Corsentino, rises high above the Pacific where the forest and sea converge. Drawing on his experiences in kitchens across the country, Corsentino crafts coastal cuisine—using Pacific-sourced seafood delivered by local fishermen, free-range meats from local farmers, produce from nearby foragers and homemade accoutrements—inspired by the sustainable ingredients of California’s Central Coast and the melting pot of America’s culinary havens.

Visit Source →
Highway 1 Road Trip

Best Restaurants in Big Sur

Visit The Sur House and you’ll understand immediately why it’s considered a love story about the bounty of Big Sur. Situated to maximize those spellbinding coastal views, this fine dining restaurant offers an experience that’s pure California dreaming. As the sun begins its nightly dip into the Pacific, The Sur House’s epic patio becomes the stage for an unforgettable meal.

Visit Source →
DIP A TOE

Big Sur Guide

Definitely also have a nice fancy dinner or drinks at Sur House at the Ventana Resort. You can't actually see the sunset from The Sur House restaurant but the light hits the surrounding landscape in an equally impressive display. On one trip, we watched a Sunday football game by the fire in the bar at the Sur House, with drinks and appetizers, highly recommend!

Visit Source →
Hiking in Big Sur

Discover the Best Big Sur Restaurants: Insider Tips on Where to Eat in Big Sur

The Sur House is a warm, woodsy spot that specializes in upscale American cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The best part is the terrace, where you get amazing ocean views while you dine. It’s one of those places that feels rustic yet refined at the same time—like you’re in the middle of nature but still enjoying a high-class dining experience.

Visit Source →
Ashley Welborn

Best Restaurants in Big Sur, California

The Sur House restaurant in Big Sur is a favorite for travelers and locals alike. Located right along the coast inside the Ventana property, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of some of California’s most iconic landscapes. The menu features fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and unique cocktails crafted with local ingredients.

Visit Source →
See Monterey

The Best Ocean View Restaurants in Monterey County

Rustic redwood charm meets untouched natural beauty at The Sur House at Ventana Big Sur. Both encompassing views of the Big Sur coastline and crafty and locally sourced menu creations from Chef Paul Corsentino are sure to please your palate. If you're dining on the outdoor patio be on the lookout for a California condor or two.

Visit Source →
TheTravel

10 Mouthwatering, Must-Try Restaurants In Big Sur

Travelers staying at the Ventana can enjoy a peaceful breakfast (or dinner) at The Sur House. Using local ingredients, the restaurant offers a range of dishes that highlight the flavors of American cuisine. For breakfast, dive into mashed avocado spread over local seeded bread, or come for dinner to try the Kurobota Pork.

Visit Source →
ventanabigsur.com

The Sur House - Dining Big Sur

The Sur House, high above the Pacific where the forest, mountains, and sea converge, offers an inclusive model which enhances our experience even further. All meals are included with your stay, including breakfast on the day of departure. Upgraded options such as alcoholic beverages are available for separate purchase.

Visit Source →
BigSurCali.com

Big Sur Activity Guides

Dining at Sur House which is excellent, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients provided by local farms. For activities take a short hike with a huge reward. The ½-mile/1-km round-trip Waterfall Overlook Trail at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park could be the biggest-bang-for-not-much-work hike on the planet.

Visit Source →
Beach Travel Destinations | Your beach travel destination expert!

Visit the Beautiful Beaches of Big Sur

A 10,000-bottle cellar of small-production Central Coast wines has been carefully assembled by a team of local vintners and The Sur House sommelier. Craft cocktails and a curated selection of beer, along with a specialty bar menu, also are offered. Telephone: 831 667-4242 Web: The Sur House.

Visit Source →
7x7 Bay Area

In Big Sur, Top Notch Nature + Hospitality, Natural Disasters Be Damned

The Sur House(48123 Hwy 1) has an expansive dining patio, a menu featuring local ingredients—think artichoke salad with tarragon coulis and a poached egg from the onsite chicken coop—and a central bar. Start with the Marine Layer, a gin-based cocktail inspired by the local terroir.

Visit Source →
Monterey County NOW

Food – Best of Monterey Bay® Visitors Guide 2023-2024 | Visitors

Organic, seasonal produce harvested from Ventana’s gardens allows for cooking and presentation with an upscale flair, though without being stuffy. The dishes are on the level with the patio’s Pacific-facing views. Alila Ventana Big Sur, 48123 Highway 1, Big Sur.

Visit Source →
Fora Travel

Big Sur, California: The Ultimate Luxury Nature Getaway

Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant: You will feel like you have stepped back in time to more rustic days, but standing the test of time is the cozy steak and potatoes served. This is a more casual, relaxed dinner and a great option away from the hotels.

Visit Source →
Bach Bride

Ultimate Big Sur Bachelortte Party Guide & Itinerary

The Sur House: This elegant restaurant is located at the Ventana Big Sur resort and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It features a menu of contemporary American cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Visit Source →
FlyerTalk Forums

Ventana Big Sur- Alila - REVIEW MASTER THREAD - Page 144

Your stay includes all meals, whether in-room 24 hours a day, lunch on the Sur House Terrace from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., or dinner at The Sur House�our award-winning restaurant that is open for dinner from 5-9 p.m. Please see our dining menus here.

Visit Source →
See Monterey County, CA

Big Sur Restaurants

The Sur House, high above the Pacific where the forest, mountains, and sea converge, now features a more spacious seating plan with fewer tables—along with greater exclusivity, as the restaurant is reserved for Ventana overnight guests…

Visit Source →
Taylor Sterling

A 24-hour Guide to Big Sur

Because we used American Express points for our stay, we had a $100 credit to use toward any room charge!. We used it toward a nice dinner to celebrate our anniversary. We chose to eat at the bar that overlooked the gorgeous sunset.

Visit Source →
Ready & Roam

Ready and Roam / Glamping in Big Sur, California

If you are staying at Ventana, this is a beautiful place to have dinner one night. You can also order "take away" from the bar to enjoy at your glamping site. Be warned though, as with most things in Big Sur, it's expensive!

Visit Source →
Discover Big Sur

Restaurants - Discover Big Sur

The Sur House The Sur House rises high above the Pacific where the forest and sea converge. Cozy & woodsy spot for upscale, locally-sourced American cuisine with enchanting ocean views from the terrace.

Visit Source →

California Road Trip - The Perfect Two Week Itinerary

Located at Ventana Big Sur, The Sur House is an upscale dining establishment using locally sourced cuisine created by Executive Chef, Paul Corsentino. $90 Fix menu offers a divine three-course meal.

Visit Source →
Seeking Venture Photo

The BIG Guide to Big Sur

The Sur House is only serving guests of the Ventana Resort because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Small and pricey fine-dining menu made with locally-sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list.

Visit Source →
HopDes

7 Eateries in Big Sur for a Scrumptious Meal

Visit Source →
atly.com

The 5 Best Gluten-Free Dinner Spots in Big Sur

Went for lunch and had limited menu but good gluten free options and tasty food and drinks with great Cali vibe set high on the hill overlooking the sea on the patio.

Visit Source →
Katie Lee Jacobs

Carmel & Big Sur, California

We could have easily spent a few extra days in Carmel and Big Sur, so we will certainly be back (but it seems I always say that — vacations never last long enough!)

Visit Source →
wander.com

Top 3 Upscale Restaurants Near Wander Big Sur Point

Visit Source →
THE EVOLISTA

Ventana Glamping in Big Sur the Best Family Trip

You can also head up to the hotel for a full brunch at the Sur House, which is a restaurant with amazing Pacific Ocean views and a delicious menu.

Visit Source →
Where's Janice

Ultimate Big Sur Winter Guide: Weather And Best Things To Do

Visit Source →
AAA

Must-See Big Sur Nature Spots and Views

Visit Source →
Lynn Lewis Photography | Big Sur Wedding + Elopement Photographer

Big Sur Elopement Guide: Everything You Need to Know for 2024 + 2025

Here's an itinerary for things to do when driving from Big Sur to Monterey to Santa Cruz to San Francisco.

Visit Source →
postranchinn.com

Big Sur | Big Sur Hotels | Post Ranch Inn

Visit Source →
MileHacker

Best Restaurants in Big Sur. Food, Dining, Local Cuisine

Visit Source →
tosomeplacenew

12 Absolute Best Airbnbs in Big Sur (for 2023)

Visit Source →
The Sur House (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Food Guide