One of my favorite secret spots in Big Sur, CA with the best cocktail views - Nepenthe
One of my absolute favorite places for a nice meal (or just for a few cocktails) in Big Sur, California has to be Nepenthe!!! It’s a little further out of a drive but WOW is it worth the views and vibes.
Nepenthe Restaurant in Big Sur is perched on the edge of the continent and it’s one to add to your must-see and do list while in the area.
My tips:
PARKING AND GETTING ON THE WAITLIST: There are no reservations (currently) so if you’re looking to dine, remember that the main parking lot is small and fills up quickly. The cafe (which also has a view) and the Phoenix Shop open a little earlier, so get there early, check out one of those spots before going upstairs to Nepenthe.
TERRACE BAR VIEWS: If you’re not able to get there as it opens or get there when the waitlist is full, feel free to just enjoy the back terrace / deck. Buy a drink from the bar inside and walk toward the back of the restaurant. Standing room only but the views cannot be beat
SEATING: Personally I prefer the most outer rim bar versus the tables or indoors because other people are not in your view / sight. But you really can’t go wrong w/ any seat.
BOHO BALCONY DECK NEXT DOWNSTAIRS: The balcony in The Phoenix Shop always has updated decor. There are many things in the store that are worthy of a souvenir or just something to treat yourself with, but if you want a great view to see be sure to walk to the back of the store.
WHAT TO WEAR: It’s so chill in Big Sur but I recommend two things: always bring a light jacket because it’s deceiving if it’ll get windy / cold. Secondly, wear colors that complement the best photo backdrop (the blue sky). EVERY seat in Nepenthe has a view of the beautiful blue ocean and sky so colors like orange, lime green, bright bold colors really make the ocean stand out and POP. I wore an orange dress with blue and gold necklace and it really made my pictures stand out because of the contrast in color choice. Have fun w/ your hues and patterns and know that your attire looks amazing when you match with mother nature :)
Nothing like the beauty of Big Sur but there’s also nothing like the hidden gems like Nepenthe that make your Big Sur vacation / staycation / weekend getaway a solid memory. Sip your cocktail (I love their Elderflower Sparkler) and gaze out into the endless ocean. You’ll feel on top of the world here at Nepenthe!
https://www.nepenthe.com/
Cheers,
J9
