Nepenthe
The legendary clifftop restaurant of Big Sur, open since 1949. Its terrace hangs 240 m above the Pacific, and its signature Ambrosia burger comes with unbeatable ocean views.
Nepenthe is run by the Fassett family. It began as a cottage once bought by Orson Welles and Rita Hayworth, and since opening it has been a gathering place for writers, artists and hippies. The restaurant terrace sits on cliffs about 240 m above sea level, overlooking the south-facing Big Sur coastline. The Ambrosia burger with fries and the sea view is a Big Sur memory for many visitors. The lower-level Phoenix Café and its boutique shops are also worth a look. Reservations are not accepted, and there are queues during sunset.
Opening hours
Approx. 11:30–21:00
Nearby sights
- Henry Miller Memorial Library
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- Pfeiffer Beach
- Andrew Molera State Park
- McWay Falls
- Point Sur Lighthouse
- Bixby Creek Bridge
- Carmel Valley