5 Best Restaurants in Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay, a charming coastal town in Northern California, is not just known for its stunning ocean views and serene beaches but also for its vibrant culinary scene. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the town's diverse selection of restaurants offers something for every palate. From fresh seafood with a view to inventive Italian dishes in a cozy courtyard, here are the five best restaurants in Half Moon Bay that are sure to leave you coming back for more.

If you're a fan of classic seafood dishes with a breathtaking view, Sam's Chowder House is a must-visit. Perched right on the edge of the Pacific, this iconic restaurant offers a dining experience that's as much about the ambiance as it is about the food. Voted the “#1 Seafood Restaurant” by locals, Sam’s is famed for its clam chowder, lobster rolls, and a menu brimming with fresh, locally sourced seafood.

Start your meal with the Baked Oysters Rockefeller, where Parmigiano, spinach, and crispy breadcrumbs perfectly complement the briny flavor of the oysters. Follow it up with their New England Chowder, a hearty blend of Little Neck clams, Yukon Gold potatoes, and smoked bacon, all simmered to perfection in a creamy broth. For the main course, the Seafood Paella, loaded with Dayboat scallops, prawns, mussels, and clams, is a showstopper that captures the essence of coastal dining.

For those seeking a refined dining experience, The Conservatory at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, offers a sophisticated menu in a setting that epitomizes luxury. With its modern beach house design and panoramic ocean views, The Conservatory is perfect for a special occasion or an intimate dinner.

The restaurant's commitment to sustainable cuisine is evident in dishes like the Half Moon Bay Cioppino, which features a medley of Littleneck clams, Mediterranean mussels, and Dungeness crab, all bathed in a spicy tomato broth with a side of sourdough bread. The Colorado Lamb Rack, topped with a rosemary and garlic butter marinade and served with red chimichurri sauce, is a must-try for meat lovers. Pair your meal with one of their craft cocktails, like the Taigh Solais, a refreshing blend of coconut vodka, crème de violette, and prosecco, for the ultimate coastal dining experience.

Located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, It’s Italia brings a slice of Tuscany to the California coast. This vibrant Italian spot is known for its inventive pizzas and a full menu that celebrates the bounty of local farms, wineries, and fisheries. Whether you’re dining in the Tuscan-style courtyard or enjoying a drink at the marble bar, It’s Italia offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for both locals and visitors.

The menu at It’s Italia is extensive, but a few standout dishes include the Cowboy Cut Bone-In Rib Eye Steak, a 16 oz. dry-aged Black Angus steak served with sautéed portabella mushrooms, onions, and roasted red creamer potatoes. Another favorite is the Slow-Roasted Short Ribs, braised and simmered with a medley of vegetables and herbs, then served with bramata polenta. Try one of their signature cocktails, such as The Tuscan Touch, a refreshing mix of Grey Goose La Poire Vodka, ginger, honey, lime, and cucumber, to complete your meal.

For a dining experience that pairs breathtaking ocean views with bold Peruvian flavors, La Costanera is the place to be. Located just north of Half Moon Bay, this contemporary restaurant offers a menu that highlights the vibrant coastal cuisine of Latin America. The restaurant's two-story glass-walled structure ensures that every seat in the house has a view of the Pacific, making it an ideal spot for a sunset dinner.

La Costanera’s menu is as impressive as its location, with dishes like the Yucca Croquettes stuffed with chorizo and raisins and served with aji amarillo-curry sauce. Another standout is the Cebiche Nikkei, featuring sushi-grade Ahi tuna marinated in a Nikkei leche de tigre, paired with red onions, green apples, and crispy wonton chips. And don’t forget to save room for dessert — the churros filled with dulce de leche are a decadent way to end your meal.

Nestled in the historic Princeton Inn, Mezza Luna Restaurant has been serving up Southern Italian cuisine with a California twist for over three decades. This charming restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere, complete with a working fireplace and a spacious bar, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Mezza Luna’s menu is a celebration of high-quality meats, fresh seafood, and locally sourced produce. One of the highlights is the Spaghetti con Gamberoni, a dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with prawns, garlic, red chili flakes, and a tomato and wine sauce. For a heartier option, try the Pollo Saltimbocca, where chicken breast is paired with Parma ham, fresh mozzarella, and a sage-infused white wine sauce. Whether you’re here for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, Mezza Luna’s blend of traditional Italian flavors and Californian ingredients will not disappoint.

As you savor Half Moon Bay's culinary delights, you might imagine what it would be like to call this beautiful coastal town home. Whether you’re considering a move, looking to invest, or thinking of selling your property, real estate expert Mishelle Westendorf is here to help you navigate the Half Moon Bay market.

With her deep knowledge of the area, Mishelle offers a luxurious yet approachable experience for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. Her expertise ensures that you find the perfect home or make a savvy investment in this sought-after location. Ready to explore your real estate options in Half Moon Bay? Connect with Mishelle Westendorf today and take the first step toward making this stunning coastal community your own.

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