Discovering California's Best Restaurants with a View

California, with its breathtaking coastline, rolling hills, and urban landscapes, offers a feast not only for your taste buds but also for your eyes. Whether you're overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean or surrounded by the serene vineyards, dining in California promises a memorable experience. Here are some of the best restaurants with a view that combine brilliant culinary artistry with stunning scenery.

Cliffside Dining Along the Pacific

Nestled along the rugged cliffs of the California coastline are some of the most memorable dining experiences you'll ever encounter. Coastal restaurants offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, providing diners with front-row seats to stunning sunsets. From Malibu to Big Sur, these spots offer cuisine as captivating as their views.

• At any time of the day, places like Geoffrey's Malibu offer not just seafood fresh from the ocean but also a chance to dine amidst swaying palm trees overlooking the endless blue.
• The Cliff House in San Francisco is another must-visit, where you can enjoy a fine meal while watching the ocean waves roll in.
• If your travels take you to Big Sur, Nepenthe's combination of awe-inspiring clifftop views and locally-sourced dishes will make your visit unforgettable.

Vineyard Views in Wine Country

California's Napa Valley and Sonoma are as famous for their wineries as they are for their dining experiences. Imagine pairing world-class wines with a meal that overlooks picturesque vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.

• The Restaurant at Meadowood in St. Helena offers a luxury dining experience where each dish is crafted to perfection and served in a serene setting.
• Farmhouse Inn Restaurant in Forestville combines Michelin-starred cuisine with intimate, rustic charm.
• In Yountville, Bistro Jeanty immerses guests in a traditional French bistro atmosphere with views of the lush Napa landscape.

Urban Dining with Skyline Views

For those who prefer the hustle and bustle of city life, California's urban centers offer stunning skyline views alongside their culinary delights. Whether you're in Los Angeles or San Francisco, there are numerous spots to savor fantastic food with an aerial urban view.

• 71Above in downtown LA takes you 950 feet above the city, offering sweeping views of Los Angeles and expertly crafted modern American dishes.
• San Francisco's famed Top of the Mark delivers enchanting cityscape views and a sophisticated dining experience.
• At EP & LP in West Hollywood, you can enjoy innovative Asian cuisine while basking in the glittering city views.

Best Places to Visit for an Alluring View

For those truly looking to immerse themselves in the splendor of California's natural beauty, be sure to visit these must-see locations along with your dining experiences:

• Santa Barbara's El Encanto offers Spanish-colonial elegance and views of the shimmering sea.
• Ocean Beach Pier Café provides a casual yet breathtaking view of San Diego's famed coastline.
• If you venture into the Sierra Nevada, be sure to experience the lakefront dining at Lake Tahoe’s Edgewood Restaurant.

When dining in California, these restaurants not only deliver exceptional cuisine but also provide a feast for the eyes. From coastal views that take in the vastness of the Pacific to serene vineyards that capture the beauty of wine country, California's culinary landscape is as diverse and inviting as its geographical ones. With such a rich offering of natural attractions and culinary brilliance, a dining experience at any of these establishments is one you're likely to remember long after the last bite.