Half Moon Bay is a beautiful coastal community in California renowned for stunning scenic landscapes, suitable climates, and great culinary destinations.
As you can imagine, many restaurants in Half Moon Bay are more than excellent in terms of food quality, service, and ambiance. In this guide, you will find the list of the 10 best restaurants in Half Moon Bay that will make your next meal memorable!
Introduction to Half Moon Bay's Culinary Scene
Half Moon Bay has become a popular place where local food admirers come from around the state! The establishment focuses on highly fresh food products with a representation of farm-to-table and local supply techniques.
The city offers the same opportunity and hope to every foodie’s dream of a spectacular dining experience with an ocean-view seafood shack and gourmet dining rooms in Half Moon Bay. Besides the tastes, many restaurants in Half Moon Bay take pride in the scenic views around their establishment.
A great variety of ocean views permits dogs on the patios, creating a comfortable snack atmosphere. Many chefs locally stand for sourcing products during a specific period when they can get them from the local farmers and fishermen, and that is how you get the taste of Californian products at your table!
Top 10 List
Sam’s Chowder House is an adored seafood restaurant in Half Moon Bay renowned for its New England-style clam chowder, lobster rolls, and breathtaking ocean views.
Relaxed and friendly, but with a hint of the more upmarket lingering about its hospitable outdoor patio, Sam’s offers fresh seafood from sustainable sources, complemented by the breathtaking views of the coastal landscape.
Be it during a cup of chowder on a cold evening or a splendid dinner with friends, Sam’s Chowder House has the flavor that has made Half Moon Bay Diner a favorite of residents and tourists!
Must-Try:
- Manhattan Chowder – A tomato-based chowder with Little Neck clams, herbs, potatoes, and vegetables—a tangy twist on a classic favorite.
- Seafood Spaghetti – A flavorful mix of prawns, mussels, clams, fresh fish, and octopus in a spicy tomato sauce.
Reviews:
“Arrive early. We got there 15 minutes after they opened and there was a line. We were quickly seated outside as requested. Having driven all the way from North Carolina to check this experience off the “to-do” list we weren’t disappointed. The homemade apricot lemonade was refreshing and the “dressed” lobster roll didn’t disappoint. We opted for an upgrade and had fries instead of chips. A lot of fries, great tasting coleslaw, and an amazing portion of lobster!
They were crowded on a Thursday so service was a little slow, but we were okay with the relaxed and casual pace. Wish that we had saved room for one of the homemade desserts. The man next to us kept raving about the key lime pie! Highly recommend this experience.
Food: 5/5 | Service: 4/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes
Seafood”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 4210 CA-1, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $30 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
Pasta Moon is an Italian fine-dining restaurant ranked for its seasonal cuisine, which prepares meals using fresh organic produce sourced from Half Moon Bay.
It is a contemporary restaurant that provides sustainable farm-to-table dinners with a traditional touch of Italy on a Californian background.
From homemade pasta to delicious seafood, every dish at Pasta Moon reflects the essence of the agriculture and seafood district.
Must-Try:
- Mozzerella di Bufala & Santa Cruz Mountain Tomatoes – Refreshingly simple and flavorful, this dish starts with tangy Mozzarella di Bufala served with the ripest Santa Cruz Mountain tomatoes. It then allows for a punch of basil pesto Genovese, lauded Laudemio olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Margherita Pizza – This pizza features fresh mozzarella, a rich tomato garlic sauce, and fragrant basil, delivering classic Italian flavors in every bite.
- Spinach Ricotta Tortellini – This dish is vibrant and savory, topped with parmesan, roasted orange sunburst tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil.
Reviews:
“We loved Pasta Moon but it was closed during Covid. When it opened again it only had dinner slots. Finally back for lunch, very tasty food and lovely service. The new location is very beautiful and full of light.
Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
Recommended dishes
Garlic and Wine Mussels with Frites, Tagliatelle Bolognese”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 845 Main St, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $50 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
Navio restaurant from Ritz-Carlton is an American restaurant specializing in seasonal ingredients and challenges in culinary imagination. Customers can order a vast weekend breakfast while simultaneously appreciating the ocean view of the Pacific.
A well-decorated dining area accompanied by professional services to give the appropriate mood to eating, whether it be a special event or a simple family dinner.
Must-Try:
- Cavatelli – A delightful combination of rich Parmigiano-Reggiano, crunchy hazelnuts, and egg yolk, creating a creamy and nutty experience that tantalizes the palate.
- Mount Lassen Trout – This dish features smooth smoked crème fraîche paired with zesty ponzu sauce and topped with delicate smoked trout roe. The combination delivers a rich, smoky flavor balanced by the brightness of the ponzu, creating a sophisticated and savory bite.
- Black Cod – This dish showcases fresh squash blossoms stuffed with succulent spot prawns, drizzled with a flavorful Américaine sauce.
Reviews:
“Came to Navio for the first time to celebrate my birthday and the staff made it an amazing experience. We got a private room (for just the 6 of us) without even asking. Victoria one of the hostesses even wrote me a Birthday card in my native language. Cruz our server was super friendly, attentive, and accommodating. I even received a birthday surprise and a birthday song from the staff. The food was excellent. It was all small portions but it was delicious and very filling. I can’t wait to come back again.
Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
Recommended dishes
Blue Shrimp Cocktail, Caramelized Scallop, Caviar Tasting, Lobster Beurre Blanc, Chocolate Chip Pancakes, Dessert Tower”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 1 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $100+
- Click here to check out their menu!
Half Moon Bay Brewing Company is an easy-going brewery restaurant that provides quality Californian cuisine and a range of onsite brewed beers. This eating place has a fire-pit patio that offers excellent views of the bay; therefore, customers who want to see the sea while they eat their meals are sorted.
Must-Try:
- Smoked Monster Burger – Taste a juicy half-pound Certified Angus Beef burger with smoked Gouda, crispy Applewood-smoked bacon, and a fried egg!
- Mavericks Tuna Melt – Albacore tuna salad, pickled ginger, daikon sprouts, apples tossed in citrus vinaigrette, cheddar, and sourdough.
- Avo’s Portuguese Fisherman’s Stew – Experience a delightful seasonal mix of fresh fish and shellfish, complemented by Portuguese sausage. This flavorful dish is simmered in a garlic broth infused with cilantro, fennel, tomatoes, and red and green onions.
Reviews:
“I’ve visited this place around four times and have always loved it. My most recent visit was two weeks ago. Despite arriving on a Thursday and seeing a line, my friend and I only waited about five minutes. I ordered oysters, which were big and juicy—six were more than enough! My friend had the clam chowder in a bread bowl and loved it. For the second round, I had the crab salad, and my friend had calamari—both were delicious. The service was excellent as always. This place never disappoints!
Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5.”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 390 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $20 - $30
- Click here to check out their menu!
Italia is a trendy, comfortable Italian restaurant that serves unconventional pizzas with unique toppings and genuine ingredients. Customers can enjoy a full bar with various wines and cocktails, which may be consumed with the food.
The inside area is an open Tuscan-style courtyard, making you want to dine in and chill for casual, family, and even unique or romantic dining. It’s Italia is poised to provide a memorable eating-out experience for all its consumers.
Must-Try:
- La Bella Donna – It is a refreshing salad of arugula and basil, topped with sweet strawberries, pickled red onion, creamy burrata, and a pistachio crumble, all drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a delightful flavor combination.
- Oven-roasted mushrooms – A medley of garlic and herb-roasted shiitake, portobello, and button mushrooms is served on a bed of arugula and topped with crumbled feta cheese for a savory and satisfying dish.
Reviews:
“Food was amazing. Everything we ate was delicious and tasty.
Service was really good. Our server was very kind and recommended us drinks and food and served us with a big smile 🙂
Atmosphere look and ambience was good. Could have been a little more clean. Floor was sticky and the table where we sat had food on the floor. I didn’t wanted to step on it with my nice shoes so had to sit uncomfortable throughout.
Over all a nice place with good food.Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 4/5
Recommended dishes
Pesto Gnocchi, Tiramisu, Artichoke Ravioli
Recommendation for vegetarians
Highly recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free street parking”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 401 Main St, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $30 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
Miramar Beach Restaurant is a haven of lovely dining areas along the water. It offers delicious seafood, well-grilled dry-aged steaks, fabulous frozen drinks, and mixed beverages. This restaurant is located on the Pacific shores, creating an excellent atmosphere to eat out while enjoying the sea view.
Its expansive deck makes it ideal for viewing beautiful sunsets, creating a serene environment for right-down meals or friendly family and neighborly get-togethers. Miramar Beach Restaurant is a fantastic restaurant dining on Half Moon Bay, offering excellent cuisine and beautiful views.
Must-Try:
- Pasta Carbonara – Your choice wild Mexican prawns or chicken sauteed with garlic, shallots, crispy bacon, green peas and grated parmesan cheese tossed with the creamiest carbonara sauce, served with linguini.
- Seafood Paella – Slow cooked paella simmered with sofrito, arborio rice, clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari rings & chorizo.
- New York Steak – 12 oz Angus beef 30-days aged char-grilled with garlic herb compound butter served with vegetables and your choice of a baked potato or mashed potatoes.
Reviews:
“My experience at this restaurant was exceptional. It’s an ideal spot for romantic dates, offering fabulous food and a beautiful sea view. Our waiter, Luis, created a harmonious and welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend this restaurant for both families and couples.
Parking: Around 25 spots
Kid-friendliness: I saw many families dining with their kids.
Wheelchair accessibility: There was an entrance for wheelchair access
Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
Recommended dishes
Miramar Calamari, Miramar House Salad with Organic Baby Mixed Greens
Parking options
Free parking lot”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 131 Mirada Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $20 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
Cafe Capistrano is an intimate family restaurant aiming to provide healthy and spicy Mayan-influenced food in Half Moon Bay.
Located in a picturesque former residential property, this warm-hearted restaurant allows guests to taste some genuine Mexican dishes using a good amount of handmade tortillas, fresh salsas, and locally sourced ingredients.
It offers traditional dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and Mayan dishes related to Yucatan’s food culture. Best for a casual and informal dinner with a cozy ambiance, the newest eatery to Half Moon Bay is filled with culture.
Must-Try:
- Poc Chuc – Thinly sliced pork, pounded and marinated with lime juice and spices.
- Pork Fajita – Grilled pork marinated Mayan style with achiote and lime juice served with sauteed vegetables.
- Prawns Fajita – Grilled prawns served with black beans, guacamole, rice, fresh salsa, Mayan coleslaw, fruit salsa, and four corn tortillas.
Reviews:
“We absolutely loved this restaurant. Our food was exquisitely prepared and presented on the plate was the artistic precision of an impressionist painting. Service was quick and accurate. The converted house made for private dining areas decorated with artwork which reflected the Mexican vibe. Would absolutely return here if I’m in the area again.
Vegetarian options: Also many gluten free options!Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
Recommended dishes
Fish Taco Plate, Cochinita Pibil”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 523 Church St, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $10 - $20
- Click here to check out their menu!
Since its establishment in 2015, The Barn has been a favorite among locals. Its rustic coastal ambiance is ideal for friendly gatherings, family dinners, and occasions such as rehearsal dinners on the beach and birthdays.
Tucked into the sea, The Barn boasts a vast terrace and yard with plants and trees; there is even a private bar in the garden and recreation area for children.
Their obsession with fresh ingredients from local producers makes it a perfect place for people to relax after a day at the coast, whether cycling or swimming.
Must-Try:
- What the Cluck – 1/4-pound organic chicken breast marinated in lemon oregano buttermilk goodness, prepared crispy-crusted or grilled, served on Acme ciabatta with goat cheese, arugula, tomatoes and barn-made buttermilk dressing.
- The Pretender – Barn-made veggie burger is plumped with farro, mushrooms, garlic, flax and parmesan.
- Mac Attack – Fried macaroni and cheese with a side of barn buttermilk.
Reviews:
“this restaurant has quickly become our favorite place to stop and eat while visiting HMB! the atmosphere is so lovely, the staff is always friendly, and the food is to die for!! the food is incredibly high quality. everything tastes so exceedingly fresh and well balanced. we tried the tomato bisque, which was the soup of the day, and it was truly one of the best tomato soups both of us have ever had! their french fries are also unmatched, some of the best! personally i’m not even a vegetarian, but i tried the veggie burger and now it’s one of my favorite things to get! not to mention all of the beautiful fresh cut wildflowers and homey rustic touches around the seating area. HIGHLY recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting the area! it’s a much more relaxing & enjoyable experience than fighting the crowds downtown!
Vegetarian options: the veggie burger is to die for it!!Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 3068 CA-1, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $10 - $20
- Click here to check out their menu!
Flying Fish & Grill Half Moon Bay boasts fish tacos, Californian waves, and sunshine seafood delights. The food list includes delicious appetizers such as calamari and scrumptious entrees like clam chowder served with locally sourced produce.
Flying Fish offers a relaxed, tropical ambiance, bright and cheerful decor, and some of the friendliest waitstaff you can hope to meet. It is the kind of place that could be anywhere along the oceanfront!
Must-Try:
- Surf and Turf – Certified Angus beef New York steak and 5 grilled prawns.
- Jeaux Special – Tomato cajun sauce non-spicy, 2 prawns, 2 scallops, 2 cod, calamari, 4 clams, linguini pasta, and shredded parmesan cheese, garlic bread.
- Jambalaya – Andouille sausage, prawns, chicken, bell peppers, tomatoes, rice. Served with garlic bread.
Reviews:
“Place is cute and the location is convenient. Food came out super fast.
For kids meal, chicken tenders were better than the pasta.
Ceasar salad was a bit heavy on the dressing but it was very yummy.
Fish and chips and brussel sprouts felt a bit bland. But the fries were very good and crispy. The fish was crispy and fresh.Oysters and tacos were fantastic.
Clam chowder was good but also on the bland side.
Kid-friendliness: Has kids mealFood: 4/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot”– Joyce Lam
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 211 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $20 - $30
- Click here to check out their menu!
Mezza Luna Restaurant serves Southern Italian food in a friendly, relaxed Californian setting. This diner has a large bar area and a working fire in the dining area, which creates a more laid-back atmosphere.
The menu consists of traditional Italian dishes, such as homemade pasta, fresh fish and seafood, and some delicious meats, perfectly matched with Californian wines.
Must-Try:
- La Verdura – Bow-tie pasta with fresh pesto sauce (basil, cheese, garlic, and pine nuts) served lukewarm.
- Linguine alle Vongole – Linguine with fresh clams, white or red sauce.
- Penne alla Calabrese – Tube-shaped pasta, homemade pork sausage, mushrooms and tomato sauce.
Reviews:
“My husband and I went here for our wedding anniversary. Service was great. Food was delicious. I had the aspargus soup, Cesar salad and seafood pasta, with the creme puffs for dessert. Everything was delicious.
Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes
Linguine Della Baia Mother’s Day Special”
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 459 Prospect Way, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
- Price Range: $30 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
Wrap Up
Half Moon Bay is what every food lover has been looking for, as it serves various food places, from a simple beach shack to an exquisite restaurant.
The area offers a beautiful ocean view, and the food served maximizes the farm-to-table concept, meaning dining in Half Moon Bay is more than just a meal!
So why wait? Delight your taste buds with Half Moon Bay’s finest dining–try some innovative flavors of this thriving, artistic coastal city!
Feel free to contact our team by calling (650) 629-9898 or sending a message at teamtapper@gmail.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best time to dine for ocean views?
The best time to dine is in the evening to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean. Some of the good places to eat include Sam’s Chowder House, Miramar Beach Restaurant, and Navio.
Late afternoon views of the coast are also very beautiful, especially just before the sun sets in the Pacific Ocean.
2. Are there vegetarian and vegan options?
Many Half Moon Bay restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Pasta Moon, It’s Italia, and Flying Fish Grill, for instance, offer vegan options, as there is always a high demand for vegan cuisine.
3. Which restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
Most of the restaurants in Half Moon Bay allow takeout, and several, such as Sam’s Chowder House, Flying Fish Grill, and The Barn, also facilitate delivery through well-known food delivery applications. You should, however, check their sites or even call them to find out about their menu.
