Description: Nestled on the scenic shores of Laguna Beach, The Cliff Restaurant is a delightful California treat with breathtaking views. Perched atop a cliff, this dining gem offers a sensory symphony of sea breeze, sunsets, and sumptuous cuisine.
Cost: $$
Deals: Indulge without breaking the bank! Check out The Cliff's happy hour for tantalizing treats at pocket-friendly prices. Join their mailing list for exclusive deals and seasonal offers, making your dining experience even more delightful.
Tips & Hacks:
Sunset Sweet Spot: Get there close to sunset and be sure to check in on Yelp before you head over. The waitlist can be insanely long, but we signed up via Yelp on the way over from Irvine with 55-minute-long wait times. By the time we arrived and checked in, our wait was only about 10 minutes. Timing is everything, folks. If you can get there about an hour before sunset, you can enjoy the sun AND the sunset. The panoramic views paired with the golden hues of the sun over the Pacific create a magical dining atmosphere.
Midweek Serenity: Visit midweek for a more intimate experience. Enjoy the same stunning views with less of a wait.
Dining:
The menu is a great mash-up of coastal-inspired dishes. From fresh seafood catches to delicious burgers and Mexican style meals, each bite feels like beach food with a twist. Don't forget to explore their craft cocktail menu.
Don’t Miss:
The Chili Relleno Burger: This mammoth meal is ½ lb burger with a chili relleno, jalapeno bacon, jalapeno aioli, and red onion on a brioche bun. I skipped the fries and ordered a salad, and it was still so much food. I’ve never had anything like it before or since and it was wonderful! Warning: It’s messy and filling, so be prepared.
Mahi-Mahi Fish Tacos: A signature delight that embodies the essence of coastal dining. Grilled mahi-mahi nestled in warm tortillas with a medley of vibrant flavors.
Skip It:
While everything we tried was great, I would skip some of the sides unless you’re looking to try sides as a light meal and avoid an entree.
Overall it’s one of the best views in Laguna Beach for the price! Be sure to check out the cute shops nearby (great to do while you wait) and take a walk on the beach.