Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Moss Beach Distillery

    3.8 (2k reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 7:30 PM

    Moss Beach Distillery Photos

    Business Info

    MOSS BEACH DISTILLERY ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Classy
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Happy hour specials

    Recommended Reviews - Moss Beach Distillery

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Chloe M.

    Driving down the coast and was looking for a place to eat and found this hidden gem which has tons of history and is even haunted. Although I didn't feel any spirits during my time here, I believe the ghost stories. Makes the experience more interesting. [[HIGHLIGHT]]What used to be a speakeasy during the prohibition period is now a cozy restaurant right on the cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The view was spectacular, no matter where you sit in the restaurant.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] You order and pay at the bar, and then they bring you your food and drinks. [[HIGHLIGHT]]At first, I sat outside on the patio, but I had no reception so I needed to go back upstairs and decided to sit in the room left of the bar. It was cozy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The weather was moody and I was still able to experience those ocean views. Make sure to connect to the Wi-Fi for the best reception. For a quick bite, I ordered the French onion soup (which they are known for) and I also ordered the Caesar salad. Probably one of the best French onion soups I've ever had, and knowing that the kitchen it was made in is probably haunted made it taste a little bit better. I would definitely come back.

    Kaelin N.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]Super cute place, but the food is just ok.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I think you're here more for the vibes/experience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We did have a 30 minute wait, but it was reasonable as outside dining is limited. Nothing great about the food, in fact it is rather pricey for the quality. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The experience is fun though; we enjoyed the views, and for the area I don't think there are too many options.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Use the side entry if you're furry friend is with you.
    Douglas Y.

    Great location with a beautiful view Moss Beach Distillery is a great choice for a bite or drink. We had an early dinner sharing french onion soup, mandarin and beet salad and the seafood platter. The French Onion soup was one of the best I have ever had. The beet salad was good with plenty of everything. The seafood platter was also tasty. The calamari was super fresh and tender. Lucie had scrambled eggs from the doggie menu for $2. We had to order and pay at the bar not sure if this was the normal procedure or they didn't have much staff working.

    Chicken Marsala
    Yuliya Y.

    I expected a lot until I walked in. It's not bad it's just old, which makes sense. After we got the tuna appetizer I expected the same but the chicken Marsala was disappointing. I couldn't finish it. The tuna was SPECTACULAR. The wasabi cream blew me away. The crunchy veggies were amazing. It was super fresh. And bread was amazing. The service was good! The seafood platter was enormous and my partner could not finish it. Overall good experience, but I wouldn't return. I do feel like it's a tourist spot.

    Sliders
    Tiffany H.

    Came here on a cool Saturday afternoon for an early dinner. They weren't crowded, luckily, and we were able to get a table for 10 within 10 minutes. My friend who has tried to eat here a few times said in the middle of the summer, they get quite busy with hour plus long waits. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Lots of history to this place and enjoyed the views.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] They messed up the order for a few of the people in our group but fixed it after some time. We all enjoyed the flavor of our foods and the portions are decent for the price. I got the sole which was on special served with lemon and capers piccata style with seasonal veggies and rice. My bf got the sliders. Multiple people in our group got the ahi sandwich which was a good portion and looked fresh.

    Apple blossoms
    Julia B.

    I came here for lunch on a Sunday. [[HIGHLIGHT]]We waited 20mins for a table, but it went by quickly because you can stand/sit outside and enjoy the view of the ocean.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I came in super hungry and ordered a handful of dishes. The food wasn't spectacular, but it was delicious: this restaurant serves classic American dishes, focusing on seafood. The service was quick though, and each server was very friendly. What really stood out were the desserts: the brownie with ice cream was great, not too rich in chocolate which was tasty and balanced. The caramel apple blossoms were my favorite: not too sweet, with a perfect balance of crust to apple.

    Inside
    Allie G.

    We visited Moss Beach Distillery on a Sunday around 5PM, and got seated right away with no reservation. It got super busy later though and there was a line out the door when we were leaving! I loved the bootlegger/speakeasy history of the restaurant, which was outlined on a plaque outside. The interior also had an old-timey vibe, with beautiful tiffany-style lamps hanging over the bar. We sat on the dog-friendly patio, which has a nice view of the ocean. The only thing I didn't like about it was how uncomfortable the bench seating was. The patio was sloped and the coffee table was so low, so we literally had to hunch over in order to eat. I had some back pain by the end of the meal! We skipped drinks and ordered food right away. My partner and I chose the Crispy Buttermilk Calamari and Linguine di Mare to share. Both of these were solid! The Calamari was nicely prepared with larger pieces of squid. The Linguine di Mare was more substantial and I liked the white wine sauce. I'd be curious to try the famous Clam Chowder or Seafood Quesadilla next time! Service was friendly but not the quickest. Overall, would return to Moss Beach Distillery for the ambiance and views!

    Delicious shrimp cocktail!
    Aida G.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]Stunning views; great history, amazing customer service, and delicious food![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Ask for Mel, she will accommodate your requests and serve with a delightful smile!

    Cioppino
    Yang Q.

    We visited after an afternoon at Maverick's Beach. Located just a short drive away, it was the perfect place to continue enjoying scenic coastal views while warming up from a blustery adventure (with or without the help of some alcoholic beverages). Multiple dining rooms offer large windows with ocean views. The cioppino was fire. The seafood portions were generous and well-cooked, and the broth was delicious with the garlic bread. Definitely did its job of making me feel toasty from the inside out. We also enjoyed the slider trio and the garlic fries we subbed for were nicely crispy and loaded with garlic. The calamari appetizer was pretty standard and did not stand out. I would definitely go back after another day at the beach. It looked like they also have a patio area, which wasn't open when we visited, but looks like a nice place to dine al fresco in warmer weather.

    Beautiful sunset
    Gaylynn N.

    Absolutely gorgeous place! It's tucked away in the neighborhood and has amazing views. We sat on the patio with so many other dog!. We sat by the fireplace at sunset and it did not disappoint. The food selection was also delicious, and the service was excellent. We will definitely be back

    Mushroom steak Alfredo
    Andy S.

    This restaurant is located right next to the ocean which must have beautiful sunsets. We unfortunately arrived after sunset and it was just pitch black. It would have been nice if there was lighting along the cliff side or by the beach. Food was pretty good. Husband got the steak and mushroom Alfredo pasta which was good when I took a few bites. I got the slider trio with garlic fries. Omg the garlic fries were not good. They were good fried with a bunch of raw garlic dumped on top. When I took it home and put it in air fryer it was perfect .

    Skirt Steak
    Kayley C.

    I was pleasantly surprised by this place! It was a first time for myself but the people I came with have been here multiple times. The location and view is absolutely gorgeous. The service is fantastic despite having large crowds and everything we ordered was delicious. This is a great place to take friends/family when they're visiting.

    Onion rings the best in the West!!!!!
    Glenn M.

    What a wonderful place to have delicious food and drink, First off the service was wonderful and spot on. Our server was Tam or Tan, my hearing is terrible so please forgive me for not being sure of his name. Very attentive server and very helpful in navigating the menu. He made sure our lunches were served hot and the drinks served cold. Real good guy! One buddy had the coast sliders, for lunch, one seared tuna, one seared salmon and bacon and one crab cake slider served with delicious fries. He loved his lunch! Another buddy who is, shall we say a bit selective on his food choices (euphemism for picky) was gonna have the fish and chips. I told him to expand his horizons and try the panko petrale sole. Plus I told him if it wasn't good he could order something else. He tried it and loved it! He's a big fan of panko petrale sole now! Another buddy had the seafood combo. Fried calamari, fried fish and shrimp, served with yummy fries. He liked the fish and chips and shrimp. He considers himself a connoisseur of fried fish, shrimp and chips and though it was,one of the best he has had. He doesn't like calamari so the rest of us ate it for him. The calamari was delicious! Tender juicy squid in a lovely batter! We thought it was yummy! For my lunch I had the beet salad and it was yummy. Lots of beets, with spring mix greens and candied walnuts, mandarin oranges and blue cheese. Super yummy!!, Some of us had the clam chowder and it's super yummy, one guy had the French onion soup and said it was delicious! Onion rings are to die for! You gotta try them! Sweet red onion slices covered in a heavenly Devine batter! So unbelievably delicious! I'll be back for these soon! The desserts were wonderful. The cheese cake and the chocolate brownie with ice cream! Very delicious! Please look at the pictures below and let your eyes do the feasting! , ,

    Restrooms downstairs

    See all

    Review Insights

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    23 days ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    27 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    13 days ago

    Helpful 11
    Thanks 4
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 3
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    4 months ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 3
    Love this 5
    Oh no 1

    24 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Aida G.
    0
    43
    124

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 3
    Love this 7
    Oh no 1

    9 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1
    Photo of J. H.
    0
    46
    2

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of John G.
    0
    18
    11

    2 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jan F.
    0
    64
    26

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Julie T.
    424
    21
    35

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Youlim K.
    61
    13
    19

    7 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 11
    Thanks 5
    Love this 16
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 50

    Moss Beach Distillery Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Moss Beach Distillery

    Can you cater for someone who is gluten free?

    We have a Gluten Sensitive Menu that can be viewed on our website www.mossbeachdistillery.com Thank… Read more

    Is dog menu no longer available?

    It is still available!

    Are there tables for a large family of 12?

    Make a reservation! So yes!

    Are dogs allowed?

    There were dogs there at my last visit but that was the parking lot dining. Not sure about patio dining. Give them a call.

    Has anyone ever seen or heard the famous Blue Lady?

    Not a physical being since the 1930's. However, the restaurant lore is that "she" visits often. We were there today and the power went out for about 20 minutes.… Read more

    Why is it called a distillery?

    Hi P. K.- Great question. So the Distillery was originally built in 1927 as a "speakeasy" during… Read more

    View All 7 Questions

    Barbara's Fishtrap - fish 'n' chips

    Barbara's Fishtrap

    4.0(3.5k reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    We ordered takeout as the wait for dine in was too long. They have a lot outdoor dining space as…read morewells Fish and chips - best I've had in the bay. Batter was flaky and not too thick, fish fried to perfection and still moist. Thicker fries Clam chowder big ole bowl - huge portion size. Not overly creamy like other restaurants. Plenty of clam. My favorite clam chowder I've had as well Fried prawns - comes in 7 large pieces, a bit $$$ but still excellent

    Great spot situated right along the shoreline at Halfmoon Bay. They have two options and I can't…read morefor sure say they offer the same but there's a togo walk window on the side of the take names and sit down portion of the restaurant. I have only ever done seated visits so maybe next time I'll check it out. Both times I've been here have been busy with my first visit being extremely busy and having a 45 minute estimated wait time but in reality probaly just lil over 20 minutes. The hostess was friendly on both occasions. Our server was great on both occasions, accomodating our indecisiveness and very quick on the water and drinks. This spot can be quiet or loud, I've experienced both but I've been here during the busiest and the more tame time of days. I don't know if the guy is the owner or not but there is a gentlemen on both visits who makes it his job to walk around and greet everyone, asking how the dish is and how we are. I really appreciated that level of interaction, very rare now adays to have someone who personalizes the experience like that. I had the Cajun Fish Sandhwhich on this visit, I tried it on my first and it was delicious. I also had the Crab Kake Sandwhich on my first visit which was also delicious. I only swapped out my sides. Fries on visit one and Rice on visit two. I will be revisiting this spot almost assuredly throughout the rest visits to halfmoon bay.

    Photos
    Barbara's Fishtrap - The usual

    The usual

    Barbara's Fishtrap - Outdoor seating

    Outdoor seating

    Barbara's Fishtrap - INSIDE SEATING

    See all

    INSIDE SEATING

    Sam's Chowder House - Chili-Garlic Prawns

    Sam's Chowder House

    3.6(6.1k reviews)
    2.3 mi
    $$

    We came here because a friend was visiting the Bay Area for a few days, and I thought it would be…read morenice to have a meal by the ocean and enjoy the scenery together. Overall, it was a pleasant experience. The weather was beautiful, and the atmosphere was nice, although it didn't particularly stand out to me. There are other waterfront restaurants in the area that I personally find more memorable, but this was still a lovely place to spend an afternoon. The food was delicious. I really enjoyed my soup, the oysters were also tasty, and the wine was excellent. I also liked that the menu offers a wide variety of options, so there's something for almost everyone. The service was perfectly fine as well. It wasn't especially memorable, but it was friendly and everything went smoothly. Overall, I think this is a nice spot if you're looking for good food and a relaxing meal by the water. While it didn't leave a lasting impression on me personally, I still had an enjoyable experience.

    Sam's Chowder House used to be one of my favorite spots to sit on the patio with a dozen oysters,…read morebut after today I won't be coming back. I was served a Kumamoto oyster that was green. Thinking it was just a mistake, I brought it back. The replacement they gave me was also green--this time with a large brown spot of who-knows-what. At that point I completely lost my appetite. To make matters worse, the calamari was essentially 100% tentacles with no rings at all. Between the oysters and the calamari, it felt like there was absolutely no quality control coming out of the kitchen. For the prices Sam's charges, this level of quality is unacceptable. Oysters are one of those foods where freshness and careful inspection are non-negotiable. I left thoroughly disgusted and incredibly disappointed after what used to be one of my favorite restaurants.

    Photos
    Sam's Chowder House - Beach at Sam's

    Beach at Sam's

    Sam's Chowder House - Fresh Maine Lobster

    Fresh Maine Lobster

    Sam's Chowder House - New England Clam Chowder

    See all

    New England Clam Chowder

    Ketch Harbor Pub - Not the best pic of outside area which was a good size. Jim

    Ketch Harbor Pub

    4.0(311 reviews)
    1.9 mi
    $$

    We are locals, love breakfast and brunch and are fans of the original Ketch Joanne's. We're also…read morefans of the current owners of Jetty Wave, who are presenting a new incarnation of Joanne's under the name Ketch Harbor Pub. Curious about what the new/old place is like, our three-person family went there for a late breakfast today. Walking up to the front doors, the original inset stained glass remains. Walking in, the cool wood paneling and nautical decor remains in place with a couple of new touches. The fully appointed bar also remains, now with a more streamlined look with subtle lighting changes. We were greeted pleasantly and seated inside the dining room immediately; it was moderately busy and buzzing, not too loud. Our server was quick to our table, menu-knowledgeable and consistent in his attention to us. We had a Denver omelette, a couple of bennies and lemon ricotta pancakes to share. My omelette had particularly fresh and al fresca peppers and onions - wonderful. The lemon ricotta pancakes were sufficiently saturated and fluffy(hard to pull off)and came with fresh cream. The prices were at about the same level as the local competition, which pleasantly surprised us. It appears that the folks who did this breakfast/lunch reboot were shrewd in pricing their dishes. Jetty Wave, a drinks and appetizers adventure(which I heartily recommend as well for different reasons)in the northwestern part of Princeton, is not for the fiscally faint hearted. The only element that makes our experience short of a 5 is that we were not given a farewell when we left, though I was able to find our friendly server and thanked him. In all, the Joanne's legacy is intact - the old carved wood Ketch Joanne sign still hangs inside - literally and figuratively a homage to its legacy while bringing a new energy to this space. Recommended.

    Ketch Harbor Pub (often just called Ketch) is a fantastic spot right on Pillar Point Harbor in Half…read moreMoon Bay. We stopped by for lunch on a crisp day, and it completely captured that perfect coastal vibe--think fresh seafood, laid-back atmosphere, and killer views of the boats and water. We started with the calamari, which was hands-down some of the best I've ever had: tender, not rubbery at all, perfectly seasoned and fried, melting in your mouth. The New England-style clam chowder was rich, creamy, with just the right subtle smokiness and balanced seasoning--definitely lives up to Half Moon Bay's chowder reputation. For mains, the Dungeness crab sandwich was the star: generous lumps of sweet local crab, minimal sauce (just how I like it), on toasted sourdough with fries on the side. My partner went with the fish and chips, and the cod was crispy, flaky, and not greasy at all--classic done right. The outdoor patio with fire pits was cozy even in cooler weather, and our server was super friendly, attentive, and full of local recommendations. The place feels welcoming, whether you're a regular from the Coastside or just passing through after a beach walk or harbor stroll. Prices are fair for the fresh, quality ingredients and location--definitely worth it. We've already added it to our list for the next trip to Half Moon Bay. Highly recommend if you're craving solid seafood in a charming harborside setting! 5/5 stars.

    Photos
    Ketch Harbor Pub - The sundae. Yum.

    The sundae. Yum.

    Ketch Harbor Pub - Sorry took pics after we started eating. Meatloaf. A little dry.

    Sorry took pics after we started eating. Meatloaf. A little dry.

    Ketch Harbor Pub - Would order again.

    See all

    Would order again.

    Old Princeton Landing - warm backyard for family breakfast

    Old Princeton Landing

    3.9(401 reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$
    Locally sourced ingredients
    Grab-and-go

    Picture this- you leave Moss Beach hungry for lunch. The distillery? 45 minute wait. The brewery?…read more60 minute wait. And then, you stumble upon this unassuming spot. Zero wait. Super friendly and fast service. Great menu. Hearty plates. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Kid friendly. TV's and separate bar. Are you dreaming? My kid and I shared the Hawaiian pork plate with sticky rice and flavorful mac salad. Spouse had their delicious and near perfect burger. We share the thick and crispy fries. We couldn't have imagined such a stellar lunch with family friendly vibes. If you find yourself dreading all the tourist spots, just walk 25 feet here! I hope this review doesn't blow up this place!

    After over two decades on the coast, I finally tested the cashier's cocky claim that they have the…read morebest chowder around. He wasn't lying. It's creamy, loaded with clams, and has a great jalapeno kick. And, I fully intend to go back for it. On a follow-up visit, the fish tacos (fresh, flaky cod) were a win (although a bit of guacamole would have made them really shine), but unfortunately, the Crab and Shrimp Louie lacked the same personality (it was bland and underwhelming). If you've been avoiding this place because, like me, you aren't a fan of the bar next door, you're missing out. Try the clam chowder-it's not cocky to claim you have the best chowder in town when you actually do!

    Photos
    Old Princeton Landing - Yummy acai bowl in the backyard

    Yummy acai bowl in the backyard

    Old Princeton Landing - Authentic chilaquiles

    Authentic chilaquiles

    Old Princeton Landing - Breakfast burrito

    See all

    Breakfast burrito

    Moss Beach Distillery - seafood - Updated July 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...