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    Moss Beach Distillery

    3.9 (2k reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 7:30 PM

    Moss Beach Distillery Photos

    Business Info

    MOSS BEACH DISTILLERY ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Classy
    Casual
    Outdoor seating

    Recommended Reviews - Moss Beach Distillery

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    Reviews With Photos

    Seafood platter
    Nancy F.

    The view was spectacular! The staff all were attentive making sure we had what we needed and making sure the food was good. The portions were generous and delicious! They even made a side of grilled salmon for our granddaughter who was 2. Our food came out steamy and delicious!

    Jill R.

    What a day we stumbled upon. Hit on the deck not a breeze. Views were incredible! I ordered the special petrale sole with the best prepared vegetables ever served. Not overdone in a garlic butter. A plate of these daily please. Hubby had chowder and seared tuna both outstanding. We just couldn't leave! Servers are young and did a great job but seemed stressed. A perfect afternoon!!!

    Sweet potato fries
    Mina M.

    On my recent trip back to Half Moon Bay, I decided to venture beyond Sam's Chowder House and try a new spot. The Moss Beach Distillery is stunning, boasting a rich history, a captivating story, and has a phenomenal view. One thing to note about accessibility: while there are steps, I didn't spot any wheelchair access to the main entrance. The restaurant has two levels. When you first enter, you're actually on the second floor, which feels like a beautiful, elevated space. From there, you can head down to the first floor for additional seating and the restrooms. I ordered a cup of clam chowder, priced around $11, and a side of sweet potato fries, also about $11. My boyfriend went for the prawn cocktail and clam chowder. We both agreed that this clam chowder was exceptional and a step up from what we had in Santa Cruz! It was wonderfully thick and bursting with flavor. I even felt it rivaled the clam chowder I had in Monterey, which I've always considered the best. The scenery, the ambiance, and the incredibly friendly waitstaff all contributed to a truly beautiful experience. I'm so glad I decided to come here!

    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. 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. You order and pay at the bar, and then they bring you your food and drinks. 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. 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.

    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.

    Kaelin N.

    Super cute place, but the food is just ok. I think you're here more for the vibes/experience. 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. The experience is fun though; we enjoyed the views, and for the area I don't think there are too many options.

    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. Lots of history to this place and enjoyed the views. 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. We waited 20mins for a table, but it went by quickly because you can stand/sit outside and enjoy the view of the ocean. 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.

    Yellowfin (ahi) tuna appetizer

    Happy Hour is 5-7 pm weekdays and is available in the bar area. Happy hour only applies to drinks. Well drinks, beer and wine are 1/2 off. We are not locals, but we always make it a point to go here at least once on our 2 night stay. My fav items are the salmon carpaccio served on a round flat bread with crème fraiche and salmon lox. The yellow fin tuna appetizer is also a fav. The atmosphere at the bar is friendly with locals and Fabio, the bartender. If you'd rather sit outside and enjoy the view, order your drinks at the bar.

    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!

    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.

    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.

    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 .

    Onion rings the best in the West!!!!!

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    5 months ago

    dont bother..... crab and shrimp quesadilla NO doubt came out of a can .....really bad $30 + too bad used to be good

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    3 years ago

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    10 months ago

    Authentic roadside inn. Have the Cioppino, its full taste. Thanks Chris (our server).

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    11 months ago

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    2 years ago

    Best in warm weather. Fast service, great location where you can do a small hike to walk away the food coma.

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    2 years ago

    Great service, great food, great atmosphere. Wish I saw the ghost . The views are outstanding

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    5 years ago

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    Beverly A.

    Thank you!!

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    1 year ago

    This is a local bar for locals that show up for drinks on happy hour otherwise food needs a real cook. Didn't try their drinks fyi.

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    Page 6 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… 

    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.… 

    Why is it called a distillery?

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

    View All 7 Questions

    Cantina at San Benito House - California Burrito Bowl

    Cantina at San Benito House

    4.2(371 reviews)
    5.9 mi
    $$

    I came here Sunday to get food before a little beach picnic with my girlfriend…read more We got sandwiches from the deli, but could not pass up trying a mission burrito from the cantina. The cantina is spacious and the customer service was excellent. Everyone was so helpful and kind. We even got some free pastries to go with our burrito. The burrito was excellent. Great flavor in every bite. The asada was so juicy and tender. Salsa and guac were fresh. I would gladly get another burrito next time I am in town. Well worth the price.

    This place is always hopping! We came here on Taco Tuesday for lunch. Managed to get in before the…read morelunch crowd which was good. We had the 3 street tacos: got the carnitas, carne asada and chicken. The best one was the carnitas - so flavorful. Came with onions and cilantro and 2 types of sauces. On Tuesday's it's only $8 instead of $12 - we didn't know that! We got the beef empanadas - they were ok. I would skip this. You order and pay at the bar. They give you a number and you find a table inside the cantina or outside on the patio. there's also a water station and a sauce bin. At the table, there's napkins for your use. Servers were friendly. Will come back to try other items on the menu.

    Photos
    Cantina at San Benito House - FUN TIMES!!  Great bar area with even Better Margaritas & beer selection! Stop by and have a great experience like we did!!

    FUN TIMES!! Great bar area with even Better Margaritas & beer selection! Stop by and have a great experience like we did!!

    Cantina at San Benito House - Guacamole, Salsa, & Chips

    Guacamole, Salsa, & Chips

    Cantina at San Benito House - Mini Quesabirria Tacos

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    Mini Quesabirria Tacos

    Cameron's Restaurant & Inn - Sweet Potato Fries

    Cameron's Restaurant & Inn

    3.2(723 reviews)
    6.7 mi
    $$

    WE LOCALS LOVE THIS PUB and Cameron has done so much for our community! This place is so unique and…read morehis collection of EVERYTHING is incredible. The food is great as well and he has NOT raised his prices by much over the years. Whereas most of the other restaurants in town and up and down the coast have raised prices, the portion sizes have gotten smaller and there are no longer any local discounts. Also remember that this is PUB food, so people shouldn't expect Michelin Star dishes. There are so many great dishes on the menu that I can't even quote them all (favorites of mine are the chili, onion ring tower, burgers/fries and the fish and chips. It is good down home family fun for all and he also has sports on all of the time on multiple tv's. This truly is a hidden gem and time capsule that has survived for decades and will probably keep going strong long after some of these high priced, fancy food places have gone out of business. This truly is the Disneyland of PUBS in the US. I highly recommend checking out this pub because you're gonna get a lot more than just food and drink!

    I remember taking the kids here when they were little and that was over 10 years ago…read more We came over from over the East Bay to beat the heat and brought our pup. When trying to decide where to get dinner on Main Street, we couldn't make a decision. My husband suggested Cameron's so we drove over. Dog Friendly: Lucked out with a spot in front of the patio! Lucked out with a table (anywhere) to sit with our dog. They offer water bowls and toys to play with while we're dining. My dog was able to chill for the most part (larger dogs make our rescue pup nervous) but he liked the couple behind us. Eclectic: It's a cool place with different dining areas. They were setting up for Karaoke (Friday/Saturday nights). There's so much to explore with all the knick knacks. The playlist in the dining room area was a wide range of music - I don't know how to explain it but you're listening to "It's a Small World" and then "Sweet Caroline!" You have to see it for yourself. The gender assigned restrooms are located in between the pinball machines. I literally walked outside and then walked back in when I finally found it and was embarrassed! Food: We split the special of the day - prime rib sandwich, but my husband was still hungry and we split a sampler platter. The food was what I expected - pub grub but it was worth it with the vibe. Drink: I usually don't drink but their cocktails were really good. I forgot what I had but it was the rum based drink. Overall, I hope I don't wait another 10 years to return - that was a great ending to our day trip to Half Moon Bay.

    Photos
    Cameron's Restaurant & Inn - Sitting area

    Sitting area

    Cameron's Restaurant & Inn - Bowl of clam chowder

    Bowl of clam chowder

    Cameron's Restaurant & Inn - Zero Guinness and Peach Lemon Drop

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    Zero Guinness and Peach Lemon Drop

    Humble Sea Brewing - Grilled Chicken Sandwich w/ Tots ($12)

    Humble Sea Brewing

    4.0(318 reviews)
    5.3 mi
    $$

    We love a brewery by the sea! Especially when they serve food :) Parking was not too bad on a…read moreSaturday afternoon and wasn't crowded inside either. More people flooded in later as a World Cup game was about to start. Every table has a QR code for you to scan and order! Fish and chips ($21): Classic and made better by the spicy tots! I wish I had tummy room to finish the last 7 tots but alas, I tried my best. Really liked the Citra hop aioli, I think it's their specialty. Socks & Sandals 12oz ($7): One of their popular beers and I loved it! Foggy IPA, and I love their description of it - AROMA: Orange juice, mimosa, lime zest FLAVOR: Pineapple, cantaloupe MOUTHFEEL: Creamy, medium It was indeed all of the above. I would love to come back for their happy hour! All day Monday and Tuesday/Wednesday 3pm-5pm. Trivia on Wednesdays starting at 6:30pm!

    Such a great spot, especially if you're in the area near the beach. Perfect place to hang out after…read morea beach day. They have a great beer selection with plenty of options whether you like something light, hoppy, or more unique. There's tons of seating both inside and outside, so it never feels too cramped and there's plenty of space to relax with friends or family. The service was great--friendly, welcoming, and helpful with recommendations. The overall vibe is laid-back, fun, and super enjoyable. Good drinks, good atmosphere, and a great location close to the beach. Definitely worth stopping by!

    Photos
    Humble Sea Brewing - Swag area

    Swag area

    Humble Sea Brewing - Dooble Kook Burger added Bacon & Avocado w/ Seasoned Tots ($18 + $2/avocado + $2/bacon)

    Dooble Kook Burger added Bacon & Avocado w/ Seasoned Tots ($18 + $2/avocado + $2/bacon)

    Humble Sea Brewing - Socks & Sandals Glass

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    Socks & Sandals Glass

    Barbara's Fishtrap - fish 'n' chips

    Barbara's Fishtrap

    4.0(3.6k reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    Barbara's Fishtrap was great! The clam chowder and fish and chips were split between my wife and I…read morethe fish was delicious with breading that was so light it was almost non existent. We were very pleased.

    mermaid waitress!!! munch munch kiss kiss! thanks for the…read moremuch need break from our busy life in the city! the old people drive like the most rude drivers we experienced here, in SF, even LA traffic people can't compare how aggressive they are here! if they dont' like tourist, then dont' live here??? thank God for the restaurant saves the day here for this Friday afternoon trip! An absolute gem on Pillar Point Harbor! My family and I visited on a Friday afternoon, cutting it close right before their 3 PM break. Despite how busy the restaurant was wrapping up lunch service, our experience was completely made by our server. She was an absolute mermaid at heart--warm, welcoming, and genuinely kind from the inside out! Even during the end-of-lunch rush, she treated us with so much care and grace. It is so rare to run into customer service that feels this authentic and sweet, and her energy truly brightened our whole day. On top of the wonderful hospitality, the seafood was incredibly fresh and piping hot, the clam chowder hit the spot, and you can't beat the harbour views with free parking right out front. Huge thank you to our incredible server for making us feel so at home. 10/10 recommend Barbara's Fishtrap!

    Photos
    Barbara's Fishtrap - The usual

    The usual

    Barbara's Fishtrap - Outdoor seating

    Outdoor seating

    Barbara's Fishtrap - INSIDE SEATING

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    INSIDE SEATING

    Moss Beach Distillery - seafood - Updated September 2026

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