Few People Know One Of The Nicest Restaurants In America Is Hiding In Small-Town Northern California

Harbor House Inn restaurant offers multi-course tasting menus featuring food grown on the property and stunning ocean views; what more could anyone ask for in a fine dining experience? Afterward, guests retreat to the Harbor House Inn for an intimate, breathtaking stay on the 10-guest room property, featuring a private cove with panoramic views, and pretty gardens through which to stroll. The restaurant at the Harbor House Inn is a meal you won’t soon forget. Located in the small town of Elk, next to California State Route 1, this oceanfront restaurant is one of the nicest restaurants in America.

Most of Northern California’s five-star restaurants are located in big cities like San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento. But it’s possible to find some world-class restaurants in small towns.

Located inside a 1916 Craftsman building, this restaurant draws in-the-know visitors from around the state. But mostly, this hidden gem is only known by Northern Californians. And now you!

One of the best restaurants in Northern California has been awarded two Michelin stars. According to the Michelin Guide, that means the Harbor House Inn is “excellent cooking, worth a detour.”

However, by the many positive reviews of this place, returning guests have taken more than a detour to get to the Harbor House Inn restaurant.

Guests have raved about the creativity of the Japanese fusion menu, the quality of the food, and the excellent service.

The multi-course menus are very popular. These options rotate, but there can be a three-course Prix Fixe Menu, as well as a 10- and 12-course tasting menu option.

It's no wonder Executive Chef Matthew Kammerer has earned so many prestigious awards.

It all comes down to the tiniest details.

Since one of the best small-town restaurants in Norcal overlooks the ocean, the menu is often sea-to-table and loaded with various seafood courses.

Many ingredients are harvested from the on-site garden, making the story of each dish extra special.

When in season, order the sea urchin with chopped chawanmushi (Japanese savory custard).

Reservations are recommended, as the dining room only seats 18 people.

However, if you’re driving through and want to dine at this incredible restaurant it’s possible to get placed on a waiting list.

Guests can sit inside or outside, depending on the weather.

We recommend the pairing of the fresh ocean breeze with our meal.

Make it an extra indulgent evening, order a wine tasting along with a meal.

For non-drinkers, the restaurant offers a non-alcoholic beverage pairing – a very unique and thoughtful offering.

For dessert, the toasted kombu ice cream, with coffee, honey, and lavender takes the cake.

Come experience one of the nicest restaurants in Norcal.

Are you ready for a getaway?

Book one of the lovely rooms and wake up to the ocean.

Harbor House Inn restaurant is an extraordinary adventure in fine dining. Have you been to this award-winning eatery in Northern California? If so, please tell us what you thought about the cuisine in the comments. Discover more on the Harbor House Inn website.

Learn about more fun activities available in the tiny, rural community of Elk. And find some beach gear on the REI website.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/northern-california/great-outdoors-month-2023-norcal/