The Secluded Restaurant In Northern California With The Most Magical Surroundings
There’s no shortage of amazing and beautiful places to eat here in Northern California, but this coastal retreat is just remote enough to relax and inspire you. It’s not often that a place lives up to all the hype, but the Moss Beach Distillery does not disappoint. And while you would call the views of this place magical, the story of it’s history is downright paranormal.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The Moss Beach Distillery is located on the bluffs above a gorgeous Northern California coast line. The art deco architecture of the 1920s was extremely popular in the restaurant's hey day. It makes for a striking contrast against the blue ocean and sky.
During prohibition, this was the sight of a popular speakeasy. It was frequented by the starts of silent movies and authors, and was even featured in a novel by mystery writer Dashiell Hammett.
The San Mateo coastline, easily viewed from where you will dine, was ideal for rum running. Smugglers would use the cover of darkness or fog to bring alcohol by boat to the beach below, and then it would be dragged up the cliffs to the Moss Beach Distillery, which was then known as Frank's place.
There are definitely influences from its bootlegging past in the interior decor. It's cozy, but also glamorous and you will be able to imagine the parties of yore that took place here.
The ghost is known as the Blue Lady and has this special drink on the menu named after her. She is said to have been a beautiful young woman who died while having an affair with one of the bootleggers, but for the most part is friendly. She often appears to children playing too close to the edges of nearby cliffs and warns them to be careful.
As if the history of this old speakeasy turned restaurant wasn't enough to draw you in, the Moss Beach Distillery has an equally amazing view. They even provide you with binoculars for viewing the nearby coves and boats out at sea.
The patio is spectacular. There's nothing quite like having an amazing meal while laughing with loved ones and listening to the waves crash against the rocks below.
Or bask in the Northern California sun! The best part about this patio, however, is that it is one of the most dog friendly places to eat in the whole state.
The people food is pretty great too, and there's really something for everyone. There is something so satisfying about eating fresh caught seafood next to the ocean, don't you think? This platter features one piece of pollock, two shrimp, calamari & fries.
And the chicken saltimbocca... wow. Whether you are looking for something refined and exquisite or just well prepared American fare, you are going to walk away satisfied.
The Moss Beach Distillery might draw you for its history, it's paranormal stories, it's food or it's view, but regardless of why you came, you will sure be glad to have made the trip to this ocean front restaurant.
Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at [email protected]
Love Northern California?
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
