Cliff House at 1090 Point Lobos Ave is a San Francisco restaurant and bar overlooking the Pacific, Seal Rocks and the nearby Sutro Baths ruins. Its ocean-facing windows make a meal here as much about the setting as the food. Past menus included Eggs San Francisco, Dungeness crab Benedict, cioppino and popovers, with complimentary warm bread served at brunch. The Sunday Champagne brunch was known for its broad spread, but Cliff House is now permanently closed, so plan to visit the coastline and Sutro Baths ruins instead.
Cliff House is permanently closed
Cliff House, at 1090 Point Lobos Ave, is permanently closed. The restaurant had been operated by the Hountalas family since 1974, but it closed in 2020 after the family and the National Park Service, which oversees the property, could not agree on a new lease. The National Park Service later sought proposals for a new restaurant operator; the available information does not confirm that one has reopened.
The oceanfront setting
The restaurant's appeal was closely tied to its position above the Pacific, with views toward Seal Rocks and the Sutro Baths ruins. Diners described window tables as a highlight, particularly around sunset. The setting also put the restaurant beside a coastal trail, making it a natural stop on a walk along this part of San Francisco's shoreline.
What was on the menu
Past meals included Eggs San Francisco, omelettes, Eggs Benedict and Dungeness crab Benedict, alongside dishes such as cioppino, clam chowder, lamb and truffle ravioli. Brunch diners were served warm popovers with jelly, and the Sunday Champagne brunch included a wide selection of food. The restaurant also accommodated gluten-free and dairy-free requests when diners shared their needs in advance.
FAQ
Is Cliff House in San Francisco open?
No. Cliff House is permanently closed.
Where was Cliff House located?
It was at 1090 Point Lobos Ave, above the Pacific Ocean and beside the Sutro Baths ruins.
What could you order at Cliff House?
Past menu items included Eggs San Francisco, Dungeness crab Benedict, cioppino and popovers. The restaurant is now closed.
Can you visit the Sutro Baths ruins nearby?
The ruins are next to the former restaurant, and a coastal trail runs nearby.
