Dine with a View in California

With its hyper-local foods from land and sea — plus award-winning beer and wine — California’s North Coast creates culinary magic in a variety of alluring settings. Restaurants in Mendocino, in particular, excel at serving seafood with oceanfront views. Salmon, albacore, rock cod, Dungeness crab and abalone are just some of the delicacies you’ll enjoy.

With the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay at its doorstep, San Diego defines waterfront dining. On the Embarcadero, try Sally’s Seafood on the Water or The Fish Market. Island Prime maximizes the view with floor-to-ceiling windows and an over-the-water patio.

Celebrate Sacramento’s designation as the nation’s farm-to-table capital by dining at one of the city’s many local, sustainable restaurants (often with a river view) or by strolling one of its picturesque farmers markets.

Take in the lush landscape, award-winning food and world-class wines of Napa Valley and Sonoma County at restaurants such as Thomas Keller’s Michelin-starred concept, The French Laundry, its more moderately priced neighbor, Bouchon Bistro, or quaint Café La Haye.

Big Sur claims stunning mountain and ocean views. Make the most of them over a burger ladled with creamy, tomato-based “ambrosia” sauce at Nepenthe, where a huge deck overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Or, head to eclectic Big Sur Roadhouse, surrounded by redwoods, to dine on Cajun-influenced dishes.

In San Francisco, it’s almost impossible not to eat well in beautiful surroundings. The celebrated Slanted Door tempts with waterfront views, Zuni Café offers a window to bustling Market Street and Atelier Crenn is worth a visit for its Michelin stars and minimalist décor.

Dine amid the High Sierra mountains while taking in views of Lake Tahoe or Yosemite Valley. Erna’s Elderberry House is an ideal spot just outside Yosemite National Park.

Amid historic downtown architecture, discover local coffee roasters and bakeries. For dinner, savor fresh seafood and sunset views at Johnny’s Harborside or Crow’s Nest.

To sample the sultry fabulousness of Los Angeles, ride the elevator to the top of the Mondrian Hotel in West Hollywood, where you can sip cocktails around the pool at Skybar. Or, savor a sip and a snack atop The Roof on Wilshire.