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Moss Beach Distillery

3 star rating
based on 249 reviews

Categories: Seafood, American (Traditional)  [Edit]

140 Beach Way
Moss Beach, CA 94038
(650) 728-5595
Price Range:
$$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Private Lot
Attire:
Casual
Good for Groups:
Yes
Good for Kids:
No
Takes Reservations:
Yes
Delivery:
No
Take-out:
Yes
Waiter Service:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
Outdoor Seating:
Yes
Good for:
Lunch, Dinner
Alcohol:
Full Bar
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249 reviews for Moss Beach Distillery

Review Highlights   

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"I actually think it's the best place to eat in Half Moon Bay." (in 25 reviews)
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"We had an early reservation with a perfect window ocean view." (in 73 reviews)
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"You're provided with wool blankets to cuddle under." (in 49 reviews)
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Photo of Jon C.

 

10

76

Jon C.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
10/4/2009 1 photo

We are big fans of MBD. The atmosphere is top notch, as are the margaritas. The food is decent but expensive. But this is a great place, to hang with your pets, friends in town or just the two of you, for hours on end.

The margaritas, on ice, are terrific. Strong, yummy and at 10 bucks a pop 1 =2 in taste and potency.

I recommend arriving around 3 PM and by 6 PM, and 3 drinks in the sunset is amazing and life is indeed good.

The one down side is it is not easy to get to. So have a designated driver.

The back area is pet friendly.

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Photo of Will C.

 

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14

Will C.

San Jose, CA

1 star rating
11/3/2009

Very bad service, especially the manager "John".  He didn't have the guts to tell us we were getting kind of loud, which we will always respect.  

Instead, he kicked us out right after we sign our credit card bill.  With a smile on his face of course.  What a phony piece of sh!t.  I will never do business with people like that.

Photo of Sylwia S.

Elite '09

57

198

Sylwia S.

Walnut Creek, CA

5 star rating
9/28/2009

What a wonderful place! It has a lot of history, The Blue Lady is known to be overlooking the fabulous view on their patio. I don't blame her, I think she also helps out in the kitchen to whip up some amazingly good food!

I started off with the Clam Chowda and man, was it good. It was very close to Pike's Place in Seattle, WA Clam Chowda and if anyone has even been to Pike's Place and has their chowda, you know that's a HUGE compliment!

For my main dish, I had tried the Panko Crusted Halibut with couscous and deep fried green beans, OMG. SCRUMPTIOUS, the halibut was perfectly cooked, flaked the min my fork touched it.

I don't know HOW I managed to have room for dessert, but I did... I had the deep fried marshmallow egg rolls, hands down the best dessert I've had. Hands down.

The service here was impeccable, this place really cross's their T's and dot's their I's. They were attentive and friendly and everything came out in a timely manner. I couldn't of asked for better service.

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Photo of Silky S.

 

0

4

Silky S.

Sacramento, CA

1 star rating
Updated - 11/3/2009

Hi Fellow Yelpers.

After I wrote my review of Moss Beach Distillery on 10/20/09, the manager sent me this message below.  HAHA can you believe this is how the treat thier patrons. Wow, unbelievable! It sickens me to know that this is how customer service is nowadays and that I gave them even one cent of my business. His msg is below:

John B.
"I'm the person you acused of racism you don't know me never meet me I'm sure my Asian wife and interacial kid would disagree. Still have not heard from your lawyer or are you all talk or maybe your women was not there to tell you what to say have above day asshole

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 1 star rating
    10/20/2009

    If I could give them negative stars I would. This place is racist! As soon as we walked in we (… Read more »

Photo of Komal P.

 

0

1

Komal P.

San Jose, CA

1 star rating
11/3/2009

I would have to say that this place is unpleasant. My friends and I went there for a bday/engagement celebration and were treated rudely. They hardly came by to check up on us to see if we needed anything. There seemed to be no smile on the staffs' faces. After we paid the bill, the mgr came over to complain that we were being too noisy, which I don't believe we were. We were simply celebrating. They pretty much wanted us to leave. On the way out, one random waitress said, "such low class" and applauded as we exited. Is this how I imagined my experience there? Of course not. The staff needs to reevaluate their behavior with their clientle. It's sad that people like them still exist in this world, esp California, where it's so diverse.

Will definitely not go there and do not recommend it to anyone or expect anyone to go thru that brutality.

Please avoid this place, if you can!

Photo of Saurabh G.

 

0

1

Saurabh G.

Santa Clara, CA

1 star rating
11/3/2009

Extremely DISGUSTING service.  

The staff and servers need to be fired to bring any amount of respect to this establishment. Forget about any semblance of good service, they lack the basic civility and etiquette of communication and they are peddling this place as a classy restaurant.
They are quite possibly engaged in illegal food handling and other activities. I not only not want my food to be handled by such immoral people but also not want them to have any place in food industry in general.
The management would do itself and the location justice by letting go this bunch of non-deserving staff and manager.

If you are not interested in questionable food, cheapness and degrading lip-service please steer clear of this place.

Photo of fancypants x.

 

75

293

fancypants x.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
9/2/2009

It's been a while since I've visited Moss Beach Distillery, but what happened to me the last time I was there still gives me chills to this day. Even driving there, I felt a very ominous cloud over our evening-there are winding roads that lead to the restaurant & it can be a little hard to find. I don't even remember what the bf & I ate for dinner that night; all I recall is that the food was decent (& a little pricey) & was made even more enjoyable by the fantastic view & the excitement of trying something new.

We had just placed our orders & I start reading the story of the restaurant's ghost known as The Blue Lady. I'm three line in, my eyes growing wider as I realize I'm eating in a haunted place when a gust of wind comes out of no where & knocks a stack of napkins onto our table. I jumped out of my skin. I was really freaked out (I love being freaked out) & asked our waiter if there were open windows or doors near where we sat...there weren't. I told him what just happened & he said the presence of Blue Lady has definitely scared diners before & that it was normal. Yea, more like paranormal!

I am such a sucker for all things having to do with the afterlife & ghosts & mystery so I was really intrigued by my experience at MBD (i read Tarot cards, Halloween is my favorite holiday & i live for horror movies & visiting haunted establishments.) I have no idea if it was the Blue Lady who really blew those napkins into the air & dropping them ever so slowly & delicately onto my lap & table that night, but it sure is a good story to tell around a campfire & for that, they get five stars from me!

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Photo of Pragya S.

 

0

1

Pragya S.

San Jose, CA

1 star rating
11/5/2009

Please STAY AWAY from this place!!!  They have the most horrible staff that I have ever come across at any place.  We were there celebrating and they completely ruined our night.  The manager John was the most horrible of all.  He has no class at all.  They were completely racist towards us.  And the funny thing is that our bill was very expensive and after we had paid they decided to completely be mean to us.  So if you are looking for a fun place with nice staff DO NOT go to this place.

Photo of roxanna a.

Elite '09

20

98

roxanna a.

Redwood City, CA

5 star rating
9/20/2009

I don't know what everyone is complaining about. The food was great. In terms of getting seated. We arrived right at noon on Saturday and had our choice of seating.

The clam chowder couldn't be more fresh. It was PACKED with delicious clams and light but creamy base.
The fish and chips was perfectly fried and light at the same time.
The crab melt was delicious, but I would have liked it to be more melty!!
The calamari was very very fresh and very well flash fried!

It was def pricey, but it was delicious and we enjoyed the views and the excellent service.

Photo of sheila C.

 

3

26

sheila C.

Fremont, CA

3 star rating
9/25/2009

They had really good sundae. I love the view and the fire pit. That's about it.

The meal is pricey. Come hear for lunch and only for an appetizer. It's one thing to have a pricey awesome meal another is to have a pricey bland meal. Bland is what you're going to get. The food could be better for the prices that they're charging you.

This place is known for the Blue Lady. The signature blue lady martini is good but it's $11. Too much. I wanted to come here to see what the Ghost Hunters were talking about. The rigged mirrors, lamp and the sounds. They took out that attraction. BOO!!!

Not coming back.

Photo of Robert G.

 

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16

Robert G.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
10/21/2009

We stopped at Moss Beach Distillery on the way back into SF from Half Moon Bay for brunch.  The menu is varied and has something for everyone.  The food was so so but it is the ambiance that we went for and were not disappointed.  I would try it again, this time for dinner.

Photo of Mari C.

Elite '09

205

203

Mari C.

San Francisco, CA

2 star rating
7/22/2009

The real story here is WHY I went there in the first place:
http://www.yelp.com/bi...

Anywho, the place was really epic, set on a bluff overlooking the ocean at sunset.  And if it was 1992, the decor would have made it even more romantic.

It was a funny cross between ambiance and cheezy.  Crashing waves on one side, pamphlet describing their ghosts on the other.  The waitress was very personable, we both liked her a lot.  But she gave us the wrong bill... twice... and brought us someone else's food.  Can't knock her though, because she really was a sweet person.

The food was really expensive, all entrees well over $20.  And to be honest, the food was pretty uninspired.  Edible for sure, but even if it was a $8 plate I wouldn't give it five stars. The ice cream sandwich was definitely the worst... after a bite I didn't even bother with it.

They need to re-think a lot here.  Like the food.  And the decor.  Keep the ocean views, scrap the rest.

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Photo of Felicity H.

 

1

13

Felicity H.

San Carlos, CA

2 star rating
9/7/2009

This is a very romantic spot that's good if you have the money to spend.  The food is okay, I definitely don't think it's worth how much it costs.  I've found the service to be slow even when it was just me and my date and one other couple in the restaurant.
This last Mother's Day, I went to the Mother's Day special and we waited 2 hours to be served (WITH our reservation!)  I was not impressed with the food (fish was REALLY bland) so I took advantage of the limitless champagne.
I do recommend this place for lunch.  Get some drinks and appetizers.  The prices aren't as ridiculous as they are at dinner and overall, I think the best food they have there are the appetizers anyway.  
For food, there are better places to go in Half Moon Bay and for a better price.  For atmosphere, this is a magical spot.

Photo of Kat H.

Elite '09

102

347

Kat H.

San Jose, CA

4 star rating
7/29/2009

Secret and hidden in a residential neighborhood, Moss Beach Distillery is a nice cozy spot if you want to "get away". It is a little trek to get over there on a school night but worth it if you can stay awhile. The restaurant is a good size and can hold quite a few people. It almost feels like you're stepping back in time a bit with the decor, but that also feels like "beach house" to me. The patio in the back is the best--fire pits and lots of blankets for lounging and cuddling.

I sampled some of the food at a Yelp event and it was delicious. I want to return for a drink or dinner while watching the sunset.

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Photo of rosquete b.

 

3

91

rosquete b.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
8/31/2009

Moss Beach Distillery

Want to hang with a nice view of the beach, some good food, and a chance to meet the Blue Lady ghost?
Nice American cuisine location overlooking the ocean. Old building. Very good food service (e.g., Debbie).
The food is very good, but a little pricey. We had the fish tacos and the eggplant veggie sandwich which were delicious. The hamburgers looked great.
Full bar, nice wines by the glass, and good beer selection.
The Sylvia brownie dessert with cappuchino gelato was to die for, especially with that divine chocolate sauce.
Will come here for brunch one of these days.

Photo of Dennis O.

Elite '09

353

207

Dennis O.

Palo Alto, CA

5 star rating
6/29/2009

I love the lamb at this place, just the right amount of meat and fat when you bite on it.
I also had the prohibition Mai-Tai by the bar which seems to have a  good portion of rum in it (I mean pretty good amount LOL)

The patio is nice, has a couple of firepits and could fit maybe a good 30-40 people. It would be nicer if they had tables outside so you can enjoy the view while eating. We did see the sunset and even though it was surrounded by clouds, I bet it's amazing when the sky is clear.

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Photo of Ahmed S.

Elite '09

71

285

Ahmed S.

Alameda, CA

5 star rating
7/9/2009

This place is just gorgeous. The location is ideal for a date. The outdoor patio is straight out of a movie. If you are looking to impress a lady, this is the place to go guys. Take Highway 1 to get here, way nicer than 280.

There is nothing nicer than sitting out on the patio, layered up, watching the sun go down sipping on a drink. Food here is great too. It's just so peaceful and quiet.

Highly recommend it whether you are looking to have a night of fine dining or just come by for a drink and enjoy the atmosphere, you cannot go wrong.

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Photo of Ruthie V.

Elite '09

111

187

Ruthie V.

San Jose, CA

4 star rating
10/9/2009

When you walk up to the MBD you'll notice a sign that reads" Dog Friendly", and that they are.  I've met some nice people here and nice doggies too that they allow on the patio.  We love to come here for a drink and watch the sunset.  Today we arrived about an hour before sunset and enjoyed a glass of wine while cozied up with the warm blankets they provide.  Sometimes the bar is open downstairs but not today.  We had to go back upstairs and order our drinks.  There are several Tiffany inspired lamps suspended over the bar and while we were waiting, one of them began to akwardly sway from left to right, and then the next one, and the next one.  At first I thought there was an earthquake but then I remembered the Blue Lady who is said to haunt the place.  So I knew they did it for fun, however, my boyfriend told the bartender that it scared the hell out of him!  I asked the bartender why my cabernet wasn't in a wine glass and she said they use the plastic cups if you're having a drink for the patio.  I suppose they have glass accidents down on the patio but I really wanted a wine glass!  Well, I didn't snivel, we took our plastic cups containing our drinks downstairs and out onto the patio.  They have two fire pits outside but they weren't providing any fire, not cold enough I suppose.  The view of the sun sparkling on the water, then changing colors as sun sets through the clouds was sublime, even more so when you have someone to snuggle with!

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Photo of Dan S.

 

14

27

Dan S.

Mountain View, CA

3 star rating
6/27/2009

Went here as a +1 with my fiance/elite member for a Yelp party that was hosted at this restaurant.

The seafood/clam soup was rather salty. Ribs and lambshank were alright, but nothing special. Nothing really special about the rest of the food served. I liked their lemon cheesecake which wasn't overly sweet.

Overall, 3 stars. Great atmosphere and nice outdoors area overlooking the beach.

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Photo of James L.

Elite '09

16

135

James L.

Sunnyvale, CA

3 star rating
7/4/2009

Came here with my +1 for the Yelp Event.
Was outside checking out the gorgeous view and didn't get a chance to taste the food. I had a rib and it was delicious.

The bartender is very friendly, prices are average, vodka cran and dirty martini = $20+tips

Down the stairs, bon fires! Great romantic view and relaxing vibe decending from the ocean. There's one tree that does get in the way to watch the sunset.

Parking lot is a bit small and rough. For those who drives sporty automobiles, watch for bumps.

I'll probably give it another shot for a birthday party event or some sort next time and really try out the good eats.

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Photo of Katelyn M.

Elite '09

20

77

Katelyn M.

Jamaica Plain, MA

4 star rating
7/10/2009

This is a great place for a romantic date. *Not* a good place to stop if you just happen to be driving by on Hwy 1 as some other reviewers have described...(and then go on to complain about the high prices...).

Definitely had some mishaps with our anniversary dinner. First, we had called a couple days ahead, requested a particular table (as the website encourages) and when we arrived for our reservation there were no ocean view tables available! We waited until one opened up (...a few glasses of wine later...) and we were seated. They comped a drink for the both of us. My husband got the Merlot (they only have one by the glass...) which was good, and I tried their Pomegranate Martini, which I liked...but it was small and the sugared rim wasn't necessary.

For an appetizer we got the Adam's Ribs. I would HIGHLY recommend them. I am not a ribs lover, but I took a gamble on this and it definitely paid off. They were fall-off-the-bone tender and the BBQ sauce was finger-licking delicious!

Mishap #2:  Both of our main entrees came out a little overcooked. My husband returned his steak for the done-ness he had asked for. My sea bass was just slightly overcooked, so I just tried to roll the sea bass around in the sauce to moisten it up a bit more. I loved the sauce. But when you are paying $35 per plate it has to be exceptional and PERFECT.

We all got the MINI (...they do not mention this...) egg rolls stuffed with marshmallows (perhaps more like one mini marshmallow), white chocolate, and banana with melted chocolate for dipping. I expected huge egg rolls. Instead, 6 tiny ones came out. They were very tasty -- but I'm glad it was comped. I would not get it again.

Would I come back?! Absolutely. I would come for sunset, sit downstairs on the patio sipping a glass of wine and eating some calamari. The view was magnificent. The server (Richard, I think) that we had was attentive and funny. The food; however, was not exceptional -- great -- but not out-of-this-world.

Photo of Peter O.

 

1

8

Peter O.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
5/12/2009

Moss Beach Distillery receives the coveted fifth star due to an act of God on Mother's Day.

On May 10th, moms, sister and myself made our way down Highway 1 for lunch w/o reservations...I wasn't overly-concerned as I knew that one way or another we'd find a good spot to eat. We wound up at MBD and not surprisingly learned from the hostess that the dining room was booked solid but that the dowstairs was available where they serve quality "pub type" fare and drinks on their outside deck.

Our trio secured seating next to a fire pit and we set up shop. We enjoyed generously poured drinks while our food cooked and the sun shone. The wind died and the weather got progressively warmer as the day went on.

After a while, my sister's salad and fish tacos, Mom's sandwich, and my fish and chips were ready. They were sizeable and great. My mom was happy.

Then, out of no where, between chews of fried cod, I detected a spout roughly two miles off shore. Then a tail. Then more like it. Holy cetaceans!! It was whales doing whale things. I nearly lost it. There was a pod of whales, in the Pacific, within view, flippin' tails about and being whales. As we ate.

That was five stars right there.

Great food and excellent views. I'm not sure what the prices for the indoor sit-down menu are like, but lunch and drinks for the three of us came to a buck 10, not cheap but fair considering the quality of the food (fresh) and the setting which could not have been more prime.

Y tu mama tambien would enjoy this place.

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Photo of Candy C.

Elite '09

34

169

Candy C.

Fremont, CA

3 star rating
7/3/2009

I was excited to come here for my second Yelp Elite Event, but in comparison to my first, I would have to say that I was not too impressed.

The location is great - the views are amazing! The food was mediocre . I had the ahi tuna sliders (which were dry), the ribs (very juicy and succulent! yummm!), the lamb (surprisingly tasty!), clam soup (most of my clam shells were empty =.(   boo), and the delicious crabcakes. The lemon ricotta cheesecake was to die for.

The Elite Event seemed to have been successful and I enjoyed meeting other Elites. But as far as coming back here for round two on my own, I think I will pass.

Photo of Nicole C.

 

16

50

Nicole C.

San Jose, CA

5 star rating
9/2/2009 8 photos

This place is amazing
Davey and I celebrated our one month of engagement here at the Distillery http://i279.photobucke... =]http://i279.photobucke... and our one year of engagement. Both times were amazing in different ways. On our month anniversary we had the entire deck to ourselves!  http://i279.photobucke... We laughed for hours enjoying the beautiful Cali sunset, we toasted to many special memories.and toasted to our future together. It was so much fun and loved every minute of it with him! http://i279.photobucke...  And for our one year of engagement the Distillery was too packed so we hiked down a steep trail and got a little dirty =] then we had the beach all to ourselveshttp://i279.photobucke... and watched a beautiful sunset! http://i279.photobucke... Great and romantic, we had a wonderful time! http://i279.photobucke...  Love http://i279.photobucke...

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Elite '09

74

193

Sandy S.

Campbell, CA

4 star rating
5/11/2009

This was the first place we went to for Mother's Day and it was PACKED! My husband and I have been there before a few times and the food here is great! Since it was a holiday though, the only menu's available were the brunch menu for $48.95 (wth? Shame on you guys for taking advantage of Mother's Day, especially in this economy!) . The other menu was their 'lite' menu with very few options on it that you had to order downstairs fast food style. There is a full bar there which is great to sit at if you have to wait and not with kids.

As for my past experiences here, I've had the seafood salad which is huge. The salad had lots of different types of seafood in it in generous portions. I've also had the battered fish and chips. It's also good and the portions are big enough for two people also. The clam chowder is good too. The place is a little hard to find. It's not visible from the highway, but there is a BIG brown sign you can see from the road. Just follow the sign to the restaurant.

Along the way you'll pass a really unique and cool nursery.This place is right by the ocean and the view is awesome. You can sit outside, but dress warm if you do or bring a blanket as it can get chilly even when it's hot everywhere else. I think they provide blankets there as I have seen people cuddled up by some fire or fake fire place there before. My husband was annoyed at the crowd and crying babies there so we had to leave. He was also very hungry and he gets cranky as a child does when he's hungry so we had to check out some other places.

To make a long story short, we ended up eating at friggin Denny's! Ugh! I was a little upset. Who goes to Pacifca and eats there? It's like going to Paris and eating at McDonald's! Not that I don't like McDonald's, but it just doesn't make sense. What could I do though? I my husband was starving and since he loves Denny's and their fast service, I just had to give in as I was hungry too and just wanted to end our wild 'hunt' for a place to eat. We'll NEVER ever again go to any popular place again on a holiday.

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3386

2462

stephy s.

Los Angeles, CA

3 star rating
3/24/2009

Why oh why did we have to pick the one day that it was overcast and blah out, because the view was as scientist like to refer to as... SICK!

On the whole I liked this place. I loved the servers and their fun personalities and cheeky demeanor. I loved the simple space that let the view speak for itself. I loved the little deck below with the fire pits and while it was raining and we couldn't really enjoy it, I can see that this would be a great place to sip away the afternoon on some cocktails or yummy wine.

With that said, what I ordered was a miss. And a real miss at that. After listening to my foodie friend in LA rave about the cuisine here, I was very much looking forward to feasting on some delightful treats, but that wasn't the case with the Coastal Sliders. They sounded good enough with a salmon, yellowtail and crab cake mini lunch on a bun, but the execution was way off.

The crab cake wasn't fried enough, the salmon was off and even though they paired it with bacon, it still didn't rock my socks off, proving the sadly, not everything is better with bacon. FOR SHAME!!! The yellowtail one was covered in white and black sesame seeds and it was the best one out of the three, but still not a home run. The speak easy fries, however, were delightful. They were slightly battered and just super deelish.

My friend ordered the crab melt and I should have definitely followed her lead in the decision. It was immensely delicious. The brioche bread practically melted in my mouthal cavern and the crab, oh that sweet crab. Amazing! Definitely the thing to order. I also ordered the cheese bread and it was just okay. With that said, I do realize that I am spoiled because I make a pretty phenomenal garlic cheese bread that can make mortals do crazy things for a mere taste, but theirs wasn't nearly as good. Not bad, just not amazing.

And so, I would definitely try coming back here for dinner and drinks and maybe the late night menu fairs better than the day time dealio. We shall see. :)

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Donna S.

Pacifica, CA

3 star rating
9/4/2009

This is not a great place for food but if you're looking for a reason to cuddle with that special someone then the moss beach distillery is a must. it's a shame the food isn't better (i've had the burgers and salads and they were quite forgettable); however, nothing beats the oceanfront view. and best of all, they have these big benches and chairs with warm thick blankies on the deck outside. cuddle up with your sweetie, sip hot chocolate and frangelica, and stare dreamily at the ocean.

Photo of Tabitha E.

 

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31

Tabitha E.

Reno, NV

4 star rating
9/3/2009

After first trying Sams Chowder House and having no luck finding fish tacos, a friend who lived in Half Moon Bay years ago offered this place as possibly a good seafood joint, said it had been open since prohibition.
The staff was excellent, the waitress was very friendly, helpful and considerate and the bus boy was prompt and attentive. My mom enjoyed the story of the Blue Lady because she watched the Unsolved Mysteries on it. The bathrooms are downstairs and that freaked her out in a funny way.
My dad got the fish tacos (around $15) and said they were very good but was dissapointed to pay so much for only two. Also he prefers mango salsa. My mom got the fish and chips which she said were also very good (although dont remember that price).
I already ate (at Sams) so I passed and had a hot chocolate. I am unable to comment on the view because we went later at night so it was pretty chilly by then and dark to enjoy much of the outside views.
Overall I think we paid around $60+ dollars for the two meals and a beer or two.
Gave the place 4 stars for taste and exceptional service although remember it was pretty spendy for the other dinner entrees.

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Elite '09

44

273

Nick H.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
4/13/2009

Late one cold, dark night in the Mission, a Russian gangster/navy seal/entrepreneur made Mari C. and I promise to go to the Distillery. I don't like breaking promises, and the 2 crisp $100 bills he slipped us that night as we were parting ways sealed the deal. "Hold on, some guy slipped you $200 to make sure you went to the Distillery?" you ask. Yes, true story.

So we went last night and had a nice experience as the sun sank into the ocean. Here is how I would break it down:

Setting: 5+ stars - I mean it is just incredible, on a bluff above the crashing waves of the Pacific. Sunset dining is epic here. If this was Burger King, it would still be romantic. Excellent.

Service: 4-5 stars - Our waitress, Stephanie, was super sweet and personable. Some of the other staff could get some training in manners though. A smile goes a long way, and a lack of one does too.

Food: 2 stars for ok but utterly forgettable food. You know how you can just tell that a menu hasn't changed in a long time, and the food making process has been standardized, and is probably being done by people who do not really care anymore? That is what we got here.

Price: $10-15 appetizers, $30-40 entrees, $40+ wine.

Conclusion: If the Distillery didn't have an amazing setting, there is no way they could get away with charging what they do for the unimpressive food. Our meal came out to about $150 for 1 soup, 1 salad, 2 entrees, 1 bottle of their least expensive house wine, and 1 desert. Our waitress really gave the Distillery a warm glow. I would recommend stopping by if someone slips you $200, but in the meantime I'll be waiting to return until I hear they change the menu.

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carmen f.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
5/12/2009

Freaky.   I just joined Yelp and am becoming familiar with it and the first time I sign in I see Moss Beach Distillery :  I WAS JUST THERE TODAY!

SO, I thought for my first review I would through in my 2 pesos.

It is over priced.  You are really paying for the atmosphere and the history behind  the joint. I would never recommend making a drive out here just for the food.  Only go if you are already on the coast.

If you want to enjoy the views, make sure it not FOGGY.

Speaking of foggy,  are the owners a little foggy in the head.
Do they realize weeeeeeeeee  are in a major recession.
Apparently not, by way of their prices.

Ample lot and nearby residential street parking (it is the only business right there.

I don't think my sig other and I will make any great effort to come here again, unless why win a million dollars.  But, then why would we come here?

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Leslie M.

Moss Beach, CA

2 star rating
10/12/2009

Good view, bring your own wine and pay the corkage.  Food is not very good at all.  Eat the french fries and little crab cake sandwiches those are good.  Great for the atmosphere and view.

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peanutbutter n.

Burlingame, CA

3 star rating
8/19/2009

Pretty expensive, but good times. You must try the Beer Battered Artichoke hearts with a nice Pale Ale. Sit out next to the fire with some blankets and watch the sunset, just be on the look out for the lady in blue!!!

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Michelle P.

San Jose, CA

2 star rating
2/10/2009

So, I'd been reading about this place for quite some time, and had been waiting for a reason to come along to drive up the coast for a nice Sunday brunch.  The location seemed really appealing, and the whole ghost thing caught my attention.  So when my hubby and I decided to do an impromptu weekend in HMB, it was the perfect excuse to go.

We arrived just before they opened at 11 for Sunday brunch, no reservation (which is unlike me).  We walked in the front door into the tiny lobby/waiting area and I was hit with this foul smell.  Seriously, smelled like a litter box.  I don't know whether my nose was in super high gear that morning or what, but that odor stuck with me throughout the entire experience.  My husband tried to explain it was just "old" smell - but I'm unconvinced.

We were seated by a very large family with unruly children, and I muttered something under my breath.  The gentleman seating us heard me, and offered to seat us in a different room, albeit not at a window.  Cool - still had a nice view and we wouldn't have syrup-laden little boys crawling under out table while their parents enjoyed their meal in ignorance.

I thought perhaps the other room would be odor-free, but no.  Our server was so nice - Stephanie.  She was new to the brunch shift and didn't know the menu, but owned up to that and her honesty was refreshing.  Then we waited, and waited, and waited for our meal, while they refilled our mimosa glasses about a 100 times and offered us more pastries (before my big brunch - uh, no thanks!).  This was a kitchen issue obviously - other tables around us waited just as long.

My hubby ordered the Eggs with Cedar-Salmon hash, which was overwhelmed with onions.  I went with the safer Maple French Toast.  Mine was yummy, but it didn't quite seem to warrant the price tag.  His selection created a very atypical tummyache, as he is a steel-stomach kind of guy.    Not sure what went wrong but if you have a sensitive tummy, avoid that one.  Glad I did.

The ghost hype is really cheesy - they are obviously trying to exploit this for all it is worth.  I liked the little newsletter they provide you with the menu, but the silly hologram Blue Lady in the other room that watches you leave is just too much.

I have to agree with other reviewers, I do not believe the view or the ghost hype justify the price point for this place.

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lynn r.

Elk Grove, CA

2 star rating
3/7/2009

The view is amazing. The patio rocks. I wish the blankets were washed a little more because they smelled like wet dog. The fireplaces were a nice touch too.

We stopped for brunch and I loved the pastries and mimosas. The food was not as great. I had the eggs benedict and it just didn't taste right. I don't think anyone was impressed with the meal for the price.

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Anthony S.

San Francisco, CA

2 star rating
3/14/2009

This place is awesome. Wait I forget that I don't own a motor home, nor do I live in a frat house.

Why would you call yourself a distillery if you don't distill anything? That is about as awesome as John McCain's face.

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Katie H.

Livermore, CA

4 star rating
3/30/2009

I think this is one of the most special finds!

You definitely pay for the view, but any place that provides and ocean view with a fire and blankies has my permission to charge the heck out of a crab quesadilla!

A darn good crab quesadilla as well.

Never a bad experience here, good beer as well.

I always hang out down stairs hoping to see the woman in the blue dress (they have a pamphlet explaining the story) yet to see her, however one time when I was walking into the restroom an older woman was walking out and we scared the crap out of each other, it was quite enjoyable.

Take someone special here and cuddle

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Elizabeth T.

Los Gatos, CA

4 star rating
4/25/2009

For me, the Moss Beach Distillery is a place to go with friends. The options include sitting outside with the sight and smell of the ocean, or enjoy the ocean view while sitting inside, either in the bar or reserve a table for lunch or dinner.

If the weather is good it's a joy to sit outside on a chaise lounge with a blanket on your lap (if its chilly) and sip a glass of wine or tea while enjoying the ocean air.  Or you can get a table and enjoy your meal with the ocean views out the window.. its the ocean views and its long history, aside from the delicious Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay or the Mir Mar Beach Inn, it has no competition for cliff-side, ocean views while enjoying good food and drink.

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Bradley S.

Brentwood, CA

5 star rating
1/10/2009

Wow I almost forgot about this place.  The last time I was here was back in 2003...

I certainly don't remember what I ordered/ate, but I can tell you that there was a huge pot of steamed clams involved and that they were delicious.

But really, this place is less about the food and more about the experience.  I mean, it's haunted.  Who cares about how the food tastes (even though it's very good) when you have a ghost looking over your shoulder?

We went during the day though, so there wasn't too much paranormal activity.  But you could tell that something wasn't quite right, so I'm not going to deduct any stars for that.

The location is what really earns this place its 5 stars.  It's right on a cliff by the ocean and the views are absolutely spectacular.  This is totally a cute place for a date.  You can secure yourselves a spot on the patio (they have very comfortable-looking lounge chairs), take one of their blankets, and snuggle up with one another.

Next time, though, I'm going at night and I'm bringing my EVP equipment!

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Sabrina A.

San Jose, CA

4 star rating
3/10/2009

Hum, looking at the latest views, I'm surprised.  I had great company, a wonderful view, good strong drinks, good food and a lovely time.

A pretty, cool afternoon driving up the coast we stopped for fresh crab in Half Moon Bay and the bf wanted to take me here after (while the crabs slowly died in the ice chest, um I didn't know how I felt about that).  As we drove up on a Saturday afternoon around 1pm the parking lot was full but managed to find a spot.  We stopped at the historical sign in front to read about the place being an old bootlegging spot and the ghost!  The outside looks a bit run down and the inside reminds me on a typical place on a wharf you'd find.  But it was cozy, clean and cute.

He took me downstairs where there is a place to order appetizers and drinks, not full meals so you can see the ocean.  On the patio outside there are benchs, small tables and seating with a few fire pits.  They provide free blankets to help keep you warm - they are a tiny gross but really they are free and help keeping me warm!  We sat chatted in the sun, drank a strong but good drink and enjoyed the lovely view.

After we headed in for a late lunch.  I decided on a chicken sandwich which though kind of expensive was really good.  The bf thought his food was good too, not amazing but good.  Our waiter was attentive, the service sweet and when we were done felt great.

It's really a romantic spot.

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Foovius F.

Burlingame, CA

3 star rating
7/26/2009

Good food but not great, and quite overpriced for lunch in the main dining room. When we eventually return, we'll avoid the dining room in favor of the grill/bar's back porch with it's benches, fire pits and tremendous view.

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