Deetjen's Restaurant

Cozy little Rustic place. Had a great Breakfast! Been past it many times & finally made it our destination. We loved the Rustic atmosphere & the room suited our group of seven perfectly.

The greatest meal I've had in a long time. Quality of the ingredients, taste and presentation were top notch. Kind of a romantic spot, so I don't recommend bringing your kids. We made that mistake... thank God the kids were well-behaved that night!

Big Sur must. We sit at the same table every year. Cozy, interesting. Food is yummy. Staff helpful. Atmosphere warm and inviting.

'Reason enough to make the drive up or down the coast to Big Sur. Quirky collection of hand-crafted buildings. Amazing food. Reservations a must. Fun overnight lodging. Fascinating history and lore. Authentic, laid-back staff. Have a meal at the family table if you can.

My friend and I loved the eggs benedict. The service was excellent, and the decor charming.

+1

No notes and the sea bass brought me to tears (happily). We will forever cherish the wine selection & our favorite chardonnay has become our anniversary special treat. Until we meet again Deetjens you were magical

Very very good we went for breakfast and had the blueberry pancakes were delicious!

Charm galore, a flash back in time, nature at it's finest plus an amazing menu and the nicest staff. I stop here every trip I make up or down the coast on Highway 1.

Had the good fortune of celebrating a post- wedding brunch at Deetjens. In short, this place has been around so long for a reason - it's good, very very good. Our party of 12 almost all ordered their incredible Blueberry Pancakes - which were large, sweet, and addicting to eat. I had the Eggs Benedict w/ smoked salmon on an English muffin, which was also excellent - very savory and rich. It was a very quiet table once the food arrived since everyone was too into the food! Outside of the delicious eats, Deetjens has a very eclectic atmosphere: dark, colorful ceiling drapes, vintage wood furniture, and a wide selection of orchestral classics playing in the background Staff was very attentive to our large party, making sure we were well stocked on water and condiments. Having breakfast this good out in the woods while in Big Sur is a treasure - try it, you won't regret it

I have been visiting this place pretty much on each of my visits to California over the past 11 years. It is one of my favorite, rather off-the-beaten-track places on spectacular Pacific Coast Highway. Breakfasts there are something special. The place is gorgeous, the food excellent, service irreproachable. I actually turned sixty this July by their fireplace before taking a stroll in the wonderfully scented forest of gigantic pines and sequoias. An absolute must!

We went for dinner and it was the best meal we had on our trip in California. The restaurant is so quirky too - go check out all the different rooms. Not the cheapest but it's worth it.

After a chilly night glamping, the warmth and coziness of Deetjens confirms this restaurant forever as my happy place. Cozy nook to have breakfast with friends; warm and inviting atmosphere. The friendliest of staff. And to top it off, great chilaquiles! What a way to start the day in Big Sur!

The breakfast here was delicious. We got seated right away on a weekend morning between Christmas and New Year’s. Those that had to wait only waited a few minutes and everything was fantastic. The building itself and property are fairytale esque and just beautiful!

Amazing food. Such an interesting experience and an eclectic atmosphere. Rustic environment. So good! Perfect brunch!

Your restaurant is so special. The atmosphere and history you have is wonderful. We went there twice for breakfast and enjoyed both times very much.

Best french toast ever! Get the one with the homemade cream cheese. Overall this place never disappoints. Its got a very rustic charming ambience - service is always great. A must try if you are in Big Sur

Such a cute place with a charm that greets you as you arrive and continues throughout. Service was excellent and the food was delicious. The eggs Benedict with home fries was absolutely delicious and we shared an enormous blueberry pancake both of which I’d recommend.

Unique and eclectic restaurant. Terrific service and good coffee. I ordered a couple eggs scrambled with spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms and it was excellent. My friend ordered the eggs benedict with salmon (I think), which he said was very good.

I have managed to miss this gorgeous place on previous trips to Big Sur, but was encouraged by a friendly fellow traveller to try their breakfast. What an experience! Now registered as an historic site, the whole place is so eclectic, quirky and unique in the most beautiful way. Every frame looks like a Dutch still life painting. There was a gentle fire burning in the fireplace, the service was also warm and attentive and the food was excellent. I indulged in French toast and it was delicious while the rest of my group had eggs Benedict, also perfect. The accommodation looks extremely enticing too so I look forward to my next visit.

One of the best restaurants I ever tried. The place itself is kind of vintage but cute! Food was outstanding, the lamb and the fish, the lava cake and peacock pie were all very tasty. Service was very good too!

This visit was the most enjoyable dining experience that I've had on this trip. Five of us arrived at 10 this Monday morning for breakfast. There was no wait and several empty tables. The service was excellent from Fernanda and others. The atmosphere was very rustic and created an excellent atmosphere for our meal. We each ordered a different breakfast entree and everyone was satisfied with their choice. I had Huevos Ranchos which was perfectly prepared and delicious. The change was about $20 per person before tip. Highly recommended.

Been here three times now- twice for dinner and once for breakfast. It was great each time! There is something magical about eating french toast right next to a fireplace!

Friends sent us to Deetjen’s for delicious dinner and a “quaint Old Big Sur” atmosphere. The space is a collection of four candlelit small rooms full of cute curiosities. Half doors remain open to the last of the evening light and each window is full of the leafy greenery of Big Sur. It’s a quiet ambience mostly unchanged from the way the original owner designed the interiors when she bought it in 1939. Deetjen’s prides itself on simple, hearty cuisine and it did not disappoint. The smallish menu is likely regularly shifting as they aim for locally sourced food where they can. There were about four appetizers and four entrées on offer and a further two appetizers and four entrees on their list of special items for the night. We ate like kings from their specials. The wines that our server Roman suggested to go with our main dishes were perfect pairings. To my surprise, most of the dishes on the menu were gluten-free. We were charmed and lulled into a quiet relaxation by the atmosphere and the food at Deetjen’s. We plan to go back for breakfast as we kept hearing from neighbouring tables that the breakfast is to die for. Update: we came back for breakfast and loved the sun filled space. We had the stuffed French toast and the huevod rancheros and coffees. Breakfast was good but not as fantastic as our dinner experience was. Will definitely be back for dinner when we are next in Big Sur.

This is my favorite restaurant. It's like an eclectic warm hug with delicious food. I recently went for breakfast and was worried about the drive/traffic, but I needed an Eggs Benedict fix. I shouldn't have worried we experienced no traffic, it was a beautiful drive and so worth it!

We didn't know what to expect from this restaurant but we were in for a treat. Reservations are a must and hard to get by. We got a 5.30PM spot for dinner. The restaurant opens at this time only so we waited outside but the environment of the hotel was super nice. Old west feel. After we were seated at a nice table by the Robinson Jeffers corner, we took in our surrounding. The interior was a mix of English, Old World, Old West mix. We had a 3-courses dinner but we cannot insist enough. Pay attention to the specials! We had few of these and they were exceptional (and include the catch-off the day). The 3-cheese-figs salad was a magnificent exercise of flavor balancing which created a different lovely experience for connaisseur's taste buds. The risotto was another example of the Chef prowess. Despite using fresh veggies, it didn't come out overly "soggy" nor "dry". Perfect texture. And the desserts were out of this world. The overall price per person was in the high side but we had a lovely local wine AND the service was impeccable. Not sure where the staff has been trained but this was high-end discretion and efficiency. We are still mad at us for miscalculating the tip and we will compensate for it next time we dine here because we will come back. This was a Michelin-star experience and I am not sure why it hasn't made the list yet. In short, fun location, exceptional service and unbelievably delicious culinary experience.

Recommended by a co-worker - breakfast at Deetjen’s in Big Sur was a memorable treat. The inn is a spectacular drive south from Monterey and nestled among the coastal trees. My vegetarian breakfast burrito and home fries were bountiful! My friend enjoyed the 2-egg breakfast with added bacon. The interior tells of a charming family history and is like stepping back in time with displays of china, photographs, and knick knacks. Wonderful service - thank you Melissa!

This is the breakfast place if you need a real meal. The have actual proteins with decent serving sizes. Standard breakfast items, no gimmicks. Gluten free bagels. Good coffee. Good tea. Service was awesome. Prices were comparably good. The eccentric atmosphere is cute.

Perfect cozy spot for a delicious bite. Traditional breakfast and killer coffee. The staff was super accommodating and was able to make up a delicious vegan plate for me and my partner. They also have beyond sausage so you can really get some delicious protein in.

Justin Nguyen (JNguyen20)

The breakfast here was delicious. We got seated right away on a weekend morning between Christmas and New Year’s. Those that had to wait only waited a few minutes and everything was fantastic. The building itself and property are fairytale esque and just beautiful!

Charles Hurty

Amazing food. Such an interesting experience and an eclectic atmosphere. Rustic environment. So good! Perfect brunch!

Donna H.

Your restaurant is so special. The atmosphere and history you have is wonderful. We went there twice for breakfast and enjoyed both times very much.

Akshaya Mahesh

Best french toast ever! Get the one with the homemade cream cheese. Overall this place never disappoints. Its got a very rustic charming ambience - service is always great. A must try if you are in Big Sur

Tristan Gayford

Such a cute place with a charm that greets you as you arrive and continues throughout. Service was excellent and the food was delicious. The eggs Benedict with home fries was absolutely delicious and we shared an enormous blueberry pancake both of which I’d recommend.

Lee

Unique and eclectic restaurant. Terrific service and good coffee. I ordered a couple eggs scrambled with spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms and it was excellent. My friend ordered the eggs benedict with salmon (I think), which he said was very good.

Meghan Anders

I have managed to miss this gorgeous place on previous trips to Big Sur, but was encouraged by a friendly fellow traveller to try their breakfast. What an experience! Now registered as an historic site, the whole place is so eclectic, quirky and unique in the most beautiful way. Every frame looks like a Dutch still life painting. There was a gentle fire burning in the fireplace, the service was also warm and attentive and the food was excellent. I indulged in French toast and it was delicious while the rest of my group had eggs Benedict, also perfect. The accommodation looks extremely enticing too so I look forward to my next visit.

Yuling Zheng

One of the best restaurants I ever tried. The place itself is kind of vintage but cute! Food was outstanding, the lamb and the fish, the lava cake and peacock pie were all very tasty. Service was very good too!

John Macaulay

This visit was the most enjoyable dining experience that I've had on this trip. Five of us arrived at 10 this Monday morning for breakfast. There was no wait and several empty tables. The service was excellent from Fernanda and others. The atmosphere was very rustic and created an excellent atmosphere for our meal. We each ordered a different breakfast entree and everyone was satisfied with their choice. I had Huevos Ranchos which was perfectly prepared and delicious. The change was about $20 per person before tip. Highly recommended.

Heather

Been here three times now- twice for dinner and once for breakfast. It was great each time! There is something magical about eating french toast right next to a fireplace!

Kaili Kinnon

Friends sent us to Deetjen’s for delicious dinner and a “quaint Old Big Sur” atmosphere. The space is a collection of four candlelit small rooms full of cute curiosities. Half doors remain open to the last of the evening light and each window is full of the leafy greenery of Big Sur. It’s a quiet ambience mostly unchanged from the way the original owner designed the interiors when she bought it in 1939. Deetjen’s prides itself on simple, hearty cuisine and it did not disappoint. The smallish menu is likely regularly shifting as they aim for locally sourced food where they can. There were about four appetizers and four entrées on offer and a further two appetizers and four entrees on their list of special items for the night. We ate like kings from their specials. The wines that our server Roman suggested to go with our main dishes were perfect pairings. To my surprise, most of the dishes on the menu were gluten-free. We were charmed and lulled into a quiet relaxation by the atmosphere and the food at Deetjen’s. We plan to go back for breakfast as we kept hearing from neighbouring tables that the breakfast is to die for. Update: we came back for breakfast and loved the sun filled space. We had the stuffed French toast and the huevod rancheros and coffees. Breakfast was good but not as fantastic as our dinner experience was. Will definitely be back for dinner when we are next in Big Sur.

Ericka Engelman

This is my favorite restaurant. It's like an eclectic warm hug with delicious food. I recently went for breakfast and was worried about the drive/traffic, but I needed an Eggs Benedict fix. I shouldn't have worried we experienced no traffic, it was a beautiful drive and so worth it!

Sebastien Taveau

We didn't know what to expect from this restaurant but we were in for a treat. Reservations are a must and hard to get by. We got a 5.30PM spot for dinner. The restaurant opens at this time only so we waited outside but the environment of the hotel was super nice. Old west feel. After we were seated at a nice table by the Robinson Jeffers corner, we took in our surrounding. The interior was a mix of English, Old World, Old West mix. We had a 3-courses dinner but we cannot insist enough. Pay attention to the specials! We had few of these and they were exceptional (and include the catch-off the day). The 3-cheese-figs salad was a magnificent exercise of flavor balancing which created a different lovely experience for connaisseur's taste buds. The risotto was another example of the Chef prowess. Despite using fresh veggies, it didn't come out overly "soggy" nor "dry". Perfect texture. And the desserts were out of this world. The overall price per person was in the high side but we had a lovely local wine AND the service was impeccable. Not sure where the staff has been trained but this was high-end discretion and efficiency. We are still mad at us for miscalculating the tip and we will compensate for it next time we dine here because we will come back. This was a Michelin-star experience and I am not sure why it hasn't made the list yet. In short, fun location, exceptional service and unbelievably delicious culinary experience.

Rachel W

Recommended by a co-worker - breakfast at Deetjen’s in Big Sur was a memorable treat. The inn is a spectacular drive south from Monterey and nestled among the coastal trees. My vegetarian breakfast burrito and home fries were bountiful! My friend enjoyed the 2-egg breakfast with added bacon. The interior tells of a charming family history and is like stepping back in time with displays of china, photographs, and knick knacks. Wonderful service - thank you Melissa!

Shane Sweeney

This is the breakfast place if you need a real meal. The have actual proteins with decent serving sizes. Standard breakfast items, no gimmicks. Gluten free bagels. Good coffee. Good tea. Service was awesome. Prices were comparably good. The eccentric atmosphere is cute.

Novel Properties

Perfect cozy spot for a delicious bite. Traditional breakfast and killer coffee. The staff was super accommodating and was able to make up a delicious vegan plate for me and my partner. They also have beyond sausage so you can really get some delicious protein in.

Amee Pansuriya

Amazing breakfast food! The restaurant also has a very unique and interesting vibe, never been to anything like it.

Humble and hearty food. Fresh fish, a lovely beet salad and tasty pasta dishes. Lovely hosts and a cosy if esoteric decor. Highly recommend to people looking for some unfussy food or a date night!!

The best breakfast we had on our trip! Dark wood interior with classical music playing, attentive service and Eggs Benedict and a breakfast burrito that were divine!

Lovely restaurant with old world charm. They managed to squeeze us in for dinner even though they were fully reserved. Lovely service and the food was really tasty!

RL 5

Lovely restaurant with old world charm. They managed to squeeze us in for dinner even though they were fully reserved. Lovely service and the food was really tasty!

Sam hatchett

Humble and hearty food. Fresh fish, a lovely beet salad and tasty pasta dishes. Lovely hosts and a cosy if esoteric decor. Highly recommend to people looking for some unfussy food or a date night!!

This place is very sweet, and the service is incredibly friendly. Be forewarned, however, the breakfast portions are massive. Like if you're thinking about the chorizo breakfast burrito, split it. Otherwise, you'll be in a food coma for the remainder of the day. Great high quality ingredients in every dish. Truly a local gem.

Atmosphere was warm, cozy, and inviting. Waitress was a little huffy and unfriendly when I asked to sit outside. Huevos rancheros were alright but the tortilla underneath required heavy sawing to get through. It was a beautiful restaurant.

The eggs Benedict is the item to get. The dish is done very well. Also tried the breakfast burrito which was as standard as one can be. The new head chef I hear is great. Hopefully he changes a few things to the menu. The location itself is great if you're under 6'3". Any taller and you'll have to do some ducking.

Deetjen’s has a very charming rustic atmosphere. Our dinner and service started out well - we enjoyed the duck and roast chicken, but when it came time for dessert the restaurant was busier and our server didn’t return for 30 minutes after giving us the dessert menu to take our order. When he asked if we wanted something (and we had originally) we said no because the service had taken too long, to which he replied “perfect,” no apology. The couple next to us ordered at the same time and ordered and ate dessert before we even got the check. In short, we were very disappointed in the service.

Beautiful ambiance, friendly & knowledgeable staff, great wine list with lots of local wines. Fig salad was great, NY Strip Steak was disappointingly tough and dry (ordered “medium rare” but was more towards medium to medium/well). For $55 I was hoping for a really juicy succulent steak.

Trevor Allen

Beautiful ambiance, friendly & knowledgeable staff, great wine list with lots of local wines. Fig salad was great, NY Strip Steak was disappointingly tough and dry (ordered “medium rare” but was more towards medium to medium/well). For $55 I was hoping for a really juicy succulent steak.

Fun kitschy decor. Service staff was very attentive and friendly, but couldn't make up for the less than average food. If you must go here, order an appetizer and call it a night. The appetizer portions are very generous and are much better than the entrees. Be warned the food is aggressively seasoned.

The grounds at this restaurant are quite nice, however parking can be a nightmare. Upon entering we were greeted in a way that made us feel out of place, as if we didn't quite belong in this establishment. The man seemed genuinely upset that we were there. This same man was then assigned to be our server and his service was curt and cold. I believe his name was Roman. The food was acceptable, although the ragu was drowned in heavy cream and left a lot to be desired. A truly disappointing experience among very limited dining options around Big Sur.

They didn't have anything we ordered from the breakfast all the way down to the tea and espresso (they only have coffee), we ended up leaving because it kinda ruined the whole experience. It's a shame because I used to come here regularly many years ago and I always looked forward to it because it was exceptional but now I'd say sub-par.

Avoid at all costs this place. At first they didn’t want to receive us in the restaurant because we were not americans, they noticed in our accent. We were a group of 3 persons from Portugal and once she noticed that she told us there were no tables with a completely empty place. We also saw the food and looked horrible and super expensive. Avoid this as there are other places much better in the big sur road.