Definitely an experience that is worth every penny! The layout of food and all of the different choices was just incredible. The waiter always made sure that our glasses were topped off and never had a dirty plate hanging out on he table for too long. I absolutely recommend this outing as a fun date brunch or a cool get together for the girls!
(5)
Jerry C.
Cliff House is easily the Sunday brunch that has the best ambiance and scenery, with a harpist gently strumming in the background, while you're overlooking the Seal Rocks and Pacific Ocean. Make sure you make a reservation for Terrace Room, not Sutro's or Bistro if you want the buffet brunch. It's pricey ($55), but the buffet comes with all you can drink champagne, and they're generous with it. I would take a sip or two at a time, and someone would come by and top me off. Ridiculous! In a good way. The food is pretty standard for a brunch buffet, but everything is cooked as well as it can get on a buffet line, although I wish there were a little bit more options and a carving station. Service was fine, as mentioned with topping off champagne glasses. I'm usually not one for dessert, especially during brunch, but everything looked so pretty. Butterscotch in an eggshell, chocolate mousse in a martini glass - you get the idea. I couldn't resist! Brunch at the Cliff House Terrace Room is a neat experience - especially if you feel like splurging.
(3)
R A.
The worst service possible!! Showed up on Sunday for 11:30 seating only to be told by the host (rather rudely) that our open table reservation made a week before was not for the brunch but rather for the Sutro's restaurant (no buffet and ridiculous prices). Really??? Why would anyone need to make reservations for that place since It was practically empty!! Our waiter, Christian was very kind and courteous but at this point we were very upset and could not enjoy anything so we asked to speak to the manager (Rob or Bob). He came to see us with a printout in his hand saying (although he never exactly pointed it out on the printout) that they mention on their site or reservation site that you can't make brunch reservations online. News to us and nowhere on the email confirmation either! Just the fact that he has a printout handy when he talks to guests tells me this sort of thing happens very often. If they truly talk about service, 1) fix your website so people are not mislead Or 2) continue misleading people into thinking they made a brunch reservation and then catch that overflow into Sutro's for an overpriced breakfast No thanks for us... we left. 0 customer service.
(1)
Denise M.
I am contemplating whether to give this place a three or four stars. If compare to other brunch I've been to such as Scott's Seafood or Lordship, this cannot compare. The food selection were minimal and the quality of food were average. Customer service was excellent though compare to many place. The table seating is a bit tight and the ambiance was not what I expected for the charge of $55 per person. Overall, if you never been to brunch and want to stay in SF, then I do recommend Cliff house. However, if you don't mind crossing the bay, you must check out Scott's Seafood Brunch.
(3)
Kim S.
My husband and I got married and had our reception here on August 22, 2015. We worked with Virginia, Lauraine and Nicole: Virginia during the pre-wedding process, and Lauraine and Nicole during the event. Throughout the entire process, we were impressed with the staff. The coordinators knew the answers to all of our questions, never needed to get back to us, and they seemed to have a great relationship with the other Cliff House employees. On the day of the wedding, everything went really, really smoothly. We were told by multiple guests that they loved the food, and that they were really impressed with the service. Everyone was very attentive - the bartender, Kevin, was so friendly and made sure that everyone had a fresh drink/refill. My mom told me that she needed to get things from one of the locked offices (where things like purses were kept) a few times that evening, and that Lauraine and Nicole were quick to help her with that, never rolling their eyes or telling her to wait. The staff even made sure to save a plate of appetizers for me and the groom, since we were having pictures taken during happy hour - such a nice, thoughtful touch! Could not have asked for a better wedding/reception, and the work that the folks at Cliff House put into the event did not go unnoticed or unappreciated. I would highly recommend this site for an event to anyone, and my husband and I look forward to coming back to enjoy the champagne brunch or any other meal. PS- Originally we weren't going to have appetizers, but at the last minute we changed our minds. So glad we did! The crab cakes were soooooo delicious!!
(5)
Terri N.
Excellent food and great service. We particularly enjoyed the California Egg benedict. The popovers are to die for!! The jams are very good as well. Nice view and nice ambience.
(5)
Karen T.
I would of given them a 4 but they screwed up big time. I was there for a wedding and was in charge of the reception table. Wedding days are stressful to begin with, all I asked for were 2 chairs for the reception table. I asked literally 5 times waited over 40 minutes for it and never received them before guests started to arriving! Girls in heels standing and stressing is no fun! We wouldn't of asked for chairs if we weren't wearing high painful heels. Chairs finally showed up in the middle of a heard of guests coming in and we were busy looking for their seats, too late! Now on to the good, best bartender he was very attentive and hardworking. I saw him running around and helping everyone. Filet mignon was good bread was good we ate 3 baskets. Hors d'oeuvres were ok and service at the wedding was great.
(3)
Hieu H.
"More champagne?" "Why yes, please," I gleefully tell our attentive server at the Cliff House Terrace Room Champagne Brunch as he refills my third or fourth glass. At 55 dollars per person with bottomless champagne, I would consider the brunch here a steal compared to other places like the Ritz-Carlton at Half Moon Bay. At both places, the draw is the amazing view. Unfortunately, we were not seated at a table near a window, so that kinda took a way some of the fun for me. The buffet is a little small and the desserts are forgettable - except for the butterscotch egg. The fresh strawberries were surprisingly sweet. For my first round, I focused on breakfast. The scrambled eggs were good. I found the bacon a little too undercooked - I like mine crispier with most of the fat rendered out. The french toast wasn't drenched in batter so it wasn't too soggy served with your typical fresh cut fruits like honeydew and grapefruit. The lunch side included popovers or Yorkshire pudding and these were a highlight with a great crust on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. I ate these with the assorted cheeses offered. I didn't really like the cold pastas offered, but the Asian beef salad was good. Gooey Mac n' cheese stuck to my bones. Like other reviews have mentioned, there's no carving station, and for the price, should have been expected. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, but after gorging myself it was nice to be able to take a nice walk along the shore. To get to the cliff side of the building, head down one extra floor and that will take you to the most serene veiws of the coast.
(3)
Helen G.
I honestly don't even know where to start ! The food is excellent ! The views are simply breathtaking ! Service is outstanding ! It's expensive but it's a must try !
(5)
Julie L.
Gorgeous view of the ocean. Food was ok. There's 2 sides to the buffet but I was only able to get to one because there's no order to the way the line flowed. Seniors just stand there and take their time as if there isn't a bazillion peeps behind them. Service was great. They kept refilling our champagne, cider and water. Bloody Mary's are an additional charge.
(4)
Erin M.
Everyone should treat themselves to this at least once. It is expensive but worth it. I dined on a Sunday afternoon with my boyfriend for a belated Valentine's Day celebration. The view of the ocean is beautiful and romantic. The food is delicious. They served all the breakfast staples, plus paella, prime rib, and multiple salads and desserts. Afterward we walked along the Sutro baths and lands end. It was a wonderful afternoon. What an amazing location. Parking is challenging. That was the only downside. This is a San Francisco must.
(4)
Vivian W.
The view is great if you come on a non-foggy day. The food was just meh. This is an ideal place for a brunch date or a nice family gathering though. I'm just not sure I would pay so much again to eat the food here if it wasn't for a special occasion.
(4)
Stephanie C.
My best friend wanted to treat me to brunch for my birthday and she asked me to choose where I wanted to go. I originally wanted to go to Foreign Cinema but since that was a no-go, she took me to the Cliff House Terrace Room for brunch. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised (or maybe that was the bottomless champagne talking? ;)). We had 12 p.m. reservations with window-seating and though we arrived on time, we didn't have a table with beautiful ocean views (-1 STAR). This ended up not being a problem because we were seated pretty close to all the food (don't judge me) AND there was bottomless champagne ;) who needs an ocean view when you have bottomless champagne? There was quite a variety of dishes, both for breakfast and lunch, while we were there and everything tasted amazing. Their brunch is served buffet style so you are able to try a little bit of everything. For my first round, I decided to try all the breakfast dishes. We both tried: -the eggs benedict -scrambled eggs -french toast with cinnamon apple jam -bacon -sausage -fresh fruit I have to say that the scrambled eggs and french toast stood out. The eggs were fluffy and very fresh and the french toast was so delicious. I easily could have gone back for more of the french toast but I decided to try out their lunch dishes for my second round. For the second round, we tried: -potatoes au gratin -shrimp salad -fresh shrimp -corn salad -tri-tip My favorites were the shrimp salad and the tri-tip. While all the dishes were tasty, I have to say that breakfast was my favorite! Even though I was full, I decided to stuff my face some more with dessert. I tried some of their fresh oatmeal raisin cookies and chocolate covered strawberries which were amazing. The cookies reminded me of homemade cookies - definitely weren't store bought. The service was great! Though we didn't get our original table, we ended up having such an amazing brunch and the staff was very attentive. We never worried about our water, coffee, and champagne refills. I also loved that there was a harpist - a really nice touch! This is definitely brunch for grown ups ;) If you are a brunch lover, celebrating a special occasion, or hosting out of town guests, brunch at the Cliff House Terrace Room is a must!
(4)
Audrey L.
Just wish there was a made to order omelette station. That would've made this buffet five stars. We arrived there around 10 mins after our reservation, but we weren't seated until about 30 mins after our reservation. We also got seated at a table for six even though there were only three of us. However, no other parties were seated with us, so we still had our privacy -- which should be expected for how expensive this buffet was! The food here was definitely more about the quality, less about quantity. There was only one table of food, but everything was very well stocked. There were also some nice cold dishes like a kale salad and mixed beet salad. There was also a carving station with ham and beef. Around 3pm they took out the They should think about getting a different dessert chef, because nothing in the dessert department was that great. The chocolate on the chocolate covered strawberries didn't really have a strong taste of chocolate (maybe too diluted)? The harpist was also a really nice touch. Afterward, it's great to walk off all the food around the Sutro Baths and watch the sunset from the beach. The location couldn't be better.
Overrated , totally over priced!!!appetizers size are minuscule and price are like main in a normal place. Service was average, definitely not proportionate to the final bill. Only the view is worthy, so why don t go and get your food in the next place up the street? Totally a better experience.
(1)
Tracy M.
If you read some of my reviews on other Brunch restaurants, you can see that I am not easy to please when it comes to this beloved meal. However, I found Cliffhouse well worth the money paid. The experience was wonderful. Excellent food with lots of options, check! Truly bottomless champagne- I mean you take a sip and they are back refilling your glass, check! Beautiful views of the ocean, check! An interesting history and fun gift shop, check! We will most definitely be back.
(5)
Renee L.
Overrated and overpriced. I didn't think the food was up to standards for a classy $$$ establishment. Sure, this is Sunday brunch buffet, so maybe quality might slide a little to make way for quantity. But then there isn't too much to choose from either... I'm certainly not coming back on my own volition; money better spent elsewhere. Of the available food options, I only found the eggs benedict, miso salmon and paella to be worth having seconds. Cranberry scone was not bad either, but nobody in their right mind would fill up on scones at a buffet. The smoked salmon did not taste fresh or properly stored since it was a little mushy and some edges were drying up. What a disappointment since I wanted to binge on that. I don't recall seeing any other seafood besides shrimp cocktail. Salads were pretty interesting and not your normal iceberg lettuce. Normal array of fruits, can't really mess that up. The dessert spread was quite disappointing both in taste and selection. What unlimited champagne? My table only got refilled once. Admittedly, I was basically the only one downing it at my table, but the waiters seemed to come by and refill all adjacent tables and skip me. I can only take comfort in guessing that I look too young. Coffee refills were frequent to the point of annoying though. Not much ocean view unless you're sitting next to a window on the south side. Parking is also a big pain so make sure you allocate at least a half hour for spot hunting before your appointment.
(2)
Samantha H.
After hearing from a friend that the Cliffhouse had a beach view champagne brunch on Sunday, we were absolutely excited to go check it out. Let me start out by saying that I had no complaints about the service, and the food was restocked regularly. However, when paying $50 per person for breakfast, I'll admit that I expect some level of creativity or absolutely delicious, refined food. INSTEAD, we got the Cliffhouse. It was like breakfast at a trough, champagne included. Tables packed into a long room right next to the buffet so that you could see everyone going back for thirds and then gorging themselves. Aside from the fruit plate, pretty much everything was coated in cheese, mayonnaise, or butter (although there was an occasional hollandaise sauce thrown in). There was nothing here that made this more than a $29.99 buffet, unless their pay scale is based on how many calories they feed you. I will also remember indefinitely the girl at the table next to me who was able to Hoover an entire eggs Benedict into her mouth in one bite. If not for this feat of grandeur, brunch would have been a total and utter loss. Girl in the silver shirt- if you ever happen to read this, BRAVA. You have changed my life for the better.
(1)
Hilary R.
Where do I begin? My husband made reservations in advanced for the champagne brunch and two days before called and confirmed. When we arrived somehow our reservation got switched to the bistro. When we asked to get this confusion fixed we had to wait 20 mins past our reservation to just SEE if we could get in. You confirm our reservation yet we don't get it? Get your act together. You are a place of costumer service and right now I'm feeling very upset about your service.
(2)
MY C.
We felt for the price of $55 the food would have been better. We spoke with the manager about the temperature of the food. The hot dishes were not even warm. The beef, mac n cheese, egg dishes, noodle dishes were all cold. The best part of this experience was the miso salmon and desserts. The display of the food was wonderful. The service was just alright. We had to ask for coffee a number of times.
(2)
Mike P.
What a great view of the Pacific! Never heard of a "popover" but the best bread I've ever had. Ordered the Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict and it was superb. We will definitely be back! Love this place.
(4)
Karen L.
A bit overrated. This place looks like it's trying to be more upscale than it really is. Considering it's a buffet, there isn't a large selection of items to choose from. A bit disappointed at the amount of food options available, but what was served was good. Most notable was the Paella and the French toast for me. $49 for buffet and unlimited champagne. Too bad the champagne really isn't all that to rave about. Parking is horrible during the day around the area so good luck finding a spot.
(3)
Shilpi D.
Based on our experience on a regular Sunday brunch celebrating hubby's birthday. View - 5 stars. Service - depending on the server. Some servers were friendly and helpful, others seemed to ignore us or were rude. Food - definitely not worth it, in our opinion. Food items had no labels, folks were rude when we asked about specific food items. No butter - c'mon - it's a brunch, where's the butter? Kids' brunch did not include a hot chocolate - only cider- this was strange to us because it was cold, and for the kids' price, they could have thrown the beverage in. Deserts were alright - we've had better. Tables were cramped, and they said they could not guarantee a window seat even though many tables were empty.But you could get the same view for free, and get some good food as a picnic lunch.
(2)
Jenn C.
this place has a HARPIST and has a breath taking view of the ocean. plus afterwards you can go on a nice walk and walk off that food coma. the food was excellent and the service was top notch. this place is reservation only so call ahead!! i can't remember everything that i ate, but i remember not having enough stomach space to try and sample everything that i wanted. we came here because my brother read the hunger games series and was so inspired by the food description in the capitol that he needed to eat a hotel breakfast buffet. it wasn't at a hotel, but it sufficed and it was everything that he wanted in the experience. we left extremely full and happy.
(5)
Chris A.
In short you basically come here for the view. Fin. You want more? OK - We did not do brunch but grabbed a drink and app in the bar-area to the right when you walk in. The servers seem preoccupied and do a sub-par job of servicing the tables. No welcome, intro or specials spiel "Are you ready" is about it. Calamari was gross, rubbery, tasteless batter and a pretty weak portion. Beer on the other hand was cheap (6.50/draft) with a decent selection of California beers. Cocktails were $9-$15 Come have a drink, take a few pictures and skedaddle.
(2)
Roland N.
I would call this your best bang for your buck classic SF brunch. If you're not in the mood to spend over a $100 at the Palace or Top of the Mark, head over to the other side of the city, enjoy ocean views and stuff your face full of traditional brunch faire and endless champagne. If you're from out of town, or you are planning a Sunday at Golden Gate Park, start your day off right at Cliff House.
(4)
Erin R.
Cheeseburger was...eh. Garlic fries were much better. Service was slow. Moscow Mule was delicious. Good memories though & talk about a beautiful view!
(3)
Robin L.
Wonderful Service and Ambience. Never had to ask for a glass of champagne our glasses were always full.. Food could be better, however, Flank Steak was out of this world. Dessert was average nothing special.. The harp player adds a special touch. Even though I wasn't over the top for the food, I will still go back...
(3)
Debbie T.
Location! Location! Location......if it is a clear and sunny day. The size of the buffet table was appropriate relative to the size of the room. While none of the food was memorable, nothing was awful. There was more than enough varietyfrom which to choose. No carving station. Dessert is always my favorite part of the meal. Nothing worth the calories. The butterscotch pot de creme did not live up to how other yelpers have cheered. In the end, we were there to celebrate a special friend's 90th birthday. The ambiance and service were outstanding. Everyone enjoyed themselves. Would I host an event here? Definitely not. But, I would come back as someone's guest.
(3)
Jason M.
Clam chowder - If I were comparing against the non-coastal US I might give this an 8. But for the bay area Cliffhouse is more of a five. I've had about as many clam chowder is that were better as I've had worse. Food is a bit pricey. Wine list is good. Fish and chips were above average. The service was quite good. Ambience was a bit austere. View of the ocean quite nice. It's a little bit out-of-the-way and there are so many great options in this area, I don't think I will be returning.
(3)
Rachel M.
Everyone can find something they like here. Sweet, savory, rich, healthy (eh, maybe not that one). The tortellini, eggs benedict, and butterscotch pot de creme - in a delightful little eggshell! - are my favorites. One star off for the ridiculously tight seating arrangements.
(4)
Mariela D.
This is where tea parties grow up and come to life. It's the ultimate pinky-in-the-air, sundress, big floppy hat type of brunch. The kind you take someone you want to impress. The kind you take your mother to show her how special she is to you. Or in my case, the one you visit with a longtime friend to sip mimosas over much needed girltalk - adjacent to a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. After a 20-minute wait on a Sunday morning, we nabbed a much-coveted window seat and immediately dove into the basket of freshly-baked popovers. Popovers are like their house bread, but to compare these delicious puffs to "bread" would almost be sacrilegious. As I pulled each one apart, smeared it with butter and jam, I let out a sigh of contentment. They are SO good. It was a sign of even better food to come. I opted for the Johnson omelette which had huge chunks of dungenous crab, cheese, green onions and avocado with a side of fruit and house potatoes. Simply amazing. Our server poked fun at us for staging so many iPhone shots of our food with the ocean in the background - but it was just sooo pretty, we had to capture it. I look forward to coming back and spoiling myself soon :)
(5)
Jamie M.
The view at this place is awesome if you happen to get a seat next to a window, but nevertheless I wasn't bothered by sitting a few feet across the way. The wait time wasn't horrible but I was slightly disappointed in he burger. It wasn't anything special/the fries were okay. I can probably take the L for ordering a burger here, although I really wanted the lamb sirloin sandwich w/Rosemary potatoes but it was only being served downstairs and not where brunch was. I'd definitely go back but this time I need a window seat and I know not to get the burger. My friend enjoyed the Dungeness crab omelette just fine.
(3)
Stephan P.
I went to the Sunday Brunch buffet with 3 other friends, not sure why I am reading previous bad comments, I had a great time, champagne was pouring until I said stop, the food was great and delicious, between salmon, French toast, pastries, pastas, I could go on and on, food buffet was great and lots of choices, service was great, will definitely come back.
(5)
Ryan T.
This buffet is way over priced and over rated. The buffet table is small and the choices are pathetically limited, beef is overcooked, cheese on baked potatoes is hard and dried like cardboard, mushrooms are burned, cocktail shrimp is tasteless, fruits are mostly tasteless especially the strawberries (big, red... but, taste like water) The three of us paid $60/person and it's not worth it... Don't think I will come back for meals! RT
(1)
Ms. J.
So, where do i start? Well, the view is beautiful! No doubt, you are paying for the scenery. Food was...well, eh......"shrugging shoulders"....it was alright. I ordered some sort of baked salmon (it was more like a big block of salmon that had some seasoning on it). Ordered dessert that was sub-par. The service was not bad. The staff was attentive. Would i come here again? Eh, no. But if i had people from out of town coming to SF for the first time and i had a little extra cha-ching on the side to carelessly spend, yeah, id take them there.
(3)
Sanish S.
So I reserve the Sunday Brunch at 2:00 pm and I arrive at my appointed time. I didn't get seated until 2:40. The food was ok, nothing that peaked my interest, but there is a wide variety of food. Live music. Overall ok experience
(3)
Zed Z.
The first thing you need to know about this brunch is that you need a reservation. Also the later 2PM seating is less crowded. The food is pretty good, but not awesome. The main thing you are paying for is the view and that is awesome. So, plan this one out ahead of time and get there a little early. Parking was a bitch.
(4)
Blondie R.
Loved my Sunday brunch!!! My very good friend, Linda the Great and I were celebrating our birthdays! How great is she? She's so great, she makes Alexander the Great, look like Alexander the Wuss! She's 4 days older than me. Same year! Her Greatness made the reservation and she booked us next to the window! Verrrry great. We had a killer view of the ocean! The buffet brunch was sooo good! The service was spectacular. Wonderful salads, lox, eggs benedict, paella, fruits, veggies, meats and desserts. The champagne was exquisite(and bottomless!). I asked her Greatness what her favorite dish was. She said the scalloped potatoes. That was my favorite dish too! After brunch, we walked the Coastal Trail. So, how old are we now? None of your business!
(5)
Yona Y.
Eggs Benedict here is very good! Also vietnamese inspired cold beef noodle salad(?) is very delicious. Overall food quality is good compared to other buffets, and the best thing is they filled up free champagne endlessly so I got drunk over my Sunday brunch~~~ (@o@)v !! But it is kinda pricey, if they stock more varieties with the food will be good!! Dont forget to reserve seat by the window for a ocean view!!!!
(4)
Shephalie L.
Cute, quaint, breathtaking views! Went here for my sister and my mom's joint Birthday Brunch. Our family is a huge stickler on quality brunches, so I did my homework. I had heard from multiple people about the ambience and unique location of this place - and it did not fail me. On the other side of SF, the Cliff House has an amazing history and is located on a cliff overlooking the ocean and a beach. Gorgeous, even though it was raining during the first half of our brunch. Also, quite classy with a lady with a harp playing in the corner. The decor definitely could be updated though . ... felt like I was stuck in the 80s. The Sunday Brunch is a $45 per person with unlimited champagne. Not bad for the 3 hours we spent together :) Decent food, pretty standard for a larger American brunch. Tons of seafood though! Smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, asian-style cod, etc - our favs for a brunch spot. We were particularly excited about the cream custard in egg shells. We were so intrigued by how it was presented that we flagged down the waiter to ask the pastry chef how he did it! They told us their secret and we recreated something similar later that week that just stunned our guests :) You hafta go check it out to understand what I'm talking about.
(4)
Sally M.
Sexy surfers - indoors & out ;-) I came here for last week's 7x7 Mixology Madness event @ the Cliff House ( nirvino.com ...) in the Terrace Room and just LOVED the venue. Amazing views of the ocean, the beach, and the surfers - those in the water, as well as at the event (shout out to a certain snowboarder with a name starting with the letter "A" in West Portal) ;) The Cliff House is the perfect place to set the romantic mood on a sexy date. I'm giving 4 stars for now, and saving 1 for later - whenever, and with whomever that may be...
(4)
Alice J.
I came here for the Sunday champagne brunch for a friend's birthday. It was really enjoyable! There was a good variety of food including salad, assorted cheese, breakfast pastries, eggs, sausage, pasta, salmon, and more. Everything taste really fresh and of course there is the unlimited champagne to wash it all down. The decor is a little plain but they provide music in the background and the view outside is wonderful.
(3)
Katherine B.
The ambiance was excellent so that deserves 5 stars, especially since we had the best table in the place oerlooking the entire ocean and old Sutro Baths. I ordered the rock cod and an orange juice. It was 11am and our room was not serving the Brunch menu which I found annoying. My food was fine but nothing special. OJ was not amazing. Probably Odwalla - sick. Service was amazing. I probably won't go back unless one of my friends begs it.
(3)
Panjit S.
Great place to enjoy the beautiful vista.
(4)
K K.
We went to champagne buffet brunch recently. It is great location. You may be parking your car away and walk uphill but it is nice walk if it is a sunny day. Food is not spectacular but decent. Yes, I had better, maybe 50 other places or so. It is not that expensive so I did not have high expectations on food selection or quality. But, there wasn't even a custom omelette station. Web page makes you believe that this buffet brunch has nice ocean view. But, you can't see much even if you are at a window table. Web page shows a dramatic ocdean view. I wonder if it is targeted 1-time tourists? The other two restaurants do have better view not brunch. They did not give a better table to us even though it was available. We are 3 people at 4-person table. It was funny arrangement. One side of the table is pushed against a curtain on the wall. So, I pushed the unused chair a litle away from myself so that I do not eat the curtain instead of my food :-) The chair was not outside the outline of the table, it was 10 inches away from me. One of staff passing by comes and psuhes the chair towards to me. A few seconds later I push it back to same position. Another staff comes then another. I had to tell the third staff pushing the chair towards me to take the chair away.
(2)
Casey S.
I have always wanted to check out the Cliff House and my mother's visit presented the perfect time (afterall, it's a good idea to visit all the over-priced tourist attractions when you aren't the one footing the bill). We showed up at 10:45 on a Sunday and were informed that there was no way we were going to get into the Sunday Brunch buffee. Apparently you have to make reservations well in advance. No worries, though, we were able to get into the main restaurant in about 30 minutes. In the mean time we were able to sit in the atrium and enjoy mimosas and bloody marys while we waited. Luckily it was a beautiful day and we enjoyed looking down over the frothy waves. Let me just say that the best thing about the Cliff House is that when you do finally get seated at your table instead of bread they bring piping hot popovers! I haven't had these since I was a kid and have never seen them in a restaurant. The rest of our meal was good, but over priced. I had the portobella mushroom burger which I enjoyed but thought it could use a little more goat cheese. Overall, our experience was positive. It's a great place to go on a nice day especially if you have visitors from out of town. The reason I am only giving it 3 stars is because it's over-priced and, as a local, there are a lot better places to have brunch.
(3)
Shirley B.
This past Sunday I brought a bus load of 53 people to the Cliffhouse Sunday Brunch as part of a tour ot the city. All I can say is FABULOUS! Workng with their Large Grroup/Banquet team before hand was easy. When we arrived at the restaurant (which was packed) they had our tables ready and waiting for us. Services for coffee, and champagne was excellent, and most important the food and view was wonderful. The buffet was always well stocked. they kept the popovers coming out hot and fresh and everything was very tasty. Gold stars all the way around.
(5)
Adrienne M.
Continuing our tradition of brunch buffets for Valentine's Day, my boyfriend and I had brunch here today (we were originally supposed to come last week, but it was postponed due to illness). We were very happy with the food, even at the expensive price ($45 pp). Because we had checked Yelp before we knew not to expect really fancy food (e.g. lobster, crab legs, sushi) and I also knew there were no carving stations, which does seem kind of surprising but is not that big a deal to me. We were impressed at the selection of food and also at how well it was prepared. I have been to similarly expensive brunches with really mediocre food and we were pleased that the food here was very tasty. The selection looks small at first, since it is just one single table area, but when you realize there is no repetition (i.e. both sides of the table have different food), you realize there is actually quite a variety. Some of the highlights on the buffet were: -6 or so interesting looking pasta/fruit salads (but no "traditional" salad) -popovers that were good but not the best I've had (try to get them when they bring out a fresh batch, cold popovers are no good) -breakfast selections including: french toast, bacon, sausage, GREAT scrambled eggs (not overcooked like normal on a buffet) -excellent au gratin potatoes (I had 3 helpings!) -miso-glazed salmon -a tortellini dish with ham that my bf really liked -spicy mac and cheese (was too spicy for me) -excellent steak -FANTASTIC dessert spread (especially if you like chocolate): great chocolate chip cookies, chocolate covered strawberries, flourless chocolate cake, chocolate & vanilla swirl cheesecake and amazing dark chocolate mousse. for non-chocoholics, there was a pecan tart, a few mini-fruit tarts, and an assortment of non-chocolate cookies. There were also mini-blueberry muffins and croissants & rolls. The view was lovely as well (although we were not able to get a coveted table by the window) and we had a nice time afterwards walking around Point Lobos and Ocean Beach and taking pictures. There was also live harp music, which was very nice. It was definitely a fun experience to do once while we live in the bay area and we were impressed by the quality of the food. I don't know that we would come back, because it is expensive and we like to try new things, but I definitely recommend doing it once! A few things that would significantly improve this brunch in my opinion: --don't charge people for non-alcoholic drinks. when you're paying $50 for all you can eat and all you can drink champagne it just seems absurd to not have a 50 cent hot chocolate included. that kind of nickel-and-diming just detracts from the experience they are going for. --move apart the tables. we were sitting so close to the table for 2 next to us that it was basically a table for 4. it was awkward and we felt like we couldn't really talk to each other freely without them hearing us. i think they felt the same way since they barely spoke at all. it was also annoying whenever we had to get up from our table and climb across them, which was often, since it was a buffet. --let tables of 2 sit by the window. others have commented on this as well, but the tables by the windows are all for 4+, which is lame. --bring out baskets of hot popovers to each table instead of having them on the buffet: nobody likes cold popovers!
(4)
Anne C.
Hubby brought me here for my birthday last Sunday. It was our first time to enjoy the lovely spot that we had heard about for years and years. Some of the dishes were better than others. Loved the gratin potatoes but they were probably very fattening! Enjoyed the eggs and the salads. Can't say anything about the meats as all in our party were vegetarians. The champagne was freely poured but the coffee, not so much. Had to flag down a waitress to get a refill! Go figure. The desserts were quite tasty. Loved the butterscotch pudding in the egg shell. The chocolate dipped macaroons were quite yummy too. I loved the chocolate mousse but couldn't eat it all so freely shared with hubby and the others. We enjoyed the view and would probably come back for another special occasion.
(4)
Amy F.
One of the best brunches I've ever had, and I've had some amazing brunches! Everything was perfectly prepared, and the creative California cuisine was diverse enough to accommodate everyone in our large party. The pineapple glazed salmon was everyone's favorite, and one of the best pieces of fish I've ever eaten. The pastries were also wonderful, which is unfortunately rare to find in the USA. The champagne itself was high quality, and our glasses were never less than half full. The staff was friendly and attentive. Oh, and the view! Spectacular! I cannot recommend the champagne brunch highly enough!
(5)
Chelle K.
We wanted to do something special for my mom's birthday, so instead of taking her to dinner, we opted to take her out for a Sunday champagne brunch at the Cliff House. Our reservation was scheduled for 12pm, but because of unusual traffic and a marathon that was going on, we were a half hour late. I called ahead of time to let the restaurant know and they said that they would do their best to fit us in anyway even though they were completely booked. Upon arrival, the hostess was friendly and went above and beyond to accommodate our party of 5. We even got a beautiful table with a view of the ocean even though we were late. The brunch spread was AMAZING. From the sushi, lox, crab legs, shrimp and lobster to the prime rib, the eggs benedict, french toast, fresh fruit, salads, and decadent pastries, the Cliff House is beyond delicious and offers a beautiful selection. The bottomless champagne (and/or Mimosas depending on your preference) is a nice compliment to brunch. The view is simply breathtaking and a the scenery surrounding the historical Cliff House is the perfect place to walk off what could be a very heavy meal.
(4)
S H.
Love their Champagne Sunday Brunch. Elegant music by the harpist, breathtaking ocean views and the food is always delicious. Parking can be a challenge so arrive with time to spare before your reservation.
(4)
Cristina C.
This is a review for the banquet facilities of the Terrace Room, not the champagne brunch. We held our wedding reception here in April 2011, and Virginia, Masoud, and the entire staff did a fabulous job. The views are amazing, and the room is the perfect size for a party of 80-100. The food and drinks were excellent, and fairly priced for the area. I cannot offer enough praise for the staff; multiple people commented on how well the reception was run, and I never at any point felt that something was not going well or being mishandled. We were extremely happy with our decision to have our reception here, and would highly recommend it to anyone.
(5)
Monica D.
I would have rated this place with a 5 however, my table had corroded tops on the salt & pepper shakers, so bad that the S&P would not even flow out. I had to ask 2 different servers if they would change them for us. One server did, but he just alternated with another table. Didn't even take it off of the floor. The however, was great. I was taking my Mother here for her Belated Mother's Day Gift & my Birthday. We will definitely come back. Thanks.
(4)
Benjamin I.
Was hesitant coming here cause it seems primarily tourist driven and I typically associate great views with s***** food but was surprised to enjoy my lunch. Everything with the exception of the host being seemingly oblivious to waiting guests was good.
(3)
Greg G.
The scenery is beautiful. Nothing like watching the ocean waves crash on the shore from the second story room. I know they have different names for each room..I was in the room just to the right after walking in the front door. You are upstairs at that point H'ordeurves, I had the half dozen poached shrimp and cocktail sauce and the cheese plate-- Very tasty. Wine selection by the glass is a short list however and i thought it should have been a much longer. The bar is open till 11pm and casual dress is great. btw, this was a Thursday night and the room was near empty from 8pm. I have heard how popular it is and reservations necessary. Perhaps I was just lucky though.
(4)
Alex M.
simply I love this place. The food is really good The atmosphere and views are stunning and who doesnt like free Sonoma champagne ?
(5)
jason g.
Good service along with the million dollar view should automatically warrant this place a minimum of 4 stars. If there food was anything like the view, this would be a 5 star review. If you were to review the food, it's probably 2 stars. The fried calamari was over battered. The San Franciscan which is the eggs benedict with crab meat was good. The fresh fruit was very sweet. The chicken ceasar salad was average. Price came out to 54.00 A little pricey for this place but then again you are paying for the view.
(3)
Joe K.
I would really rate this place maybe around a 3.5 but nothing higher. My brother and I decided to give this place a try after hearing rave reviews about the location and quality of food. We had a party of 9 and attended the Champagne Brunch on 12/26. Getting to find the actual brunch itself led us to a two-flight staircase which brought us down to a bar and the champagne brunch. Before approaching the actual brunch we decided to grab a couple of drinks. The beverage service was not too great because they only had one bartender at 1:00pm on a Sunday?? Our group waited 35 plus minutes for cocktails which was kind of annoying. Very big disappointment.... At 1:30 we proceeded to a large banquet room which consisted of multiple round and long shaped tables. In the center of the brunch was where the food was located, and to be honest it was kind of awkward because right next to the food were other peoples tables and most people in our group felt that we might have been getting in the way. The table behind us had about 20 people and they were very quiet. I noticed from the minute we got there that it was very quiet and there was no music being played which made the whole dining experience kind of awkward since my family is pretty loud. I felt like I was dining in an old cafeteria... Moving on to the food selection and quality. I have to admit I was somewhat impressed in most dishes however the pasta that was served cold was not very good at all. I stuck with the french toast and sausages as well as a croissant. I found the quality of the food to be actually pretty good, however I noticed the temperature of the food being served as not as hot as most would expect it. Overall the food was good to very good. The champagne that they service is their own, private label which wasn't the greatest. We instead opted on the Dom Perignon champagne from the Bar which ran $60 a bottle but it was a lot better than what was being served to us. Total cost ended up being around $600 for 9 people. I probably will come back but not for the buffet, maybe the restaurant for sure. P.S. The website indicates that they have valet parking, however that is incorrect. We had to park a half a mile away. Maybe they should update their website?
(3)
Mathilde B.
We went there for the birthday of a friend on a Sunday morning, it was really great! Atmosphere is ok (mostly seniors and families but can be great if you're a lot of friends, they have big tables) Fancy and beautiful view on the ocean, of course better when sunny and blue sky...good luck with that ;) Food is amazing, I still remember the egg benedicts after 2 months...
(5)
Joe R.
This is a treat, wonderful location with amazing views of the ocean. I am not sure of the history, but the place has been around in some form for many years. At around $30+ a person it's pricy but the food doesn't disappoint. I had monkfish, saw the snapper & stuffed chicken. Beautiful presentation & no complaints in the taste area. Definitely worth a visit!
(4)
Shannon K.
Five stars for a high-end SF champagne buffet brunch experience with great ambiance, superb views of Ocean Beach, friendly staff, delicious and creative culinary treats and endless bubbly. This is definitely a pricey brunch-- I'd say you'd come out spending at least $90 for two during the champagne buffet brunch. Here are some quick tips: 1) Pop-Overs: DELICIOUS. The Cliff House is famous for its deliciously dangerous popovers, which are oh-so-soft on the inside and melt in your mouth. I can seriously eat a dozen popovers. Be careful though-- you have to eat them ASAP when they're piping hot or else you'll lose the warm, pillowy softness and crisp outside. If they've been sitting out for too long on the buffet table, they'll taste MEH, so get them when they come out or else you'll probably be more disappointed than impressed. 2) Upscale champagne brunch-- you'll see lots of people having bridal / baby showers, birthdays, celebrating anniversaries, etc. Basically, this is the backdrop for a nice luncheon for couples, families (not really for children though), vacationers and those who can afford it. If you're like me (e.g., young working professional), you'd probably dine here once in a while (e.g., anniversary or birthday). 3) The food is really good. I mean.. for a typical brunch buffet, you'd expect to see items like scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, macaroni salad or coleslaw, salad bar, lots of desserts, rice, sides of meat, etc. You'll get that here but with a culinary twist because it will be more delicate, fancy and upscale. You'll get a salad, but it'll have seared tuna with intricate little vegetables and exotic touches. Everything has a little twist to it that makes it really good and creative. This is definitely NOT like a Hometown Buffet / Souplantation-type of restaurant. You'll get a great sampling of rich food while also satisfying your love for buffets. 4) The view is fantastic, so come on a sunny or clear day. It's also great because there's tons to do and see around Ocean Beach. You can walk to the old bathhouse, which is a landmark, and you can grab your bikes or walking shoes to tour around Ocean Beach. You can make an afternoon of it: brunch at the Cliff House, tour the bathhouse, walk/bike around Ocean Beach and enjoy the sites and sounds. It gets windy, so bring a jacket! 5) The executive chef walks around to see how people are enjoying the food. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with the chef(s). They're super nice! 6) Harpist: Gotta have music during your champagne brunch. :) You'll hear Broadway melodies and classical music-- great! 7) Unlimited champagne. Cheers!
(5)
Chris H.
I've never been to a buffet where everything was so good especially given this one has an excellent variety. There was so much good stuff I didn't have room on my first or second plates for bacon. My 2-top was a little too close to 2 other 2-tops next to me to the point where a private conversation was impossible but that was ok with me this time. Great experience and well worth $45pp.
(5)
Fe C.
Food, view and service was great. We were there for Mother's Day and the only thing i have to complain about is our 2 year old son only took bits and pieces of the grapes, but we were charged full childrens price of $29!
(4)
Ross A.
Went here for brunch on Father's Day and had a great time, but it wasn't worth the price. Adding a carving station with well done filet mignon (I prefer rare to medium) for an extra $14 per person was not worth it. The views are gorgeous, but the food and champagne were only good at best. For $59/person I expected exceptional food and an all star waiting staff. I had to ask for fresh coffee several times, and our used plates stacked up on our table even though we weren't eating very quickly. Go here if it has always been on your San Francisco to-do list, but otherwise there are far more delicious places you can go to for $59.
(2)
Kristen S.
The Cliff House really deserves just three stars for its food. We were seated within 5 minutes of our 10 am reservation, but every trip to the food required waiting in line.... and the strawberries disappeared as soon as they landed on the table. They simply couldn't keep up with the traffic! But they get one more star for the view. The best part, however, is the never ending flow of champagne. Can't beat that!
(4)
Cleo M.
I feel obligated to write a review after going to the Sunday Brunch yesterday. The brunch was a complete and utter disappointment. When you read the other reviews and they say that they tables are 2" apart it is not hyperbole, literally, the tables for 2 are set 2" apart. Not possible to have a private conversation, the wait staff is literally leaning over your shoulders repeatedly to clear plates or fill glasses. Totally cramped and claustrophobic. Nice view but you can't enjoy it unless you happen to be the first table against the window. Now the food. Very small selection. More desert selection than entree or veg. Only one lettuce salad. The salad was baby lettuce and what I assume were heirloom tomatoes but very overdressed with a nice balsamic dressing. There was a nice shrimp salad and two pasta salads but no salad bar other lettuce salad option. No fresh veg. Nice melon and fruit selection with a brie and one other cheese but still no real selection. Entree, good eggs Benedict; scrambled eggs, bacon and sausage but how to you miss on these standards. Mac and Cheese - excellent. Marinated beef that was ho hum... Deserts, a nice variety but still nothing that you couldn't get elsewhere. Bottom line for me, not worth the money at all. Mediocre food, terrible ambiance, not enough selection. If you want to go to the Cliff House for the experience I would recommend one of their other dining rooms. If you are looking for a great buffet with a water view I would recommend Lordships in Berkeley. Much better food, service, and ambiance.
(1)
Alex J.
Good restaurant and bar along the Pacific Coast Highway 1 which is part of the larger Pacific Coastal Highway. It was mid-October, one of the best times of year and i remember it was a clear afternoon ~ 70f/21c None of us were particularly hungry at the time of visit as I wish we were. I could have my breakfasts, lunches and possibly early dinners with a glass of whisky at the bar! If I ever go back to San Francisco I will definitely pay the Cliff House a visit again. Very good place indeed.
(4)
Beatriz O.
I love this place! Yes I do, after passing by the Cliff house many, many times I finally had the opportunity to eat here. After spending a day at the Legion (which is just a mile a way) the BFF and I wanted to finish our day on a high note. We arrived at 3:45 and were told by an extremely nice host they were closed until 4:15. They were prepping for dinner, my friend and I decided to sit at the bar until we could be seated. We had an amazing chowder with more than one clam... Great texture and blend if flavors. Once we were actually seated we had an amazing view of Ocean Beach...both my friend and I went with the frutti de mare....WOW it had everything I could ever dream of in a sea food dish. Clams, shrimp, scallops, crab, fish, pasta and a hearty tomato sauce. All I can say is you have to try it. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. Dessert is a must, get the sour cream chocolate cake....divine! Great staff, wonderful food, amazingly moist chocolate cake, breath taking views...couldn't ask for more.
(5)
C T.
Comfort place to enjoy yourself and relax. Nothing to worry about except just enjoying their amazing foods and the view of the ocean waves, love their brunch and dinner there. Even though the price is a bit high but its worth it. I will recommand friends and family there for sure, also the waiters there are friendly too.
(4)
Nina M.
I went here for the Dine About Town Lunch with a few of my friends. We all ordered the Butternut Squash Soup - which we ALL recommend to whoever comes here. If there was a tub of it, we'd eat it. The entrees we had were: Local Rock Cod - really good, but the salad portion of this meal - while also good - had too much white balsamic vinaigrette for my taste. I gave it to my friends to finish off. Vidalia Onion & Chard Ravioli - while it was alright and quite tasteful, I wasn't a huge fan. Pulled Pork Sandwich - A great choice. While the name doesn't sound appetizing and something you'd expect from any off-the-street hole in the wall, it was very tasty (and so were the sweet potato fries that come with it). After eating the sandwich and the fries, you'll be quite full and need that nice walk afterward that can be found behind the Cliff House. The dessert was a great choice (a bit pricey @ $9 a plate). Sorbet - pretty good aside from the grapefruit sorbet (mango, grapefruit, and blackberry sorbets were given). Lava Cake - What can I say? I have a weakness for lava cake. It wasn't outstanding, but it was quite tasty and a great choice for those with a weak spot for chocolate and gelato. Lemon Souffle - Pretty good, and a good choice for those that likes lemon or is craving it for dessert. If I had to rethink dessert, I would probably get the lemon souffle again.
(4)
Jane N.
Really a 3.5. We went here on the rainy Sunday morning following daylight savings time, so we were already in good spirits having 'gained' an hour. Overall, the service was really great. We shared the American eggs dish, which the waiter was nice enough to split onto two plates, giving each of us probably more than we would have received had we split it ourselves. We also shared the salad, which was OK. Every waiter and wait staff was attentive and polite and professional. Overall, the food is OK, but could quickly and easily be improved (for instance, they could remove the salt and pepper shakers from the table and offer fresh cracked pepper and salt grinders). While the potatoes were OK, they could have been greatly improved if they would have been turned into tasty home fried style potatoes. Little changes could quickly and solidly change the quality and reception of the food. The view and the feeling of being in this historic building is worth a visit, but the food is just OK and a bit over-priced for what you get.
(3)
Valerie E.
My new favorite brunch. Unlimited food, sweets, champagne, and coffee in a room with a beautiful view and live harpist! Definitely fit for a special occasion or some much needed winding down. Make sure to make reservations though! I'll most definitely be back because I need another butterscotch pot de creme!!!!! So cute, and so tasty.
(4)
Audrey T.
Came for Sunday morning brunch back in September with my cousins, brother, and niece for my brother who was going off to college. Unlimited food and champagne? Yes, please! Everything was pretty good. The egg benedicts were especially scrumdiddlyumptious! The buffet tables were filled with bagels, lox, cream cheese, copious amounts of fresh fruit, pasta, salad, baked goods, practically everything! You will not leave hungry, trust me! There's a harpist here too. I was dared to go up to her and ask her to play Flo Rida's "Low." Would've sounded bomb on the harp, I'm sure, but inappro-pro, much? Yea, I doubt the other guests would have appreciated that. The view was absolutely gorgeous. I only wish that it'd been a sunny day, but that's typical San Francisco weather for ya. It would have been more amazing on a sunny day with blue skies. On to the embarrassing: I dropped a blueberry muffin on the floor and had no idea what to do. This is a fancy place, people! What would Miss Etiquette have done? Enlighten me, please.
(4)
Maria Y.
A great place. I must go if your in SF or visting. Has the best bread. Everything is great. Sometimes you have to wait up to an hour for a table in the morning. Thats why only four stars
(4)
Nicholas N.
I came to the cliff house for a Sunday Easter brunch not sure what all the hype was about until I got there. Wow they had a lamb station, shrimp and crab. No Oysters but everything was very tasty! Loved it and want to come back for more!!!
(4)
Ida C.
my friends were married here a few weeks ago and the setting was perfect for the intimate 50-guest event. the bride and groom had been engaged for some time and since his tahitian familia was visiting town the month of july, the couple decided to throw together a wedding.. with just under 6 weeks of planning. oy vey. it sounds like a disaster in the making but after the bride chose the venue, i think the staff and venue's event coordinator did a spectacular job of helping her with arrangements. the couple married on the terrace and it was damn cold outside (hit or miss with weather in that part of town) so the nuptials were kept under 15 mins before the staff shooed us back inside where guests were served hor dourves and there was an open bar with well drinks. it would have been an absolutely perfect setting had the weather cooperated. i had the surf n turf which was fine except my steak was overdone (again with the overcooked meat :( ). one of my friends had the lamb chops which i think was the best entree and another really enjoyed her vegetarian ravioli w/ edamame. there's a small dance floor in the corner and from every point in the room you'll have a view of the ocean. the staff was consistently friendly and timely; overall, a great venue that lent itself well to one of the most honest and heartwarming weddings i've been to.
(4)
Sassy G.
Gorgeous view even on a cloudy day! Came here for my 40th bday and wasn't disappointed. The staff was friendly and very courteous. Bottomless champagne... it wasn't too dry, which is the way I like it with a hint of sweetness. Food was good and liked most things. My favorite was the eggs benedict and the shrimp scampi with caviar :) All you can eat foods-galore for $48 per person ....
(4)
Jason H.
My chicken sandwich was fantastic. The view would have been awesome if the weather was cooperating. The service was good but not over the top.
(4)
Katherine P.
Champagne brunch with a view and good food? Heck yeah! The Terrace room has great views of the Pacific ocean, and is super bright and airy during the day with the sunlight streaming through. There is a harp player that plays lightly in the background, and she doesn't play obtrusively at all. The seating is not plentiful, but that just means that almost everyone has a good view. The spread of food is extensive without being overwhelming, and everything actually tastes great (versus those brunch places that have way too many items and they each taste subpar). Today they had scrambled eggs, bacon and sausage, french toast with apple sauce topping (YUM!), miso grilled salmon and smoked salmon, eggs benedict, roasted cauliflower and mushrooms, sauteed snap peas, baked mac and cheese, cheese tortellini, seafood paella, steak, potatoes au gratin, and various pasta salads. They also had a great fruit salad and sliced fruit spread, which was very fresh and juicy, and the desserts and pastries - omg! I loved the blueberry muffin, banana bread (moist and sooo good), and chocolate mousse. There were also cheese and breads, and various other things that I'm sure I am not mentioning. My only gripe is that seating takes a long time, even with reservations. Other than that, good place to take someone for a special occasion, considering the brunch price!
(4)
Adam B.
I had, in 28 years, the best brunch possible. We had made a reservation previously and I am really glad. The place was really crowded and many people were waiting for a seat. I would highly recommend making a reservation. Our seat was next to the window and we had a beautiful view of the Ocean on a clear, sunny Sunday. We were seated next to Sammy Hagar. You know Sammy, from Van Halen. He was there with his family and was so close, I could have straightened his hair (the man has some serious curly hair). Back on topic, the food was great. They had an assortment of foods that ranged from eggs, to oysters, to sugary treats. The food was wonderful and I wish I could have eaten more but I hit my wall pretty quickly. Unlimited champagne, need I say more? If they had a tiny bed available, this would have been heaven for me. I had a wonderful experience. The staff was very friendly, the food was warm and tasty, and the view was amazing. I would suggest arriving early as the parking can be tough and you might have to walk a bit to get to the cliff house. It's pricey but well worth the price.
(5)
Mark W.
One of my very good friends brought me here a little while back and it was a great experience. It's a very intimate setting for a brunch and the dining room is classy and it has a great setting with a view and near the Pacific Ocean... The selection is not that large but sometimes that is for the better so the chefs can really concentrate on the quality of their food. This is important in both regular restaurants and All You Can Eat Buffets.... It's not cheap by any means but I think it's fair considering the setting. I've heard that getting reservations here is not that easy so be sure to reserve it early if you have a Special Occasion you want to celebrate and once you get that reservation, try to maximize your stay here with the quality food and amazing surroundings....
(4)
Olivia L.
This is a review of Masoud, the banquet coordinator at the Cliff House. If you book the Terrace Room for a wedding, he will be your day-of coordinator. He's rude, he's inflexible, and the answer is "no" to most whatever you want. 1) We arrived on time for our 1pm appointment on December 31st. Masoud kept us waiting 15 minutes and arrived smelling of cigarette smoke. I can only think that he was finishing a smoke, despite our appointment. We were on a very tight schedule, with appointments stacked, and the next one downtown, so this was not only rude, but unprofessional, and raised an interesting question: Would he hold up the wedding sneaking off for cigarettes?! He certainly kept us waiting long enough. 2) Having read other review of the Terrace Room, I asked up front what the food and beverage minimum was. He told me it was $8k for the evening, and $7k for the day. Ok, the only date they had left was the last weekend in October, and I know the sun sets at 6:14pm (that is, disappears entirely). Since the ceremony has to be on the terrace (included with the Terrace Room), I asked if we could start at 5:30pm instead, and the response was absolutely not, NO EXCEPTIONS. Ok. I asked him what we were supposed to do with the terrace after dark, and he said that it was our "problem", repeatedly. Er, ok. Their website states that you have to be off the terrace after dark, so that cuts your venue space in half, and removes the ceremony space altogether if the sun sets completely by 6:15pm! After about 5 minutes of negativity, he said that we could rent lights, but the Cliff House would not help us with that. 3) Ok, so to start the ceremony earlier Masoud suggests that we book both the day and evening slots for the low low price of ... $14k, which I think is reasonable, if we can get $14k of stuff. I looked at the sample menus (tops out at $75pp + alcohol) and asked how he could get us to $14k for 80 people (~ $175 pp). I'm willing to pay the money, but I want something *for* my money. I suggested a chocolate fountain. He said no, not even if you bring it in from outside yourself. Errr...ok. I asked if there was an open bar option (like $50pp), and he said no, you must pay the tab (and the tab will not be broken down, they're just going to give you a number). Errr....ok, that screams of space for padding for me (see "last thought" below). 4) I asked him what restrictions were on the space, since there seemed to be a lot of things that we could not do. For planning, you see, that is good to know up front. He said that there the Cliff House was a federal building and there were "thousands of things that you cannot do" and he wouldn't tell us what they were. That was totally unacceptable to me -- particularly since I work in a federal building. He suggested that we would have to pay $14k for the privilege of using the Terrace Room, irrespective of whether we met the food or beverage minimum. At that point, we left. He was a total waste of time, had a giant chip on his shoulder, and wasn't that bright (massive understatement). I would have serious problems if he were my day-of coordinator. Last thought: In general, I would want a contract that spelled out every contingency and offered a flat rate for the goods and services provided. The variability in the alcohol cost (it depends on how much your guests drink, and the drinks are cheap) and the relatively cheap food menus means that the minimum is a stretch for smaller groups. I'm looking for a contract with no surprises. If I have to pay more up front, I'm ok with that, but I don't want my wedding night to be ruined by getting a bill that is much higher than expected, or getting a bill that is padded with "rent" to make the room minimum. Having said that, the Cliff House Terrace Room is nice, has a fabulous view, and could be good for September when the daylight lasts longer (summertime is too foggy because Land's End = fog head). Also, you can probably do 100 people for $10k, even including the variable alcohol costs, so if you're looking for a less expensive venue for a local (no out of town guests who need hotels and transportation to the hotels downtown) wedding, this would fit the bill. (But you wouldn't know exactly how much the bill was until the end of the night...)
(1)
Alex B.
Sunday champagne brunch was excellent! We had a table overlooking the ocean and our waiter kept the champagne, coffee and tea coming. There was a huge selection to choose from for the brunch - traditional 'breakfast' items: scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, eggs benedict, smoked salmon, fruit. Also paella, pasta salads, bread rolls, and a lot of desserts. You need to allow plenty of time to eat here - let your food digest a little, then get up and go round the buffet again! It is a relaxing atmosphere - there was a harpist playing while we were there- perfect Sunday morning relaxation.
(5)
Payal C.
I came here for a champagne brunch with my family for my birthday and it was absolutely fantastic. The area is beautiful. We took a walk around before and after brunch. The view is just stunning. The food is great too. There's a plentiful buffet and the mimosas just kept coming! The coffee is good, there's something for everyone here. Its nice that its a beautiful place that's great for a special occasion but you also can dress casually. I normally don't love having to dress up just to go eat, so that's a huge plus.
(5)
Nick H.
Sat at the bar table. Good service from the wait Staff. Been going there for the last year on Tuesdays 50% off wines. This last visit all of a sudden the waiter informed us that you can only get half off the wine when you purchase an entree, this was new to us even after ordering three or four appetizers plus four half bottles of veuve clicquot. Requested to speak to the Manger by the name of Ralph Burgin who when he came to our table seemed to be very rude not even a good evening or a smile. He provided no explanation other then this is policy and got up and left, so not professional. You would think he would be more polite and understanding but no.
(1)
WhitePeach S.
I came here a few months ago for the sunday champagne brunch. The food selection was decent and champagne was very refreshing! At $45 per person, it is a bit indulgent for breakfast food but the view, the service, and pleasant ambiance make the price worth it.
(4)
Laura B.
Amazing views + endless mimosas + great assortment of sweet and savory brunch selections + your own personal harp player = Amazing Brunch experience! Come hungry and be prepared to spend $50 pp.
(5)
Oleg H.
Been here a few times after the remodel. The service quality here is pretty high. Views are great, id recommend this place as day venue, the weird beige walls make it seem kinda off - at night. Its a slightly better than your average tourist trap.
(3)
Carmina B.
My husband and I had our wedding reception here last year. Nothing beats the location, food was delicious, and wait staff during the reception were professional and accommodating. I wish I can say the same for the events catering director (Virginia Casey). We had a negative experience with her. We were shocked to see our final bill that evening. You would think that as your wedding catering manager, you can expect them to be your advocate and look out for you as they know that brides are overwhelmed and stressed. This wasn't the case. In addition to numerous fees (dance floor, cake cutting, corkage, set-up/breakdown) and a standardized gratuity charge, we were penalized as the alcohol minimum was not met. We then realized that we could of spent our money towards our guests instead of paying more towards the venue. More appetizers could of been ordered or an upgrade in dinners or in wine selection to subsidize the alcohol minimum, in case it wasn't met, but instead we got the hook. When we expressed our disappointment and surprise for the penalty fee, she was nonchalant about it all, didn't offer any empathy and declined to offer any type of compensation at all. This left a very sour taste in our mouths and have decided to not recommend this venue to our friends. I encourage you to seek alternate venues for your event reception, one that highlights customer service.
(2)
Janet H.
A group of us went to the Cliff House Terrace Room Champagne Brunch for Sunday brunch. There are spectacular views of Seal Rock, the ocean and the Sutro Baths. Shown to our table, we were seated overlooking the ocean. We order coffee which is okay for multiple cups. You are given a choice of champagne or sparking cider as a non-alcoholic option. Immediately we jumped to the brunch table in the center of the room. There was a great spread of breakfast items and lunch items, and some of my favorites were a cheese tortellini, smoked salmon, and au gratin potatoes. For dessert, I enjoyed the vanilla bean creme puff and a slice of cheesecake. But there is many more items to enjoy as listed on their website. While enjoying our meals, there was a harp player who played beautifully. While the brunch is on the pricey side, you get great value in the quality of food served. This is a great option for relatives, special occasions and out-of-town guests. We'll be back soon.
(4)
Armanius M.
This is not a review of the quality of food or the venue. But rather, it's about the lack of professionalism. My now wife and I were looking for a venue for a destination wedding reception in San Francisco. Cliff House was our first choice after doing a lot of internet research. I contacted Cliff House and was informed that our wedding date was still available. I informed Cliff House that we could not put a deposit without first personally visiting the venue and eating at the restaurant. I also informed Cliff House that we would make a trip out to San Francisco in May. The representative told me that Cliff House would place a "hold" on our wedding date for us. I checked with Cliff House a couple of weeks later about the "hold" and informed them of our upcoming trip to SF to interview vendors. A few days later, I was told that someone else was also interested on our wedding date, and that Cliff House would no longer "hold" the date for us unless we signed a contract and put a deposit within 48 hours. In short, the "hold" placed for us was really not a "hold" at all. What's the use of a "hold" if the "hold" only applies when no one else wanted the date!? Yes, Cliff House gave us the right of first refusal. But that has no value when Cliff House clearly was informed of our situation as out-of-towners. We understand that Cliff House is a business, and there was no guarantee that we would have chosen Cliff House as our wedding reception venue. Nevertheless, Cliff House should have then not informed us that they were "holding" the date for us. The story does have a happy ending though. My beautiful wife and I got married in San Francisco, and had a great time at Ondine Sausalito. The food was great. The service was great. The views are awesome too.
(1)
Jodie B.
The cliff house brunch is best enjoyed with friends over a few hours...really. Mmmmm.... The food was terrific, the choices were outstanding, and who doesnt like endless champagne? Plus, the view....ah the view. Almost as delicious as the food. Now, the cost, that's another story....but, I guess when you're sipping champagne from your always full glass, and munching on some scrumptious goodies from the buffet....complaining is a little silly. Did I mention that the staff is very nice?
(5)
Matthew H.
Twas an unexpectedly immaculate day in SF on the afternoon my homegirl & I had brunch reservations at Cliff House. The service was friendly and attentive. They accommodated us with an window table with a spectacular view of Ocean beach, which was a nice surprise. While the brunch buffet was beautifully merchandised, the flavors were off par. Breakfast meats: cold Bow tie pasta salad: Too sweet. More Gorgonzola for balance. Orzo Salad: Bland and just weird. Caviar Pasta: Al dente with fishy bubble wrap. Champagne: Migraine in a flute. Orange Juice: From concentrate. The Paella w/ chorizo and the desert selections were the highlights of the meal. Some of the best macaroons I've ever had. Would I return? Ummmm... halve the price and maybe. Almost worth it for the ambiance alone.
(3)
Christina B.
Let me start off by saying this place was not my choice to eat at. After reading some reviews I knew what to expect. Yes the view is wonderful, but as a native I could care less. Definitley a place to bring out of towners. I felt like we were eating at the country club. Our poor waitress did keep my champagne glass full, but looked miserable being there. The hostess kept apologizing to all the guest she seated for the wait. There was a group there when we arrived who were finished eating, but stayed 1 1/2 extra hours to chat and catch up. I could understand they would want their money's worth, but then again move your butts so the rest could get a chance to eat. Seating arrangement can definately be tight if you're along the walls. I sat in the middle so I'm glad not to feel any butt cheeks on the back of my neck from someone trying to get by. While most of the food was rather bland, I did enjoy the salmon! But the bacon (undercooked), sausage (bland), steak (bland), eggs benedict (semi bland), sweet potatoes (gross), scalloped potatoes (ehh bland). Some of the deserts were yummy. I had a cream puff with vanilla, fruit tart, apricot cake, and chocolate mousse. The mouse was rather thick and heavy. A place I guess you have to try atleast once.
(3)
Damon S.
Great for a largish party. If you want a quite brunch this may not be the place for you. As everyone has said great views. Good to very good food and as you would expect plentiful. Everything from eggs to shrimp, multiple desert options etc...... Bar service was very slow. The room is light and open but can be somewhat loud if full. The Champagne, while not top shelf, was poured regularly. Great for tourist and locals. Would return with group again.
(4)
R H.
Came here for a wedding in October. The food from the packaged menu was good, but not great. The salmon was cooked well, but the polenta was..... interesting. Service was adequate, though I did feel rushed when they tried to take my salad and dessert plate away while I was still eating. Unusual.
(3)
Michelle C.
They start you off with a basket of popovers (bread),. Careful they can be addicting. Don't eat too much or you will get full off the free bread! I always get the egg benedict's! The view is amazing. The ocean is right benneth the resturant! Watching the waves and eating breakfast is the best! After go for a hike on the trail or the beach to work off those popovers !
(4)
A J.
4 stars for the popovers and the view... seriously, I thought I was eating the food came out of Denny's kitchen!
(2)
Polina S.
I came here with my family for a post graduation brunch. The view here is fabulous and the decor of the room where the hold brunch has just the right feel. The wait staff was very pleasant and accommodating except it was kind of hard to get there attention and ask for more champagne since they were kind of running around. There was a harpist playing music throughout duration of the brunch. This added to the classy ambiance of the place. As for the food, it was delicious I can't deny it, but I think for such a pricey brunch place their selection was quite limited. I had brunch at the Hyatt Hotel in Millbrae once and they had about three times as much of a selection. Next time I will definitely go to the Hyatt and pay less too.
(4)
Colleen B.
You love the Ocean? You like linen napkins and tableclothss? Fan of bubbly and fairly good food? Then what are you waiting for?!
(4)
Vi N.
Took the family here for Brunch for our bday on Sunday...and man was it great!!! First off, the view from our table was amazing! It was a perfect day in San Francisco, clear skies and people at the beach enjoying the weather. The buffet was yummy! The eggs Benedict were scrumptious!! The Salmon Gravlox and all the fixings, the bacon, sausage and everything was delicious! All the fresh fruit and sweet desserts were great as well!!! Even the free flowing Champagne was good and also the service was sweet!! Any server who can handle my family..hats off to you and great job!!! We will definitely be coming back!!
(4)
Shwetha R.
We had a launch party lunch here. Very good food with plenty of vegetarian options on the buffet and a splendid dessert platter. Our host was a very warm and chatty guy who made sure we herbivores got to eat well! I was quite stuffed at the end of the meal (mostly thanks to my sweet tooth), so I hit the Ocean beach right next door to walk a few. PS: The view on the terrace room is very very scenic, make sure you get a corner window seat
(4)
Jenny K.
Perhaps you would call me cheap. I like to think of myself as thrifty ... a cautious spender, mostly. Despite this, I have chosen to go to the pricey Cliff House Terrace Room for its champagne brunch TWICE during the past year. Most love to impress the out-of-town guests with the spectacular view, but the first time I was there turned out to be one of the foggiest days ever, then the second time I was there turned out to be so sunny that my party decided it best to have the staff let the curtains down to keep us from scorching our retinas. My fellow lushes appreciate the fact that they can drink themselves blind whilst still feeling somewhat cultured since there is a harpist playing soothing music in the background. Both times I went, it took quite a bit of effort to get our glasses filled regularly. I persisted, of course, and didn't leave until I had a good buzz going on, but it was work, I tell you, to get my drink on!!! Foodies love that the modest-sized buffet is the perfect example of quality trumping quantity. This buffet would be laughed out of Las Vegas due to its small size which rivals no casino buffet. What it lacks in size, it makes up for with its satisfying taste. Where else can you get bacon as well as smoked shrimp with wasabi tobiko and roasted truffled cauliflower? Hmm? My very favorite part of the Cliff House Terrace Room champagne brunch has got to be the design of the recently remodeled structure. I think it is very evident that much thought went into the new layout. The Cliff House is one of the most visited landmarks in San Francisco. There is a large and beautiful restaurant downstairs in addition to the Terrace Room. There is a large bar upstairs as well as another restaurant. The place is always teeming with people straight off the 38 Geary or coming from Ocean Beach and plenty of diners from the various restaurants serving plenty of delicious beverages and meals. That's why it's absolutely marvelous that the entire place has five (? one unisex downstairs and male/female johns upstairs with two stalls each, I believe) toilets. Clearly, someone had his head up his ass when doing the remodel ... HINT: If you're planning to dine at/visit the Cliff House, don't forget to get catheterized first (or wear an astronaut's diaper) or you'll be sorry!!!
(4)
Julie D.
Here's how it breaks down for me: *Food - very good (standard but good quality fare for brunch, the desserts were outstanding) *Drink - also very good (champagne was tasty and had small bubbles, coffee was really good) *Service - good *Ambiance - great view if you get a table next to the window, table spacing is a little close (we didn't like being that close to our "curious" neighbors) The only downsides were the parking and make sure you call and make a reservation.
(4)
Rita A.
The restaurant was beautiful the views was incredible the food was amazing but the service was so so! Would go there again for the food though! :-)I'm addicted to there delicious popovers!!!!!
(4)
Michi V.
We made a reservation 2 weeks in advance for the 2pm seating and came hungry and hopeful for a nice brunch with a pretty view. Sadly, the experience started off with a receptionist, Sarah von Snooty-Snoot, telling us that despite our reservation, we would still have to put our names on "the list" and wait at least 10 minutes. The 10 minutes became 20, children were starting to fuss, blood sugar was running low, and by the time we got our table, the poached eggs on the chafing dish could have been used for a game of golf. Alas, service inside didn't improve very much.... maybe it was the fact that we were the last seating of the day, but the staff barely cleared our table (resulting in dirty plates stacked haphazardly on our dining area). Our table was placed by the side of a wall with barely enough space to squeeze in and out of our seats. One interesting side note was the Russian family next to us who was berated by the manager for bringing their own vodka (smuggled in plastic water bottles... genius!) . The Russian response? "next time, make sure your servers pour us water and then we won't have to bring our own drinks." Prost, Comrades! For the price of brunch, I was definitely expecting much more than what I got. We left only a 5% tip and used the rest of our money to buy ice cream. Which means that we, and the Cliff House Staff, both got our just desserts.
(2)
Alexis W.
this has been on my SF bucket list for YEARS so for my birthday this year we finally went. i'm glad i was able to cross it off my list but i would've much rather have gone somewhere like the Ritz or Top of the Mark, for the price. the views were great but thanks to the clientele i felt like i was in a midwestern chain restaurant. i realize now this place is mostly geared toward tourists (apparently) but it totally brings down the classiness level ~ there should be a dress code or something. most people were in jeans, t-shirts, some pull-over windbreakers, etc. There was seriously a guy sitting across from us in track pants, a muscle shirt and fannie pack. WTF?! i'm paying $100+ for this meal and i have to look at THAT for 2 hours?! like i said, would've been WAY better off at another upscale brunch place in the city. the service wasn't great and the food was good but the quality wasn't very high: french toast was soggy, eggs benedict was cold, mac and cheese was congealed at room temperature, etc. don't waste your time here and check out another SF landmark ... unless you ARE a midwestern tourist. in which case, you'll feel right at home.
(2)
Lindsey M.
The view deserves 5 stars, and the food really deserves 3.5. I would give it 4 stars if it weren't so expensive, but the food was really only okay considering the price. I'm not really a breakfast food person and was disappointed with the vegetarian lunch food options. When making reservations,you definitely want to request a table by the window.
(3)
blogme c.
Food was ok, no doubt the ambiance is great (due to the location of this restaurant). But extremely disappointed with its service. We were a group of about 12 people and had ordered coffee & hot chocolates to-go. First of all their coffee wasn't fresh so we requested a fresh coffee. The good thing was they agreed to brew some fresh coffee but were rude. Than we decided to stick around and eat. So we asked for a table, than she responded that since we ordered to-go coffee and hot chocolate we can not sit there.... I felt like now i should just sit there waste that space and see how can they stop us, but didn't do that. After all there is a difference in a civilized educated person and an uncivilized educated (maybe) person. A lot of them i came across had similar views. hopefully they would speak up freely about their terrible service and no manners to how to speak with customers. It didnt look like a busy day or a just another bad day for them. May be one person can have a bad day not the whole staff. Terrible management as it took them hour and half to get us the first not-so-fresh coffee..... Very disappointed. Good they have created a hype about its location but the restaurant is not so great. I did only give it one star - giving respect to the location and beautiful green nature.
(1)
T H.
Come here for the ambience, music, view- not the price for the food, I personally think, could be better. It's not bad quality food per se, but for almost $50/person, I actually expected better. I liked the smoked salmon, strawberry dipped chocolate, jambalaya and unlimited coffee. Overall, the food was really just ok- nothing spectacular. Like I said, come here for the view.
(3)
Zorro J.
Delicious!! Classy but Chill It's got a dressier formal terrace on the bottom floor and more casual bistro area on top. Great bar - mimosas were good so were the Bloody Mary's. Food was excellent- sandwiches, seafood- can't go wrong here- and not too pricey for what you get! They even serve you these pancake- muffin things instead of bread, sooo unique and yummy!! Best part? The view, wow- you can see the sutro bath ruins right next door. Very memorable. Great service. Kinda touristy crowd though, understandably.
(5)
Jeanette C.
We got married here in October and it was a fabulous experience from the very first contact until we left in our limo. Virginia and Masoud are talented professionals who were on top of every detail and the food and service were both outstanding. We are still getting rave reviews from our guests. A sunset wedding at the Cliff House is truly a magical experience!!
(5)
Ray H.
Service was nice and non intrusive, which is a big plus. The views are not as good as the sutro side since they are more limited in space.champagne is on par with korbel i.e. kinda sweet, but hell its all you can drink!! but one thing i have to say is if you have the nice view, dont go to crazy cuz the sun in your face while inebriated = a huge head ache later. I was not blown away, but most buffets don't go for that effect i guess. the food was fairly standard for a brunch, but they dont have much variety in the way of protein. seems they concentrated most on pastries and salad.
(3)
Ashlee W.
Brunch was great! The food was pleasing to the eye and delicious tasting. The buffet was always replenished and never looked empty. I had the breakfast meats, eggs, eggs benedict, seasonal fruits, and dessert. All were yummy! The views of the ocean are amazing! The only thing I didnt like is that my boyfriend and I were seated next to this other couple which made if feel like a four top instead of a duce. You could hear their whole conversation. I feel the seating could have been arranged differently.
(4)
Jun B.
By far the Cliff House is my favorite champagne brunch buffet in the city. The food is amazing, the champagne is great, the service is friendly, the views are spectacular. There was just so much great food in the buffet that it would be impossible to remember and list them all in this review. Highlights for me would be the butternut squash salad with walnuts and cranberries, the red and yellow beet salad, Thai beef salad, eggs benedict, macaroni and cheese, steak and scalloped potatoes and the very moist chocolate cake. I enjoyed my four trips to the buffet table so much that I completely forgot to try the french toast and the shrimp. I guess I would have to go back again. Noteworthy as well is their champagne from a local winery in Modesto, Wycliff. I love the sparkling wine's hint of sweetness. Highly recommended.
(5)
Sebastian S.
I'm writing only about the brunch in the Terrace Room. This is an experience where my friend Gus would say "Dawg, you gotta get your shit togetha." Actually, that is exactly what he said. Most everything was good, but the quality and thoughtfulness was lacking, esp. with the prices. I also thought they selection seemed meager, like a potluck where half the people could really cook, but the other half stopped at the Safeway deli or bakery and bought their offerings. We were not seated at the table, although the friend who'd made reservations requested a window seating. Live harpist was a plus, although the acoustics in this room are not the best. I will keep looking for a stellar brunch buffet -- having just returned to the Bay Area from many years in Boston I'm out of touch and will need to plug into Yelps for some suggestions.
(3)
Alexander G.
If you feel like splurging on a fine brunch and have a craving for belle epoque stateliness and opulence, seek no further. Great food, hefty prices, live harp music (evergreens on loop) and unlimited sparkling wine (I'm not convinced it was actual champagne, but I forgot to ask to see the bottle). I don't think it'd be worth it to come on a foggy or cloudy day, though. The view is what makes or breaks your experience here.
(4)
Dan S.
I'm really floored by the number of positive reviews of this place! The only thing I can garner is they're posted mainly by tourists who consider Denny's as the local haute cuisine. Owed someone a dinner, but they chose this place instead. I recoiled at the $45 charge (for breakfast??) but figured it was still cheaper than dinner most places, so I figured what the hell..... Arrived there on time for our reservation, and we were seated quickly at a nice table by a window. Two stars for the view, if you're into this sort of thing. Not in the mood to get potted early on a Sunday, so opted out of the champagne and asked for coffee instead. Obviously, coffee is a rare commodity here, as it took a bit of waiting for it to arrive, whereas the other guests were quickly served champagne. Went to the serving area, as was immedately greeted with an array of salads, breads and pastries, all designed to fill you up early. Being an old buffet pro, I knew to hold off and cruise the other offerings. Tried the shrimp salad, roast beef, a pasta offering and what appears from reading other reviews, their vaunted Eggs Benedict. Returned to our table with a full plate, and noticed that my coffee cup, previously drained, was still empty, a portend of things to come. Dug into my selections, and immediately realized that salt was the primary seasoning, as this food had zero flavor! The beef appeared to be soaked in soy sauce and the shrimp salad was completely devoid of any shrimp taste whatsoever. And then to add to the insult, the Eggs Benedict was presented on a rock-hard muffin half that took lots of sawing with a sharp knife to penetrate. As I said, two stars for the view, but zero stars for the food!! One plate of this was enough for me, and as someone said, "That looks like about $5 worth," it was more than enough for me. Oh yeah, was still waiting for the coffee, so sampled the cheesecake which was OK. Finally grabbed a server long enough for her to drop her champagne bottle and get me some more coffee, but it was a trial! With all the great breakfast places here in the city (Brendas, etc.) I can't understand why anyone would come here unless you're a tourist, which I ain't. In my humble opinion, fugetaboutit!!
(2)
Cat R.
This is one of my favorite places. I really enjoy going to the Sunday Brunch. I love the fresh salmon and fruit and all the wonderful salads they offer. But my favorite is the dessert. I could sit and eat the chocolate moose all day and cheesecake and cookies. And sip Champagne. One person complained that the cups for the champagne are to small. But if you ask politely the waiter will leave a bottle on your table. But I have never had a need to do this because even when I leave my glass is still full. And when you make reservations ask to be seated by a window. It is a little lame to be stuck on the back wall with the mirrors. And the view is so very lovely.
(5)
Amy L.
Awesome service and popovers to die for! Worth going out of your way to dine at - awesome ocean views, too!
(5)
melinda m.
I would really rate this as a 3.5. I decided to surprise the hubby with the Sunday Champagne brunch so he could say he went to the Cliff House at least once while we live here. It has been over a decade since I last came here and it has changed so much... * Space: The area where the Sunday Brunch was a banquet room on the lower floor holding maybe120 persons. The tables were evenly spaced, although you were close enough to hear people's conversations. Since it had been pouring there were still a good number of empty tables around us. * Atmosphere: The place looked and felt fancy all while still being casual. Everyone in attendance dressed in varying manners (from sneakers and jeans to nice slacks and a coat).The food was displayed in an artistic manner directly in the middle of the room. There was plenty of light coming in through the windows and the harpist added a nice, romantic touch to a stormy day. * Drink: Coffee and bottomless champagne at 10AM ... who couldn't love it? There was also orange juice and mimosas offered as well. * Eat: Arrive with an empty stomach and walk away with flavors tantalizing your taste buds and the eggs benedicts, shrimp, tender steak, warm bread and popovers (their specialty!), fresh fruit, fine cheeses, and desserts of all tastes and textures stuffed in your belly. * Service: Accommodating and well organized. My coffee cup and champagne glass were never left empty. The finished plates were always tended to and removed promptly. Overall: I would say coming to the Cliff House for brunch is more for experience and view rather than taste. Although the food was yummy it's not extraordinary. For me, it was the location, historical features and atmosphere that seemed to offer more. Would I come back? Sure, why not...but I would like to try other places first. [Side notes: - Since we take pubtranspo everywhere in the city, parking isn't an issue (and it didn't seem to be an issue on the rainy day we went). However, there are limited spots in front of the restaurant, so get there early. - I would suggest making reservations. Even though it was not crowded when we got there, it helped getting in before those who didn't have reservations]
(3)
Kara R.
We came here while the in-laws were visiting CA. The day before we spent walking all over the city so by this morning we were ready for endless champagne. Really enjoyable brunch with a fantastic view. I just had a few things that needed to be improved to make it perfect. For a 45 dollar brunch I expect some delectable pork. Their sausage was meh and their bacon was just okay. I suppose, though, that I've been spoiled by the Brunch at the Coeur D'Alene resort in which their bacon is glazed with maple syrup. That bacon haunts my dreams. But I digress... The beef offering delicious but left me wanting some horseradish sauce. There weren't very many pastry offerings aside from the desserts and some muffins/scones. I could have gone for a cinnamon roll or a danish or something. Those were my only complaints. All the food was tasty. I believe I ate my weight in shrimp and I lost count of how many glasses of champagne I drank. My favorite desserts were the chocolate covered strawberries and the cheesecake with the pot de creme (in little egg shells) close behind. We were all wearing nice jeans and shirts- no T-Shirts or shorts, and I think we were dressed appropriately. If we had been in the upstairs restaurant we probably would have been a bit under-dressed. The best part was that the fog finally cleared for us to get a good view from out of our window. It was a great visit to SF and I believe the in-laws really enjoyed it.
(4)
Darya K.
I love it! Hot popovers are great. The best eggs Benedict in San Francisco. The view is to die for. Be ready to wait for at least 45 min on Sunday brunch. The bar is available to lube you before a fantastic breakfast.
(5)
Lovetea C.
Good food, champagne is ok, not close to the best. You only get 1.5 hour for dining.
(3)
Debra f.
This is anything but a classic place...We arrive 10 minutes early for Sunday brunch so we went to the bar and order a drink, as we were walking over to the seating stand to see if our table was ready the bartender told us that drinks must be paid at bar before we go to our table, we took care of that and went to the buffet. Our hostess was dresses in free style clothing and the food selection was abit odd, low-mien with vegetables however the noodles were not cooked fully . There was a regular assortment of breakfast goodies, and the harp was the highlight which was nice... Overall I give the experience a three star but I would check the prices for the buffet...A lady never looks at the bill unless she is paying. Service in the buffet was good however at the private tables the hostess and waitress were A bit slow to help us to seating.
(3)
Jame G.
The Food here is not good. The service and view is ok. Its expensive. Your paying for the view.
(1)
Stacey W.
Let just say I have no complaints and they keep the champagne flowing. Great food and service! Totally worth the price and what a lovely view. I heard there where whales jumping, but unfortunately missed them. Next time! I highly recommend coming at least once for the experience. I will be back if I have a chance!
(5)
Kristin E.
I went here for brunch with about 10 friends the other day. It was one of my best friend's birthdays and it was so much fun! Getting there by cab is not too hard, or expensive, it's the getting back that is a pain...what cab hangs out at Point Lobos...I'll tell ya...not many! The selection from the buffet is great, and I especailly liked the salmon with miso as well as the eggs benedict (although I think the hollandaise could have used a little more lemon). The fruit selection is awesome, and the sweet desserts are, well, too good. I ate a lot of them :) The endless champagne was nice, obviously, and I probably had a bit too much of it, because I was so tired once I got home :) This seems to be a common theme with me though, because if anything is endless, I will more than likely take advantage of it. The views are spectacular, and since there are like three restaurants inside this massive building, I will go back to try the other two when I get a good reason. It's a great location, and just so much fun to go here that I will definitely consider it when a brunch occasion shows its face. My one drawback is the distance, but that is sort of a catch 22 because it's views are worth the trek. Guess I don't really have anything to complain about!
(4)
Grace S.
I actually went here in March for my birthday. I was going to write a review earlier, but wanted to take some time to think about whether the memory of my experience would improve itself, despite the service. Months later, I still remember the service, but I'll first talk about the food and atmosphere. Atmosphere: Lovely. Ocean beach is beautiful, and we were lucky to be seated by the window with a great view of the desserts. Food: Presentation is beyond spectacular, with beautiful trays of glazed salmon and cocktails. I mostly avoided the salad and stuck with the meats and desserts. The primer rib was okay, salmon was okay too, not very warm which I thought was strange, egg benedict was good. Champagne: Nothing like bottomless champagne flowing in your glass. I thought it was strange though how we had to ask for orange juice, it should've been a given. Service: HORRIBLE. At first it was going okay. I was in a group of 4 and we are slow eaters. I am positive we neither ate nor drank $50 worth but that is how much we paid for the brunch, each. Around 2 or so hours, we asked for more champagne, since we had already stopped eating for awhile and was rudely ignored by a waitress. We thought it was strange, but didn't want it to ruin our brunch and waited until another waitress was nearby. While waiting, a member in our party got tired and rested his head by the wall (since he was seated by it). A rude waitress came by and told us "excuse me, you cannot sleep here!" I have never been treated like that in a restaurant before, and everyone in our party was shocked. We tried to let it go, and thought we'd have some more champagne. We pretty much had to flag her down, and ask her if we could have more champagne. If you want to avoid her, she is a big, brunette lady with inappropriately pink lipstick. Dialogue: Me: "Can we have more champagne?" Waitress: "No" Us: "Why?" Waitress: "First of all, you (points at my friend) was sleeping, and second of all you've been here for more than 2 hours" I couldn't believe it. Sure we had been there for 2 hours, but none of us ate much. In addition, the room still had many empty tables. Furthermore, no restaurant I have ever been to has told us how to act when eating, and when to finish eating. It was simply the worst service ever. Besides the waitress, I thought I would've given this place 4 stars. However, because of the way we were mistreated, even 3 months later, I am still upset by how our experience here was ruined.
(1)
Matthew P.
I really enjoyed my brunch experience here. There a mixup with our reservation---which probably stemmed from it being made through American Express, but we were seated pretty quickly. In the meantime, we got to experience the Sutro's bar, which had excellent Bloody Mary's. Of course, the view from everywhere in this place is excellent. Next time I have out-of-towners here, I'll be taking them here. Even though I live in the Outer Sunset, and see the ocean every day, the view offered here still takes my breath away. The brunch: As previous reviewers have commented, seating is tight. I'm thinking they could take a few tables out and make everyone's experience a little better. The food is standard brunch fare,... I really enjoyed the Eggs Benedict! Lots of options for the meat eater and vegetarian alike. There was a large fresh fruit display and the spread of desserts was pretty impressive, too. I'll definitely be back. This is a place for special occasions, though, given the price.
(4)
Wakako U.
Champagne brunch with no carving station, raw food station, omelet station, or any type of station which requires an attendant.
(3)
Rinne R.
Eggs benedict served with Champagne???!!!!!! Now, why can't I do that every Sunday? Because without the view and other heavenly food at the Cliff House, the combo just wouldn't be the same. If you want brunch food items that are orgasmic, get a reservation!
(5)
Dreadnaught D.
Sunday Brunch Review: The whole complex includes a Bistro on the ground level, and the Brunch room and a very contemporary bar/lounge/dining area in the lower level. Pro: large windows on one side of the Brunch room offers a good view of the Pacific. Service was good, my champaigne glass was promptly refilled. Live soothing music in the form of a large string instrument was a nice touch without being intrusive. I didn't even notice it until my date commented on the music....perhaps the champaigne have blunted my senses. Plus I was totally captivated by my date. Con: You won't get the sushi, dimsum, Caviar, lobster tail or even shrimp cocktail here. Mainly consisted of above average American style breakfast, some fruits and salads, dessert was average. I loved that large silver platter of lox (smoked salmon), together with the mini bagels and cream cheese, it was heavenly. For nearly $50/person I was expecting a larger food selection. Conclusion: I liked the experience, my date loved it, so we shall return. Perhaps will try the bar/lounge next time
(3)
Tiff W.
I came here for brunch with my dearest cousin. I had the egg benedict and absolute loved it. Great view because we are blessed to be living in SF very happy with the experience!
(5)
Laura K.
View is to die for but only had hot cocoa here as it was super cold..
(4)
Janet O.
Very nice place. Nice view and I suggest brunch, lunch and dinner. Call for a reservation it is much better for your blood pressure. I also suggest to try everything. food is great. Staff is helpful and courteous. Nice stock of wines as well. A little pricey but worth it.
(5)
Katie K.
Post V-day celebration part deux. Due to miscommunication, we were almost an hour late for our reservation. Luckily, they were still able to accommodate us. It was not the best sitting b/c I wanted a view but what can you do. They did not have too big of a selection but the food was fresh. My favorite was the egg benedict. I love the location as it is close to the beach and there are so many options for different trails you can take after a nice full meal....I made 6 rounds before I threw in the towel.
(4)
brad m.
Do you like hair in your food? Are you 100 years old? Do you like nursing home food? Well then you'd be better off going to a nursing home. Seriously. About 2 years ago my wife and I ate thanksgiving lunch in her grandmother's nursing home. That buffet had better service, more variety and better flavor than the Cliff House. We had a reservation well in advance for 2:00 on Sunday and arrived on time. We were then told that our reservation only got us a spot on the list and we still would have to wait at least 10 minutes. 2:45 we finally sat in a room that looked like Angelina Lansbery's parlor. $96.00 later my wife and I had sampled horrible champagne, bland pasta salads, runny eggs and TWO SEPARATE DISHES WITH HAIR IN THEM. AND ONE WITH A DEAD BUG immortalized in a piece of fruit. i felt like walking out on the check.
(1)
Rworange X.
If I could give no stars I would. This was the worst buffet in my life ... and that includes Hometown Buffet and all-you-can-eat Chinese buffets. In fact, the fruit at the Terrace Room was like the fruit at cheap buffets ... under ripe and supermarket quality. The champagne may be free-flowing but it is served in the shallow champagne glasses that hold a drop. It is inexpensive champagne, but OK. The tables are crowded. The traffic pattern is bad. I went one Thanksgiving and not only did they not have cranberry sauce, they didn't have mashed potatoes. They finally brought out the cranberry sauce after I had to explain what it was. I was sorry I asked.because it was overly sweet and gluey. They did have a big bowl of tartar sauce with nothing to put it on. There isn't a large selection and the ingrediants in those dishes is repetative. The hot dishes are lukewarm unless the kitchen has just replace them. There were deli-type salads but no green salads. No chilled or heated plates are available. Silverware wasn't replaced during a trip to the buffet. The desserts are the best part of the meal but hardly amazing. They served pie in an aluminum pie plate like from the supermarket. They do serve hot popovers which is one of the few pluses. The lack of thought was shown by having cream cheese and lox, but no bagels. The view is ok, but of the three Cliff House restaurants, not the best. You can't eat view. The room is the least pretty looking like a banquet conference room at a Holiday Inn.
(1)
Allison T.
I had a lovely brunch here with a gf of mine....we spent the whole weekend together. Although we didn't get to sit by the window..we did have the harpist right behind us. Kinda romantic to have music playing during our meal. And there is a nice veiw of the ocean. They had a nice selection of food here...the paella was a favorite of mine and the lemon tarts. Also it didn't hurt that it was all u can drink champange. For about $50 a person...not bad at all.
(4)
Wendy S.
cliffhouse.com/terrace/B… I love the location; the breath-taking view, the impecable service, and the popovers that leave you wanting more! I need to go back for dinner!! Afterwards, stroll along the cliffs and check out the area, you'll be glad you did!
(4)
Jaymee S.
Amazing view, great brunch, but overpriced. I give it 3.5 stars. I definitely recommend this place if you have guests in town. It has a gorgeous view of the ocean, and unlimited champagne. The food is solid, but I think they have the same exact dishes every weekend. (I know this, because I went there with out of town guests two weekends in a row). However, the bummer part is it costs $39 per person, and they charge you extra if you want O.J. in your champagne. Everyone should go there once, but it won't be your weekend staple. (Oh, and make sure you make reservations a few days in advance).
(3)
Annie S.
This place reminds me of a scene from the movie Titanic. it is so elegantly decorated with high ceilings, fresh flowers, and a harp player. This is prob one of the best brunch places I've ever been to so far. Perfect date place or sunday brunch with the girls.
(5)
daisy b.
Two friends and I walked into the Cliff House brunch - without reservations - at around 12:45 p.m. on a Sunday. "Do you have room for three?" we asked politely. The hostess hemmed and hawed, alternating glances between us and her reservation book. "I don't think so she said." "Well how long will the wait be?" we asked. And then she looked at us and said, "You do know it's $39 a person, right?" After we recovered from the shock of actually experiencing with Julia Robert's character in Pretty Woman felt like when she tried to shop on Rodeo Drive and was turned away, we smiled politely and said, "That's fine." We were swiftly seated at a table next to the window where we spent the next two hours gorging on mediocre-but-somehow-delicious brunch food. I returned three times, fully loading up on scrumptious desserts during my last trip. Once we got one of the server's attention, the champagne flowed freely... which helped offset the harp player's cheesy music selection. Not somewhere I'd go often, but for a special occasion or once or twice a year, it's a treat. Not because it's too pricey, but because it's completely indulgent and I had a stomach ache for the rest of the day. Recommend: Saying "yes" to all champagne refills, shrimp cocktail, dessert. Stay away from: Bread/croissants (filler), scrambled eggs, bagels/lox. I think next time I'll do the Land's End hike first and save brunch as a well-deserved treat. And I'll be sure to make a reservation so as to avoid any haughty judgment.
(3)
Lindsey H.
BOO! Methinks that to turn what once was a glorious and romantic place into this modern crap-hole is a crime. I actually cried when I saw the interior of the "new" Cliff House. I said to my friend "Let's leave this is not the Cliff House" and I sat down and cried. A piece of history flushed down the drain again. I used to come here, and drink with my friends. We would put on 1930s attire, and little hats, and then take our pictures at the old Musee Mechanique. Alas the Cliff House has gone to seed.
(1)
Jessica S.
I just went yesterday - and while the process of getting in, service, ambiance, all that jazz, was an easy four stars, the food was a two. That's right. A two. I know it's a brunch, and I really didn't have THAT high an expectation going into all of this, but really - enough of the warm food wasn't warm. I like my breakfast food warm. Warm french toast, warm eggs benedict, warm potatoes au gratin. Bordering on hot, temperature wise. Their food (I know it's buffet, and I know it cannot stay piping hot, ok!?) was just barely bordering on warm, and that just dissipointed me. The syurp for the french toast was the only really warm thing that they had out there - otherwise, once your plate hit the table, your food was cooling, and quickly. Service was sweet, attentive and lovely. If I had wanted to indulge in my "drunk before noon" moment, I could have very easily, due to the fact that the ladies pouring champagne were constantly circulating in the room. They are also very very good about making sure that plates are cleared out of the way, though it would have been nice to get fresh silverware from time to time. Lucky for me however, it was for my Aunt's birthday, whom I LOATHE eating out with most of the time (she has some anti-food habits that are just BEYOND. seriously beyond), so I don't feel too bad about eating here. She liked it, and that's what counts. I think my mother and I are going to take my Aunt and Uncle there, since this is safe, attractive food.
(3)
Robin L.
Went here for Easter brunch because I had some out of town friends visiting and figured this was a good San Francisco attraction to take them to. However, there are other places in the city that are just as fun and offer bottomless drinking and brunch food for half the price. Definitely worth going ONCE but would not head back there again. I have to admit, the food was delectable- wasabi shrimp linguini, tender teriyaki salmon, and an exquisite pots de creme inside a hollowed-out eggshell just for Easter, among the many other treats. However, my law school budget was extremely offended when my total was $80 (with tip). Another downfall- it's more expensive during holidays because they add a carving station, but no discount for a prescatarian like myself who can't enjoy the extra meat. Go, so you can say you've experienced it, but not worth any extra trips.
(3)
Brandon C.
What a baller spot to take someone that you care about a lot. Even though I have lost that someone, I still have wonderful memories from this place and will be back for sure. The main dining area overlooks the ocean. Plan it so you can watch the sun set. The entrees are spendy, as you would expect. We split an entree and then fed each other desert. The desert was so erotic. But for me, I go here with someone very special and it is about me and her and the ocean. Everything/everyone else is secondary. It puts you in the mood to run across to the Sutro baths area and engage in some naughtiness. Make sure to bring a flashlight. If you had an experience similiar to mine, please let me know.
(5)
Matt W.
On Sundays is always crowded you better have a reservation and agree to wait 10mn before be seated ... The service wasn't that good too ! The only positive point will be the place and the view from the cliff.
(2)
Marc P.
No idea how this place currently has a rating of 4.5 stars. Although I am giving it 3 stars, I will say that my visiting mom (who I took there for a Mother's Day brunch) enjoyed it for reasons I give below, and probably would have given it 4 stars. I went there for a Mother's Day brunch ('07), and given the price of $65 a head, I thought that not only was the food selection extremely limited, but what they did have was either not prepared properly and/or was missing the proper fixings.....ere are several examples of what I am talking about: - There was not an omelet bar. - There were not any belgian waffles - There was cheese, but there weren't any crackers. - There were bagels, but they weren't fresh (they tasted like defrosted store-bought Lenders bagels instead of a fresh bagel from Einsteins or Breugers). - Although the eggs benedicts looked beautiful, the yolks were hardened (proper eggs benedict have a yolk that runs once pierced by the diner's fork .... the terrace room, conversely, had yolks that had a hard-boiled consistency). - Although there were fresh strawberries, there was no whipped cream (I have come to expect fresh whipped cream at a Mother's Day Brunch). - if it isn't obvious by now, the brunch had a very limited selection Now, here are the pros (the reason it still barely gets 3 stars): - The view from the restaurant was good (no idea why they drew the blinds half-way though.....sun wasn't setting; I think they should have been fully open) - The desserts were plentiful and were delicious (probably at least 1/3 of the brunch was made up of dessert choices). - They had a harpist who played beautifully - We were able to walk along the beach after brunch - Most importantly, my mom loved it because of the views, the harpist, and the dessert.
(3)
Yosie G.
So like most people, I went here for a nice Sunday champagne brunch (at 2pm hah). We made our reservations about an hour before, went to the place, and they didn't have our reservation LOL. Wow you'd think a place like this would keep the reservations right? No. Well at least the wait wasn't too long, but nonetheless, it was a wait.. a wait for a window table. I'm glad we got the window table, even though it was reeeaaallly bright and I could barely see and the sun was melting the butter...it was a nice view of the ocean, the great open Pacific Ocean. Good refills of champagne for sure..even though my glass was half full, I turn and there it is, a full glass of champagne. Food pickings were modest-there were various types of salad, fruits, breakfast foods, shrimp cocktail, meats, and of course, DESSERTS! Just keep the food coming... At 39/person..make sure you eat enough! It is a buffet brunch after all. And drink lots of champagne.
(5)
Lorain C.
MY FAVORITE BUFFET IN THE CITY! Sit by the window its gorgeous, and OMG best ever, Egg's Benedict all you can eat! Harp player is a nice touch. I really do love this buffet.
(5)
Yuan W.
E took me here over the holidays for lunch before going to see the Marie-Antoinette exhibit at the Legion of Honour. It was an absolutely gorgeous day and were taken to a table with a gorgeous view. I remember coming here ages ago but never dined at the restaurants. Back then, the place was dated and a bit decrepit. Many years and many million dollars later, this place has transformed into something much more than just a tourist stop. We started with the roasted chestnut soup. The flavor of the chestnut was there but subtle, which extended to the consistency as well. For lunch, I had the bouillabaisse in Thai curry. Unfortunately, half of the dish was salmon and some sort of white fish. I'm not a fan of salmon so took everything out and gave them to E. Luckily, it also came with some dungeness crab, a couple of prawns and scallops, all of which was delicious in the curry sauce which was very heavy on the coconut milk. I then finished the meal with a cup of tea. Just sitting there and enjoying the view on a gorgeous day. If we didn't have to rush a bit to catch the exhibit, I would've voted to sit there all afternoon. The server was prompt and attentive but not at all overwhelming. A great way to cap off the holidays. Thanks E, for all the great places you've taken me in 2007.
(4)
Jen P.
Great food, beautiful view and bottomless champagne... what more could you ask for? Well, if given the opportunity, I would actually ask that OJ be included with the brunch and that the champagne be refilled more frequently. All-in-all though, a wonderful start to my week!
(4)
TaDao V.
Twas a lovely day that Sunday morning. I have never seen the coast so calm, warm and sunny. It was an ideal time for brunch and in an ideal setting. The brunch at the Cliff House is not a bad deal. For $46, the food is pretty decent and bottomless champagne. The selection wasn't all that huge but everything that had was done properly. Salads were bright and crisp; beef was tender and flavorful; bacon was plentiful; eggs were eggy. Aside from the dull crowd and the annoying children and the mediocre staff, it was a fine time. It's a prefect place to take one's parents or to enjoy an expensive mimosa by the sea.
(3)
Pink P.
Good food. They carded me for champagne and I didn't have my ID on me. I didn't think I needed it for a BREAKFAST with my MOTHER. And even if I was underage, I'm obviously NOT pre-gaming for a night of bar hopping. Their scrambled eggs sucked anyway. I wish the harpist would play a song NOT from my old piano book.
(4)
Alesha C.
My Mom and I did this for Mother's Day last year and really enjoyed it. Yummy food and amazing views, I would definitely recommend it.
(5)
Rachel B.
I went to the cliff house champagne brunch today, and was disappointed. First of all, I really had no idea that the brunch was held in a banquet room, which immediately turned me off. When the hostess showed me to my table, it was just about on top of the people next to me. It was so close, that you would not be able to avoid conversing with the people next to you. I asked for a different table, and the next was worse. I pointed out a 4top, and she said she would have to check, but it worked out, we sat at the 4top, which saved the day, because I would have left. I have been to brunch from super high end to ordinary, while the food was good, and the service was great (and admittedly, I wasn't very nice when I was shown my table) I think that there are much better options for the price. I am really only reviewing this because of the location of the brunch- needless to say, no matter how good the food or service is, I wont be back.
(2)
Irene K.
What a view!! You should go there for dinner before the sun sets. Otherwise when it gets dark, there's nothing to look at. It'll just be total darkness outside those huge glass windows. I love what they did with this place. I used to go there a lot for drinks at night when I lived in the area and after the renovation, it's even better. Still brings back a lot of good memories even though it's not exactly the same place anymore. Decent food and service was okay. You gotta give it a 4 star for that ocean view.
(4)
Patrick B.
Took my girlfriend here...great food and the view is amazing. Ask the employees for their favorite place to sit in the house...its a great view.
(5)
Stella K.
When I feel like stuffing face, this is the place! I've come here for special occasions and for no occasion at all. There are many Sunday brunch choices in the city, but if you're looking for something comfortable, this one's it. For a little more than $40, you're offered a full spread including the best eggs benedict, jumbo shrimp, all and the breakfast pleasers in between. It's perfect because it's not as overwhelming as other Sunday spreads. All the food is excellent quality, and there's not one thing that I haven't liked. To top it all off, their coffee is so yum! It absolutely hits the spot on a lazy Sunday. Tip - Make reservations! They seat every two hours - 10am, 12 noon, and 2pm. They can also accommodate large groups! Perfect for Sunday brunch with family after your wedding.
(5)
Michelle H.
I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed. Dined here for mother's day brunch. glad we got to try it, but i don't think we're going back. The unlimited champagne, the view and the harpist were the pros. The food itself was not great, but not bad. I wish they had more options. I called and said they'd have a carving station. When we arrived, the carving station consisted of two items: ham and stuff leg of lamb. I just went thinking there would be more selection. However, the quality of the food was decent. I'd go elsewhere with the $60/per person we paid.
(3)
Yan M.
Well, after having been to elaborate Garden Court last year for Easter brunch, nothing else can quite top the Garden Court extravaganza. So this year, we really compromised, we held a reservation for Garden Court and Cliff House and after much debate, we finally settled to try a different location since we were going to the very pricey French Laundry for lunch the day before. We settled for Cliff House since we vowed to try a new Easter brunch place every year. We arrived 10 mins late past our reservation time but the hostess did not qualm and we were taken to our seats. Unfortunately, all the window seats were taken but there is really no bad seat in the house since we could still see the ocean, the beach and all with the large window views. We perused the buffet table and was somewhat disappointed since it was a rather small selection compared to the abundance of food at Garden Court last year (the buffet spread was held in a separate ballroom from the dining room!), sigh, I know, I know....we are not supposed to compare. There was even a line at the buffet table at the Cliff House! This was not the case at the banquet hall like setting at Garden Court, there were so many stations, that you can barely taste everything, let alone a line! Never.... Well, we tasted most of the items at Cliff House, the ham and lamb at the carving station was alright, took a bite of each from bf's plate....the starters were some beet salad and beef salad. Next came the usual scrambled egg, sausage and bacon, potato au gratin, pancake and syrup or apple cinnamon, pasta, .....so typical and nothing fanciful. Although I can totally give 5 stars to their popovers! It was the highlight of the meal! Along with their desserts, there were some delicious eclairs, strawberries dipped in chocolate and tiny cakes. The cheesecake was however, just eh.... I really hate to compare but then again, when you already had the best buffet brunches (Garden Court in Palace Hotel and Navio Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay that is), this place really didn't live up to our expectations...sigh oh sigh...
(4)
Max F.
Hell F'ing Yea! Need a semi-swank place to take your visiting mother or your girl for brunch, then this is your spot. We tried all but one or two items, and most things were of very good quality. I did find myself saying "meh" to a couple of things, but nothing was noticiably bad. There could have been more items, but I don't know that we could have actually eaten any of them since we were so stuffed already. The champagne is free flowing, the harpist is a-picking and the view can't be beat. Just be sure to make your reservations at least a few weeks in advance.
(4)
Trina M.
Love the view !! Love the food !! Came in for Brunch with the family awhile back,but just forgot to write a review hehe but here it is ~!
(5)
Sheila Y.
I left this place wishing I had brought a gigantic purse in order to sneak out more Popovers!!! I don't usually employ such covert tactics when visiting "fancy" brunch places, but I was a convert. As a child the idea of the Popover was wholly uninspiring, however one bite into its pillowy expanse and I was sold. But beyond these little delights, everything else was quite wonderful. The reason for the four stars is due to the lack of originality or wow factor on the warm dishes front (eggs benedict...just ok (however I always scratch my head at this one b/c EB are super perishable...sitting in a metal tray for over an hour just doesn't do them justice)..the bacon was decent...the cheese pasta was cardiac arrest worthy and there was nothing else much of interest). The salads, miso salmon, shrimp, beets and goat cheese, mushroom and roasted cauliflower, and lox all made up for it though. Miso salmon was melt in my mouth. I mixed a couple of the salads to make a magic concoction, but each standing on its own was delicious. The deserts were thankfully limited, but each one was rich and delightful. Granted this is not a multi-table affair, with a carving station, omelet station, etc. however I appreciate the quality over quantity idea. However, not that I think of it...it didn't stop me from stuffing my face nonetheless...;)
(4)
JJ W.
I really like the Cliff House, I love the location and the views and the sutro baths theme. But just went to the champagne brunch and it was terrible. It was $45 and just totally average. Not that much to choose from and nothing special at all.
(2)
Steve S.
OK, so I ate a lot of bacon here. And by a lot, I mean like a pound of it. Cause frankly the food is mediocre at best, and expensive, and the service leaves something to be desired. But the view is top notch, and if you have out of town guests, they are bound to be impressed by that. But seriously, eat as much of the bacon as possible. That's what buffets are for.
(3)
ABBY A.
"Yes! Take your date here for breakfast! And your family too! Always a great place to have brunch! The view is picture-perfect especially on a sunny day since it's mostly foggy all-day-every-day. There's plenty of free parking, but you might have to park up the hill and stroll down which is no biggie because the beach is right there. I recommend the Eggs Benedict (#1!). Service is excellent, staff is friendly, service is fast. If you're looking to have a delicious, fulfilling, moderately priced breakfast in a clean, quiet environment with unbeatable views of the beach--you've found the perfect place! Don't forget your jacket!"
(5)
Bert T.
Surprisingly good! Great View. Good variety Had a birthday brunch buffet with some friends. The selection of food was quite good. There was the usual, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, mini bagels with cream cheese, scalloped potatoes. What made it different was the smoked salmon, seared tuna, marinated asparagus, variety of breads, cheese plate, and the variety of fruits. Along with extra rich chocolate moose, the chocolate covered strawberries were YUMMY! I was surprised by the quality of the buffet. Usually when I hear buffet I cringe on the thought of how long the food has been sitting under heat lamp. But in this case, everything was amazingly fresh. For $40, I got a great view and all the food I can eat it was worth it. The only thing I can find wrong was the room temperature. The AC blowing on us it was freezing where we sat.
(4)
Laurie K.
Good brunch, endless chanpagne, great selection of food. Worth the money for sure.
(4)
Jim L.
Sunday brunch is wildly popular in the City these days; Sunday *buffet* brunches, however, are an endangered species. Although pricey, if a buffet is what you seek, you must try the exquisite Terrace Room of the Cliff House. A modest number of items are offered; however, everything is satisfying and of superior quality and of course, their wonderful warm popovers are served. (They could improve the quality of the scrambled eggs though.) The setting is amazing, with a harpsichordist playing soothing melodies while you munch on tics of toast and stare blissfully out at the Camera Obscura and beyond to Seal Rock.
(5)
Alan J.
Service and food were great.
(4)
Joiera C.
The view was a killer but the food is just ok nothing special about the food and the selection were very limited. I think for $43 per person it would definitely would have been better.
(3)
Tess W.
Awh I love the view from here, and the food is absolutely superb! I've been here twice and wish to come back again soon!!
(5)
Marz W.
What a glorious view. Even of the foggiest of days. I guess its the angle you're overlooking the water and the beach. As long as I am dressed warmly I love to go here and have a cocktail after hiking around on those dangerous cliffs. Its really pretty breathtaking on a partly cloudy evening. And the drinks are good too!
(5)
Tuff G.
OK BRUNCH FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR CLOSE ENCOUNTERS . . . We took family to the Terrace Room Sunday brunch, 'cuz that's where the birthday boy wanted to go . . . The Cliff House has undergone many face-lifts and reconstructions over the years. Of course, nothing can possibly compare to the original 1890's historic beauty. But, over the years they have tried. The ocean views are spectacular on any given day, from the outside deck and the walkway that takes you either around the point to the North, or to the beach to the South. I recommend stopping to enjoy the views. But, you don't have to go to the restaurant for that. On to the Sunday Brunch review - No matter how much you pay, or what the restaurant touts as being a "MUST DO", a 'champagne brunch' is a 'champagne brunch' is a 'champagne brunch'. . . and the Terrace Room is no exception or big deal. For $40 uh plus bucks, you get the standards you would expect in food. I do have to say that the butternut squash with pomegranate and caramelized walnuts was exceptional. A dish that we will try to duplicate at home. The food was all fresh and hot or cold (whichever it was supposed to be). So, I don't have any particular complaints or issues with the food. The buffet is set in the middle of the long room, so it is easily accessed from two sides, which reduces the traffic jam of many a buffet. No omelet station, carving station, or Belgium waffle station, all three of which seem to be standards elsewhere. BUT. . . here is my issue that drops the score waaaay down. The dining layout truly bites the big one! The photos you will see on the website show open spaces and nice two and four top window tables. What you actually have are those nice window tables with 4-6 two and four tops lined up with them, out from the window. So, you have looooong cafeteria style seating projecting out from each window. Is that their idea of advertising lots of window seating? And, the space between row A and row B is so small that I could barely shimmy down the aisle to my seat (which was AT the window). I have no idea how anyone with any kind of waistline can get down the aisle, if MY 32 inch waist had so much trouble. So much for requesting a window table!!! Getting in and out was such a hassle that I actually ate less. Maybe that is the intention. And, you had better be nice to the table next to you, because they are basically at YOUR table. I guess if San Franciscan's are used to row houses, they can deal with row dining tables. My suggestion would be to opt for Sutro's as opposed to the Terrace Room. Sutros has a far better dining layout, and HUGE windows for viewing the ocean while you dine. I will not be returning to the Terrace Room.
(2)
Amber L.
The food is good, think typical buffet banquet food found at swanky hotels. The view is drop dead gorgeous. I went here for brunch once with a certain special someone who eventually made me run for the hills and it was tres, tres romantique. The bubbly was real French champagne which I was delighted by since I hate false advertising. Could they improve the food? Sure but to be honest they don't have to because they had me sold at the view and the all you can drink bubbly. If want to appease the gods of gluttony go to dim sum, if you want to get drunk on French wine and eat lots of cold cocktail shrimps and little desserts while admiring the Pacific go to The Cliff House.
(4)
Yum Y U M.
I was so thrilled to read on yelp that CliffHouse offered oysters in their Sunday Brunch. WRONG!!! They didn't have it! I guess that particular Yelper went on a special holiday in which CliffHouse offered special menu - so I was disappointed there. You pay $45 a person for the Sunday Brunch - really, the money goes to the breath-taking ocean front view, the delicious dessert (only), live harp music, the fancy & eye-popping arrangements of their brunch food and the super friendly and attentive service - Oo yeah, unlimited champagne, martinellie apple cider, juice, coffee too. Their dessert assortments was almost the same percentage as the brunch/breakfast food. The food consisted of roast beef, French toast, no waffle or carving station, assorted pasta salad and such - as you can't tell, I don't remember much of them - as none of the savory dishes stood out - I had to fill myself up on dessert, tarts, pie, cake, dipped strawberries. The ambiance is super nice - no fault there. The whole room is smaller than I thought, so this would be a nice place to hold bridal brunch, birthday, retirement, mother/father's day, even a wedding proposal - cause the crowds are small and personal - so you won't get freaked out proposing in front of 150 other random people. I'll come back again if I want to make someone ELSE feel special - afterall, it is nice.
(3)
Royston N.
Wow! Beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean, great food, free unlimited champagne, friendly service, and harp music made Cliff House brunch a wonderful experience. Only thing that was a minus was the price, $45 ouch! But still, food in the Cliffhouse, makes it up..
(4)
Stormageddon S.
I have never been to the champagne brunch at the cliff house. I did, however, get married on the terrace of the Cliff House and then have my reception in the Terrace Room, and there was plenty of champagne. There doesn't seem to be an area to review that. From the very beginning of our planning, Virginia, Massoud and Sara were delightful to work with. No question was too small to warrant a quick response, no amount of meetings was too many, and when I forgot to pay my 75% deposit on time because I was dealing with a sick cat, it was no problem. My Led Zeppelin cover band was not only welcomed but encouraged to turn it up to 11. My husband and I had a wonderful day and amazing photos with the sunset. A few words of advice. It will be windy, spray that hair! A few moments' chill made for amazing, dramatic pictures with my veil billowing, well, into my dad's face, but after he moved over it was striking. The room is rather blandly decorated so as not to distract from the views, so we went with bright centerpieces and it worked well. The food was fantastic, we went with the crab melts (these need to be on the regular menu), mozzarella kabobs, mini lamb chops and shrimp cocktail as appetizers and the fillet mignon and duck (YUM!!!) as entrees and everyone loved their dinner. I found myself chasing the crab melt girl around the room between pictures. Massoud was fantastic at keeping the evening on schedule and making sure my husband and I were allowed to sit back and enjoy the evening. Not only was it beautiful and the ocean sunset view was a great plus for our many guests from landlocked states, it was one of the most reasonably priced venues we looked at, and we looked at a lot of venues. I'm so glad we chose the Cliff House for our wedding and so glad my now-husband suggested it.
(5)
Kirsten V.
I went here with my mother for a lovely brunch on my day off. I don't eat seafood so I didn't have much to pick from but I still managed to pick something. The waitress was nice and made a smaller salad and entree salad. It was delicious and had a full breats of chicken on there. The coffee and mimosas were good too. All in all a very nice experience with great service and even greater views. They did a nice job restoring this landmark.
(4)
Mike W.
Flawless! Go, eat, and come back many times. Stop wearing shorts, t-shirts and flip flops here. Didn't your momma teach you better?
(5)
cindy c.
although it's a bit pricey for breakfast, i'm not one to turn down all you can drink champagne and all you can eat chocolate dipped strawberries! the food was wonderful! not only did they have a yummy selection of breakfast items, but a great number of lunch choices as well, pasta, salad, seafood...make sure you get some popovers! they're delish! if it's just a meal for one or two, ask to be seated away from the tables of four. most of the tables of two are arranged just inches from the tables of four and it doesn't make for very private conversation. my friend and i had our quite breakfast turn into a women's self-help conference this morning when the hostess sat four very loud, very animated women right next to us.
(5)
Tiffany L.
I really loved the scenery here and hearing crashing waves as we partake in all kinds of pastries & tons o'chocolate. I've never had so much chocolate for breakfast before. You have to make reservations very early to get a table here because the room is not very big. It's worth it to go on a special occasion or when you have out of towners. Other than that the price tag is really high and you can only eat so much and this is nothing like the sizzler so you don't want to be gorging yourself or "getting your moneys worth". There's a harpist for christ sake!!!
(4)
Squirrel L.
I have been here twice this year. On the first occasion, I found it to be fine. This past weekend, I saw something so offensive to all health standards, that I will never return. As my fiance and I were sitting there with his family, we were watching the staff clear the table beside us. In doing so, they held back several unused coffee cups. Instead of replacing them with fresh cups, they kept them on the table for the next people! SO GROSS. There might not have been coffee in them, but that does not mean that they haven't been touched, licked, and god knows what else. Honestly, the servers should clear cups and glasses that are not going to be used early in the meal and not leave them sitting on the table throughout the whole meal. We were shocked and horrified and what we were seeing. So, so gross. I am sorry, but this is not acceptable, especially not at a place that is this expensive. After seeing this, I purposefully poured something into my otherwise unused champagne glass, which I knew I had picked up from the top and not the stem. Aside from that grossness, the food is fine, but you can definitely do better for your money elsewhere. The tables depending on which one you are seated at, can be very annoying. The round tables are really rectangular tables with round toppers. That means that two people get horrible seats which place them right between two legs of the table and leave them unable to scoot their chair in. Very annoying. The service this past weekend was deplorable. We kept having to ask for more coffee repeatedly and then they would come back and only offer coffee to the one person who asked and not the rest of the table. It was terrible. Never again!
(1)
Marta L.
Umm.... never again. TERRIBLE service. We had to bus our own tables in order to have room for our second buffet trip. Yes, coffee and champagne are a part of the deal, but don't expect them to bring them frequently at ALL. NOT a fancy vibe. There are way too many kids in highchairs at this place. This wouldn't be such a huge issue if you weren't packed into the room like sardines. Getting to the buffet was a challenge in itself. You could barely hear the live harp music. Good food... but nothing extraordinary. This felt like a typical buffet at a nice hotel. The eggs benedict were dried out. Some excellent seafood, including a miso glazed salmon. Good desserts, and the popovers (a personal favorite) were a nice touch. I recommend going to the Sutro's part of the Cliff House instead. More spacious, bigger windows, better vibe all around. This didn't feel "special" -- and it wasn't cheap!
(2)
Josh Z.
Five stars is hard to reach. The food was great and it was overall a winner of an experience. The person who was seating us wouldn't let us in the 10 minutes early that we had arrived, so we just sat there...bored. After that everything was great. The food was all in small portions, so you didn't have to think twice about having a little bit of everything. My Molly doesn't like eating a lot of the same thing over and over, so this made her really happy. They just kept coming by and filling up your glass with decent champagne. Great date place, but definitely not a first date place, but who the hell has a first date over brunch?
(4)
Jennifer D.
We had dinner here. It's a nice restaurant with good pricey food. I found the place and staff pretentious. I expect better quality food for that--if at all. We did not see much of a view as it was dark, and we were not seated near windows. That's OK. Why do I think they're pretentious? Well, I ordered a Baked Alaska having not seen that offered at too many places (call me weird, but I tend to order things I've not seen before). The presentation was great (as expected since fire was involved), but the actual dessert was not that good. When asked how it was, I mentioned that the presentation was better than the taste. I was then told, because apparently I didn't know better, that the dessert was all about the presentation, and not the actual flavor. Hmm, that's interesting--food is for looking good and not for tasting good?
(3)
brian s.
We had a wonderful Sunday brunch there for my wife's birthday. Great quality food, decent selection, nice atmosphere, and reasonable price. (FYI less than half as much as the brunch at the Half Moon Bay Ritz Carlton, a whopping $85/per.) The staff accommodated my special requests, and the service was great all around. The champagne they serve flows freely, albeit a so-so vintage for those who know their fine bubbly. (We brought a Magnum of good french stuff which they uncorked and served, never adding the stated $18.95 corkage to the bill either) We will be back the next time we are free for brunch!!
(5)
Tom S.
My company had a dinner party here a while back and reserved the whole Terrace Room. The hors d' oeuvres were great, but the dinner was definitely sub par (filet mignon and lobster tail). Steak was chewy and tasted bad and so was the lobster. Desert was even worse. On another occasion prior to this, I've also had dinner here at the restaurant before the remodel and it wasn't that good either. Disappointing...
(2)
Sahra H.
This was the spot of my wedding reception. Virginia and Mahmoud are a delight to work with. Actually, Virginia is pretty hard-nosed, but I respect her for being a solid business woman. Mahmoud is all about the love, making the bride and groom feel special, and making sure everyone is having a grand old time. The food was pretty good, but not to die for. However, it was reasonable, and there was a limit to Mom & Dad's wedding underwriting (bless their hearts). The duck, salmon, and ravioli that we ordered were very good, though the duck was my favorite (it often is). The champagne and wine were pretty marked up, so beware! The setting was really beautiful, especially with the sound of the ocean out back and the fresh sea air. I'm really glad that we had our reception here.
(5)
Mike O.
Decent Sunday Brunch buffet with real Champagne for $39. Make sure you get a table at the window to spot surfers, sea otters and dolphins. Decoration could use an upgrade to the 21st Century. If unlimited Champagne is not your thing, head to the Sutro restaurant next door where views are probably better.
(4)
Aly D.
as i'm nearing my departure from san francisco, i have decided to start checking items off my "always wanted to do this in SF" list. of course a visit to the cliff house was on there because of the great yelp reviews as well as a roommates recommendation. i decided to go there for the sunday champagne brunch. i made reservations the day before and was surprised that they still had spots open as early as noon. we went on one of the prettiest mornings sf had to offer and were seated one table away from the window. this place had a gorgeous view of the open ocean as well as seal rock. the atmosphere was really nice. not too hoity toity as one would expect, but did lean towards a nicer atmosphere. it was suprisingly easy to hear each other across the table. the harp music was low yet very present and beautiful. the food was pretty good and i especially loved the eggs bendict. i guess their motto is quality over quantity as the buffett wasn't very large. other options included fresh fruit, sausage, bacon, eggs, popovers, desserts, pasta salads, and a variety of other salads. it was all pretty tasty. i'm glad that i got to cross this one off of my list :)
(4)
Eileen H.
Fantastic. Although it isn't as huge as, say, a brunch buffet in Vegas, all of the dishes are very good. I went there earlier this month for my first wedding anniversary, and it was just perfect. we had a seat next to the window, and even saw harbor porpoises jumping around near Seal Rock, which was really cool. I don't recall having the popovers with the buffet when I went there a few years ago, so that was an unexpected treat. oh, and the service is excellent.
(5)
Jeannie L.
Great ambiance, nice ocean view, soft background harp music, superb service, and quality food - what else can you ask for? The Sunday brunch here can definitely benefit from more choices but the food they do have is really yummy. I love the French toast, brioche, shrimp cocktail, chocolate covered strawberries, and unlimited champagne. Definitely worth going back although at $39pp price point and my limited appetite, I'd save it for some special occasion.
(4)
Mrs. G.
The view is BEAUTIFUL and the food great. Make sure you call ahead and make a reservation because it gets impossible otherwise.
(4)
Shea B.
This has got to be the worst brunch ever. The food is always cold and greasy. One star the view and one for the Spicy Bloody Mary.
(2)
Emily O.
My fam and I went for Thanksgiving brunch-I think it was worth what we paid-Nice waitress too-she was very good about taking our family pic etc...
(4)
carebear l.
First of all, parking sucks. The bf and I arrived a little late for our 7 person reservation for the buffet brunch. The rest of the party actually was able to be seated and actually began eating right away. The one thing I didn't like about the was the seating. We sat at a round table with the view. The view was beautiful, but the seats that are up against the window were so close to wall, trying to get out to get more food was really hard. First I had to ask the person next to me to get up, then I had to fight the table leg and when I actually got up, I had the fight with the window curtain. Geez all for another plate of food. I thought what the food I had was average. I would have liked more options, but I suppose for $39, I would not expect caviar and blinis. There was nothing too impressive on the menu. I like the smoked salmon, but how can you go wrong with smoked salmon? There was also different types of noodle salads and a couple of different types of eggs which I tried neither of. I was there was there a brunch and was not about to eat something that I can easily cook at home. The gratinated potatoes were good and not runny. I would love to have seen a chef cooking omelettes to order. I thought the steak was very tender, but be sure to get it when it comes fresh out if the kitchen, because when it is left on the burner, it just looses it juiciness and just starts to become dry. I would have love to have tried a popover, but the whole time I was there, the pan was empty. I loved the never ending champagne, I didn't even realize that the champagne was never ending, so it was a pleasant surprise. The desserts were good. I liked the chocolate covered strawberries and the chocolate mousse. The marbled cheesecake was also good, not too sweet. The little cakes/fruit tarts were okay. I would have liked to have seen a tiramisu. We never really needed to stand in line to get our food and most of the food came out as soon as it was gone. The service was really good. They made sure the plates were taken right away and our cups were never empty. I would come back here again, but be sure to come here a bit early to look for parking.
(3)
Ruchell F.
good view and good food. the only thing that sucks is that drinks are not included in the buffet, they charge for orange juice and coffee...which they should have included since it cost $43 for a brunch buffet, but its worth trying
(4)
Laura K.
this is an update, as of last weekend - we had a much better experience this time around.. partly because it was a very foggy sunday and there were not too many tourists out, the place was not PACKED, partly because we just had a good time.. the dishes were tasty,and service mostly friendly.. I think the variety is still not up to par with a lot of places in the city, but you will find something you like.. and the location is just stunning, one of the best views in the city.
(3)
Jace G.
Buffet brunch at the Cliff House is perfect for taking out of town guests. The views are magnificent and the buffet is varied enough that everyone dines happy. The free flowing champagne and classical music are a nice touch as well.
(4)
Kimby T.
12/25/06 their reservation agent beverly went out of her way and squeezed in a party of 3 (myself, mom & grandma!) last minute, christmas eve for christmas day dinner. we had reservations at 5pm, but actually got sat at around 5.20pm (for some reason, other parties were seated ahead of us, a threesome as well as 2 parties of 5-6). so we sat and waited.. finally got sat, and had to ask our hostess for our champagne (after already starting on our first course of food); our server kept refilling other tables' glasses while skipping us entirely. uh, this IS a champagne bufft\et, you would think the first thing theyd do as you sat down was fill up your glass. the food was pretty good, as compared to other buffets (cityscape, francis drake). at the hot table, they had lamb roast with spinach, goat cheese and pinenuts (mint/jalapeno sauce), and ham with honey sauce. nice spread of about 8-10 salads (pasta, asian beef-yuck, ocean shrimp, greek, etc). eggs, sausage, bacon, lox, salmon, bagels, rolls.. really good paella (served with seafood, chicken, etc). desserts were yummy, i had my share of eclairs, chocolate strawberries and profiteroles. my mom loved the sweet watermelon. my grandma enjoyed the chocolate mousse. the room was pretty small, kind of old school banquet looking; i guess maybe because of all the medium sized windows lining the walls, and the curtains were drawn down (didnt see the ocean view). the harpist played well and brought a wonderful ambiance to the place. all in all, good value (tab came to $160 for 3 people on christmas DAY), although champagne and coffee were not refilled through out our meal as often as i would have liked (or done, if i were the one serving). but hey, it was christmas day, and i was thankful enough for them even being there working, for us to eat dinner. will have to come back, the service was probably just an off experience (i hope).
(4)
cecille p.
one of my favorite restaurant by the ocean...great for watching the sunset...nice to unwind after work hours and meeting new or old friends, attend interestings events, meditation etc.. just incredible view , location, and modern design of the restaurant. Food and wine selections has variety, they have my fav. steam mussels in garlic white wine broth with nice warm bread( must ask for a warm bread nex time say hot cuz it was not even warm), and clam chowder soup and cocktail shrimps cheese plates..must give a 5star but the waiter was not so nice so give it a 4..esp when was rude in suggestions between a pinot noir and a merlot...he sent 2 tasting wine galss but did not give me the merlot but zinfandel..didn't want to bicker about it but made my choice to pinot , then for bread, he said conly crackers for clam chowder so i said can i get warm bread for my dish and replied "it is not in this level but have to go in the lower floor" what an excuse... other than this..love it !!
(4)
JA R.
Good stuff. Great view. For Sunday brunch this is a top choice. The only issues would be that I practically made myself sick eating so much and that the chocolate dipped strawberries don't pack well in my purse...
(4)
Joyce L.
Okay, to be honest, I haven't had brunch here in at least a few years, BUT I was recently at the Cliff House Bistro, and decided to take a foray into the Terrace Room to see if anything had changed (my sister had told me it hadn't); also, darn it - I wanted to yelp about it! So sad...anyway, my sister was right. It's exactly the same (as before the remodel). Like Rick H. said, it's high quality but modest fare - but I really think it's slim pickings...maybe sometimes I do go for quantity over quality (options, people!)? I dunno...but no shrimp cocktail, no omelette station, no carving station, very few lunch entrees, small dessert section. The popovers are a treat, though. It's a pretty intimate setting - the room is quite narrow and long with the single buffet table right down the middle; harpist is in the middle of the room against the wall; can get kind of noisy with all the chit-chat going on. But alas, it's the Cliff House - so it's just kind of cool to check it out regardless. Can't remember the price, but I think it's around $40. Call for reservations.
(3)
Robyn B.
newly redone, a great place to watch the sun set and have a drink with friends.
(5)
Maggie S.
the buffet is fantastic food great and wait staff very attentive. however one must tolerate the lowly paid incompetent host/hostess to get to it, they insisted i did not have a reservation because reservations are only at 10 12 and 2 o clock. i get the run around between two lowly paid morons who couldn't even perform the duties of seating people properly. it seems that most of the low paid workers in this city are the snootyist. and then management is just as moronic as the host/hostess. thank goodness for the chef and waitstaff. otherwise they would have nothing to offer but a view.
(5)
Nirea S.
So I'm updating my review, I finally got a call back that they would refund me for the 4 people who did not show up so I basically get my deposit back which is nice. I first spoke with the GM and he just argued with me that I signed a contract and I woul be costing them money to refund me. I didn't feel very happy but someone else called me back later that day and let me know I will be refunded. Much happier as I really thought my Birthday was going to cot me $250 could have bought a flight to Vegas for that. Again I'm still keeping the stars at 3 because the meal wasn't really what I expected I was thinking Steak and Shrimp or some sort of Fancy buffet food but it was pretty standard the deserts were the only impressive thing and the chocolate mousse was great.
(3)
John R.
This has been my favorite Bay Area brunch for almost twenty years. The food, ambiance, and view are all outstanding. They even have live harp music. Unlike many other brunches they don't have a carving bar or custom omlets, so people who consider those features important should be aware of this . There's also a nice trail up above the Cliff House which leads to a beautiful view of the Golden Gate Bridge, and Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach are right down at the bottom of the hill. Great way to spend a Sunday afternoon in SF, but as others have remarked parking can be difficult.
(4)
Lily W.
9:15AM...I wake up. DAMN YOU DAY LIGHT SAVINGS TIME!! I THOUGHT IT WAS 8AM!!! Realized our brunch time was at 10AM. SHIT. Friend called, found out we can still go, but it'll cut into our 2-hour block. Bites...but it happens. Arrived, and was seated by the door. I guess if we got there on time, we MIGHT have gotten an ocean view? Ehh...I can still see the view, but its a little less awesome. Food...was good for a buffet, but not necessarily to die for. I DID like the Miso Salmon, Popover, and Eggs Benedict. Their little Pot De Creme in an eggshell is also uuber cute and pretty yummy. Service was great. Very attentive. I just wish they had the arrivals a little more stagnant. 10AM is way too early for brunch on a Saturday...
(3)
Veronica V.
The Cliff House was recommend by a friend. I'm glad I took his advice. As you enter the Cliff House, it is a bit confusing. There are several restaurants. Where do you go? The champagne Brunch is on the bottom floor. The hostess was very nice and friendly. My +1 and I attended the 11:30 brunch. I suggest you come early. As we left around 12:45, the place was starting to fill up. The room was bright and the sounds of a harp playing was nice. The buffet is centered in the middle of the room. The tables are too close for comfort. Community sitting is what I call it. However, there is a good side to it. Some of the conversations people are having are rather interesting. Let see...I think the people I was sitting next to was possibly a shrink and friend/client. I learned something from their conversation. Never send an email when you are angry. Got it! My favorites of the buffet were the eggs, potatoes, salmon, peeled shrimp, pasta salad. There is so much to eat. All kinds of fruit. Lots of desserts. Bottomless champagne, apple cider, coffee and tea. The staff is very friendly and attentive. As you exit the Cliff House make your way to the left down the stairs. The view from there is stunning. Take your photos.
(4)
David S.
We attended the Christmas Day dinner for the first time - enjoyed it much but with a couple disappointments. They only offered ham, not ham AND turkey as they did for thanksgiving. The ham really was tender and delicious, but I was more in the mood for turkey & stuffing, but oh well - it was still satisfying. 2nd disappointment was there were no mashed or whipped potatoes. (they did have it at thanksgiving) 3rd disappointment was the green bean casserole which was pretty lame. I've made better myself at home. So why I am still giving it 5 stars? Because - I still love this place - the ambience, decorations, location, and views are all breathtaking IMO. And they were very accommodating to me even though I had to alter my reservations at least 3 times. Besides the other food offerings were still excellent, my favorites being the peeled shrimp and the marinated tri-tip and the butterscotch pot de creme, served in white egg shells. And the harp player played christmas tunes so beautifully, I thanked her profusely for adding so much to the experience.
My partner and I have done brunch - The Palace, Mark Hopkins, Four Seasons, etc. We tried the Cliff House for the first time today. WOW. It is small - which turned out to be a plus. Every single dish was perfection. There was no "filler" to be found. Goodness gracious. The butterscotch pot de creme made in the real egg shells - Oh My! We will be back - often. Congratulations to the chef. Of course the views are breathtaking.
(5)
MJ J.
First time here in Cliff house after a decade. The remodeled place is nice but bathrooms are old. Now the brunch - mediocre and built as a tourist trap. Very limited choices - no oysters , sushi , etc For $69 per person I would rather pay more and do to ritz Carlton . I overheard people saying just eat the regular restaurant. The NY steak was ok. Dishes tastes like hotel food. Service was like a used car sales lot, funny but not at all sophisticated. Will not come back.
(2)
Anna O.
I made reservations here a month ago and finally got to go here for brunch last weekend. We sat by the window and had a great view of the ocean. For brunch they had bottomless champagne along with a variety of of breakfast/lunch at the buffet. I'm a sucker for breakfast.. I love the eggs benedict and french toast with fresh fruit on top. After my breakfast plate, I tried the tri-tip, corn salad, and potatoes. All were pretty good tasting but I was definitely getting full. Not before I got dessert though. Cookies, I'm definitely a fan and would come back. The service was excellent as we never had to ask for refills. If you have guests visiting you, this would be a great place to bring them.
(5)
she q.
This was such a fabulous champagne brunch. They are really on top of refilling your champagne and overall drinks. Also quick to clear your plates. Service was really friendly. We were fortunate to have a side table that wasnt closely attached or in such close proximity to other tables. -I loved the butterscotch pot de creme in the egg shell. -chocolate mouse in the champagne glass was really good but rich -popovers are always delish -shrimp salad and shrimp cocktail were good -mini muffins were good...not dry -peanut butter cookies were sooo good -scrambled eggs and french toast were cooked just right -bacon was nice and crispy -lots of pasta, veggies and fruit
(5)
Nia Q.
If you are looking for a nice "fine" dinning experience this place is NOT IT! If you want nasty,old,cheap, horrible food this is the place for you! HA! $50 per person! 100% overpriced and overrated. TWO THUMBS DOWN! I would never recommend this place! If you want an amazing Sunday brunch go to Top of the Mark!
(1)
Lee H.
Never got past the reservation process. Turned out to be a good thing. I called to make a reservation to take my father to the brunch for his 80th birthday. He loves ocean views and buffets, so I thought this would be a great idea. When I called to make a reservation, I asked the person over the phone if I could request a window table because it's my....the reservation woman proceeds to talk over me. I tried futilely to tell the reservation person that I was making the request because it's my father's 80th Birthday and that he loves ocean views. Each time, she would interrupt and talk over me. Repeating that they don't make reservations for window tables and that I would need to check in with the host the day that I show up. That's all fine and well, but at least let me finish what I'm saying. I just thought it was rude, and if this is how the restaurant deals with people making a reservation for the brunch, how were we going to be treated when we got there? I decided to go check out the Cliff House to see if the views were worth the trouble. Turns out, the views at the brunch location isn't that great. Much better at the Cliff House Bistro or Restaurant. I wound up opting to go to the Cliff House Bistro instead which had its own set of issues. See my review of the Bistro for details. Long story short, if you're paying $50 a head for a brunch, you'd expect to be treated better during the reservation process. I accept that they don't reserve window seats, but at least have the courtesy to let your guests finish their sentences when they're making a reservation. This is your restaurant's first impression with the customer.
(1)
Cathy M.
3.5 stars. AYCE brunch buffet with Unlimited champagne, apple cider, coffee and tea. Price is about $63/person including tax & tip. We were a party of 3 and they automatically added in 18% gratuity. Although the atmosphere was intimate and elegant, the food they served was nothing fancy. Overall the food was good especially for a buffet, just not great. I would probably only go back if it was a special occasion. Servers are all very friendly. We did the first seating at 10:15am and it was quite crowded. Here are some of the items they served: **Cold Dishes: pasta salads, shrimp salad, vietnamese beef vermicelli salad, Smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, Miso salmon, cheese and crackers **Hot Dishes: Eggs Benedict, jambalaya with clams, tortellini pasta, mac n cheese, French toast, sausages, bacon, scalloped potatoes **Desserts/pastries: Croissants, popovers, cheesecake, cookies, mini fruit tarts, pies, and caramel pot de creme, banana bread, strawberries dipped in chocolate
(4)
Jennifer T.
RESERVATIONS SUCK here we got booted and no one even called we go here ever year for xmas this will be our last year why call a month early and wait to hear back to only have your reservation given away. I worked restaurants for 12 years and this place really needs to get it together with their service just cuz your at a famous location doesn't mean you treat people like cattle. thanks from a long standing local that supported your business you can go depend on the tourists alone from now on.
(1)
Belyn L.
I love this place. It's elegant, classy, and delicious. The view is breathtaking, so remember to request a seat with a view when you make your reservation. Service was great. Take your girlfriend here if you want her to go gaga over you. :)
(5)
Morgan M.
I've only ever been to the Cliff House for the Champagne brunch and my oh my, it doesn't disappoint! The service was lovely, the food was delicious and replenished frequently. And the champagne was actualyl good (I was a little worried about what the quality would be like). A real treat and I look forward to going back again!
(5)
Jessica M.
We went here for the Sunday brunch- the server was nice and we got seated right away- it's a great location, parking could be tricky, but we got lucky with an upfront spot. While the food was good, I felt it needed more. The variety at HS Lordship and Spin a yarn is much better (I don't do buffets often and don't have much to compare it to). The price was expected, but felt it was a bit too high considering the lack of options. It was nice, but I don't think I'd do it again...
(3)
Mai T.
A year ago, I said I would love to get married here... A year later.. I did =)
(5)
M. W.
This place is just OK, and definitely a little overrated. Considering the price of the buffet, patrons should be getting better ingredients/items than what is offered. Pros: 1) Most of the buffet items were very tasty; 2) Unlimited champagne; 3) Great ambience; 4) Great service; 5) Nice view of the pacific ocean (for window seats only) Cons: Most of the items/ingredients are nothing special, e.g. scrambled eggs, sausage links, bacon, french toast, eggs benedict, pecan pie, oatmeal cookie, fresh fruit, tortellini, etc. are things you can get just about anywhere. The paella, while very tasty, did not have any mussels in it... only clams. You also won't find any crab, lobster, or rock oysters amongst the items. Salmon, clams, and shrimp are all the seafood you are going to get for your $50 (pre-tax). While the wait staff in the restaurant were good, the maitre d' out front could have been more professional and friendly, i.e. don't continue doing your own stuff and gaze downwards while talking to patrons who come to you for check-in. Also, when at nearly full capacity, the place gets a bit cramped (and *very* cramped around the buffet items). Items (that I can remember): Paella (with chicken chunks, small shrimp, clams in shell, sausage) Tortellini alfredo Fingerling potato salad Potato gratin Cheesecake, chocolate cake, pecan pie, peach pie Butterscotch pot de creme (served in tiny eggshell) Smoked salmon, miso-flavored salmon Shrimp cocktail Mini-shrimp salad Beef (tri-tip) Fresh fruit French toast with apple sauce Scrambled eggs, sausage links, bacon, eggs benedict Cookies, mini fruit tarts, mini eclairs, mini cream puffs/profiterole Chocolate mousse, chocolate-covered strawberries Champagne, coffee
(3)
Lisa T.
Food and service is great here. I got the salmon crusted bacon and it was delicious. Portions are small here unless you get the rib eye, but it was just enough for me. The views would have been amazing, but I went on a rainy day, so didn't get to see much. They do have a terrace below to walk around to look, but I didn't go, since it was too rainy that day. Plenty of parking spots that day, but probably due to the weather. There is also a small parking lot uphill on the right side.
(4)
Jasmin R.
Good service from the waiters, the food was decent (I'm spoiled by Top of the Mark brunch but this was very good for the $50 price), and the view was breathtaking. The only issue was that I called back a week before my reservation to add 2 to my party of 4. When my mom arrived a few mins before me she checked in and there was no indication of my adding two people, the front desk gentleman didn't handle it well. He first suggested that we put the extra two people (my 8 and 10 year old niece and nephew!) at a separate table. Then I arrived walked up and said 'my mom tells me there is an issue with my reservation' and he rudely cut me off and said 'I don't know who your mom is!' Its like, dude, I was about to tell you. I was taken aback by the unecessary attitude considering it was their mistake, but luckily we got our full table within a few minutes and the rest of the employees were much nicer. They topped off our champagne almost too much. I must've had 10 glasses!
(4)
Tiffany E.
This brunch will cost you a pretty penny. Ok, let's face it, it'll cost you $45, but it's worth it! This colorful buffet spread has great variety and flavor to satisfy whatever you're craving. From salad to eggs benedict, french toast to steak, rice pilaf to mac n cheese, your breakfast and lunch cravings will be met. A few of my fave dishes are the shrimp salad, miso glazed salmon, tri tip (I think that's the cut of meat they serve), tortellini, and au gratin potatoes. They have this side dish of caramelized onion and garlic, which is probably supposed to go with the tri tip, but I could eat it as-is. Everything on the dessert table is delish, especially the little lemon tarts and chocolate mousse. Did I mention the unlimited champagne, coffee, and tea? I especially appreciate that the chef occasionally comes out of the kitchen to check on the food and talk to the customers in the buffet line. The food dishes are replenished in a timely manner and the wait staff is attentive. The well-lit dining area gives you a beautiful and expansive view of the ocean. Ensure your seat and avoid the wait by making your reservations online. Save those pennies and treat yourself to this yummy splurge!
(4)
Elle P.
If you are truly accustomed to fine dining, you will immediately recognize that this surely isn't it. We arrived and the air was hot and stale- not what you want for brunch. We took a spin past the buffet and it looked less than impressive. We decided to visit the bathroom before being seated and that cemented our decision to find another place. The bathrooms were seriously of the caliber of a highway rest stop. I'm sure we dodged a food poisoning bullet here. I'm admittedly a food snob though, for which I won't apologize. Cheers!
(1)
Nicole G.
$45 per person for a buffet brunch. Ocean views, brunch, unlimited champange - they even have a harpist. Great idea, right? Wrong. The "champagne" they serve is called Wycliff. Look it up online. It's $4.99 per bottle. I am not above cheap champagne, but this stuff tasted horrible. I couldn't even finish one glass. And I NEVER don't finish my champagne. EVER. I wasn't expecting Dom Perignon, but if I wanted to drink the equivalent of Cook's, I'd go to some $15 bottomless mimosa place in the Marina with a DJ and a bunch of 22 year olds still drunk from the night before. Food is average, standard brunch fare. If you're cool with paying $45 for scrambled eggs and fruit salad, this is your type of place. But stick to the sparkling cider they have for kids. Otherwise, there are a million other delicious brunch places in the city. And tourists - don't even come here for the view. It is gorgeous if you happen to be here on one of the 3 days out of the year that the sun actually comes out at Ocean Beach, but the odds are not in your favor. The extra star is for the harpist.
(2)
Lindsay G.
This is the best place for brunch in the city, hands down. I have been 5-6 times in the last few years and it is perfect every time! The staff are amazing and the food is always delicious, creative and fresh. My favorite foods from today's visit included kale salad with cashews and dates, miso salmon, beets with goat cheese, roasted cauliflower and yummy shrimp! Not to mention the delicate butterscotch pot de creme served in hollow egg shells with itty bitty spoons! The bottomless champagne is a treat. They literally refill your glass after every few sips! The servers are so friendly and prompt. We usually go to the late seating around 2 and there is always just as much food as the earlier seating times. It's not like other buffets, where if you go later, there is less selection. They also have a talented harp player and gorgeous views of the ocean. It is completely worth the cost of approx $50 per person (tax but not tip included). It is the perfect mix between formal and causal. It's also a great choice for vegetarian and pescetarian eaters like me! I wish I could go every weekend :)
(5)
Linda M.
The Cliff House is a nice spot for a special occasion brunch on the water in SF...and dress is casual for brunch. We celebrated my in laws 50th wedding anniversary there and our server couldn't have been nicer. He kept the included champagne and coffee flowing fairly well, plus got drinks (milk, hot chocolate) for the kids. The food is good and plentiful. It's not gourmet. You'll find things like pasta/grain salads (I particularly liked the corn bulgar one), lox, bagels, pastries, eggs beni, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, salmon, steak salad, cheeses, french toast, shrimp, asparagus, eggplant, cauliflower, scalloped potatoes, etc. Plus copious amounts of desserts -- chocolate torte, cheesecake, mousse, chocolate dipped strawberries, a butterscotch pudding, fruit tart, cookies, cream puffs and much more. It's a good spot for groups. I think if I were going on a romantic date...I'd eat in the restaurant so as not to be 2 inches from my neighbor's table. Adults are $45 for the champagne brunch, kids are half that. If you do have kids in your party they might want to check out the giant camera obscura behind the restaurant afterward.
(4)
Cando T.
Second time here for a special family gathering and the service was as i remember... Attentive, extremely warm and friendly! Five stars for service :) Good value for the price at brunch here. Fresh and solid quality foods and decent variety of breakfast foods, including French toast, pastries, eggs Benedict, bacon and more, cold foods such as smoked salmon, cheese, fresh fruits, and several pasta salads. Bottomless champagne is always a plus. Live music by a harpist. Beautiful ocean view. Come hungry! Definition of buffet: you never leave hungry!
(4)
Crisy G.
Love this Sunday brunch buffet..last time here was twice in MAY for my birthday.. Staff is great..and non stop refills on champagne n other drinks..$50 not include tax n tips..first sitting is best..!! Best view too..!!
(4)
Olivier L.
Amazing views, great food. Ambiance is great. Very family friendly without being overly noisy. We were able to get a reservation the day before and while the place was busy, it did not feel crowded.
(5)
Christy C.
Wonderful place for Sunday brunch! $50 (including tips) per head is worth the money! Foods are good quality, service is nice, brunch is located in a small but nice lounge, the sea view is spectacular even in a foggy morning. Many yelpers comment they serve cheap champagne. I don't drink so can't add comment to it. However, I like their coffee and cider. As I said, foods are well made, but mainly salad, egg, ham, bacon, sausage, cheese, fruit and some desserts. It's good but nothing wow. I agree that this brunch may be no match against some brunch in Vegas at the same price, but it is in San Francisco. It's not very fair to compare, anyway.
(4)
T A.
Had brunch here with a friend and it was damned near perfect. It's buffet style and the staff is ON that buffet..keeping it clean & keeping it stocked with food. It was a very non-germy atmosphere for a buffet and that's just how I like it. I also didn't see many kids around so, it made it that much more sterile and pristine :). I loved that they had all you could eat Eggs Benedict (I replaced the poached egg with scrambled due to egg yolk ooze & salmonella freakoutedness). I only had 2.. but in hindsight, wish I had grabbed one more.. I want one so bad right now. Damn they were perfect! I also loved the huge dish of roasted onions and garlic. I can put that stuff on just about anything and it kicks up the tastegasm levels to the 9th power. The waitresses were on point with the champagne refills.. left no glass empty on our table. Being the beverage whore that I am, this was greatly appreciated. I kinda didn't like the way the tables were set up. I almost wish they'd have a designer come in and do a make-over on the whole set up. I hate sitting right next to strangers in restaurants.. but the rows of tables left no other option. So, my friend and I engaged in our normal chit chat and I believe we made one couple leave earlier than they planned with the topics we were discussing. Hey, if you're going to be nosey and listen to us, we're gonna give your ass an earful! The table set up made it impossible to enjoy the view outside the window, unless you sat at a window seat, of which most were set with a 4-seater table and that sucks for peeps with just 2 folks in their party. All in all, it was a deliciously good time. I'll definitely come again and maybe with more folks so we can take advantage of the window seats with the phenomenal view. I was a little thrown off by the gay mannequin in the lobby (see pic)..but, it kinda made the place seem more down to earth and definitely pro-SF culture :)
(4)
Laura C.
After doing a bit of research for Sunday champagne brunch buffets - I settled on the Cliff House. Reasons: the price was mid range ($45/head), it was supposed to have a beautiful view, unlimited champagne, and the food had reasonable reviews. I called in to make a reservation (they say it's recommended) and I didn't want to get stuck waiting for a table. It's located in the Ocean Beach area - on a nice day, parking can be a bit tricky as Cliff House is right next to the beach. However, we found a lot (10 minute walk to Cliff House) across from the beach that had a number of spots, and by the time we were leaving, all the spots were taken. Upon entering, it's a little confusing as Cliff House is home to several restaurants - the Sunday brunch buffet is located downstairs. The place is nice and bright with a clean mid-scale/classy feeling. Large windows allow you to enjoy the outside view of the water. I requested a window table and was lucky that there was one open. The food is in the center of the room - the variety wasn't huge, but not bad. Partial food selection: Smoked salmon, miso glazed salmon (I hate fish, but people seem to rave about it), eggs benedict, scrambled eggs, bacon/sausage, something that resembled jambalaya rice, shrimp salad, cocktail shrimp, few kinds of cold pasta, asparagus, cheese/crackers, tri tip, french toast, and cut fruit. Dessert included: Chocolate covered strawberries, cookies, mini eclairs, mousse, tarts, pecan pie, and chocolate dipped macaroons. Overall, the food was OK, but definitely not impressive. For $45, I'd expect a bit more, but it wasn't to the point where I would complain. Pros: -Nice views and a classy venue -Unlimited champagne/coffee -The Lands End Trail is nearby....it definitely helped to take a walk to burn off the food. Having brunch and then taking a nature walk is a great way to spend a morning/afternoon. -Reasonable food variety -Yep, they do have someone playing the harp Cons: -Buffet area can get crowded at times -Some of their tables are too close together. Our table was situated less than 5 inches away from the next table. -Our champagne glasses ran dry for 20+ minutes at times. I can't say that they did a good job of keeping our glasses filled. I was a little peeved at this - for $45, it better keep flowing. Plus yours truly likes to drink!! -Food quality was OK, the grade could have been a bit better for the price paid. I would also include fancier dishes - I can always get sausage and bacon from Denny's. -Caliber of the service wasn't quite there. It wasn't terrible, but for $55 a person (after tax/tip), I expect service a notch above Applebee's. Overall, Cliff House was OK. There aren't a whole lot of Sunday brunch buffets (w/ unlimited champagne) to choose from, so I might come here again the next time.
(3)
Susan C.
I only came here for Sunday brunch once and I believe it was for a birthday or Christmas eve. LOL. How I get my events mixed up I'll never know. But man, was it scrumptious. I tried to get a little bit too much of everything and my plate was a mountain of food. I got eggs, bacon, some of the pastries and a lot of cheese and crackers and fruit. And I even tried to go back for seconds and it was uber fun not to mention the view was just as tasty as the food.
(4)
Piper P.
It has been a couple of years since dining at The Cliff House, and so friends and I decided to spend our Sunday at their Champagne Brunch. You couldn't ask for a better view (of course) beautiful ocean, blue sky, birds and whales and surfers visible from the beautiful windows in the room. And then of course, three stars for the food!! Endless assorted salads, fruits, cheeses, desserts, and my favorite, thinly cut flank steak. I also enjoyed their famous popovers and my all time favorite dessert, the butterscotch "pot de creme." Staff members were incredibly friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Our server, named Dusty, never let our glasses of champagne run dry. We even received a table side explanation from one of the chefs, his name was Steve-o, about the process of making the butterscotch eggs. He was extremely friendly and made us feel like old friends. Overall, I would 100% recommend the champagne brunch at the cliff house to anyone in the lands End region of San Francisco interested in fine food, beautiful views, wonderful staff with unique names, and a beautiful dining experience in general.
(5)
Gonzalo Y.
What a great View!!!! Food is good I strongly recomend
(4)
Cameron B.
I was here over winter vacation with friends for brunch! It was after a very successful birthday celebration night (the world was very fuzzy, Advil hadn't kicked in yet, and the need for greasy food was high) and I was looking forward to the buffet style brunch (be sure to make reservations ahead of time). There are many reasons to come here, great view, beautiful dining room, nice location, but seriously, if you've read my brunch reviews, you know there's one major decider for me: UNLIMITED MIMOSA BRUNCH!!! What better way to nurse a hang-over, then to get drunk again! We had our DD, and our appetite, and we got to it. The buffet has a great assortment of cold and hot dishes. The thin sliced ham was perfectly salty and juicy and the french toast was brought out fresh and hot! Most importantly is that they kept your table clean of used dishes and NEVER stopped filling my glass. I think I had to wave down our waitress once for a refill and that's only because I chugged my glass after eating something spicy! It's a bit pricey for brunch, but the mix of decent and ample food, great costumer service, and yes, booze! BOOOOOZE makes it a once-and-awhile worth endeavor! If you have an aversion to elderly people (who also like to booze, and prefer YOU don't turn the place into a frat house) then maybe asked to be sat in a corner away from them....they are the majority clientele! I hope to be one of them one day!!
(4)
Evelyn T.
This is where my fancy Sunday brunch habit was born. I LOVE breakfast foods!...eggs benedict, thick cut crispy bacon, garlic potatoes, french toast, bagels with salmon and lox...oh mmm.. During the week, who has time to make or enjoy a breakfast feast? Well, who EVER has time to? It makes Sunday brunches that much more indulgent IMO. Whether Sundays are the end of a week or the beginning of another, brunch at Cliff House is a perfect way to start the day. A romantic walk to Lands End or Ocean Beach after brunch tops off the experience.
(5)
Carloalexi M.
This is the second time I've eaten here. First was with my partner on Christmas Day. Having lived in SF Bay Area for a few years, we've passed this place on our way to Ocean Beach and wondered how scrumptious a fancy restaurant with a KILLER view would only taste like... and my, oh my, was our prediction accurate. The Champagne Brunch is usually held weekly on Sundays, with reservations HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The space is relatively small, with a dining area of about less than 1200 sq feet (fits less than 80 people comfortably). I always envisioned that the entire Cliffhouse building was occupied by one restaurant. But unbeknownst to me, it was divided by 2 restaurants: the casual dining Bistro Restaurant and the more formal Sutro's. Although the Terrace Room isn't technically considered a restaurant (coz it only holds the champagne Sunday Brunch), it was located underneath the main floor, downstairs from the entrance. Sutro's had the more enviable view with the dramatic ocean scenery of waves crashing against the rocky coast, but the Terrace Room's expansive view over the horizon of the Pacific Ocean was like looking at a California postcard. The Christmas Day Champagne Brunch had an additional treat: lamb roast ($65/person for holidays (because of the lamb) and $45/person for regular Sunday brunch). Aside from that, it serves a buffet of endless smoked salmon, eggs benedict, french toast, pasta carbonara. The desserts were equally as impressive: chocolate-covered strawberries, Pot de Creme (butterscotch-flavored pudding inside an eggshell), and standard NY cheesecake. Waiters come around tending to patrons by filling drinks, including coffee and champagne. I was surprised that OJ was a premium and that it was an additional charge, however. Nonetheless, As the champagne flowed, so did the trips back and forth to the buffet line. Considering the size of the room, I was happy to see that the average wait time in the line was only a few moments before you can make your selections. Adjacent to the buffet tables was a harpist who would play a few pieces that range from classical to oldies (I remembered "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"). Definitely added to the elegance to the restaurant. Two hours had passed and after consuming nearly three plates each of an assortment of breakfast, lunch and dessert-foods, we decided that it was time to leave. The buffet only runs Sundays from 10am - 330pm. At around 3pm, the crowd thins out and the food is slowly being put away by the staff, but they never make you feel like you are being rushed away. We thoroughly enjoyed our meals, and after paying $190 (incl tip and tax) for three adults and one child, I was overall satisfied. Top-notch food, warm and inviting ambiance, and spectacular views are reason why I will continue to return to the Terrace Room. TIP: Remember to make reservations! Also, parking is a chore if you arrive for lunch. People usually park on the side of the road in front of the restaurant, otherwise find parking next to the lot where the Sutro Baths once stood.
(5)
Jen B.
Okay so I came here for a dear friends milestone birthday celebration. it was a gorgeous day and the views were breathtaking. While everyone was excited about the all you can drink champagne..well, im not a fan..but i was happy they had sparkling cider as substitute..the food i can actually say majority of it was really good..i was definitely not shy heading over to the buffet several times..hehe..i really like their eggs benedict and their cheese raviolis..the presentation of it all was tasteful...literally..i could not stop heading back to try a lil of this and that..and our waiter was absolutely the greatest..he was as attentive as can be, had a sense a humor, and was patient enough to put up with a bunch of loud champagne filled ladies..haha..he practiacally became part of the brunch party..i say i would definately come back again..as long as finding parking isnt too bad..which can seem impossible..but sooner or later you will..and probably if you dont mind the walk which i didnt mind at all..the scenic walk made it worth it =)
(4)
Kathleen W.
I hope the lady who's been stalking me for giving her restaurant a 2 star review reads this. Came here for a day time wedding (11am - 4pm) and weather and waves were perfect. Things ran a bit late (which we all expected), but the views were gorgeous, the sun kissed our cheeks and the light salty breeze fluttered our hair. Do take note that waves are LOUD ... it's great soothing background noise, but we had to strain to hear the vows. Open bar (wine and beer) - manned by 2 gentlemen, the lines moved quickly and staff was always traveling the tables to refill our glasses. Several trays of appetizers and unlike most places where you have to chase down the ever elusive appetizer waitress for that last stuffed mushroom, the ones here found you. Option of 3 choices of entrees. All the food to all the tables were delivered promptly and professionally. The food was also very good. Today's set up had ~13 tables with 10 seated comfortably per table ... while providing ample room for the dance floor, bar line and wedding cake display. The service staff here were efficient and knew what they were doing.
(5)
Eric L.
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away" That's my current inspirational quote of choice, and the views from the Cliff House WILL take your breath away. Parking is a little tricky, there are some parking spots by the Cliff House, but you might need to park at the bottom of the hill where the beach is. No worries though, the walk to the Cliff House is scenically beautiful and worthwhile. The Champagne Brunch, is a buffet with a mix of some interesting mixed salads, Chinese food, and classic breakfast food. Perhaps it's not worth the expense of entry, but the real value is the location and the exploration of the Cliff House's decks after gorging yourself on the buffet. If you've eaten a bit too much, there's a beach that begs for an afternoon stroll right down the hill.
(4)
Lorri A.
Okay - here goes: Sunday "Brunch" you have several choices at the Cliff House. One of the choices is the buffet brunch. I think it's about $45 per person with "unlimited champagne" Er, uh..... may I correct that? It's "unlimited sparkling fermented alcohol" that the Cliff House pays about $2 / a bottle. So what does the Cliff House do with the other $43 it gets from YOU? I guess they pay their Chefs. (and rent, since the property is on the cliffs) yeah, the choice of bubbly was extremely disappointing. EXTREMELY. I mean, C'mon. How about Chandon? At the very least? We nearly left after being seated. Seriously! But we were there and said "what the heck" we will tough it out. And I will say, the 4 stars above are a reflection of the food choices and quality - -i was VERY surprised at how good the food was. YES - really. Peel and eat shrimp that is already peeled? : - ) Several seafood salads. ; - ) Perfectly cooked and chilled miso salmon that was not too sweet ; - ) Other meats and KILLER POPOVERS - and the roast beef was cooked perfectly too. Surprise, surprise! (hard to not overcook food on a buffet.) Really nice caramel dessert pudding poured into an EGG SHELL - such a nice presentation. Atmosphere - inside - very casual. (which was a bit disappointing) Atmosphere - outside- it's on the CLIFFS. Can't beat the view. NOT disappointing. Sparkling wine - very cheap and very disappointing. Food - really very good. Service - very nice and accommodating. Would I reccommend it? Weeeeeeeellllllll - in a foodies paradise (as SF is) in a word: NO. But I still give it 4 stars because the food saved it. The location, why we selected it - IS hard to beat on a clear Sunday day. Next time we are in the area - if we want to stop and take in the view, we'll visit one of the OTHER dining/bar areas that are also located in the same building.
(4)
Denice R.
Delicious! Brought the family here for brunch. Not a huge selection, but plenty of choices. Favorites: French toast w apple compote, popovers, and cream puffs. They accommodated our children without any problems and provided them with sparkling cider. A casual but nice atmosphere. .
(4)
Helen V.
Had the eggs bendict with dungeness crab. Poached eggs. Good. Crab. Great. It's a great heart meal...however...towards the end of my meal...started to get too much but still was yummy. Could have a hint more salt in it without me having to add. Comes with a side of fresh fruit. Potatoes were okay but nothing outstanding. Popovers, yummy! I wish they had strawberry butter like other locations with popovers. But strawberry jam and butter seem to be a good combo though.
(4)
Jenny K.
A lovely place for brunch. My boyfriend took me to this place to celebrate my b-day:) *Great selection of food. The dessert was outstanding (the chocolate mousse & the roast beef was delicous!). *Good service * Included in the price is unlimited food and unlimited champagne (very bubbly) & coffee. *Spectacular view of the ocean if you have a window seat. *Live harp music. *Available on Sundays from 10am to 3:45pm with the last reservation taken at 2pm. *The cost per adult is $43.00, children under 12 yrs is half price. *Reservations recommended at least 1 week ahead.
(4)
Kelly B.
This is for Sunday brunch only... This was a fabulous place for a special occasion. We had just one such event, my parents have been married to each other for SIXTY years (and haven't killed each other yet!). My sister started suggesting that we take mom and dad somewhere special and I agree. They aren't the type that let us make a party for them for even their fiftieth party, so we decided to make the sixtieth something special with a "surprise" brunch. I did due diligence in my job of picking the venue. I looked at a venue in Capitola (didn't start serving until 5pm), at one in Yosemite (too far, transportation issues), cruise dining (a bit pricey), San Jose (ala carte, my folks would try to go cheap and just order soup, I know them), the revolving restaurant in SF (closed for two years) and about ten other places. I gathered up my research (I was probably avoiding the research paper for my assessment class) and took it to my sister. She looked at all the posit notes and the rubric and maybe was a little overwhelmed. She said, "You decide!" I picked the Cliff House and Bob made the reservations. We reserved for twelve, and would you believe it, EVERYONE showed up! My sister and nieces took mom and dad to a "museum day" and then said that they had made reservations at the Cliff House. My mom fussed that it might be a little expensive, but went along with it. She was rather confused when they seated her at a table for TWELVE! Yep, everyone showed up, little by little. Champagne was poured and coffee was served. She grew more excited by the minute. Of course, both my mom and my dad were very pleased to see every one of the children and grandchildren. My niece made jordan almond keepsake boxes with ribbon and an engagement ring and diamond centered daisies. The Cliff House staff were very friendly. The food was very, very nice, especially their lox (high grade), miso encrusted salmon, sliced fruit, sesame marinated asparagus. There were excellent scrambled eggs, sausages, scalloped potatoes, homemade mac and cheese, paella, tortellini, more pasta dishes, an onion/garlic fry, and roast beef slices. Then there were the deserts. OMG!!! Their chocolate mousse was dark chocolate with a strawberry garnish.... very nice! There were chocolate dipped strawberries, mixed pastries, a peach melba tart, pecan pie, a huge bowl of strawberries, french toast with apple topping. I 'm sure I've left something out, but it was a special spread, with very fresh and high-grade ingredients. I didn't have any champagne, but the coffee was excellent. When we first arrived, there was a lovely harpist. Then, of course, there was the fantastic view. There simply isn't a bad table in the room. The room is decorated in a calming combination of butter yellow and cream in a very orderly Edwardian manner. The effect is one of warmth and calm. The dramatic view of the ocean is the icing on this decoration. We were treated very well by the Cliff House staff. They were attentive and professional. Reviewing the bill, we noted that 18% was added to our bill automatically (because we were a large party?). We didn't have any argument to that. All in all, it was a very refined and lovely event. We are very grateful for The Cliff House and it's champagne brunch. I would heartily recommend it for a upper tier event.
(5)
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Address :1090 Point Lobos
San Francisco, CA, 94121
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Brunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Hayley A.
Definitely an experience that is worth every penny! The layout of food and all of the different choices was just incredible. The waiter always made sure that our glasses were topped off and never had a dirty plate hanging out on he table for too long. I absolutely recommend this outing as a fun date brunch or a cool get together for the girls!
(5)Jerry C.
Cliff House is easily the Sunday brunch that has the best ambiance and scenery, with a harpist gently strumming in the background, while you're overlooking the Seal Rocks and Pacific Ocean. Make sure you make a reservation for Terrace Room, not Sutro's or Bistro if you want the buffet brunch. It's pricey ($55), but the buffet comes with all you can drink champagne, and they're generous with it. I would take a sip or two at a time, and someone would come by and top me off. Ridiculous! In a good way. The food is pretty standard for a brunch buffet, but everything is cooked as well as it can get on a buffet line, although I wish there were a little bit more options and a carving station. Service was fine, as mentioned with topping off champagne glasses. I'm usually not one for dessert, especially during brunch, but everything looked so pretty. Butterscotch in an eggshell, chocolate mousse in a martini glass - you get the idea. I couldn't resist! Brunch at the Cliff House Terrace Room is a neat experience - especially if you feel like splurging.
(3)R A.
The worst service possible!! Showed up on Sunday for 11:30 seating only to be told by the host (rather rudely) that our open table reservation made a week before was not for the brunch but rather for the Sutro's restaurant (no buffet and ridiculous prices). Really??? Why would anyone need to make reservations for that place since It was practically empty!! Our waiter, Christian was very kind and courteous but at this point we were very upset and could not enjoy anything so we asked to speak to the manager (Rob or Bob). He came to see us with a printout in his hand saying (although he never exactly pointed it out on the printout) that they mention on their site or reservation site that you can't make brunch reservations online. News to us and nowhere on the email confirmation either! Just the fact that he has a printout handy when he talks to guests tells me this sort of thing happens very often. If they truly talk about service, 1) fix your website so people are not mislead Or 2) continue misleading people into thinking they made a brunch reservation and then catch that overflow into Sutro's for an overpriced breakfast No thanks for us... we left. 0 customer service.
(1)Denise M.
I am contemplating whether to give this place a three or four stars. If compare to other brunch I've been to such as Scott's Seafood or Lordship, this cannot compare. The food selection were minimal and the quality of food were average. Customer service was excellent though compare to many place. The table seating is a bit tight and the ambiance was not what I expected for the charge of $55 per person. Overall, if you never been to brunch and want to stay in SF, then I do recommend Cliff house. However, if you don't mind crossing the bay, you must check out Scott's Seafood Brunch.
(3)Kim S.
My husband and I got married and had our reception here on August 22, 2015. We worked with Virginia, Lauraine and Nicole: Virginia during the pre-wedding process, and Lauraine and Nicole during the event. Throughout the entire process, we were impressed with the staff. The coordinators knew the answers to all of our questions, never needed to get back to us, and they seemed to have a great relationship with the other Cliff House employees. On the day of the wedding, everything went really, really smoothly. We were told by multiple guests that they loved the food, and that they were really impressed with the service. Everyone was very attentive - the bartender, Kevin, was so friendly and made sure that everyone had a fresh drink/refill. My mom told me that she needed to get things from one of the locked offices (where things like purses were kept) a few times that evening, and that Lauraine and Nicole were quick to help her with that, never rolling their eyes or telling her to wait. The staff even made sure to save a plate of appetizers for me and the groom, since we were having pictures taken during happy hour - such a nice, thoughtful touch! Could not have asked for a better wedding/reception, and the work that the folks at Cliff House put into the event did not go unnoticed or unappreciated. I would highly recommend this site for an event to anyone, and my husband and I look forward to coming back to enjoy the champagne brunch or any other meal. PS- Originally we weren't going to have appetizers, but at the last minute we changed our minds. So glad we did! The crab cakes were soooooo delicious!!
(5)Terri N.
Excellent food and great service. We particularly enjoyed the California Egg benedict. The popovers are to die for!! The jams are very good as well. Nice view and nice ambience.
(5)Karen T.
I would of given them a 4 but they screwed up big time. I was there for a wedding and was in charge of the reception table. Wedding days are stressful to begin with, all I asked for were 2 chairs for the reception table. I asked literally 5 times waited over 40 minutes for it and never received them before guests started to arriving! Girls in heels standing and stressing is no fun! We wouldn't of asked for chairs if we weren't wearing high painful heels. Chairs finally showed up in the middle of a heard of guests coming in and we were busy looking for their seats, too late! Now on to the good, best bartender he was very attentive and hardworking. I saw him running around and helping everyone. Filet mignon was good bread was good we ate 3 baskets. Hors d'oeuvres were ok and service at the wedding was great.
(3)Hieu H.
"More champagne?" "Why yes, please," I gleefully tell our attentive server at the Cliff House Terrace Room Champagne Brunch as he refills my third or fourth glass. At 55 dollars per person with bottomless champagne, I would consider the brunch here a steal compared to other places like the Ritz-Carlton at Half Moon Bay. At both places, the draw is the amazing view. Unfortunately, we were not seated at a table near a window, so that kinda took a way some of the fun for me. The buffet is a little small and the desserts are forgettable - except for the butterscotch egg. The fresh strawberries were surprisingly sweet. For my first round, I focused on breakfast. The scrambled eggs were good. I found the bacon a little too undercooked - I like mine crispier with most of the fat rendered out. The french toast wasn't drenched in batter so it wasn't too soggy served with your typical fresh cut fruits like honeydew and grapefruit. The lunch side included popovers or Yorkshire pudding and these were a highlight with a great crust on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. I ate these with the assorted cheeses offered. I didn't really like the cold pastas offered, but the Asian beef salad was good. Gooey Mac n' cheese stuck to my bones. Like other reviews have mentioned, there's no carving station, and for the price, should have been expected. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, but after gorging myself it was nice to be able to take a nice walk along the shore. To get to the cliff side of the building, head down one extra floor and that will take you to the most serene veiws of the coast.
(3)Helen G.
I honestly don't even know where to start ! The food is excellent ! The views are simply breathtaking ! Service is outstanding ! It's expensive but it's a must try !
(5)Julie L.
Gorgeous view of the ocean. Food was ok. There's 2 sides to the buffet but I was only able to get to one because there's no order to the way the line flowed. Seniors just stand there and take their time as if there isn't a bazillion peeps behind them. Service was great. They kept refilling our champagne, cider and water. Bloody Mary's are an additional charge.
(4)Erin M.
Everyone should treat themselves to this at least once. It is expensive but worth it. I dined on a Sunday afternoon with my boyfriend for a belated Valentine's Day celebration. The view of the ocean is beautiful and romantic. The food is delicious. They served all the breakfast staples, plus paella, prime rib, and multiple salads and desserts. Afterward we walked along the Sutro baths and lands end. It was a wonderful afternoon. What an amazing location. Parking is challenging. That was the only downside. This is a San Francisco must.
(4)Vivian W.
The view is great if you come on a non-foggy day. The food was just meh. This is an ideal place for a brunch date or a nice family gathering though. I'm just not sure I would pay so much again to eat the food here if it wasn't for a special occasion.
(4)Stephanie C.
My best friend wanted to treat me to brunch for my birthday and she asked me to choose where I wanted to go. I originally wanted to go to Foreign Cinema but since that was a no-go, she took me to the Cliff House Terrace Room for brunch. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised (or maybe that was the bottomless champagne talking? ;)). We had 12 p.m. reservations with window-seating and though we arrived on time, we didn't have a table with beautiful ocean views (-1 STAR). This ended up not being a problem because we were seated pretty close to all the food (don't judge me) AND there was bottomless champagne ;) who needs an ocean view when you have bottomless champagne? There was quite a variety of dishes, both for breakfast and lunch, while we were there and everything tasted amazing. Their brunch is served buffet style so you are able to try a little bit of everything. For my first round, I decided to try all the breakfast dishes. We both tried: -the eggs benedict -scrambled eggs -french toast with cinnamon apple jam -bacon -sausage -fresh fruit I have to say that the scrambled eggs and french toast stood out. The eggs were fluffy and very fresh and the french toast was so delicious. I easily could have gone back for more of the french toast but I decided to try out their lunch dishes for my second round. For the second round, we tried: -potatoes au gratin -shrimp salad -fresh shrimp -corn salad -tri-tip My favorites were the shrimp salad and the tri-tip. While all the dishes were tasty, I have to say that breakfast was my favorite! Even though I was full, I decided to stuff my face some more with dessert. I tried some of their fresh oatmeal raisin cookies and chocolate covered strawberries which were amazing. The cookies reminded me of homemade cookies - definitely weren't store bought. The service was great! Though we didn't get our original table, we ended up having such an amazing brunch and the staff was very attentive. We never worried about our water, coffee, and champagne refills. I also loved that there was a harpist - a really nice touch! This is definitely brunch for grown ups ;) If you are a brunch lover, celebrating a special occasion, or hosting out of town guests, brunch at the Cliff House Terrace Room is a must!
(4)Audrey L.
Just wish there was a made to order omelette station. That would've made this buffet five stars. We arrived there around 10 mins after our reservation, but we weren't seated until about 30 mins after our reservation. We also got seated at a table for six even though there were only three of us. However, no other parties were seated with us, so we still had our privacy -- which should be expected for how expensive this buffet was! The food here was definitely more about the quality, less about quantity. There was only one table of food, but everything was very well stocked. There were also some nice cold dishes like a kale salad and mixed beet salad. There was also a carving station with ham and beef. Around 3pm they took out the They should think about getting a different dessert chef, because nothing in the dessert department was that great. The chocolate on the chocolate covered strawberries didn't really have a strong taste of chocolate (maybe too diluted)? The harpist was also a really nice touch. Afterward, it's great to walk off all the food around the Sutro Baths and watch the sunset from the beach. The location couldn't be better.
(4)Cherylynn N.
If there's one thing that I'm not a fan about SF is our brunch culture to... Wait...... Wait........... And..................... Wait.................................. Sometimes for over 2 hours. Damn, we must love watching paint dry on walls. Don't get me wrong, I love catching up over brunch to get a recap of the weekend's drunken debauchery [that I no longer participate in] such as who hooked up with who and who face planted onto the bottle service table but I rather be doing it over text...in the comfort of my mumu in bed. If you don't mind paying a pretty penny for a mediocre brunch with a view then the Cliff House Terrace Room Champagne Brunch is the place for you as it's one of the very few places that accept reservations for brunch. NO ridiculous wait! It's a good place to bring out-of-towners but not foodies as the food was nothing remarkable. Street parking is terrible but there's a small parking lot up the hill to the right across from the diner, Louis'. We were able to easily find free parking here as most people tend to miss this small lot while driving through. ~ * ~C O ST~ * ~ $49 pp includes unlimited bubbly. Our bill somehow ended up to be about $75 pp out the door for a party of 6. *shrugs* ~ * ~S E A T I N G S~ * ~ 10 am, 12 pm and 2 pm. ~ * ~F O O D S E L E C T I O N~ * ~ *2 STARS* My friend visiting from SoCal compared the buffet selection to a mini cruise ship buffet aka it sucks. Sorry but it's true. For $49, I think most of our party expected more than 4 small tables formed into an "I" serving six salads, a fruit tray, eggs, bacon, sausage, french toast, smoked salmon, shrimp, skirt steak, eggs benedict, miso salmon, potato gratin, mac 'n cheese, paella, popovers, a dinky cheese tray, and desserts. This was 50% of the spread: bit.ly/190EBdh and only several things were actually good. It wasn't "quality" over "quantity" either. I'm not a fan of throwing down money for brunch or buffets but I rather go to The Navio at Ritz Carlton for their brunch buffet that has 3x as many choices including luxury items like cavier, crab claws, fresh oysters, sushi station, and prime rib (my review: bit.ly/1chatMA ). It wasn't the greatest but I like having choices and tons of them especially at a buffet. It's also much pricier at $120 pp out the door but $75 is already a lot to spend for brunch at the Cliff House so what's another $40-50? :X ~ * ~F O O D Q U A L I T Y~ * ~ *3 STARS* Unlimited bubbly served was Wycliff Brut. It retails at $5.99 a bottle but they probably get it for $3. I'm not much of a champagne drinker so this was just OK for me and I barely drank a bottle's worth. Besides, I don't think the older crowd here would have appreciated our drunken shenanigans. *Good: Eggs benedict, smoked salmon, and pot de creme *Mediocre: Almost everything *Bad: Congealed mac n' cheese, dry yet mushy paella, and Safeway like cakes and tarts Everyone raves about the popovers but I didn't care for them. They were sitting in the steam tray and were dried out. For awesome popovers, Rotunda (Neiman Marcus) has the BEST! ~ * ~V A L U E~ * ~ *2 STARS* You're purely paying for the view here. That's if you can see anything with the clouds. ~ * ~S E R V I C E~ * ~ *5 STARS* The staff is absolutely wonderful; very professional, polished, and attentive. Glasses of bubbly were constantly refilled without having to ask. Food on the steam trays were promptly replenished. ~ * ~V I E W~ * ~ *4 STARS* Always nice to see a waterfront view but it was very foggy on the Sunday we went so we couldn't see much other than clouds. ~ * ~A M B I A N C E~ * ~ *3 STARS* The space is a lot smaller than pictured and can accommodate up to 120 people. Décor is classy but very Golden Girlsish. They have a harpist playing which was cool. What IS up with having ONLY two restrooms (one stall each) shared among two restaurants (Terrace Room and Sutro) with hundreds of people?!? WHAT THE EFFF? Paying $75 then having to do the pee pee dance on the drive back home across the city. Not cool.
(3)Laura D.
Overrated , totally over priced!!!appetizers size are minuscule and price are like main in a normal place. Service was average, definitely not proportionate to the final bill. Only the view is worthy, so why don t go and get your food in the next place up the street? Totally a better experience.
(1)Tracy M.
If you read some of my reviews on other Brunch restaurants, you can see that I am not easy to please when it comes to this beloved meal. However, I found Cliffhouse well worth the money paid. The experience was wonderful. Excellent food with lots of options, check! Truly bottomless champagne- I mean you take a sip and they are back refilling your glass, check! Beautiful views of the ocean, check! An interesting history and fun gift shop, check! We will most definitely be back.
(5)Renee L.
Overrated and overpriced. I didn't think the food was up to standards for a classy $$$ establishment. Sure, this is Sunday brunch buffet, so maybe quality might slide a little to make way for quantity. But then there isn't too much to choose from either... I'm certainly not coming back on my own volition; money better spent elsewhere. Of the available food options, I only found the eggs benedict, miso salmon and paella to be worth having seconds. Cranberry scone was not bad either, but nobody in their right mind would fill up on scones at a buffet. The smoked salmon did not taste fresh or properly stored since it was a little mushy and some edges were drying up. What a disappointment since I wanted to binge on that. I don't recall seeing any other seafood besides shrimp cocktail. Salads were pretty interesting and not your normal iceberg lettuce. Normal array of fruits, can't really mess that up. The dessert spread was quite disappointing both in taste and selection. What unlimited champagne? My table only got refilled once. Admittedly, I was basically the only one downing it at my table, but the waiters seemed to come by and refill all adjacent tables and skip me. I can only take comfort in guessing that I look too young. Coffee refills were frequent to the point of annoying though. Not much ocean view unless you're sitting next to a window on the south side. Parking is also a big pain so make sure you allocate at least a half hour for spot hunting before your appointment.
(2)Samantha H.
After hearing from a friend that the Cliffhouse had a beach view champagne brunch on Sunday, we were absolutely excited to go check it out. Let me start out by saying that I had no complaints about the service, and the food was restocked regularly. However, when paying $50 per person for breakfast, I'll admit that I expect some level of creativity or absolutely delicious, refined food. INSTEAD, we got the Cliffhouse. It was like breakfast at a trough, champagne included. Tables packed into a long room right next to the buffet so that you could see everyone going back for thirds and then gorging themselves. Aside from the fruit plate, pretty much everything was coated in cheese, mayonnaise, or butter (although there was an occasional hollandaise sauce thrown in). There was nothing here that made this more than a $29.99 buffet, unless their pay scale is based on how many calories they feed you. I will also remember indefinitely the girl at the table next to me who was able to Hoover an entire eggs Benedict into her mouth in one bite. If not for this feat of grandeur, brunch would have been a total and utter loss. Girl in the silver shirt- if you ever happen to read this, BRAVA. You have changed my life for the better.
(1)Hilary R.
Where do I begin? My husband made reservations in advanced for the champagne brunch and two days before called and confirmed. When we arrived somehow our reservation got switched to the bistro. When we asked to get this confusion fixed we had to wait 20 mins past our reservation to just SEE if we could get in. You confirm our reservation yet we don't get it? Get your act together. You are a place of costumer service and right now I'm feeling very upset about your service.
(2)MY C.
We felt for the price of $55 the food would have been better. We spoke with the manager about the temperature of the food. The hot dishes were not even warm. The beef, mac n cheese, egg dishes, noodle dishes were all cold. The best part of this experience was the miso salmon and desserts. The display of the food was wonderful. The service was just alright. We had to ask for coffee a number of times.
(2)Mike P.
What a great view of the Pacific! Never heard of a "popover" but the best bread I've ever had. Ordered the Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict and it was superb. We will definitely be back! Love this place.
(4)Karen L.
A bit overrated. This place looks like it's trying to be more upscale than it really is. Considering it's a buffet, there isn't a large selection of items to choose from. A bit disappointed at the amount of food options available, but what was served was good. Most notable was the Paella and the French toast for me. $49 for buffet and unlimited champagne. Too bad the champagne really isn't all that to rave about. Parking is horrible during the day around the area so good luck finding a spot.
(3)Shilpi D.
Based on our experience on a regular Sunday brunch celebrating hubby's birthday. View - 5 stars. Service - depending on the server. Some servers were friendly and helpful, others seemed to ignore us or were rude. Food - definitely not worth it, in our opinion. Food items had no labels, folks were rude when we asked about specific food items. No butter - c'mon - it's a brunch, where's the butter? Kids' brunch did not include a hot chocolate - only cider- this was strange to us because it was cold, and for the kids' price, they could have thrown the beverage in. Deserts were alright - we've had better. Tables were cramped, and they said they could not guarantee a window seat even though many tables were empty.But you could get the same view for free, and get some good food as a picnic lunch.
(2)Jenn C.
this place has a HARPIST and has a breath taking view of the ocean. plus afterwards you can go on a nice walk and walk off that food coma. the food was excellent and the service was top notch. this place is reservation only so call ahead!! i can't remember everything that i ate, but i remember not having enough stomach space to try and sample everything that i wanted. we came here because my brother read the hunger games series and was so inspired by the food description in the capitol that he needed to eat a hotel breakfast buffet. it wasn't at a hotel, but it sufficed and it was everything that he wanted in the experience. we left extremely full and happy.
(5)Chris A.
In short you basically come here for the view. Fin. You want more? OK - We did not do brunch but grabbed a drink and app in the bar-area to the right when you walk in. The servers seem preoccupied and do a sub-par job of servicing the tables. No welcome, intro or specials spiel "Are you ready" is about it. Calamari was gross, rubbery, tasteless batter and a pretty weak portion. Beer on the other hand was cheap (6.50/draft) with a decent selection of California beers. Cocktails were $9-$15 Come have a drink, take a few pictures and skedaddle.
(2)Roland N.
I would call this your best bang for your buck classic SF brunch. If you're not in the mood to spend over a $100 at the Palace or Top of the Mark, head over to the other side of the city, enjoy ocean views and stuff your face full of traditional brunch faire and endless champagne. If you're from out of town, or you are planning a Sunday at Golden Gate Park, start your day off right at Cliff House.
(4)Erin R.
Cheeseburger was...eh. Garlic fries were much better. Service was slow. Moscow Mule was delicious. Good memories though & talk about a beautiful view!
(3)Robin L.
Wonderful Service and Ambience. Never had to ask for a glass of champagne our glasses were always full.. Food could be better, however, Flank Steak was out of this world. Dessert was average nothing special.. The harp player adds a special touch. Even though I wasn't over the top for the food, I will still go back...
(3)Debbie T.
Location! Location! Location......if it is a clear and sunny day. The size of the buffet table was appropriate relative to the size of the room. While none of the food was memorable, nothing was awful. There was more than enough varietyfrom which to choose. No carving station. Dessert is always my favorite part of the meal. Nothing worth the calories. The butterscotch pot de creme did not live up to how other yelpers have cheered. In the end, we were there to celebrate a special friend's 90th birthday. The ambiance and service were outstanding. Everyone enjoyed themselves. Would I host an event here? Definitely not. But, I would come back as someone's guest.
(3)Jason M.
Clam chowder - If I were comparing against the non-coastal US I might give this an 8. But for the bay area Cliffhouse is more of a five. I've had about as many clam chowder is that were better as I've had worse. Food is a bit pricey. Wine list is good. Fish and chips were above average. The service was quite good. Ambience was a bit austere. View of the ocean quite nice. It's a little bit out-of-the-way and there are so many great options in this area, I don't think I will be returning.
(3)Rachel M.
Everyone can find something they like here. Sweet, savory, rich, healthy (eh, maybe not that one). The tortellini, eggs benedict, and butterscotch pot de creme - in a delightful little eggshell! - are my favorites. One star off for the ridiculously tight seating arrangements.
(4)Mariela D.
This is where tea parties grow up and come to life. It's the ultimate pinky-in-the-air, sundress, big floppy hat type of brunch. The kind you take someone you want to impress. The kind you take your mother to show her how special she is to you. Or in my case, the one you visit with a longtime friend to sip mimosas over much needed girltalk - adjacent to a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. After a 20-minute wait on a Sunday morning, we nabbed a much-coveted window seat and immediately dove into the basket of freshly-baked popovers. Popovers are like their house bread, but to compare these delicious puffs to "bread" would almost be sacrilegious. As I pulled each one apart, smeared it with butter and jam, I let out a sigh of contentment. They are SO good. It was a sign of even better food to come. I opted for the Johnson omelette which had huge chunks of dungenous crab, cheese, green onions and avocado with a side of fruit and house potatoes. Simply amazing. Our server poked fun at us for staging so many iPhone shots of our food with the ocean in the background - but it was just sooo pretty, we had to capture it. I look forward to coming back and spoiling myself soon :)
(5)Jamie M.
The view at this place is awesome if you happen to get a seat next to a window, but nevertheless I wasn't bothered by sitting a few feet across the way. The wait time wasn't horrible but I was slightly disappointed in he burger. It wasn't anything special/the fries were okay. I can probably take the L for ordering a burger here, although I really wanted the lamb sirloin sandwich w/Rosemary potatoes but it was only being served downstairs and not where brunch was. I'd definitely go back but this time I need a window seat and I know not to get the burger. My friend enjoyed the Dungeness crab omelette just fine.
(3)Stephan P.
I went to the Sunday Brunch buffet with 3 other friends, not sure why I am reading previous bad comments, I had a great time, champagne was pouring until I said stop, the food was great and delicious, between salmon, French toast, pastries, pastas, I could go on and on, food buffet was great and lots of choices, service was great, will definitely come back.
(5)Ryan T.
This buffet is way over priced and over rated. The buffet table is small and the choices are pathetically limited, beef is overcooked, cheese on baked potatoes is hard and dried like cardboard, mushrooms are burned, cocktail shrimp is tasteless, fruits are mostly tasteless especially the strawberries (big, red... but, taste like water) The three of us paid $60/person and it's not worth it... Don't think I will come back for meals! RT
(1)Ms. J.
So, where do i start? Well, the view is beautiful! No doubt, you are paying for the scenery. Food was...well, eh......"shrugging shoulders"....it was alright. I ordered some sort of baked salmon (it was more like a big block of salmon that had some seasoning on it). Ordered dessert that was sub-par. The service was not bad. The staff was attentive. Would i come here again? Eh, no. But if i had people from out of town coming to SF for the first time and i had a little extra cha-ching on the side to carelessly spend, yeah, id take them there.
(3)Sanish S.
So I reserve the Sunday Brunch at 2:00 pm and I arrive at my appointed time. I didn't get seated until 2:40. The food was ok, nothing that peaked my interest, but there is a wide variety of food. Live music. Overall ok experience
(3)Zed Z.
The first thing you need to know about this brunch is that you need a reservation. Also the later 2PM seating is less crowded. The food is pretty good, but not awesome. The main thing you are paying for is the view and that is awesome. So, plan this one out ahead of time and get there a little early. Parking was a bitch.
(4)Blondie R.
Loved my Sunday brunch!!! My very good friend, Linda the Great and I were celebrating our birthdays! How great is she? She's so great, she makes Alexander the Great, look like Alexander the Wuss! She's 4 days older than me. Same year! Her Greatness made the reservation and she booked us next to the window! Verrrry great. We had a killer view of the ocean! The buffet brunch was sooo good! The service was spectacular. Wonderful salads, lox, eggs benedict, paella, fruits, veggies, meats and desserts. The champagne was exquisite(and bottomless!). I asked her Greatness what her favorite dish was. She said the scalloped potatoes. That was my favorite dish too! After brunch, we walked the Coastal Trail. So, how old are we now? None of your business!
(5)Yona Y.
Eggs Benedict here is very good! Also vietnamese inspired cold beef noodle salad(?) is very delicious. Overall food quality is good compared to other buffets, and the best thing is they filled up free champagne endlessly so I got drunk over my Sunday brunch~~~ (@o@)v !! But it is kinda pricey, if they stock more varieties with the food will be good!! Dont forget to reserve seat by the window for a ocean view!!!!
(4)Shephalie L.
Cute, quaint, breathtaking views! Went here for my sister and my mom's joint Birthday Brunch. Our family is a huge stickler on quality brunches, so I did my homework. I had heard from multiple people about the ambience and unique location of this place - and it did not fail me. On the other side of SF, the Cliff House has an amazing history and is located on a cliff overlooking the ocean and a beach. Gorgeous, even though it was raining during the first half of our brunch. Also, quite classy with a lady with a harp playing in the corner. The decor definitely could be updated though . ... felt like I was stuck in the 80s. The Sunday Brunch is a $45 per person with unlimited champagne. Not bad for the 3 hours we spent together :) Decent food, pretty standard for a larger American brunch. Tons of seafood though! Smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, asian-style cod, etc - our favs for a brunch spot. We were particularly excited about the cream custard in egg shells. We were so intrigued by how it was presented that we flagged down the waiter to ask the pastry chef how he did it! They told us their secret and we recreated something similar later that week that just stunned our guests :) You hafta go check it out to understand what I'm talking about.
(4)Sally M.
Sexy surfers - indoors & out ;-) I came here for last week's 7x7 Mixology Madness event @ the Cliff House ( nirvino.com ...) in the Terrace Room and just LOVED the venue. Amazing views of the ocean, the beach, and the surfers - those in the water, as well as at the event (shout out to a certain snowboarder with a name starting with the letter "A" in West Portal) ;) The Cliff House is the perfect place to set the romantic mood on a sexy date. I'm giving 4 stars for now, and saving 1 for later - whenever, and with whomever that may be...
(4)Alice J.
I came here for the Sunday champagne brunch for a friend's birthday. It was really enjoyable! There was a good variety of food including salad, assorted cheese, breakfast pastries, eggs, sausage, pasta, salmon, and more. Everything taste really fresh and of course there is the unlimited champagne to wash it all down. The decor is a little plain but they provide music in the background and the view outside is wonderful.
(3)Katherine B.
The ambiance was excellent so that deserves 5 stars, especially since we had the best table in the place oerlooking the entire ocean and old Sutro Baths. I ordered the rock cod and an orange juice. It was 11am and our room was not serving the Brunch menu which I found annoying. My food was fine but nothing special. OJ was not amazing. Probably Odwalla - sick. Service was amazing. I probably won't go back unless one of my friends begs it.
(3)Panjit S.
Great place to enjoy the beautiful vista.
(4)K K.
We went to champagne buffet brunch recently. It is great location. You may be parking your car away and walk uphill but it is nice walk if it is a sunny day. Food is not spectacular but decent. Yes, I had better, maybe 50 other places or so. It is not that expensive so I did not have high expectations on food selection or quality. But, there wasn't even a custom omelette station. Web page makes you believe that this buffet brunch has nice ocean view. But, you can't see much even if you are at a window table. Web page shows a dramatic ocdean view. I wonder if it is targeted 1-time tourists? The other two restaurants do have better view not brunch. They did not give a better table to us even though it was available. We are 3 people at 4-person table. It was funny arrangement. One side of the table is pushed against a curtain on the wall. So, I pushed the unused chair a litle away from myself so that I do not eat the curtain instead of my food :-) The chair was not outside the outline of the table, it was 10 inches away from me. One of staff passing by comes and psuhes the chair towards to me. A few seconds later I push it back to same position. Another staff comes then another. I had to tell the third staff pushing the chair towards me to take the chair away.
(2)Casey S.
I have always wanted to check out the Cliff House and my mother's visit presented the perfect time (afterall, it's a good idea to visit all the over-priced tourist attractions when you aren't the one footing the bill). We showed up at 10:45 on a Sunday and were informed that there was no way we were going to get into the Sunday Brunch buffee. Apparently you have to make reservations well in advance. No worries, though, we were able to get into the main restaurant in about 30 minutes. In the mean time we were able to sit in the atrium and enjoy mimosas and bloody marys while we waited. Luckily it was a beautiful day and we enjoyed looking down over the frothy waves. Let me just say that the best thing about the Cliff House is that when you do finally get seated at your table instead of bread they bring piping hot popovers! I haven't had these since I was a kid and have never seen them in a restaurant. The rest of our meal was good, but over priced. I had the portobella mushroom burger which I enjoyed but thought it could use a little more goat cheese. Overall, our experience was positive. It's a great place to go on a nice day especially if you have visitors from out of town. The reason I am only giving it 3 stars is because it's over-priced and, as a local, there are a lot better places to have brunch.
(3)Shirley B.
This past Sunday I brought a bus load of 53 people to the Cliffhouse Sunday Brunch as part of a tour ot the city. All I can say is FABULOUS! Workng with their Large Grroup/Banquet team before hand was easy. When we arrived at the restaurant (which was packed) they had our tables ready and waiting for us. Services for coffee, and champagne was excellent, and most important the food and view was wonderful. The buffet was always well stocked. they kept the popovers coming out hot and fresh and everything was very tasty. Gold stars all the way around.
(5)Adrienne M.
Continuing our tradition of brunch buffets for Valentine's Day, my boyfriend and I had brunch here today (we were originally supposed to come last week, but it was postponed due to illness). We were very happy with the food, even at the expensive price ($45 pp). Because we had checked Yelp before we knew not to expect really fancy food (e.g. lobster, crab legs, sushi) and I also knew there were no carving stations, which does seem kind of surprising but is not that big a deal to me. We were impressed at the selection of food and also at how well it was prepared. I have been to similarly expensive brunches with really mediocre food and we were pleased that the food here was very tasty. The selection looks small at first, since it is just one single table area, but when you realize there is no repetition (i.e. both sides of the table have different food), you realize there is actually quite a variety. Some of the highlights on the buffet were: -6 or so interesting looking pasta/fruit salads (but no "traditional" salad) -popovers that were good but not the best I've had (try to get them when they bring out a fresh batch, cold popovers are no good) -breakfast selections including: french toast, bacon, sausage, GREAT scrambled eggs (not overcooked like normal on a buffet) -excellent au gratin potatoes (I had 3 helpings!) -miso-glazed salmon -a tortellini dish with ham that my bf really liked -spicy mac and cheese (was too spicy for me) -excellent steak -FANTASTIC dessert spread (especially if you like chocolate): great chocolate chip cookies, chocolate covered strawberries, flourless chocolate cake, chocolate & vanilla swirl cheesecake and amazing dark chocolate mousse. for non-chocoholics, there was a pecan tart, a few mini-fruit tarts, and an assortment of non-chocolate cookies. There were also mini-blueberry muffins and croissants & rolls. The view was lovely as well (although we were not able to get a coveted table by the window) and we had a nice time afterwards walking around Point Lobos and Ocean Beach and taking pictures. There was also live harp music, which was very nice. It was definitely a fun experience to do once while we live in the bay area and we were impressed by the quality of the food. I don't know that we would come back, because it is expensive and we like to try new things, but I definitely recommend doing it once! A few things that would significantly improve this brunch in my opinion: --don't charge people for non-alcoholic drinks. when you're paying $50 for all you can eat and all you can drink champagne it just seems absurd to not have a 50 cent hot chocolate included. that kind of nickel-and-diming just detracts from the experience they are going for. --move apart the tables. we were sitting so close to the table for 2 next to us that it was basically a table for 4. it was awkward and we felt like we couldn't really talk to each other freely without them hearing us. i think they felt the same way since they barely spoke at all. it was also annoying whenever we had to get up from our table and climb across them, which was often, since it was a buffet. --let tables of 2 sit by the window. others have commented on this as well, but the tables by the windows are all for 4+, which is lame. --bring out baskets of hot popovers to each table instead of having them on the buffet: nobody likes cold popovers!
(4)Anne C.
Hubby brought me here for my birthday last Sunday. It was our first time to enjoy the lovely spot that we had heard about for years and years. Some of the dishes were better than others. Loved the gratin potatoes but they were probably very fattening! Enjoyed the eggs and the salads. Can't say anything about the meats as all in our party were vegetarians. The champagne was freely poured but the coffee, not so much. Had to flag down a waitress to get a refill! Go figure. The desserts were quite tasty. Loved the butterscotch pudding in the egg shell. The chocolate dipped macaroons were quite yummy too. I loved the chocolate mousse but couldn't eat it all so freely shared with hubby and the others. We enjoyed the view and would probably come back for another special occasion.
(4)Amy F.
One of the best brunches I've ever had, and I've had some amazing brunches! Everything was perfectly prepared, and the creative California cuisine was diverse enough to accommodate everyone in our large party. The pineapple glazed salmon was everyone's favorite, and one of the best pieces of fish I've ever eaten. The pastries were also wonderful, which is unfortunately rare to find in the USA. The champagne itself was high quality, and our glasses were never less than half full. The staff was friendly and attentive. Oh, and the view! Spectacular! I cannot recommend the champagne brunch highly enough!
(5)Chelle K.
We wanted to do something special for my mom's birthday, so instead of taking her to dinner, we opted to take her out for a Sunday champagne brunch at the Cliff House. Our reservation was scheduled for 12pm, but because of unusual traffic and a marathon that was going on, we were a half hour late. I called ahead of time to let the restaurant know and they said that they would do their best to fit us in anyway even though they were completely booked. Upon arrival, the hostess was friendly and went above and beyond to accommodate our party of 5. We even got a beautiful table with a view of the ocean even though we were late. The brunch spread was AMAZING. From the sushi, lox, crab legs, shrimp and lobster to the prime rib, the eggs benedict, french toast, fresh fruit, salads, and decadent pastries, the Cliff House is beyond delicious and offers a beautiful selection. The bottomless champagne (and/or Mimosas depending on your preference) is a nice compliment to brunch. The view is simply breathtaking and a the scenery surrounding the historical Cliff House is the perfect place to walk off what could be a very heavy meal.
(4)S H.
Love their Champagne Sunday Brunch. Elegant music by the harpist, breathtaking ocean views and the food is always delicious. Parking can be a challenge so arrive with time to spare before your reservation.
(4)Cristina C.
This is a review for the banquet facilities of the Terrace Room, not the champagne brunch. We held our wedding reception here in April 2011, and Virginia, Masoud, and the entire staff did a fabulous job. The views are amazing, and the room is the perfect size for a party of 80-100. The food and drinks were excellent, and fairly priced for the area. I cannot offer enough praise for the staff; multiple people commented on how well the reception was run, and I never at any point felt that something was not going well or being mishandled. We were extremely happy with our decision to have our reception here, and would highly recommend it to anyone.
(5)Monica D.
I would have rated this place with a 5 however, my table had corroded tops on the salt & pepper shakers, so bad that the S&P would not even flow out. I had to ask 2 different servers if they would change them for us. One server did, but he just alternated with another table. Didn't even take it off of the floor. The however, was great. I was taking my Mother here for her Belated Mother's Day Gift & my Birthday. We will definitely come back. Thanks.
(4)Benjamin I.
Was hesitant coming here cause it seems primarily tourist driven and I typically associate great views with s***** food but was surprised to enjoy my lunch. Everything with the exception of the host being seemingly oblivious to waiting guests was good.
(3)Greg G.
The scenery is beautiful. Nothing like watching the ocean waves crash on the shore from the second story room. I know they have different names for each room..I was in the room just to the right after walking in the front door. You are upstairs at that point H'ordeurves, I had the half dozen poached shrimp and cocktail sauce and the cheese plate-- Very tasty. Wine selection by the glass is a short list however and i thought it should have been a much longer. The bar is open till 11pm and casual dress is great. btw, this was a Thursday night and the room was near empty from 8pm. I have heard how popular it is and reservations necessary. Perhaps I was just lucky though.
(4)Alex M.
simply I love this place. The food is really good The atmosphere and views are stunning and who doesnt like free Sonoma champagne ?
(5)jason g.
Good service along with the million dollar view should automatically warrant this place a minimum of 4 stars. If there food was anything like the view, this would be a 5 star review. If you were to review the food, it's probably 2 stars. The fried calamari was over battered. The San Franciscan which is the eggs benedict with crab meat was good. The fresh fruit was very sweet. The chicken ceasar salad was average. Price came out to 54.00 A little pricey for this place but then again you are paying for the view.
(3)Joe K.
I would really rate this place maybe around a 3.5 but nothing higher. My brother and I decided to give this place a try after hearing rave reviews about the location and quality of food. We had a party of 9 and attended the Champagne Brunch on 12/26. Getting to find the actual brunch itself led us to a two-flight staircase which brought us down to a bar and the champagne brunch. Before approaching the actual brunch we decided to grab a couple of drinks. The beverage service was not too great because they only had one bartender at 1:00pm on a Sunday?? Our group waited 35 plus minutes for cocktails which was kind of annoying. Very big disappointment.... At 1:30 we proceeded to a large banquet room which consisted of multiple round and long shaped tables. In the center of the brunch was where the food was located, and to be honest it was kind of awkward because right next to the food were other peoples tables and most people in our group felt that we might have been getting in the way. The table behind us had about 20 people and they were very quiet. I noticed from the minute we got there that it was very quiet and there was no music being played which made the whole dining experience kind of awkward since my family is pretty loud. I felt like I was dining in an old cafeteria... Moving on to the food selection and quality. I have to admit I was somewhat impressed in most dishes however the pasta that was served cold was not very good at all. I stuck with the french toast and sausages as well as a croissant. I found the quality of the food to be actually pretty good, however I noticed the temperature of the food being served as not as hot as most would expect it. Overall the food was good to very good. The champagne that they service is their own, private label which wasn't the greatest. We instead opted on the Dom Perignon champagne from the Bar which ran $60 a bottle but it was a lot better than what was being served to us. Total cost ended up being around $600 for 9 people. I probably will come back but not for the buffet, maybe the restaurant for sure. P.S. The website indicates that they have valet parking, however that is incorrect. We had to park a half a mile away. Maybe they should update their website?
(3)Mathilde B.
We went there for the birthday of a friend on a Sunday morning, it was really great! Atmosphere is ok (mostly seniors and families but can be great if you're a lot of friends, they have big tables) Fancy and beautiful view on the ocean, of course better when sunny and blue sky...good luck with that ;) Food is amazing, I still remember the egg benedicts after 2 months...
(5)Joe R.
This is a treat, wonderful location with amazing views of the ocean. I am not sure of the history, but the place has been around in some form for many years. At around $30+ a person it's pricy but the food doesn't disappoint. I had monkfish, saw the snapper & stuffed chicken. Beautiful presentation & no complaints in the taste area. Definitely worth a visit!
(4)Shannon K.
Five stars for a high-end SF champagne buffet brunch experience with great ambiance, superb views of Ocean Beach, friendly staff, delicious and creative culinary treats and endless bubbly. This is definitely a pricey brunch-- I'd say you'd come out spending at least $90 for two during the champagne buffet brunch. Here are some quick tips: 1) Pop-Overs: DELICIOUS. The Cliff House is famous for its deliciously dangerous popovers, which are oh-so-soft on the inside and melt in your mouth. I can seriously eat a dozen popovers. Be careful though-- you have to eat them ASAP when they're piping hot or else you'll lose the warm, pillowy softness and crisp outside. If they've been sitting out for too long on the buffet table, they'll taste MEH, so get them when they come out or else you'll probably be more disappointed than impressed. 2) Upscale champagne brunch-- you'll see lots of people having bridal / baby showers, birthdays, celebrating anniversaries, etc. Basically, this is the backdrop for a nice luncheon for couples, families (not really for children though), vacationers and those who can afford it. If you're like me (e.g., young working professional), you'd probably dine here once in a while (e.g., anniversary or birthday). 3) The food is really good. I mean.. for a typical brunch buffet, you'd expect to see items like scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, macaroni salad or coleslaw, salad bar, lots of desserts, rice, sides of meat, etc. You'll get that here but with a culinary twist because it will be more delicate, fancy and upscale. You'll get a salad, but it'll have seared tuna with intricate little vegetables and exotic touches. Everything has a little twist to it that makes it really good and creative. This is definitely NOT like a Hometown Buffet / Souplantation-type of restaurant. You'll get a great sampling of rich food while also satisfying your love for buffets. 4) The view is fantastic, so come on a sunny or clear day. It's also great because there's tons to do and see around Ocean Beach. You can walk to the old bathhouse, which is a landmark, and you can grab your bikes or walking shoes to tour around Ocean Beach. You can make an afternoon of it: brunch at the Cliff House, tour the bathhouse, walk/bike around Ocean Beach and enjoy the sites and sounds. It gets windy, so bring a jacket! 5) The executive chef walks around to see how people are enjoying the food. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with the chef(s). They're super nice! 6) Harpist: Gotta have music during your champagne brunch. :) You'll hear Broadway melodies and classical music-- great! 7) Unlimited champagne. Cheers!
(5)Chris H.
I've never been to a buffet where everything was so good especially given this one has an excellent variety. There was so much good stuff I didn't have room on my first or second plates for bacon. My 2-top was a little too close to 2 other 2-tops next to me to the point where a private conversation was impossible but that was ok with me this time. Great experience and well worth $45pp.
(5)Fe C.
Food, view and service was great. We were there for Mother's Day and the only thing i have to complain about is our 2 year old son only took bits and pieces of the grapes, but we were charged full childrens price of $29!
(4)Ross A.
Went here for brunch on Father's Day and had a great time, but it wasn't worth the price. Adding a carving station with well done filet mignon (I prefer rare to medium) for an extra $14 per person was not worth it. The views are gorgeous, but the food and champagne were only good at best. For $59/person I expected exceptional food and an all star waiting staff. I had to ask for fresh coffee several times, and our used plates stacked up on our table even though we weren't eating very quickly. Go here if it has always been on your San Francisco to-do list, but otherwise there are far more delicious places you can go to for $59.
(2)Kristen S.
The Cliff House really deserves just three stars for its food. We were seated within 5 minutes of our 10 am reservation, but every trip to the food required waiting in line.... and the strawberries disappeared as soon as they landed on the table. They simply couldn't keep up with the traffic! But they get one more star for the view. The best part, however, is the never ending flow of champagne. Can't beat that!
(4)Cleo M.
I feel obligated to write a review after going to the Sunday Brunch yesterday. The brunch was a complete and utter disappointment. When you read the other reviews and they say that they tables are 2" apart it is not hyperbole, literally, the tables for 2 are set 2" apart. Not possible to have a private conversation, the wait staff is literally leaning over your shoulders repeatedly to clear plates or fill glasses. Totally cramped and claustrophobic. Nice view but you can't enjoy it unless you happen to be the first table against the window. Now the food. Very small selection. More desert selection than entree or veg. Only one lettuce salad. The salad was baby lettuce and what I assume were heirloom tomatoes but very overdressed with a nice balsamic dressing. There was a nice shrimp salad and two pasta salads but no salad bar other lettuce salad option. No fresh veg. Nice melon and fruit selection with a brie and one other cheese but still no real selection. Entree, good eggs Benedict; scrambled eggs, bacon and sausage but how to you miss on these standards. Mac and Cheese - excellent. Marinated beef that was ho hum... Deserts, a nice variety but still nothing that you couldn't get elsewhere. Bottom line for me, not worth the money at all. Mediocre food, terrible ambiance, not enough selection. If you want to go to the Cliff House for the experience I would recommend one of their other dining rooms. If you are looking for a great buffet with a water view I would recommend Lordships in Berkeley. Much better food, service, and ambiance.
(1)Alex J.
Good restaurant and bar along the Pacific Coast Highway 1 which is part of the larger Pacific Coastal Highway. It was mid-October, one of the best times of year and i remember it was a clear afternoon ~ 70f/21c None of us were particularly hungry at the time of visit as I wish we were. I could have my breakfasts, lunches and possibly early dinners with a glass of whisky at the bar! If I ever go back to San Francisco I will definitely pay the Cliff House a visit again. Very good place indeed.
(4)Beatriz O.
I love this place! Yes I do, after passing by the Cliff house many, many times I finally had the opportunity to eat here. After spending a day at the Legion (which is just a mile a way) the BFF and I wanted to finish our day on a high note. We arrived at 3:45 and were told by an extremely nice host they were closed until 4:15. They were prepping for dinner, my friend and I decided to sit at the bar until we could be seated. We had an amazing chowder with more than one clam... Great texture and blend if flavors. Once we were actually seated we had an amazing view of Ocean Beach...both my friend and I went with the frutti de mare....WOW it had everything I could ever dream of in a sea food dish. Clams, shrimp, scallops, crab, fish, pasta and a hearty tomato sauce. All I can say is you have to try it. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. Dessert is a must, get the sour cream chocolate cake....divine! Great staff, wonderful food, amazingly moist chocolate cake, breath taking views...couldn't ask for more.
(5)C T.
Comfort place to enjoy yourself and relax. Nothing to worry about except just enjoying their amazing foods and the view of the ocean waves, love their brunch and dinner there. Even though the price is a bit high but its worth it. I will recommand friends and family there for sure, also the waiters there are friendly too.
(4)Nina M.
I went here for the Dine About Town Lunch with a few of my friends. We all ordered the Butternut Squash Soup - which we ALL recommend to whoever comes here. If there was a tub of it, we'd eat it. The entrees we had were: Local Rock Cod - really good, but the salad portion of this meal - while also good - had too much white balsamic vinaigrette for my taste. I gave it to my friends to finish off. Vidalia Onion & Chard Ravioli - while it was alright and quite tasteful, I wasn't a huge fan. Pulled Pork Sandwich - A great choice. While the name doesn't sound appetizing and something you'd expect from any off-the-street hole in the wall, it was very tasty (and so were the sweet potato fries that come with it). After eating the sandwich and the fries, you'll be quite full and need that nice walk afterward that can be found behind the Cliff House. The dessert was a great choice (a bit pricey @ $9 a plate). Sorbet - pretty good aside from the grapefruit sorbet (mango, grapefruit, and blackberry sorbets were given). Lava Cake - What can I say? I have a weakness for lava cake. It wasn't outstanding, but it was quite tasty and a great choice for those with a weak spot for chocolate and gelato. Lemon Souffle - Pretty good, and a good choice for those that likes lemon or is craving it for dessert. If I had to rethink dessert, I would probably get the lemon souffle again.
(4)Jane N.
Really a 3.5. We went here on the rainy Sunday morning following daylight savings time, so we were already in good spirits having 'gained' an hour. Overall, the service was really great. We shared the American eggs dish, which the waiter was nice enough to split onto two plates, giving each of us probably more than we would have received had we split it ourselves. We also shared the salad, which was OK. Every waiter and wait staff was attentive and polite and professional. Overall, the food is OK, but could quickly and easily be improved (for instance, they could remove the salt and pepper shakers from the table and offer fresh cracked pepper and salt grinders). While the potatoes were OK, they could have been greatly improved if they would have been turned into tasty home fried style potatoes. Little changes could quickly and solidly change the quality and reception of the food. The view and the feeling of being in this historic building is worth a visit, but the food is just OK and a bit over-priced for what you get.
(3)Valerie E.
My new favorite brunch. Unlimited food, sweets, champagne, and coffee in a room with a beautiful view and live harpist! Definitely fit for a special occasion or some much needed winding down. Make sure to make reservations though! I'll most definitely be back because I need another butterscotch pot de creme!!!!! So cute, and so tasty.
(4)Audrey T.
Came for Sunday morning brunch back in September with my cousins, brother, and niece for my brother who was going off to college. Unlimited food and champagne? Yes, please! Everything was pretty good. The egg benedicts were especially scrumdiddlyumptious! The buffet tables were filled with bagels, lox, cream cheese, copious amounts of fresh fruit, pasta, salad, baked goods, practically everything! You will not leave hungry, trust me! There's a harpist here too. I was dared to go up to her and ask her to play Flo Rida's "Low." Would've sounded bomb on the harp, I'm sure, but inappro-pro, much? Yea, I doubt the other guests would have appreciated that. The view was absolutely gorgeous. I only wish that it'd been a sunny day, but that's typical San Francisco weather for ya. It would have been more amazing on a sunny day with blue skies. On to the embarrassing: I dropped a blueberry muffin on the floor and had no idea what to do. This is a fancy place, people! What would Miss Etiquette have done? Enlighten me, please.
(4)Maria Y.
A great place. I must go if your in SF or visting. Has the best bread. Everything is great. Sometimes you have to wait up to an hour for a table in the morning. Thats why only four stars
(4)Nicholas N.
I came to the cliff house for a Sunday Easter brunch not sure what all the hype was about until I got there. Wow they had a lamb station, shrimp and crab. No Oysters but everything was very tasty! Loved it and want to come back for more!!!
(4)Ida C.
my friends were married here a few weeks ago and the setting was perfect for the intimate 50-guest event. the bride and groom had been engaged for some time and since his tahitian familia was visiting town the month of july, the couple decided to throw together a wedding.. with just under 6 weeks of planning. oy vey. it sounds like a disaster in the making but after the bride chose the venue, i think the staff and venue's event coordinator did a spectacular job of helping her with arrangements. the couple married on the terrace and it was damn cold outside (hit or miss with weather in that part of town) so the nuptials were kept under 15 mins before the staff shooed us back inside where guests were served hor dourves and there was an open bar with well drinks. it would have been an absolutely perfect setting had the weather cooperated. i had the surf n turf which was fine except my steak was overdone (again with the overcooked meat :( ). one of my friends had the lamb chops which i think was the best entree and another really enjoyed her vegetarian ravioli w/ edamame. there's a small dance floor in the corner and from every point in the room you'll have a view of the ocean. the staff was consistently friendly and timely; overall, a great venue that lent itself well to one of the most honest and heartwarming weddings i've been to.
(4)Sassy G.
Gorgeous view even on a cloudy day! Came here for my 40th bday and wasn't disappointed. The staff was friendly and very courteous. Bottomless champagne... it wasn't too dry, which is the way I like it with a hint of sweetness. Food was good and liked most things. My favorite was the eggs benedict and the shrimp scampi with caviar :) All you can eat foods-galore for $48 per person ....
(4)Jason H.
My chicken sandwich was fantastic. The view would have been awesome if the weather was cooperating. The service was good but not over the top.
(4)Katherine P.
Champagne brunch with a view and good food? Heck yeah! The Terrace room has great views of the Pacific ocean, and is super bright and airy during the day with the sunlight streaming through. There is a harp player that plays lightly in the background, and she doesn't play obtrusively at all. The seating is not plentiful, but that just means that almost everyone has a good view. The spread of food is extensive without being overwhelming, and everything actually tastes great (versus those brunch places that have way too many items and they each taste subpar). Today they had scrambled eggs, bacon and sausage, french toast with apple sauce topping (YUM!), miso grilled salmon and smoked salmon, eggs benedict, roasted cauliflower and mushrooms, sauteed snap peas, baked mac and cheese, cheese tortellini, seafood paella, steak, potatoes au gratin, and various pasta salads. They also had a great fruit salad and sliced fruit spread, which was very fresh and juicy, and the desserts and pastries - omg! I loved the blueberry muffin, banana bread (moist and sooo good), and chocolate mousse. There were also cheese and breads, and various other things that I'm sure I am not mentioning. My only gripe is that seating takes a long time, even with reservations. Other than that, good place to take someone for a special occasion, considering the brunch price!
(4)Adam B.
I had, in 28 years, the best brunch possible. We had made a reservation previously and I am really glad. The place was really crowded and many people were waiting for a seat. I would highly recommend making a reservation. Our seat was next to the window and we had a beautiful view of the Ocean on a clear, sunny Sunday. We were seated next to Sammy Hagar. You know Sammy, from Van Halen. He was there with his family and was so close, I could have straightened his hair (the man has some serious curly hair). Back on topic, the food was great. They had an assortment of foods that ranged from eggs, to oysters, to sugary treats. The food was wonderful and I wish I could have eaten more but I hit my wall pretty quickly. Unlimited champagne, need I say more? If they had a tiny bed available, this would have been heaven for me. I had a wonderful experience. The staff was very friendly, the food was warm and tasty, and the view was amazing. I would suggest arriving early as the parking can be tough and you might have to walk a bit to get to the cliff house. It's pricey but well worth the price.
(5)Mark W.
One of my very good friends brought me here a little while back and it was a great experience. It's a very intimate setting for a brunch and the dining room is classy and it has a great setting with a view and near the Pacific Ocean... The selection is not that large but sometimes that is for the better so the chefs can really concentrate on the quality of their food. This is important in both regular restaurants and All You Can Eat Buffets.... It's not cheap by any means but I think it's fair considering the setting. I've heard that getting reservations here is not that easy so be sure to reserve it early if you have a Special Occasion you want to celebrate and once you get that reservation, try to maximize your stay here with the quality food and amazing surroundings....
(4)Olivia L.
This is a review of Masoud, the banquet coordinator at the Cliff House. If you book the Terrace Room for a wedding, he will be your day-of coordinator. He's rude, he's inflexible, and the answer is "no" to most whatever you want. 1) We arrived on time for our 1pm appointment on December 31st. Masoud kept us waiting 15 minutes and arrived smelling of cigarette smoke. I can only think that he was finishing a smoke, despite our appointment. We were on a very tight schedule, with appointments stacked, and the next one downtown, so this was not only rude, but unprofessional, and raised an interesting question: Would he hold up the wedding sneaking off for cigarettes?! He certainly kept us waiting long enough. 2) Having read other review of the Terrace Room, I asked up front what the food and beverage minimum was. He told me it was $8k for the evening, and $7k for the day. Ok, the only date they had left was the last weekend in October, and I know the sun sets at 6:14pm (that is, disappears entirely). Since the ceremony has to be on the terrace (included with the Terrace Room), I asked if we could start at 5:30pm instead, and the response was absolutely not, NO EXCEPTIONS. Ok. I asked him what we were supposed to do with the terrace after dark, and he said that it was our "problem", repeatedly. Er, ok. Their website states that you have to be off the terrace after dark, so that cuts your venue space in half, and removes the ceremony space altogether if the sun sets completely by 6:15pm! After about 5 minutes of negativity, he said that we could rent lights, but the Cliff House would not help us with that. 3) Ok, so to start the ceremony earlier Masoud suggests that we book both the day and evening slots for the low low price of ... $14k, which I think is reasonable, if we can get $14k of stuff. I looked at the sample menus (tops out at $75pp + alcohol) and asked how he could get us to $14k for 80 people (~ $175 pp). I'm willing to pay the money, but I want something *for* my money. I suggested a chocolate fountain. He said no, not even if you bring it in from outside yourself. Errr...ok. I asked if there was an open bar option (like $50pp), and he said no, you must pay the tab (and the tab will not be broken down, they're just going to give you a number). Errr....ok, that screams of space for padding for me (see "last thought" below). 4) I asked him what restrictions were on the space, since there seemed to be a lot of things that we could not do. For planning, you see, that is good to know up front. He said that there the Cliff House was a federal building and there were "thousands of things that you cannot do" and he wouldn't tell us what they were. That was totally unacceptable to me -- particularly since I work in a federal building. He suggested that we would have to pay $14k for the privilege of using the Terrace Room, irrespective of whether we met the food or beverage minimum. At that point, we left. He was a total waste of time, had a giant chip on his shoulder, and wasn't that bright (massive understatement). I would have serious problems if he were my day-of coordinator. Last thought: In general, I would want a contract that spelled out every contingency and offered a flat rate for the goods and services provided. The variability in the alcohol cost (it depends on how much your guests drink, and the drinks are cheap) and the relatively cheap food menus means that the minimum is a stretch for smaller groups. I'm looking for a contract with no surprises. If I have to pay more up front, I'm ok with that, but I don't want my wedding night to be ruined by getting a bill that is much higher than expected, or getting a bill that is padded with "rent" to make the room minimum. Having said that, the Cliff House Terrace Room is nice, has a fabulous view, and could be good for September when the daylight lasts longer (summertime is too foggy because Land's End = fog head). Also, you can probably do 100 people for $10k, even including the variable alcohol costs, so if you're looking for a less expensive venue for a local (no out of town guests who need hotels and transportation to the hotels downtown) wedding, this would fit the bill. (But you wouldn't know exactly how much the bill was until the end of the night...)
(1)Alex B.
Sunday champagne brunch was excellent! We had a table overlooking the ocean and our waiter kept the champagne, coffee and tea coming. There was a huge selection to choose from for the brunch - traditional 'breakfast' items: scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, eggs benedict, smoked salmon, fruit. Also paella, pasta salads, bread rolls, and a lot of desserts. You need to allow plenty of time to eat here - let your food digest a little, then get up and go round the buffet again! It is a relaxing atmosphere - there was a harpist playing while we were there- perfect Sunday morning relaxation.
(5)Payal C.
I came here for a champagne brunch with my family for my birthday and it was absolutely fantastic. The area is beautiful. We took a walk around before and after brunch. The view is just stunning. The food is great too. There's a plentiful buffet and the mimosas just kept coming! The coffee is good, there's something for everyone here. Its nice that its a beautiful place that's great for a special occasion but you also can dress casually. I normally don't love having to dress up just to go eat, so that's a huge plus.
(5)Nick H.
Sat at the bar table. Good service from the wait Staff. Been going there for the last year on Tuesdays 50% off wines. This last visit all of a sudden the waiter informed us that you can only get half off the wine when you purchase an entree, this was new to us even after ordering three or four appetizers plus four half bottles of veuve clicquot. Requested to speak to the Manger by the name of Ralph Burgin who when he came to our table seemed to be very rude not even a good evening or a smile. He provided no explanation other then this is policy and got up and left, so not professional. You would think he would be more polite and understanding but no.
(1)WhitePeach S.
I came here a few months ago for the sunday champagne brunch. The food selection was decent and champagne was very refreshing! At $45 per person, it is a bit indulgent for breakfast food but the view, the service, and pleasant ambiance make the price worth it.
(4)Laura B.
Amazing views + endless mimosas + great assortment of sweet and savory brunch selections + your own personal harp player = Amazing Brunch experience! Come hungry and be prepared to spend $50 pp.
(5)Oleg H.
Been here a few times after the remodel. The service quality here is pretty high. Views are great, id recommend this place as day venue, the weird beige walls make it seem kinda off - at night. Its a slightly better than your average tourist trap.
(3)Carmina B.
My husband and I had our wedding reception here last year. Nothing beats the location, food was delicious, and wait staff during the reception were professional and accommodating. I wish I can say the same for the events catering director (Virginia Casey). We had a negative experience with her. We were shocked to see our final bill that evening. You would think that as your wedding catering manager, you can expect them to be your advocate and look out for you as they know that brides are overwhelmed and stressed. This wasn't the case. In addition to numerous fees (dance floor, cake cutting, corkage, set-up/breakdown) and a standardized gratuity charge, we were penalized as the alcohol minimum was not met. We then realized that we could of spent our money towards our guests instead of paying more towards the venue. More appetizers could of been ordered or an upgrade in dinners or in wine selection to subsidize the alcohol minimum, in case it wasn't met, but instead we got the hook. When we expressed our disappointment and surprise for the penalty fee, she was nonchalant about it all, didn't offer any empathy and declined to offer any type of compensation at all. This left a very sour taste in our mouths and have decided to not recommend this venue to our friends. I encourage you to seek alternate venues for your event reception, one that highlights customer service.
(2)Janet H.
A group of us went to the Cliff House Terrace Room Champagne Brunch for Sunday brunch. There are spectacular views of Seal Rock, the ocean and the Sutro Baths. Shown to our table, we were seated overlooking the ocean. We order coffee which is okay for multiple cups. You are given a choice of champagne or sparking cider as a non-alcoholic option. Immediately we jumped to the brunch table in the center of the room. There was a great spread of breakfast items and lunch items, and some of my favorites were a cheese tortellini, smoked salmon, and au gratin potatoes. For dessert, I enjoyed the vanilla bean creme puff and a slice of cheesecake. But there is many more items to enjoy as listed on their website. While enjoying our meals, there was a harp player who played beautifully. While the brunch is on the pricey side, you get great value in the quality of food served. This is a great option for relatives, special occasions and out-of-town guests. We'll be back soon.
(4)Armanius M.
This is not a review of the quality of food or the venue. But rather, it's about the lack of professionalism. My now wife and I were looking for a venue for a destination wedding reception in San Francisco. Cliff House was our first choice after doing a lot of internet research. I contacted Cliff House and was informed that our wedding date was still available. I informed Cliff House that we could not put a deposit without first personally visiting the venue and eating at the restaurant. I also informed Cliff House that we would make a trip out to San Francisco in May. The representative told me that Cliff House would place a "hold" on our wedding date for us. I checked with Cliff House a couple of weeks later about the "hold" and informed them of our upcoming trip to SF to interview vendors. A few days later, I was told that someone else was also interested on our wedding date, and that Cliff House would no longer "hold" the date for us unless we signed a contract and put a deposit within 48 hours. In short, the "hold" placed for us was really not a "hold" at all. What's the use of a "hold" if the "hold" only applies when no one else wanted the date!? Yes, Cliff House gave us the right of first refusal. But that has no value when Cliff House clearly was informed of our situation as out-of-towners. We understand that Cliff House is a business, and there was no guarantee that we would have chosen Cliff House as our wedding reception venue. Nevertheless, Cliff House should have then not informed us that they were "holding" the date for us. The story does have a happy ending though. My beautiful wife and I got married in San Francisco, and had a great time at Ondine Sausalito. The food was great. The service was great. The views are awesome too.
(1)Jodie B.
The cliff house brunch is best enjoyed with friends over a few hours...really. Mmmmm.... The food was terrific, the choices were outstanding, and who doesnt like endless champagne? Plus, the view....ah the view. Almost as delicious as the food. Now, the cost, that's another story....but, I guess when you're sipping champagne from your always full glass, and munching on some scrumptious goodies from the buffet....complaining is a little silly. Did I mention that the staff is very nice?
(5)Matthew H.
Twas an unexpectedly immaculate day in SF on the afternoon my homegirl & I had brunch reservations at Cliff House. The service was friendly and attentive. They accommodated us with an window table with a spectacular view of Ocean beach, which was a nice surprise. While the brunch buffet was beautifully merchandised, the flavors were off par. Breakfast meats: cold Bow tie pasta salad: Too sweet. More Gorgonzola for balance. Orzo Salad: Bland and just weird. Caviar Pasta: Al dente with fishy bubble wrap. Champagne: Migraine in a flute. Orange Juice: From concentrate. The Paella w/ chorizo and the desert selections were the highlights of the meal. Some of the best macaroons I've ever had. Would I return? Ummmm... halve the price and maybe. Almost worth it for the ambiance alone.
(3)Christina B.
Let me start off by saying this place was not my choice to eat at. After reading some reviews I knew what to expect. Yes the view is wonderful, but as a native I could care less. Definitley a place to bring out of towners. I felt like we were eating at the country club. Our poor waitress did keep my champagne glass full, but looked miserable being there. The hostess kept apologizing to all the guest she seated for the wait. There was a group there when we arrived who were finished eating, but stayed 1 1/2 extra hours to chat and catch up. I could understand they would want their money's worth, but then again move your butts so the rest could get a chance to eat. Seating arrangement can definately be tight if you're along the walls. I sat in the middle so I'm glad not to feel any butt cheeks on the back of my neck from someone trying to get by. While most of the food was rather bland, I did enjoy the salmon! But the bacon (undercooked), sausage (bland), steak (bland), eggs benedict (semi bland), sweet potatoes (gross), scalloped potatoes (ehh bland). Some of the deserts were yummy. I had a cream puff with vanilla, fruit tart, apricot cake, and chocolate mousse. The mouse was rather thick and heavy. A place I guess you have to try atleast once.
(3)Damon S.
Great for a largish party. If you want a quite brunch this may not be the place for you. As everyone has said great views. Good to very good food and as you would expect plentiful. Everything from eggs to shrimp, multiple desert options etc...... Bar service was very slow. The room is light and open but can be somewhat loud if full. The Champagne, while not top shelf, was poured regularly. Great for tourist and locals. Would return with group again.
(4)R H.
Came here for a wedding in October. The food from the packaged menu was good, but not great. The salmon was cooked well, but the polenta was..... interesting. Service was adequate, though I did feel rushed when they tried to take my salad and dessert plate away while I was still eating. Unusual.
(3)Michelle C.
They start you off with a basket of popovers (bread),. Careful they can be addicting. Don't eat too much or you will get full off the free bread! I always get the egg benedict's! The view is amazing. The ocean is right benneth the resturant! Watching the waves and eating breakfast is the best! After go for a hike on the trail or the beach to work off those popovers !
(4)A J.
4 stars for the popovers and the view... seriously, I thought I was eating the food came out of Denny's kitchen!
(2)Polina S.
I came here with my family for a post graduation brunch. The view here is fabulous and the decor of the room where the hold brunch has just the right feel. The wait staff was very pleasant and accommodating except it was kind of hard to get there attention and ask for more champagne since they were kind of running around. There was a harpist playing music throughout duration of the brunch. This added to the classy ambiance of the place. As for the food, it was delicious I can't deny it, but I think for such a pricey brunch place their selection was quite limited. I had brunch at the Hyatt Hotel in Millbrae once and they had about three times as much of a selection. Next time I will definitely go to the Hyatt and pay less too.
(4)Colleen B.
You love the Ocean? You like linen napkins and tableclothss? Fan of bubbly and fairly good food? Then what are you waiting for?!
(4)Vi N.
Took the family here for Brunch for our bday on Sunday...and man was it great!!! First off, the view from our table was amazing! It was a perfect day in San Francisco, clear skies and people at the beach enjoying the weather. The buffet was yummy! The eggs Benedict were scrumptious!! The Salmon Gravlox and all the fixings, the bacon, sausage and everything was delicious! All the fresh fruit and sweet desserts were great as well!!! Even the free flowing Champagne was good and also the service was sweet!! Any server who can handle my family..hats off to you and great job!!! We will definitely be coming back!!
(4)Shwetha R.
We had a launch party lunch here. Very good food with plenty of vegetarian options on the buffet and a splendid dessert platter. Our host was a very warm and chatty guy who made sure we herbivores got to eat well! I was quite stuffed at the end of the meal (mostly thanks to my sweet tooth), so I hit the Ocean beach right next door to walk a few. PS: The view on the terrace room is very very scenic, make sure you get a corner window seat
(4)Jenny K.
Perhaps you would call me cheap. I like to think of myself as thrifty ... a cautious spender, mostly. Despite this, I have chosen to go to the pricey Cliff House Terrace Room for its champagne brunch TWICE during the past year. Most love to impress the out-of-town guests with the spectacular view, but the first time I was there turned out to be one of the foggiest days ever, then the second time I was there turned out to be so sunny that my party decided it best to have the staff let the curtains down to keep us from scorching our retinas. My fellow lushes appreciate the fact that they can drink themselves blind whilst still feeling somewhat cultured since there is a harpist playing soothing music in the background. Both times I went, it took quite a bit of effort to get our glasses filled regularly. I persisted, of course, and didn't leave until I had a good buzz going on, but it was work, I tell you, to get my drink on!!! Foodies love that the modest-sized buffet is the perfect example of quality trumping quantity. This buffet would be laughed out of Las Vegas due to its small size which rivals no casino buffet. What it lacks in size, it makes up for with its satisfying taste. Where else can you get bacon as well as smoked shrimp with wasabi tobiko and roasted truffled cauliflower? Hmm? My very favorite part of the Cliff House Terrace Room champagne brunch has got to be the design of the recently remodeled structure. I think it is very evident that much thought went into the new layout. The Cliff House is one of the most visited landmarks in San Francisco. There is a large and beautiful restaurant downstairs in addition to the Terrace Room. There is a large bar upstairs as well as another restaurant. The place is always teeming with people straight off the 38 Geary or coming from Ocean Beach and plenty of diners from the various restaurants serving plenty of delicious beverages and meals. That's why it's absolutely marvelous that the entire place has five (? one unisex downstairs and male/female johns upstairs with two stalls each, I believe) toilets. Clearly, someone had his head up his ass when doing the remodel ... HINT: If you're planning to dine at/visit the Cliff House, don't forget to get catheterized first (or wear an astronaut's diaper) or you'll be sorry!!!
(4)Julie D.
Here's how it breaks down for me: *Food - very good (standard but good quality fare for brunch, the desserts were outstanding) *Drink - also very good (champagne was tasty and had small bubbles, coffee was really good) *Service - good *Ambiance - great view if you get a table next to the window, table spacing is a little close (we didn't like being that close to our "curious" neighbors) The only downsides were the parking and make sure you call and make a reservation.
(4)Rita A.
The restaurant was beautiful the views was incredible the food was amazing but the service was so so! Would go there again for the food though! :-)I'm addicted to there delicious popovers!!!!!
(4)Michi V.
We made a reservation 2 weeks in advance for the 2pm seating and came hungry and hopeful for a nice brunch with a pretty view. Sadly, the experience started off with a receptionist, Sarah von Snooty-Snoot, telling us that despite our reservation, we would still have to put our names on "the list" and wait at least 10 minutes. The 10 minutes became 20, children were starting to fuss, blood sugar was running low, and by the time we got our table, the poached eggs on the chafing dish could have been used for a game of golf. Alas, service inside didn't improve very much.... maybe it was the fact that we were the last seating of the day, but the staff barely cleared our table (resulting in dirty plates stacked haphazardly on our dining area). Our table was placed by the side of a wall with barely enough space to squeeze in and out of our seats. One interesting side note was the Russian family next to us who was berated by the manager for bringing their own vodka (smuggled in plastic water bottles... genius!) . The Russian response? "next time, make sure your servers pour us water and then we won't have to bring our own drinks." Prost, Comrades! For the price of brunch, I was definitely expecting much more than what I got. We left only a 5% tip and used the rest of our money to buy ice cream. Which means that we, and the Cliff House Staff, both got our just desserts.
(2)Alexis W.
this has been on my SF bucket list for YEARS so for my birthday this year we finally went. i'm glad i was able to cross it off my list but i would've much rather have gone somewhere like the Ritz or Top of the Mark, for the price. the views were great but thanks to the clientele i felt like i was in a midwestern chain restaurant. i realize now this place is mostly geared toward tourists (apparently) but it totally brings down the classiness level ~ there should be a dress code or something. most people were in jeans, t-shirts, some pull-over windbreakers, etc. There was seriously a guy sitting across from us in track pants, a muscle shirt and fannie pack. WTF?! i'm paying $100+ for this meal and i have to look at THAT for 2 hours?! like i said, would've been WAY better off at another upscale brunch place in the city. the service wasn't great and the food was good but the quality wasn't very high: french toast was soggy, eggs benedict was cold, mac and cheese was congealed at room temperature, etc. don't waste your time here and check out another SF landmark ... unless you ARE a midwestern tourist. in which case, you'll feel right at home.
(2)Lindsey M.
The view deserves 5 stars, and the food really deserves 3.5. I would give it 4 stars if it weren't so expensive, but the food was really only okay considering the price. I'm not really a breakfast food person and was disappointed with the vegetarian lunch food options. When making reservations,you definitely want to request a table by the window.
(3)blogme c.
Food was ok, no doubt the ambiance is great (due to the location of this restaurant). But extremely disappointed with its service. We were a group of about 12 people and had ordered coffee & hot chocolates to-go. First of all their coffee wasn't fresh so we requested a fresh coffee. The good thing was they agreed to brew some fresh coffee but were rude. Than we decided to stick around and eat. So we asked for a table, than she responded that since we ordered to-go coffee and hot chocolate we can not sit there.... I felt like now i should just sit there waste that space and see how can they stop us, but didn't do that. After all there is a difference in a civilized educated person and an uncivilized educated (maybe) person. A lot of them i came across had similar views. hopefully they would speak up freely about their terrible service and no manners to how to speak with customers. It didnt look like a busy day or a just another bad day for them. May be one person can have a bad day not the whole staff. Terrible management as it took them hour and half to get us the first not-so-fresh coffee..... Very disappointed. Good they have created a hype about its location but the restaurant is not so great. I did only give it one star - giving respect to the location and beautiful green nature.
(1)T H.
Come here for the ambience, music, view- not the price for the food, I personally think, could be better. It's not bad quality food per se, but for almost $50/person, I actually expected better. I liked the smoked salmon, strawberry dipped chocolate, jambalaya and unlimited coffee. Overall, the food was really just ok- nothing spectacular. Like I said, come here for the view.
(3)Zorro J.
Delicious!! Classy but Chill It's got a dressier formal terrace on the bottom floor and more casual bistro area on top. Great bar - mimosas were good so were the Bloody Mary's. Food was excellent- sandwiches, seafood- can't go wrong here- and not too pricey for what you get! They even serve you these pancake- muffin things instead of bread, sooo unique and yummy!! Best part? The view, wow- you can see the sutro bath ruins right next door. Very memorable. Great service. Kinda touristy crowd though, understandably.
(5)Jeanette C.
We got married here in October and it was a fabulous experience from the very first contact until we left in our limo. Virginia and Masoud are talented professionals who were on top of every detail and the food and service were both outstanding. We are still getting rave reviews from our guests. A sunset wedding at the Cliff House is truly a magical experience!!
(5)Ray H.
Service was nice and non intrusive, which is a big plus. The views are not as good as the sutro side since they are more limited in space.champagne is on par with korbel i.e. kinda sweet, but hell its all you can drink!! but one thing i have to say is if you have the nice view, dont go to crazy cuz the sun in your face while inebriated = a huge head ache later. I was not blown away, but most buffets don't go for that effect i guess. the food was fairly standard for a brunch, but they dont have much variety in the way of protein. seems they concentrated most on pastries and salad.
(3)Ashlee W.
Brunch was great! The food was pleasing to the eye and delicious tasting. The buffet was always replenished and never looked empty. I had the breakfast meats, eggs, eggs benedict, seasonal fruits, and dessert. All were yummy! The views of the ocean are amazing! The only thing I didnt like is that my boyfriend and I were seated next to this other couple which made if feel like a four top instead of a duce. You could hear their whole conversation. I feel the seating could have been arranged differently.
(4)Jun B.
By far the Cliff House is my favorite champagne brunch buffet in the city. The food is amazing, the champagne is great, the service is friendly, the views are spectacular. There was just so much great food in the buffet that it would be impossible to remember and list them all in this review. Highlights for me would be the butternut squash salad with walnuts and cranberries, the red and yellow beet salad, Thai beef salad, eggs benedict, macaroni and cheese, steak and scalloped potatoes and the very moist chocolate cake. I enjoyed my four trips to the buffet table so much that I completely forgot to try the french toast and the shrimp. I guess I would have to go back again. Noteworthy as well is their champagne from a local winery in Modesto, Wycliff. I love the sparkling wine's hint of sweetness. Highly recommended.
(5)Sebastian S.
I'm writing only about the brunch in the Terrace Room. This is an experience where my friend Gus would say "Dawg, you gotta get your shit togetha." Actually, that is exactly what he said. Most everything was good, but the quality and thoughtfulness was lacking, esp. with the prices. I also thought they selection seemed meager, like a potluck where half the people could really cook, but the other half stopped at the Safeway deli or bakery and bought their offerings. We were not seated at the table, although the friend who'd made reservations requested a window seating. Live harpist was a plus, although the acoustics in this room are not the best. I will keep looking for a stellar brunch buffet -- having just returned to the Bay Area from many years in Boston I'm out of touch and will need to plug into Yelps for some suggestions.
(3)Alexander G.
If you feel like splurging on a fine brunch and have a craving for belle epoque stateliness and opulence, seek no further. Great food, hefty prices, live harp music (evergreens on loop) and unlimited sparkling wine (I'm not convinced it was actual champagne, but I forgot to ask to see the bottle). I don't think it'd be worth it to come on a foggy or cloudy day, though. The view is what makes or breaks your experience here.
(4)Dan S.
I'm really floored by the number of positive reviews of this place! The only thing I can garner is they're posted mainly by tourists who consider Denny's as the local haute cuisine. Owed someone a dinner, but they chose this place instead. I recoiled at the $45 charge (for breakfast??) but figured it was still cheaper than dinner most places, so I figured what the hell..... Arrived there on time for our reservation, and we were seated quickly at a nice table by a window. Two stars for the view, if you're into this sort of thing. Not in the mood to get potted early on a Sunday, so opted out of the champagne and asked for coffee instead. Obviously, coffee is a rare commodity here, as it took a bit of waiting for it to arrive, whereas the other guests were quickly served champagne. Went to the serving area, as was immedately greeted with an array of salads, breads and pastries, all designed to fill you up early. Being an old buffet pro, I knew to hold off and cruise the other offerings. Tried the shrimp salad, roast beef, a pasta offering and what appears from reading other reviews, their vaunted Eggs Benedict. Returned to our table with a full plate, and noticed that my coffee cup, previously drained, was still empty, a portend of things to come. Dug into my selections, and immediately realized that salt was the primary seasoning, as this food had zero flavor! The beef appeared to be soaked in soy sauce and the shrimp salad was completely devoid of any shrimp taste whatsoever. And then to add to the insult, the Eggs Benedict was presented on a rock-hard muffin half that took lots of sawing with a sharp knife to penetrate. As I said, two stars for the view, but zero stars for the food!! One plate of this was enough for me, and as someone said, "That looks like about $5 worth," it was more than enough for me. Oh yeah, was still waiting for the coffee, so sampled the cheesecake which was OK. Finally grabbed a server long enough for her to drop her champagne bottle and get me some more coffee, but it was a trial! With all the great breakfast places here in the city (Brendas, etc.) I can't understand why anyone would come here unless you're a tourist, which I ain't. In my humble opinion, fugetaboutit!!
(2)Cat R.
This is one of my favorite places. I really enjoy going to the Sunday Brunch. I love the fresh salmon and fruit and all the wonderful salads they offer. But my favorite is the dessert. I could sit and eat the chocolate moose all day and cheesecake and cookies. And sip Champagne. One person complained that the cups for the champagne are to small. But if you ask politely the waiter will leave a bottle on your table. But I have never had a need to do this because even when I leave my glass is still full. And when you make reservations ask to be seated by a window. It is a little lame to be stuck on the back wall with the mirrors. And the view is so very lovely.
(5)Amy L.
Awesome service and popovers to die for! Worth going out of your way to dine at - awesome ocean views, too!
(5)melinda m.
I would really rate this as a 3.5. I decided to surprise the hubby with the Sunday Champagne brunch so he could say he went to the Cliff House at least once while we live here. It has been over a decade since I last came here and it has changed so much... * Space: The area where the Sunday Brunch was a banquet room on the lower floor holding maybe120 persons. The tables were evenly spaced, although you were close enough to hear people's conversations. Since it had been pouring there were still a good number of empty tables around us. * Atmosphere: The place looked and felt fancy all while still being casual. Everyone in attendance dressed in varying manners (from sneakers and jeans to nice slacks and a coat).The food was displayed in an artistic manner directly in the middle of the room. There was plenty of light coming in through the windows and the harpist added a nice, romantic touch to a stormy day. * Drink: Coffee and bottomless champagne at 10AM ... who couldn't love it? There was also orange juice and mimosas offered as well. * Eat: Arrive with an empty stomach and walk away with flavors tantalizing your taste buds and the eggs benedicts, shrimp, tender steak, warm bread and popovers (their specialty!), fresh fruit, fine cheeses, and desserts of all tastes and textures stuffed in your belly. * Service: Accommodating and well organized. My coffee cup and champagne glass were never left empty. The finished plates were always tended to and removed promptly. Overall: I would say coming to the Cliff House for brunch is more for experience and view rather than taste. Although the food was yummy it's not extraordinary. For me, it was the location, historical features and atmosphere that seemed to offer more. Would I come back? Sure, why not...but I would like to try other places first. [Side notes: - Since we take pubtranspo everywhere in the city, parking isn't an issue (and it didn't seem to be an issue on the rainy day we went). However, there are limited spots in front of the restaurant, so get there early. - I would suggest making reservations. Even though it was not crowded when we got there, it helped getting in before those who didn't have reservations]
(3)Kara R.
We came here while the in-laws were visiting CA. The day before we spent walking all over the city so by this morning we were ready for endless champagne. Really enjoyable brunch with a fantastic view. I just had a few things that needed to be improved to make it perfect. For a 45 dollar brunch I expect some delectable pork. Their sausage was meh and their bacon was just okay. I suppose, though, that I've been spoiled by the Brunch at the Coeur D'Alene resort in which their bacon is glazed with maple syrup. That bacon haunts my dreams. But I digress... The beef offering delicious but left me wanting some horseradish sauce. There weren't very many pastry offerings aside from the desserts and some muffins/scones. I could have gone for a cinnamon roll or a danish or something. Those were my only complaints. All the food was tasty. I believe I ate my weight in shrimp and I lost count of how many glasses of champagne I drank. My favorite desserts were the chocolate covered strawberries and the cheesecake with the pot de creme (in little egg shells) close behind. We were all wearing nice jeans and shirts- no T-Shirts or shorts, and I think we were dressed appropriately. If we had been in the upstairs restaurant we probably would have been a bit under-dressed. The best part was that the fog finally cleared for us to get a good view from out of our window. It was a great visit to SF and I believe the in-laws really enjoyed it.
(4)Darya K.
I love it! Hot popovers are great. The best eggs Benedict in San Francisco. The view is to die for. Be ready to wait for at least 45 min on Sunday brunch. The bar is available to lube you before a fantastic breakfast.
(5)Lovetea C.
Good food, champagne is ok, not close to the best. You only get 1.5 hour for dining.
(3)Debra f.
This is anything but a classic place...We arrive 10 minutes early for Sunday brunch so we went to the bar and order a drink, as we were walking over to the seating stand to see if our table was ready the bartender told us that drinks must be paid at bar before we go to our table, we took care of that and went to the buffet. Our hostess was dresses in free style clothing and the food selection was abit odd, low-mien with vegetables however the noodles were not cooked fully . There was a regular assortment of breakfast goodies, and the harp was the highlight which was nice... Overall I give the experience a three star but I would check the prices for the buffet...A lady never looks at the bill unless she is paying. Service in the buffet was good however at the private tables the hostess and waitress were A bit slow to help us to seating.
(3)Jame G.
The Food here is not good. The service and view is ok. Its expensive. Your paying for the view.
(1)Stacey W.
Let just say I have no complaints and they keep the champagne flowing. Great food and service! Totally worth the price and what a lovely view. I heard there where whales jumping, but unfortunately missed them. Next time! I highly recommend coming at least once for the experience. I will be back if I have a chance!
(5)Kristin E.
I went here for brunch with about 10 friends the other day. It was one of my best friend's birthdays and it was so much fun! Getting there by cab is not too hard, or expensive, it's the getting back that is a pain...what cab hangs out at Point Lobos...I'll tell ya...not many! The selection from the buffet is great, and I especailly liked the salmon with miso as well as the eggs benedict (although I think the hollandaise could have used a little more lemon). The fruit selection is awesome, and the sweet desserts are, well, too good. I ate a lot of them :) The endless champagne was nice, obviously, and I probably had a bit too much of it, because I was so tired once I got home :) This seems to be a common theme with me though, because if anything is endless, I will more than likely take advantage of it. The views are spectacular, and since there are like three restaurants inside this massive building, I will go back to try the other two when I get a good reason. It's a great location, and just so much fun to go here that I will definitely consider it when a brunch occasion shows its face. My one drawback is the distance, but that is sort of a catch 22 because it's views are worth the trek. Guess I don't really have anything to complain about!
(4)Grace S.
I actually went here in March for my birthday. I was going to write a review earlier, but wanted to take some time to think about whether the memory of my experience would improve itself, despite the service. Months later, I still remember the service, but I'll first talk about the food and atmosphere. Atmosphere: Lovely. Ocean beach is beautiful, and we were lucky to be seated by the window with a great view of the desserts. Food: Presentation is beyond spectacular, with beautiful trays of glazed salmon and cocktails. I mostly avoided the salad and stuck with the meats and desserts. The primer rib was okay, salmon was okay too, not very warm which I thought was strange, egg benedict was good. Champagne: Nothing like bottomless champagne flowing in your glass. I thought it was strange though how we had to ask for orange juice, it should've been a given. Service: HORRIBLE. At first it was going okay. I was in a group of 4 and we are slow eaters. I am positive we neither ate nor drank $50 worth but that is how much we paid for the brunch, each. Around 2 or so hours, we asked for more champagne, since we had already stopped eating for awhile and was rudely ignored by a waitress. We thought it was strange, but didn't want it to ruin our brunch and waited until another waitress was nearby. While waiting, a member in our party got tired and rested his head by the wall (since he was seated by it). A rude waitress came by and told us "excuse me, you cannot sleep here!" I have never been treated like that in a restaurant before, and everyone in our party was shocked. We tried to let it go, and thought we'd have some more champagne. We pretty much had to flag her down, and ask her if we could have more champagne. If you want to avoid her, she is a big, brunette lady with inappropriately pink lipstick. Dialogue: Me: "Can we have more champagne?" Waitress: "No" Us: "Why?" Waitress: "First of all, you (points at my friend) was sleeping, and second of all you've been here for more than 2 hours" I couldn't believe it. Sure we had been there for 2 hours, but none of us ate much. In addition, the room still had many empty tables. Furthermore, no restaurant I have ever been to has told us how to act when eating, and when to finish eating. It was simply the worst service ever. Besides the waitress, I thought I would've given this place 4 stars. However, because of the way we were mistreated, even 3 months later, I am still upset by how our experience here was ruined.
(1)Matthew P.
I really enjoyed my brunch experience here. There a mixup with our reservation---which probably stemmed from it being made through American Express, but we were seated pretty quickly. In the meantime, we got to experience the Sutro's bar, which had excellent Bloody Mary's. Of course, the view from everywhere in this place is excellent. Next time I have out-of-towners here, I'll be taking them here. Even though I live in the Outer Sunset, and see the ocean every day, the view offered here still takes my breath away. The brunch: As previous reviewers have commented, seating is tight. I'm thinking they could take a few tables out and make everyone's experience a little better. The food is standard brunch fare,... I really enjoyed the Eggs Benedict! Lots of options for the meat eater and vegetarian alike. There was a large fresh fruit display and the spread of desserts was pretty impressive, too. I'll definitely be back. This is a place for special occasions, though, given the price.
(4)Wakako U.
Champagne brunch with no carving station, raw food station, omelet station, or any type of station which requires an attendant.
(3)Rinne R.
Eggs benedict served with Champagne???!!!!!! Now, why can't I do that every Sunday? Because without the view and other heavenly food at the Cliff House, the combo just wouldn't be the same. If you want brunch food items that are orgasmic, get a reservation!
(5)Dreadnaught D.
Sunday Brunch Review: The whole complex includes a Bistro on the ground level, and the Brunch room and a very contemporary bar/lounge/dining area in the lower level. Pro: large windows on one side of the Brunch room offers a good view of the Pacific. Service was good, my champaigne glass was promptly refilled. Live soothing music in the form of a large string instrument was a nice touch without being intrusive. I didn't even notice it until my date commented on the music....perhaps the champaigne have blunted my senses. Plus I was totally captivated by my date. Con: You won't get the sushi, dimsum, Caviar, lobster tail or even shrimp cocktail here. Mainly consisted of above average American style breakfast, some fruits and salads, dessert was average. I loved that large silver platter of lox (smoked salmon), together with the mini bagels and cream cheese, it was heavenly. For nearly $50/person I was expecting a larger food selection. Conclusion: I liked the experience, my date loved it, so we shall return. Perhaps will try the bar/lounge next time
(3)Tiff W.
I came here for brunch with my dearest cousin. I had the egg benedict and absolute loved it. Great view because we are blessed to be living in SF very happy with the experience!
(5)Laura K.
View is to die for but only had hot cocoa here as it was super cold..
(4)Janet O.
Very nice place. Nice view and I suggest brunch, lunch and dinner. Call for a reservation it is much better for your blood pressure. I also suggest to try everything. food is great. Staff is helpful and courteous. Nice stock of wines as well. A little pricey but worth it.
(5)Katie K.
Post V-day celebration part deux. Due to miscommunication, we were almost an hour late for our reservation. Luckily, they were still able to accommodate us. It was not the best sitting b/c I wanted a view but what can you do. They did not have too big of a selection but the food was fresh. My favorite was the egg benedict. I love the location as it is close to the beach and there are so many options for different trails you can take after a nice full meal....I made 6 rounds before I threw in the towel.
(4)brad m.
Do you like hair in your food? Are you 100 years old? Do you like nursing home food? Well then you'd be better off going to a nursing home. Seriously. About 2 years ago my wife and I ate thanksgiving lunch in her grandmother's nursing home. That buffet had better service, more variety and better flavor than the Cliff House. We had a reservation well in advance for 2:00 on Sunday and arrived on time. We were then told that our reservation only got us a spot on the list and we still would have to wait at least 10 minutes. 2:45 we finally sat in a room that looked like Angelina Lansbery's parlor. $96.00 later my wife and I had sampled horrible champagne, bland pasta salads, runny eggs and TWO SEPARATE DISHES WITH HAIR IN THEM. AND ONE WITH A DEAD BUG immortalized in a piece of fruit. i felt like walking out on the check.
(1)Rworange X.
If I could give no stars I would. This was the worst buffet in my life ... and that includes Hometown Buffet and all-you-can-eat Chinese buffets. In fact, the fruit at the Terrace Room was like the fruit at cheap buffets ... under ripe and supermarket quality. The champagne may be free-flowing but it is served in the shallow champagne glasses that hold a drop. It is inexpensive champagne, but OK. The tables are crowded. The traffic pattern is bad. I went one Thanksgiving and not only did they not have cranberry sauce, they didn't have mashed potatoes. They finally brought out the cranberry sauce after I had to explain what it was. I was sorry I asked.because it was overly sweet and gluey. They did have a big bowl of tartar sauce with nothing to put it on. There isn't a large selection and the ingrediants in those dishes is repetative. The hot dishes are lukewarm unless the kitchen has just replace them. There were deli-type salads but no green salads. No chilled or heated plates are available. Silverware wasn't replaced during a trip to the buffet. The desserts are the best part of the meal but hardly amazing. They served pie in an aluminum pie plate like from the supermarket. They do serve hot popovers which is one of the few pluses. The lack of thought was shown by having cream cheese and lox, but no bagels. The view is ok, but of the three Cliff House restaurants, not the best. You can't eat view. The room is the least pretty looking like a banquet conference room at a Holiday Inn.
(1)Allison T.
I had a lovely brunch here with a gf of mine....we spent the whole weekend together. Although we didn't get to sit by the window..we did have the harpist right behind us. Kinda romantic to have music playing during our meal. And there is a nice veiw of the ocean. They had a nice selection of food here...the paella was a favorite of mine and the lemon tarts. Also it didn't hurt that it was all u can drink champange. For about $50 a person...not bad at all.
(4)Wendy S.
cliffhouse.com/terrace/B… I love the location; the breath-taking view, the impecable service, and the popovers that leave you wanting more! I need to go back for dinner!! Afterwards, stroll along the cliffs and check out the area, you'll be glad you did!
(4)Jaymee S.
Amazing view, great brunch, but overpriced. I give it 3.5 stars. I definitely recommend this place if you have guests in town. It has a gorgeous view of the ocean, and unlimited champagne. The food is solid, but I think they have the same exact dishes every weekend. (I know this, because I went there with out of town guests two weekends in a row). However, the bummer part is it costs $39 per person, and they charge you extra if you want O.J. in your champagne. Everyone should go there once, but it won't be your weekend staple. (Oh, and make sure you make reservations a few days in advance).
(3)Annie S.
This place reminds me of a scene from the movie Titanic. it is so elegantly decorated with high ceilings, fresh flowers, and a harp player. This is prob one of the best brunch places I've ever been to so far. Perfect date place or sunday brunch with the girls.
(5)daisy b.
Two friends and I walked into the Cliff House brunch - without reservations - at around 12:45 p.m. on a Sunday. "Do you have room for three?" we asked politely. The hostess hemmed and hawed, alternating glances between us and her reservation book. "I don't think so she said." "Well how long will the wait be?" we asked. And then she looked at us and said, "You do know it's $39 a person, right?" After we recovered from the shock of actually experiencing with Julia Robert's character in Pretty Woman felt like when she tried to shop on Rodeo Drive and was turned away, we smiled politely and said, "That's fine." We were swiftly seated at a table next to the window where we spent the next two hours gorging on mediocre-but-somehow-delicious brunch food. I returned three times, fully loading up on scrumptious desserts during my last trip. Once we got one of the server's attention, the champagne flowed freely... which helped offset the harp player's cheesy music selection. Not somewhere I'd go often, but for a special occasion or once or twice a year, it's a treat. Not because it's too pricey, but because it's completely indulgent and I had a stomach ache for the rest of the day. Recommend: Saying "yes" to all champagne refills, shrimp cocktail, dessert. Stay away from: Bread/croissants (filler), scrambled eggs, bagels/lox. I think next time I'll do the Land's End hike first and save brunch as a well-deserved treat. And I'll be sure to make a reservation so as to avoid any haughty judgment.
(3)Lindsey H.
BOO! Methinks that to turn what once was a glorious and romantic place into this modern crap-hole is a crime. I actually cried when I saw the interior of the "new" Cliff House. I said to my friend "Let's leave this is not the Cliff House" and I sat down and cried. A piece of history flushed down the drain again. I used to come here, and drink with my friends. We would put on 1930s attire, and little hats, and then take our pictures at the old Musee Mechanique. Alas the Cliff House has gone to seed.
(1)Jessica S.
I just went yesterday - and while the process of getting in, service, ambiance, all that jazz, was an easy four stars, the food was a two. That's right. A two. I know it's a brunch, and I really didn't have THAT high an expectation going into all of this, but really - enough of the warm food wasn't warm. I like my breakfast food warm. Warm french toast, warm eggs benedict, warm potatoes au gratin. Bordering on hot, temperature wise. Their food (I know it's buffet, and I know it cannot stay piping hot, ok!?) was just barely bordering on warm, and that just dissipointed me. The syurp for the french toast was the only really warm thing that they had out there - otherwise, once your plate hit the table, your food was cooling, and quickly. Service was sweet, attentive and lovely. If I had wanted to indulge in my "drunk before noon" moment, I could have very easily, due to the fact that the ladies pouring champagne were constantly circulating in the room. They are also very very good about making sure that plates are cleared out of the way, though it would have been nice to get fresh silverware from time to time. Lucky for me however, it was for my Aunt's birthday, whom I LOATHE eating out with most of the time (she has some anti-food habits that are just BEYOND. seriously beyond), so I don't feel too bad about eating here. She liked it, and that's what counts. I think my mother and I are going to take my Aunt and Uncle there, since this is safe, attractive food.
(3)Robin L.
Went here for Easter brunch because I had some out of town friends visiting and figured this was a good San Francisco attraction to take them to. However, there are other places in the city that are just as fun and offer bottomless drinking and brunch food for half the price. Definitely worth going ONCE but would not head back there again. I have to admit, the food was delectable- wasabi shrimp linguini, tender teriyaki salmon, and an exquisite pots de creme inside a hollowed-out eggshell just for Easter, among the many other treats. However, my law school budget was extremely offended when my total was $80 (with tip). Another downfall- it's more expensive during holidays because they add a carving station, but no discount for a prescatarian like myself who can't enjoy the extra meat. Go, so you can say you've experienced it, but not worth any extra trips.
(3)Brandon C.
What a baller spot to take someone that you care about a lot. Even though I have lost that someone, I still have wonderful memories from this place and will be back for sure. The main dining area overlooks the ocean. Plan it so you can watch the sun set. The entrees are spendy, as you would expect. We split an entree and then fed each other desert. The desert was so erotic. But for me, I go here with someone very special and it is about me and her and the ocean. Everything/everyone else is secondary. It puts you in the mood to run across to the Sutro baths area and engage in some naughtiness. Make sure to bring a flashlight. If you had an experience similiar to mine, please let me know.
(5)Matt W.
On Sundays is always crowded you better have a reservation and agree to wait 10mn before be seated ... The service wasn't that good too ! The only positive point will be the place and the view from the cliff.
(2)Marc P.
No idea how this place currently has a rating of 4.5 stars. Although I am giving it 3 stars, I will say that my visiting mom (who I took there for a Mother's Day brunch) enjoyed it for reasons I give below, and probably would have given it 4 stars. I went there for a Mother's Day brunch ('07), and given the price of $65 a head, I thought that not only was the food selection extremely limited, but what they did have was either not prepared properly and/or was missing the proper fixings.....ere are several examples of what I am talking about: - There was not an omelet bar. - There were not any belgian waffles - There was cheese, but there weren't any crackers. - There were bagels, but they weren't fresh (they tasted like defrosted store-bought Lenders bagels instead of a fresh bagel from Einsteins or Breugers). - Although the eggs benedicts looked beautiful, the yolks were hardened (proper eggs benedict have a yolk that runs once pierced by the diner's fork .... the terrace room, conversely, had yolks that had a hard-boiled consistency). - Although there were fresh strawberries, there was no whipped cream (I have come to expect fresh whipped cream at a Mother's Day Brunch). - if it isn't obvious by now, the brunch had a very limited selection Now, here are the pros (the reason it still barely gets 3 stars): - The view from the restaurant was good (no idea why they drew the blinds half-way though.....sun wasn't setting; I think they should have been fully open) - The desserts were plentiful and were delicious (probably at least 1/3 of the brunch was made up of dessert choices). - They had a harpist who played beautifully - We were able to walk along the beach after brunch - Most importantly, my mom loved it because of the views, the harpist, and the dessert.
(3)Yosie G.
So like most people, I went here for a nice Sunday champagne brunch (at 2pm hah). We made our reservations about an hour before, went to the place, and they didn't have our reservation LOL. Wow you'd think a place like this would keep the reservations right? No. Well at least the wait wasn't too long, but nonetheless, it was a wait.. a wait for a window table. I'm glad we got the window table, even though it was reeeaaallly bright and I could barely see and the sun was melting the butter...it was a nice view of the ocean, the great open Pacific Ocean. Good refills of champagne for sure..even though my glass was half full, I turn and there it is, a full glass of champagne. Food pickings were modest-there were various types of salad, fruits, breakfast foods, shrimp cocktail, meats, and of course, DESSERTS! Just keep the food coming... At 39/person..make sure you eat enough! It is a buffet brunch after all. And drink lots of champagne.
(5)Lorain C.
MY FAVORITE BUFFET IN THE CITY! Sit by the window its gorgeous, and OMG best ever, Egg's Benedict all you can eat! Harp player is a nice touch. I really do love this buffet.
(5)Yuan W.
E took me here over the holidays for lunch before going to see the Marie-Antoinette exhibit at the Legion of Honour. It was an absolutely gorgeous day and were taken to a table with a gorgeous view. I remember coming here ages ago but never dined at the restaurants. Back then, the place was dated and a bit decrepit. Many years and many million dollars later, this place has transformed into something much more than just a tourist stop. We started with the roasted chestnut soup. The flavor of the chestnut was there but subtle, which extended to the consistency as well. For lunch, I had the bouillabaisse in Thai curry. Unfortunately, half of the dish was salmon and some sort of white fish. I'm not a fan of salmon so took everything out and gave them to E. Luckily, it also came with some dungeness crab, a couple of prawns and scallops, all of which was delicious in the curry sauce which was very heavy on the coconut milk. I then finished the meal with a cup of tea. Just sitting there and enjoying the view on a gorgeous day. If we didn't have to rush a bit to catch the exhibit, I would've voted to sit there all afternoon. The server was prompt and attentive but not at all overwhelming. A great way to cap off the holidays. Thanks E, for all the great places you've taken me in 2007.
(4)Jen P.
Great food, beautiful view and bottomless champagne... what more could you ask for? Well, if given the opportunity, I would actually ask that OJ be included with the brunch and that the champagne be refilled more frequently. All-in-all though, a wonderful start to my week!
(4)TaDao V.
Twas a lovely day that Sunday morning. I have never seen the coast so calm, warm and sunny. It was an ideal time for brunch and in an ideal setting. The brunch at the Cliff House is not a bad deal. For $46, the food is pretty decent and bottomless champagne. The selection wasn't all that huge but everything that had was done properly. Salads were bright and crisp; beef was tender and flavorful; bacon was plentiful; eggs were eggy. Aside from the dull crowd and the annoying children and the mediocre staff, it was a fine time. It's a prefect place to take one's parents or to enjoy an expensive mimosa by the sea.
(3)Pink P.
Good food. They carded me for champagne and I didn't have my ID on me. I didn't think I needed it for a BREAKFAST with my MOTHER. And even if I was underage, I'm obviously NOT pre-gaming for a night of bar hopping. Their scrambled eggs sucked anyway. I wish the harpist would play a song NOT from my old piano book.
(4)Alesha C.
My Mom and I did this for Mother's Day last year and really enjoyed it. Yummy food and amazing views, I would definitely recommend it.
(5)Rachel B.
I went to the cliff house champagne brunch today, and was disappointed. First of all, I really had no idea that the brunch was held in a banquet room, which immediately turned me off. When the hostess showed me to my table, it was just about on top of the people next to me. It was so close, that you would not be able to avoid conversing with the people next to you. I asked for a different table, and the next was worse. I pointed out a 4top, and she said she would have to check, but it worked out, we sat at the 4top, which saved the day, because I would have left. I have been to brunch from super high end to ordinary, while the food was good, and the service was great (and admittedly, I wasn't very nice when I was shown my table) I think that there are much better options for the price. I am really only reviewing this because of the location of the brunch- needless to say, no matter how good the food or service is, I wont be back.
(2)Irene K.
What a view!! You should go there for dinner before the sun sets. Otherwise when it gets dark, there's nothing to look at. It'll just be total darkness outside those huge glass windows. I love what they did with this place. I used to go there a lot for drinks at night when I lived in the area and after the renovation, it's even better. Still brings back a lot of good memories even though it's not exactly the same place anymore. Decent food and service was okay. You gotta give it a 4 star for that ocean view.
(4)Patrick B.
Took my girlfriend here...great food and the view is amazing. Ask the employees for their favorite place to sit in the house...its a great view.
(5)Stella K.
When I feel like stuffing face, this is the place! I've come here for special occasions and for no occasion at all. There are many Sunday brunch choices in the city, but if you're looking for something comfortable, this one's it. For a little more than $40, you're offered a full spread including the best eggs benedict, jumbo shrimp, all and the breakfast pleasers in between. It's perfect because it's not as overwhelming as other Sunday spreads. All the food is excellent quality, and there's not one thing that I haven't liked. To top it all off, their coffee is so yum! It absolutely hits the spot on a lazy Sunday. Tip - Make reservations! They seat every two hours - 10am, 12 noon, and 2pm. They can also accommodate large groups! Perfect for Sunday brunch with family after your wedding.
(5)Michelle H.
I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed. Dined here for mother's day brunch. glad we got to try it, but i don't think we're going back. The unlimited champagne, the view and the harpist were the pros. The food itself was not great, but not bad. I wish they had more options. I called and said they'd have a carving station. When we arrived, the carving station consisted of two items: ham and stuff leg of lamb. I just went thinking there would be more selection. However, the quality of the food was decent. I'd go elsewhere with the $60/per person we paid.
(3)Yan M.
Well, after having been to elaborate Garden Court last year for Easter brunch, nothing else can quite top the Garden Court extravaganza. So this year, we really compromised, we held a reservation for Garden Court and Cliff House and after much debate, we finally settled to try a different location since we were going to the very pricey French Laundry for lunch the day before. We settled for Cliff House since we vowed to try a new Easter brunch place every year. We arrived 10 mins late past our reservation time but the hostess did not qualm and we were taken to our seats. Unfortunately, all the window seats were taken but there is really no bad seat in the house since we could still see the ocean, the beach and all with the large window views. We perused the buffet table and was somewhat disappointed since it was a rather small selection compared to the abundance of food at Garden Court last year (the buffet spread was held in a separate ballroom from the dining room!), sigh, I know, I know....we are not supposed to compare. There was even a line at the buffet table at the Cliff House! This was not the case at the banquet hall like setting at Garden Court, there were so many stations, that you can barely taste everything, let alone a line! Never.... Well, we tasted most of the items at Cliff House, the ham and lamb at the carving station was alright, took a bite of each from bf's plate....the starters were some beet salad and beef salad. Next came the usual scrambled egg, sausage and bacon, potato au gratin, pancake and syrup or apple cinnamon, pasta, .....so typical and nothing fanciful. Although I can totally give 5 stars to their popovers! It was the highlight of the meal! Along with their desserts, there were some delicious eclairs, strawberries dipped in chocolate and tiny cakes. The cheesecake was however, just eh.... I really hate to compare but then again, when you already had the best buffet brunches (Garden Court in Palace Hotel and Navio Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay that is), this place really didn't live up to our expectations...sigh oh sigh...
(4)Max F.
Hell F'ing Yea! Need a semi-swank place to take your visiting mother or your girl for brunch, then this is your spot. We tried all but one or two items, and most things were of very good quality. I did find myself saying "meh" to a couple of things, but nothing was noticiably bad. There could have been more items, but I don't know that we could have actually eaten any of them since we were so stuffed already. The champagne is free flowing, the harpist is a-picking and the view can't be beat. Just be sure to make your reservations at least a few weeks in advance.
(4)Trina M.
Love the view !! Love the food !! Came in for Brunch with the family awhile back,but just forgot to write a review hehe but here it is ~!
(5)Sheila Y.
I left this place wishing I had brought a gigantic purse in order to sneak out more Popovers!!! I don't usually employ such covert tactics when visiting "fancy" brunch places, but I was a convert. As a child the idea of the Popover was wholly uninspiring, however one bite into its pillowy expanse and I was sold. But beyond these little delights, everything else was quite wonderful. The reason for the four stars is due to the lack of originality or wow factor on the warm dishes front (eggs benedict...just ok (however I always scratch my head at this one b/c EB are super perishable...sitting in a metal tray for over an hour just doesn't do them justice)..the bacon was decent...the cheese pasta was cardiac arrest worthy and there was nothing else much of interest). The salads, miso salmon, shrimp, beets and goat cheese, mushroom and roasted cauliflower, and lox all made up for it though. Miso salmon was melt in my mouth. I mixed a couple of the salads to make a magic concoction, but each standing on its own was delicious. The deserts were thankfully limited, but each one was rich and delightful. Granted this is not a multi-table affair, with a carving station, omelet station, etc. however I appreciate the quality over quantity idea. However, not that I think of it...it didn't stop me from stuffing my face nonetheless...;)
(4)JJ W.
I really like the Cliff House, I love the location and the views and the sutro baths theme. But just went to the champagne brunch and it was terrible. It was $45 and just totally average. Not that much to choose from and nothing special at all.
(2)Steve S.
OK, so I ate a lot of bacon here. And by a lot, I mean like a pound of it. Cause frankly the food is mediocre at best, and expensive, and the service leaves something to be desired. But the view is top notch, and if you have out of town guests, they are bound to be impressed by that. But seriously, eat as much of the bacon as possible. That's what buffets are for.
(3)ABBY A.
"Yes! Take your date here for breakfast! And your family too! Always a great place to have brunch! The view is picture-perfect especially on a sunny day since it's mostly foggy all-day-every-day. There's plenty of free parking, but you might have to park up the hill and stroll down which is no biggie because the beach is right there. I recommend the Eggs Benedict (#1!). Service is excellent, staff is friendly, service is fast. If you're looking to have a delicious, fulfilling, moderately priced breakfast in a clean, quiet environment with unbeatable views of the beach--you've found the perfect place! Don't forget your jacket!"
(5)Bert T.
Surprisingly good! Great View. Good variety Had a birthday brunch buffet with some friends. The selection of food was quite good. There was the usual, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, mini bagels with cream cheese, scalloped potatoes. What made it different was the smoked salmon, seared tuna, marinated asparagus, variety of breads, cheese plate, and the variety of fruits. Along with extra rich chocolate moose, the chocolate covered strawberries were YUMMY! I was surprised by the quality of the buffet. Usually when I hear buffet I cringe on the thought of how long the food has been sitting under heat lamp. But in this case, everything was amazingly fresh. For $40, I got a great view and all the food I can eat it was worth it. The only thing I can find wrong was the room temperature. The AC blowing on us it was freezing where we sat.
(4)Laurie K.
Good brunch, endless chanpagne, great selection of food. Worth the money for sure.
(4)Jim L.
Sunday brunch is wildly popular in the City these days; Sunday *buffet* brunches, however, are an endangered species. Although pricey, if a buffet is what you seek, you must try the exquisite Terrace Room of the Cliff House. A modest number of items are offered; however, everything is satisfying and of superior quality and of course, their wonderful warm popovers are served. (They could improve the quality of the scrambled eggs though.) The setting is amazing, with a harpsichordist playing soothing melodies while you munch on tics of toast and stare blissfully out at the Camera Obscura and beyond to Seal Rock.
(5)Alan J.
Service and food were great.
(4)Joiera C.
The view was a killer but the food is just ok nothing special about the food and the selection were very limited. I think for $43 per person it would definitely would have been better.
(3)Tess W.
Awh I love the view from here, and the food is absolutely superb! I've been here twice and wish to come back again soon!!
(5)Marz W.
What a glorious view. Even of the foggiest of days. I guess its the angle you're overlooking the water and the beach. As long as I am dressed warmly I love to go here and have a cocktail after hiking around on those dangerous cliffs. Its really pretty breathtaking on a partly cloudy evening. And the drinks are good too!
(5)Tuff G.
OK BRUNCH FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR CLOSE ENCOUNTERS . . . We took family to the Terrace Room Sunday brunch, 'cuz that's where the birthday boy wanted to go . . . The Cliff House has undergone many face-lifts and reconstructions over the years. Of course, nothing can possibly compare to the original 1890's historic beauty. But, over the years they have tried. The ocean views are spectacular on any given day, from the outside deck and the walkway that takes you either around the point to the North, or to the beach to the South. I recommend stopping to enjoy the views. But, you don't have to go to the restaurant for that. On to the Sunday Brunch review - No matter how much you pay, or what the restaurant touts as being a "MUST DO", a 'champagne brunch' is a 'champagne brunch' is a 'champagne brunch'. . . and the Terrace Room is no exception or big deal. For $40 uh plus bucks, you get the standards you would expect in food. I do have to say that the butternut squash with pomegranate and caramelized walnuts was exceptional. A dish that we will try to duplicate at home. The food was all fresh and hot or cold (whichever it was supposed to be). So, I don't have any particular complaints or issues with the food. The buffet is set in the middle of the long room, so it is easily accessed from two sides, which reduces the traffic jam of many a buffet. No omelet station, carving station, or Belgium waffle station, all three of which seem to be standards elsewhere. BUT. . . here is my issue that drops the score waaaay down. The dining layout truly bites the big one! The photos you will see on the website show open spaces and nice two and four top window tables. What you actually have are those nice window tables with 4-6 two and four tops lined up with them, out from the window. So, you have looooong cafeteria style seating projecting out from each window. Is that their idea of advertising lots of window seating? And, the space between row A and row B is so small that I could barely shimmy down the aisle to my seat (which was AT the window). I have no idea how anyone with any kind of waistline can get down the aisle, if MY 32 inch waist had so much trouble. So much for requesting a window table!!! Getting in and out was such a hassle that I actually ate less. Maybe that is the intention. And, you had better be nice to the table next to you, because they are basically at YOUR table. I guess if San Franciscan's are used to row houses, they can deal with row dining tables. My suggestion would be to opt for Sutro's as opposed to the Terrace Room. Sutros has a far better dining layout, and HUGE windows for viewing the ocean while you dine. I will not be returning to the Terrace Room.
(2)Amber L.
The food is good, think typical buffet banquet food found at swanky hotels. The view is drop dead gorgeous. I went here for brunch once with a certain special someone who eventually made me run for the hills and it was tres, tres romantique. The bubbly was real French champagne which I was delighted by since I hate false advertising. Could they improve the food? Sure but to be honest they don't have to because they had me sold at the view and the all you can drink bubbly. If want to appease the gods of gluttony go to dim sum, if you want to get drunk on French wine and eat lots of cold cocktail shrimps and little desserts while admiring the Pacific go to The Cliff House.
(4)Yum Y U M.
I was so thrilled to read on yelp that CliffHouse offered oysters in their Sunday Brunch. WRONG!!! They didn't have it! I guess that particular Yelper went on a special holiday in which CliffHouse offered special menu - so I was disappointed there. You pay $45 a person for the Sunday Brunch - really, the money goes to the breath-taking ocean front view, the delicious dessert (only), live harp music, the fancy & eye-popping arrangements of their brunch food and the super friendly and attentive service - Oo yeah, unlimited champagne, martinellie apple cider, juice, coffee too. Their dessert assortments was almost the same percentage as the brunch/breakfast food. The food consisted of roast beef, French toast, no waffle or carving station, assorted pasta salad and such - as you can't tell, I don't remember much of them - as none of the savory dishes stood out - I had to fill myself up on dessert, tarts, pie, cake, dipped strawberries. The ambiance is super nice - no fault there. The whole room is smaller than I thought, so this would be a nice place to hold bridal brunch, birthday, retirement, mother/father's day, even a wedding proposal - cause the crowds are small and personal - so you won't get freaked out proposing in front of 150 other random people. I'll come back again if I want to make someone ELSE feel special - afterall, it is nice.
(3)Royston N.
Wow! Beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean, great food, free unlimited champagne, friendly service, and harp music made Cliff House brunch a wonderful experience. Only thing that was a minus was the price, $45 ouch! But still, food in the Cliffhouse, makes it up..
(4)Stormageddon S.
I have never been to the champagne brunch at the cliff house. I did, however, get married on the terrace of the Cliff House and then have my reception in the Terrace Room, and there was plenty of champagne. There doesn't seem to be an area to review that. From the very beginning of our planning, Virginia, Massoud and Sara were delightful to work with. No question was too small to warrant a quick response, no amount of meetings was too many, and when I forgot to pay my 75% deposit on time because I was dealing with a sick cat, it was no problem. My Led Zeppelin cover band was not only welcomed but encouraged to turn it up to 11. My husband and I had a wonderful day and amazing photos with the sunset. A few words of advice. It will be windy, spray that hair! A few moments' chill made for amazing, dramatic pictures with my veil billowing, well, into my dad's face, but after he moved over it was striking. The room is rather blandly decorated so as not to distract from the views, so we went with bright centerpieces and it worked well. The food was fantastic, we went with the crab melts (these need to be on the regular menu), mozzarella kabobs, mini lamb chops and shrimp cocktail as appetizers and the fillet mignon and duck (YUM!!!) as entrees and everyone loved their dinner. I found myself chasing the crab melt girl around the room between pictures. Massoud was fantastic at keeping the evening on schedule and making sure my husband and I were allowed to sit back and enjoy the evening. Not only was it beautiful and the ocean sunset view was a great plus for our many guests from landlocked states, it was one of the most reasonably priced venues we looked at, and we looked at a lot of venues. I'm so glad we chose the Cliff House for our wedding and so glad my now-husband suggested it.
(5)Kirsten V.
I went here with my mother for a lovely brunch on my day off. I don't eat seafood so I didn't have much to pick from but I still managed to pick something. The waitress was nice and made a smaller salad and entree salad. It was delicious and had a full breats of chicken on there. The coffee and mimosas were good too. All in all a very nice experience with great service and even greater views. They did a nice job restoring this landmark.
(4)Mike W.
Flawless! Go, eat, and come back many times. Stop wearing shorts, t-shirts and flip flops here. Didn't your momma teach you better?
(5)cindy c.
although it's a bit pricey for breakfast, i'm not one to turn down all you can drink champagne and all you can eat chocolate dipped strawberries! the food was wonderful! not only did they have a yummy selection of breakfast items, but a great number of lunch choices as well, pasta, salad, seafood...make sure you get some popovers! they're delish! if it's just a meal for one or two, ask to be seated away from the tables of four. most of the tables of two are arranged just inches from the tables of four and it doesn't make for very private conversation. my friend and i had our quite breakfast turn into a women's self-help conference this morning when the hostess sat four very loud, very animated women right next to us.
(5)Tiffany L.
I really loved the scenery here and hearing crashing waves as we partake in all kinds of pastries & tons o'chocolate. I've never had so much chocolate for breakfast before. You have to make reservations very early to get a table here because the room is not very big. It's worth it to go on a special occasion or when you have out of towners. Other than that the price tag is really high and you can only eat so much and this is nothing like the sizzler so you don't want to be gorging yourself or "getting your moneys worth". There's a harpist for christ sake!!!
(4)Squirrel L.
I have been here twice this year. On the first occasion, I found it to be fine. This past weekend, I saw something so offensive to all health standards, that I will never return. As my fiance and I were sitting there with his family, we were watching the staff clear the table beside us. In doing so, they held back several unused coffee cups. Instead of replacing them with fresh cups, they kept them on the table for the next people! SO GROSS. There might not have been coffee in them, but that does not mean that they haven't been touched, licked, and god knows what else. Honestly, the servers should clear cups and glasses that are not going to be used early in the meal and not leave them sitting on the table throughout the whole meal. We were shocked and horrified and what we were seeing. So, so gross. I am sorry, but this is not acceptable, especially not at a place that is this expensive. After seeing this, I purposefully poured something into my otherwise unused champagne glass, which I knew I had picked up from the top and not the stem. Aside from that grossness, the food is fine, but you can definitely do better for your money elsewhere. The tables depending on which one you are seated at, can be very annoying. The round tables are really rectangular tables with round toppers. That means that two people get horrible seats which place them right between two legs of the table and leave them unable to scoot their chair in. Very annoying. The service this past weekend was deplorable. We kept having to ask for more coffee repeatedly and then they would come back and only offer coffee to the one person who asked and not the rest of the table. It was terrible. Never again!
(1)Marta L.
Umm.... never again. TERRIBLE service. We had to bus our own tables in order to have room for our second buffet trip. Yes, coffee and champagne are a part of the deal, but don't expect them to bring them frequently at ALL. NOT a fancy vibe. There are way too many kids in highchairs at this place. This wouldn't be such a huge issue if you weren't packed into the room like sardines. Getting to the buffet was a challenge in itself. You could barely hear the live harp music. Good food... but nothing extraordinary. This felt like a typical buffet at a nice hotel. The eggs benedict were dried out. Some excellent seafood, including a miso glazed salmon. Good desserts, and the popovers (a personal favorite) were a nice touch. I recommend going to the Sutro's part of the Cliff House instead. More spacious, bigger windows, better vibe all around. This didn't feel "special" -- and it wasn't cheap!
(2)Josh Z.
Five stars is hard to reach. The food was great and it was overall a winner of an experience. The person who was seating us wouldn't let us in the 10 minutes early that we had arrived, so we just sat there...bored. After that everything was great. The food was all in small portions, so you didn't have to think twice about having a little bit of everything. My Molly doesn't like eating a lot of the same thing over and over, so this made her really happy. They just kept coming by and filling up your glass with decent champagne. Great date place, but definitely not a first date place, but who the hell has a first date over brunch?
(4)Jennifer D.
We had dinner here. It's a nice restaurant with good pricey food. I found the place and staff pretentious. I expect better quality food for that--if at all. We did not see much of a view as it was dark, and we were not seated near windows. That's OK. Why do I think they're pretentious? Well, I ordered a Baked Alaska having not seen that offered at too many places (call me weird, but I tend to order things I've not seen before). The presentation was great (as expected since fire was involved), but the actual dessert was not that good. When asked how it was, I mentioned that the presentation was better than the taste. I was then told, because apparently I didn't know better, that the dessert was all about the presentation, and not the actual flavor. Hmm, that's interesting--food is for looking good and not for tasting good?
(3)brian s.
We had a wonderful Sunday brunch there for my wife's birthday. Great quality food, decent selection, nice atmosphere, and reasonable price. (FYI less than half as much as the brunch at the Half Moon Bay Ritz Carlton, a whopping $85/per.) The staff accommodated my special requests, and the service was great all around. The champagne they serve flows freely, albeit a so-so vintage for those who know their fine bubbly. (We brought a Magnum of good french stuff which they uncorked and served, never adding the stated $18.95 corkage to the bill either) We will be back the next time we are free for brunch!!
(5)Tom S.
My company had a dinner party here a while back and reserved the whole Terrace Room. The hors d' oeuvres were great, but the dinner was definitely sub par (filet mignon and lobster tail). Steak was chewy and tasted bad and so was the lobster. Desert was even worse. On another occasion prior to this, I've also had dinner here at the restaurant before the remodel and it wasn't that good either. Disappointing...
(2)Sahra H.
This was the spot of my wedding reception. Virginia and Mahmoud are a delight to work with. Actually, Virginia is pretty hard-nosed, but I respect her for being a solid business woman. Mahmoud is all about the love, making the bride and groom feel special, and making sure everyone is having a grand old time. The food was pretty good, but not to die for. However, it was reasonable, and there was a limit to Mom & Dad's wedding underwriting (bless their hearts). The duck, salmon, and ravioli that we ordered were very good, though the duck was my favorite (it often is). The champagne and wine were pretty marked up, so beware! The setting was really beautiful, especially with the sound of the ocean out back and the fresh sea air. I'm really glad that we had our reception here.
(5)Mike O.
Decent Sunday Brunch buffet with real Champagne for $39. Make sure you get a table at the window to spot surfers, sea otters and dolphins. Decoration could use an upgrade to the 21st Century. If unlimited Champagne is not your thing, head to the Sutro restaurant next door where views are probably better.
(4)Aly D.
as i'm nearing my departure from san francisco, i have decided to start checking items off my "always wanted to do this in SF" list. of course a visit to the cliff house was on there because of the great yelp reviews as well as a roommates recommendation. i decided to go there for the sunday champagne brunch. i made reservations the day before and was surprised that they still had spots open as early as noon. we went on one of the prettiest mornings sf had to offer and were seated one table away from the window. this place had a gorgeous view of the open ocean as well as seal rock. the atmosphere was really nice. not too hoity toity as one would expect, but did lean towards a nicer atmosphere. it was suprisingly easy to hear each other across the table. the harp music was low yet very present and beautiful. the food was pretty good and i especially loved the eggs bendict. i guess their motto is quality over quantity as the buffett wasn't very large. other options included fresh fruit, sausage, bacon, eggs, popovers, desserts, pasta salads, and a variety of other salads. it was all pretty tasty. i'm glad that i got to cross this one off of my list :)
(4)Eileen H.
Fantastic. Although it isn't as huge as, say, a brunch buffet in Vegas, all of the dishes are very good. I went there earlier this month for my first wedding anniversary, and it was just perfect. we had a seat next to the window, and even saw harbor porpoises jumping around near Seal Rock, which was really cool. I don't recall having the popovers with the buffet when I went there a few years ago, so that was an unexpected treat. oh, and the service is excellent.
(5)Jeannie L.
Great ambiance, nice ocean view, soft background harp music, superb service, and quality food - what else can you ask for? The Sunday brunch here can definitely benefit from more choices but the food they do have is really yummy. I love the French toast, brioche, shrimp cocktail, chocolate covered strawberries, and unlimited champagne. Definitely worth going back although at $39pp price point and my limited appetite, I'd save it for some special occasion.
(4)Mrs. G.
The view is BEAUTIFUL and the food great. Make sure you call ahead and make a reservation because it gets impossible otherwise.
(4)Shea B.
This has got to be the worst brunch ever. The food is always cold and greasy. One star the view and one for the Spicy Bloody Mary.
(2)Emily O.
My fam and I went for Thanksgiving brunch-I think it was worth what we paid-Nice waitress too-she was very good about taking our family pic etc...
(4)carebear l.
First of all, parking sucks. The bf and I arrived a little late for our 7 person reservation for the buffet brunch. The rest of the party actually was able to be seated and actually began eating right away. The one thing I didn't like about the was the seating. We sat at a round table with the view. The view was beautiful, but the seats that are up against the window were so close to wall, trying to get out to get more food was really hard. First I had to ask the person next to me to get up, then I had to fight the table leg and when I actually got up, I had the fight with the window curtain. Geez all for another plate of food. I thought what the food I had was average. I would have liked more options, but I suppose for $39, I would not expect caviar and blinis. There was nothing too impressive on the menu. I like the smoked salmon, but how can you go wrong with smoked salmon? There was also different types of noodle salads and a couple of different types of eggs which I tried neither of. I was there was there a brunch and was not about to eat something that I can easily cook at home. The gratinated potatoes were good and not runny. I would love to have seen a chef cooking omelettes to order. I thought the steak was very tender, but be sure to get it when it comes fresh out if the kitchen, because when it is left on the burner, it just looses it juiciness and just starts to become dry. I would have love to have tried a popover, but the whole time I was there, the pan was empty. I loved the never ending champagne, I didn't even realize that the champagne was never ending, so it was a pleasant surprise. The desserts were good. I liked the chocolate covered strawberries and the chocolate mousse. The marbled cheesecake was also good, not too sweet. The little cakes/fruit tarts were okay. I would have liked to have seen a tiramisu. We never really needed to stand in line to get our food and most of the food came out as soon as it was gone. The service was really good. They made sure the plates were taken right away and our cups were never empty. I would come back here again, but be sure to come here a bit early to look for parking.
(3)Ruchell F.
good view and good food. the only thing that sucks is that drinks are not included in the buffet, they charge for orange juice and coffee...which they should have included since it cost $43 for a brunch buffet, but its worth trying
(4)Laura K.
this is an update, as of last weekend - we had a much better experience this time around.. partly because it was a very foggy sunday and there were not too many tourists out, the place was not PACKED, partly because we just had a good time.. the dishes were tasty,and service mostly friendly.. I think the variety is still not up to par with a lot of places in the city, but you will find something you like.. and the location is just stunning, one of the best views in the city.
(3)Jace G.
Buffet brunch at the Cliff House is perfect for taking out of town guests. The views are magnificent and the buffet is varied enough that everyone dines happy. The free flowing champagne and classical music are a nice touch as well.
(4)Kimby T.
12/25/06 their reservation agent beverly went out of her way and squeezed in a party of 3 (myself, mom & grandma!) last minute, christmas eve for christmas day dinner. we had reservations at 5pm, but actually got sat at around 5.20pm (for some reason, other parties were seated ahead of us, a threesome as well as 2 parties of 5-6). so we sat and waited.. finally got sat, and had to ask our hostess for our champagne (after already starting on our first course of food); our server kept refilling other tables' glasses while skipping us entirely. uh, this IS a champagne bufft\et, you would think the first thing theyd do as you sat down was fill up your glass. the food was pretty good, as compared to other buffets (cityscape, francis drake). at the hot table, they had lamb roast with spinach, goat cheese and pinenuts (mint/jalapeno sauce), and ham with honey sauce. nice spread of about 8-10 salads (pasta, asian beef-yuck, ocean shrimp, greek, etc). eggs, sausage, bacon, lox, salmon, bagels, rolls.. really good paella (served with seafood, chicken, etc). desserts were yummy, i had my share of eclairs, chocolate strawberries and profiteroles. my mom loved the sweet watermelon. my grandma enjoyed the chocolate mousse. the room was pretty small, kind of old school banquet looking; i guess maybe because of all the medium sized windows lining the walls, and the curtains were drawn down (didnt see the ocean view). the harpist played well and brought a wonderful ambiance to the place. all in all, good value (tab came to $160 for 3 people on christmas DAY), although champagne and coffee were not refilled through out our meal as often as i would have liked (or done, if i were the one serving). but hey, it was christmas day, and i was thankful enough for them even being there working, for us to eat dinner. will have to come back, the service was probably just an off experience (i hope).
(4)cecille p.
one of my favorite restaurant by the ocean...great for watching the sunset...nice to unwind after work hours and meeting new or old friends, attend interestings events, meditation etc.. just incredible view , location, and modern design of the restaurant. Food and wine selections has variety, they have my fav. steam mussels in garlic white wine broth with nice warm bread( must ask for a warm bread nex time say hot cuz it was not even warm), and clam chowder soup and cocktail shrimps cheese plates..must give a 5star but the waiter was not so nice so give it a 4..esp when was rude in suggestions between a pinot noir and a merlot...he sent 2 tasting wine galss but did not give me the merlot but zinfandel..didn't want to bicker about it but made my choice to pinot , then for bread, he said conly crackers for clam chowder so i said can i get warm bread for my dish and replied "it is not in this level but have to go in the lower floor" what an excuse... other than this..love it !!
(4)JA R.
Good stuff. Great view. For Sunday brunch this is a top choice. The only issues would be that I practically made myself sick eating so much and that the chocolate dipped strawberries don't pack well in my purse...
(4)Joyce L.
Okay, to be honest, I haven't had brunch here in at least a few years, BUT I was recently at the Cliff House Bistro, and decided to take a foray into the Terrace Room to see if anything had changed (my sister had told me it hadn't); also, darn it - I wanted to yelp about it! So sad...anyway, my sister was right. It's exactly the same (as before the remodel). Like Rick H. said, it's high quality but modest fare - but I really think it's slim pickings...maybe sometimes I do go for quantity over quality (options, people!)? I dunno...but no shrimp cocktail, no omelette station, no carving station, very few lunch entrees, small dessert section. The popovers are a treat, though. It's a pretty intimate setting - the room is quite narrow and long with the single buffet table right down the middle; harpist is in the middle of the room against the wall; can get kind of noisy with all the chit-chat going on. But alas, it's the Cliff House - so it's just kind of cool to check it out regardless. Can't remember the price, but I think it's around $40. Call for reservations.
(3)Robyn B.
newly redone, a great place to watch the sun set and have a drink with friends.
(5)Maggie S.
the buffet is fantastic food great and wait staff very attentive. however one must tolerate the lowly paid incompetent host/hostess to get to it, they insisted i did not have a reservation because reservations are only at 10 12 and 2 o clock. i get the run around between two lowly paid morons who couldn't even perform the duties of seating people properly. it seems that most of the low paid workers in this city are the snootyist. and then management is just as moronic as the host/hostess. thank goodness for the chef and waitstaff. otherwise they would have nothing to offer but a view.
(5)Nirea S.
So I'm updating my review, I finally got a call back that they would refund me for the 4 people who did not show up so I basically get my deposit back which is nice. I first spoke with the GM and he just argued with me that I signed a contract and I woul be costing them money to refund me. I didn't feel very happy but someone else called me back later that day and let me know I will be refunded. Much happier as I really thought my Birthday was going to cot me $250 could have bought a flight to Vegas for that. Again I'm still keeping the stars at 3 because the meal wasn't really what I expected I was thinking Steak and Shrimp or some sort of Fancy buffet food but it was pretty standard the deserts were the only impressive thing and the chocolate mousse was great.
(3)John R.
This has been my favorite Bay Area brunch for almost twenty years. The food, ambiance, and view are all outstanding. They even have live harp music. Unlike many other brunches they don't have a carving bar or custom omlets, so people who consider those features important should be aware of this . There's also a nice trail up above the Cliff House which leads to a beautiful view of the Golden Gate Bridge, and Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach are right down at the bottom of the hill. Great way to spend a Sunday afternoon in SF, but as others have remarked parking can be difficult.
(4)Lily W.
9:15AM...I wake up. DAMN YOU DAY LIGHT SAVINGS TIME!! I THOUGHT IT WAS 8AM!!! Realized our brunch time was at 10AM. SHIT. Friend called, found out we can still go, but it'll cut into our 2-hour block. Bites...but it happens. Arrived, and was seated by the door. I guess if we got there on time, we MIGHT have gotten an ocean view? Ehh...I can still see the view, but its a little less awesome. Food...was good for a buffet, but not necessarily to die for. I DID like the Miso Salmon, Popover, and Eggs Benedict. Their little Pot De Creme in an eggshell is also uuber cute and pretty yummy. Service was great. Very attentive. I just wish they had the arrivals a little more stagnant. 10AM is way too early for brunch on a Saturday...
(3)Veronica V.
The Cliff House was recommend by a friend. I'm glad I took his advice. As you enter the Cliff House, it is a bit confusing. There are several restaurants. Where do you go? The champagne Brunch is on the bottom floor. The hostess was very nice and friendly. My +1 and I attended the 11:30 brunch. I suggest you come early. As we left around 12:45, the place was starting to fill up. The room was bright and the sounds of a harp playing was nice. The buffet is centered in the middle of the room. The tables are too close for comfort. Community sitting is what I call it. However, there is a good side to it. Some of the conversations people are having are rather interesting. Let see...I think the people I was sitting next to was possibly a shrink and friend/client. I learned something from their conversation. Never send an email when you are angry. Got it! My favorites of the buffet were the eggs, potatoes, salmon, peeled shrimp, pasta salad. There is so much to eat. All kinds of fruit. Lots of desserts. Bottomless champagne, apple cider, coffee and tea. The staff is very friendly and attentive. As you exit the Cliff House make your way to the left down the stairs. The view from there is stunning. Take your photos.
(4)David S.
We attended the Christmas Day dinner for the first time - enjoyed it much but with a couple disappointments. They only offered ham, not ham AND turkey as they did for thanksgiving. The ham really was tender and delicious, but I was more in the mood for turkey & stuffing, but oh well - it was still satisfying. 2nd disappointment was there were no mashed or whipped potatoes. (they did have it at thanksgiving) 3rd disappointment was the green bean casserole which was pretty lame. I've made better myself at home. So why I am still giving it 5 stars? Because - I still love this place - the ambience, decorations, location, and views are all breathtaking IMO. And they were very accommodating to me even though I had to alter my reservations at least 3 times. Besides the other food offerings were still excellent, my favorites being the peeled shrimp and the marinated tri-tip and the butterscotch pot de creme, served in white egg shells. And the harp player played christmas tunes so beautifully, I thanked her profusely for adding so much to the experience.
(5)Everette R.
Bottomless champagne/mimosas, classy terrace room, amazing food, great deserts and to top it all off a talented harpist playing "Stairway to Heaven". My Fiancée and I were seated almost immediately. Began enjoying mimosas (5) and harp music right away. Once I had a good buzz going I began to stuff myself with steak, eggs, bacon, sausage, french toast, potatoes O'gratin, macaroni, cakes and cookies. Oh my god it was heaven. Wish I had saved more room for the delicious deserts. My girl said the salmon tasted so fresh (I hate fish) and ate more of it than she ever had. Everything was awesome. Do it.
(5)Tim S.
My partner and I have done brunch - The Palace, Mark Hopkins, Four Seasons, etc. We tried the Cliff House for the first time today. WOW. It is small - which turned out to be a plus. Every single dish was perfection. There was no "filler" to be found. Goodness gracious. The butterscotch pot de creme made in the real egg shells - Oh My! We will be back - often. Congratulations to the chef. Of course the views are breathtaking.
(5)MJ J.
First time here in Cliff house after a decade. The remodeled place is nice but bathrooms are old. Now the brunch - mediocre and built as a tourist trap. Very limited choices - no oysters , sushi , etc For $69 per person I would rather pay more and do to ritz Carlton . I overheard people saying just eat the regular restaurant. The NY steak was ok. Dishes tastes like hotel food. Service was like a used car sales lot, funny but not at all sophisticated. Will not come back.
(2)Anna O.
I made reservations here a month ago and finally got to go here for brunch last weekend. We sat by the window and had a great view of the ocean. For brunch they had bottomless champagne along with a variety of of breakfast/lunch at the buffet. I'm a sucker for breakfast.. I love the eggs benedict and french toast with fresh fruit on top. After my breakfast plate, I tried the tri-tip, corn salad, and potatoes. All were pretty good tasting but I was definitely getting full. Not before I got dessert though. Cookies, I'm definitely a fan and would come back. The service was excellent as we never had to ask for refills. If you have guests visiting you, this would be a great place to bring them.
(5)she q.
This was such a fabulous champagne brunch. They are really on top of refilling your champagne and overall drinks. Also quick to clear your plates. Service was really friendly. We were fortunate to have a side table that wasnt closely attached or in such close proximity to other tables. -I loved the butterscotch pot de creme in the egg shell. -chocolate mouse in the champagne glass was really good but rich -popovers are always delish -shrimp salad and shrimp cocktail were good -mini muffins were good...not dry -peanut butter cookies were sooo good -scrambled eggs and french toast were cooked just right -bacon was nice and crispy -lots of pasta, veggies and fruit
(5)Nia Q.
If you are looking for a nice "fine" dinning experience this place is NOT IT! If you want nasty,old,cheap, horrible food this is the place for you! HA! $50 per person! 100% overpriced and overrated. TWO THUMBS DOWN! I would never recommend this place! If you want an amazing Sunday brunch go to Top of the Mark!
(1)Lee H.
Never got past the reservation process. Turned out to be a good thing. I called to make a reservation to take my father to the brunch for his 80th birthday. He loves ocean views and buffets, so I thought this would be a great idea. When I called to make a reservation, I asked the person over the phone if I could request a window table because it's my....the reservation woman proceeds to talk over me. I tried futilely to tell the reservation person that I was making the request because it's my father's 80th Birthday and that he loves ocean views. Each time, she would interrupt and talk over me. Repeating that they don't make reservations for window tables and that I would need to check in with the host the day that I show up. That's all fine and well, but at least let me finish what I'm saying. I just thought it was rude, and if this is how the restaurant deals with people making a reservation for the brunch, how were we going to be treated when we got there? I decided to go check out the Cliff House to see if the views were worth the trouble. Turns out, the views at the brunch location isn't that great. Much better at the Cliff House Bistro or Restaurant. I wound up opting to go to the Cliff House Bistro instead which had its own set of issues. See my review of the Bistro for details. Long story short, if you're paying $50 a head for a brunch, you'd expect to be treated better during the reservation process. I accept that they don't reserve window seats, but at least have the courtesy to let your guests finish their sentences when they're making a reservation. This is your restaurant's first impression with the customer.
(1)Cathy M.
3.5 stars. AYCE brunch buffet with Unlimited champagne, apple cider, coffee and tea. Price is about $63/person including tax & tip. We were a party of 3 and they automatically added in 18% gratuity. Although the atmosphere was intimate and elegant, the food they served was nothing fancy. Overall the food was good especially for a buffet, just not great. I would probably only go back if it was a special occasion. Servers are all very friendly. We did the first seating at 10:15am and it was quite crowded. Here are some of the items they served: **Cold Dishes: pasta salads, shrimp salad, vietnamese beef vermicelli salad, Smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, Miso salmon, cheese and crackers **Hot Dishes: Eggs Benedict, jambalaya with clams, tortellini pasta, mac n cheese, French toast, sausages, bacon, scalloped potatoes **Desserts/pastries: Croissants, popovers, cheesecake, cookies, mini fruit tarts, pies, and caramel pot de creme, banana bread, strawberries dipped in chocolate
(4)Jennifer T.
RESERVATIONS SUCK here we got booted and no one even called we go here ever year for xmas this will be our last year why call a month early and wait to hear back to only have your reservation given away. I worked restaurants for 12 years and this place really needs to get it together with their service just cuz your at a famous location doesn't mean you treat people like cattle. thanks from a long standing local that supported your business you can go depend on the tourists alone from now on.
(1)Belyn L.
I love this place. It's elegant, classy, and delicious. The view is breathtaking, so remember to request a seat with a view when you make your reservation. Service was great. Take your girlfriend here if you want her to go gaga over you. :)
(5)Morgan M.
I've only ever been to the Cliff House for the Champagne brunch and my oh my, it doesn't disappoint! The service was lovely, the food was delicious and replenished frequently. And the champagne was actualyl good (I was a little worried about what the quality would be like). A real treat and I look forward to going back again!
(5)Jessica M.
We went here for the Sunday brunch- the server was nice and we got seated right away- it's a great location, parking could be tricky, but we got lucky with an upfront spot. While the food was good, I felt it needed more. The variety at HS Lordship and Spin a yarn is much better (I don't do buffets often and don't have much to compare it to). The price was expected, but felt it was a bit too high considering the lack of options. It was nice, but I don't think I'd do it again...
(3)Mai T.
A year ago, I said I would love to get married here... A year later.. I did =)
(5)M. W.
This place is just OK, and definitely a little overrated. Considering the price of the buffet, patrons should be getting better ingredients/items than what is offered. Pros: 1) Most of the buffet items were very tasty; 2) Unlimited champagne; 3) Great ambience; 4) Great service; 5) Nice view of the pacific ocean (for window seats only) Cons: Most of the items/ingredients are nothing special, e.g. scrambled eggs, sausage links, bacon, french toast, eggs benedict, pecan pie, oatmeal cookie, fresh fruit, tortellini, etc. are things you can get just about anywhere. The paella, while very tasty, did not have any mussels in it... only clams. You also won't find any crab, lobster, or rock oysters amongst the items. Salmon, clams, and shrimp are all the seafood you are going to get for your $50 (pre-tax). While the wait staff in the restaurant were good, the maitre d' out front could have been more professional and friendly, i.e. don't continue doing your own stuff and gaze downwards while talking to patrons who come to you for check-in. Also, when at nearly full capacity, the place gets a bit cramped (and *very* cramped around the buffet items). Items (that I can remember): Paella (with chicken chunks, small shrimp, clams in shell, sausage) Tortellini alfredo Fingerling potato salad Potato gratin Cheesecake, chocolate cake, pecan pie, peach pie Butterscotch pot de creme (served in tiny eggshell) Smoked salmon, miso-flavored salmon Shrimp cocktail Mini-shrimp salad Beef (tri-tip) Fresh fruit French toast with apple sauce Scrambled eggs, sausage links, bacon, eggs benedict Cookies, mini fruit tarts, mini eclairs, mini cream puffs/profiterole Chocolate mousse, chocolate-covered strawberries Champagne, coffee
(3)Lisa T.
Food and service is great here. I got the salmon crusted bacon and it was delicious. Portions are small here unless you get the rib eye, but it was just enough for me. The views would have been amazing, but I went on a rainy day, so didn't get to see much. They do have a terrace below to walk around to look, but I didn't go, since it was too rainy that day. Plenty of parking spots that day, but probably due to the weather. There is also a small parking lot uphill on the right side.
(4)Jasmin R.
Good service from the waiters, the food was decent (I'm spoiled by Top of the Mark brunch but this was very good for the $50 price), and the view was breathtaking. The only issue was that I called back a week before my reservation to add 2 to my party of 4. When my mom arrived a few mins before me she checked in and there was no indication of my adding two people, the front desk gentleman didn't handle it well. He first suggested that we put the extra two people (my 8 and 10 year old niece and nephew!) at a separate table. Then I arrived walked up and said 'my mom tells me there is an issue with my reservation' and he rudely cut me off and said 'I don't know who your mom is!' Its like, dude, I was about to tell you. I was taken aback by the unecessary attitude considering it was their mistake, but luckily we got our full table within a few minutes and the rest of the employees were much nicer. They topped off our champagne almost too much. I must've had 10 glasses!
(4)Tiffany E.
This brunch will cost you a pretty penny. Ok, let's face it, it'll cost you $45, but it's worth it! This colorful buffet spread has great variety and flavor to satisfy whatever you're craving. From salad to eggs benedict, french toast to steak, rice pilaf to mac n cheese, your breakfast and lunch cravings will be met. A few of my fave dishes are the shrimp salad, miso glazed salmon, tri tip (I think that's the cut of meat they serve), tortellini, and au gratin potatoes. They have this side dish of caramelized onion and garlic, which is probably supposed to go with the tri tip, but I could eat it as-is. Everything on the dessert table is delish, especially the little lemon tarts and chocolate mousse. Did I mention the unlimited champagne, coffee, and tea? I especially appreciate that the chef occasionally comes out of the kitchen to check on the food and talk to the customers in the buffet line. The food dishes are replenished in a timely manner and the wait staff is attentive. The well-lit dining area gives you a beautiful and expansive view of the ocean. Ensure your seat and avoid the wait by making your reservations online. Save those pennies and treat yourself to this yummy splurge!
(4)Elle P.
If you are truly accustomed to fine dining, you will immediately recognize that this surely isn't it. We arrived and the air was hot and stale- not what you want for brunch. We took a spin past the buffet and it looked less than impressive. We decided to visit the bathroom before being seated and that cemented our decision to find another place. The bathrooms were seriously of the caliber of a highway rest stop. I'm sure we dodged a food poisoning bullet here. I'm admittedly a food snob though, for which I won't apologize. Cheers!
(1)Nicole G.
$45 per person for a buffet brunch. Ocean views, brunch, unlimited champange - they even have a harpist. Great idea, right? Wrong. The "champagne" they serve is called Wycliff. Look it up online. It's $4.99 per bottle. I am not above cheap champagne, but this stuff tasted horrible. I couldn't even finish one glass. And I NEVER don't finish my champagne. EVER. I wasn't expecting Dom Perignon, but if I wanted to drink the equivalent of Cook's, I'd go to some $15 bottomless mimosa place in the Marina with a DJ and a bunch of 22 year olds still drunk from the night before. Food is average, standard brunch fare. If you're cool with paying $45 for scrambled eggs and fruit salad, this is your type of place. But stick to the sparkling cider they have for kids. Otherwise, there are a million other delicious brunch places in the city. And tourists - don't even come here for the view. It is gorgeous if you happen to be here on one of the 3 days out of the year that the sun actually comes out at Ocean Beach, but the odds are not in your favor. The extra star is for the harpist.
(2)Lindsay G.
This is the best place for brunch in the city, hands down. I have been 5-6 times in the last few years and it is perfect every time! The staff are amazing and the food is always delicious, creative and fresh. My favorite foods from today's visit included kale salad with cashews and dates, miso salmon, beets with goat cheese, roasted cauliflower and yummy shrimp! Not to mention the delicate butterscotch pot de creme served in hollow egg shells with itty bitty spoons! The bottomless champagne is a treat. They literally refill your glass after every few sips! The servers are so friendly and prompt. We usually go to the late seating around 2 and there is always just as much food as the earlier seating times. It's not like other buffets, where if you go later, there is less selection. They also have a talented harp player and gorgeous views of the ocean. It is completely worth the cost of approx $50 per person (tax but not tip included). It is the perfect mix between formal and causal. It's also a great choice for vegetarian and pescetarian eaters like me! I wish I could go every weekend :)
(5)Linda M.
The Cliff House is a nice spot for a special occasion brunch on the water in SF...and dress is casual for brunch. We celebrated my in laws 50th wedding anniversary there and our server couldn't have been nicer. He kept the included champagne and coffee flowing fairly well, plus got drinks (milk, hot chocolate) for the kids. The food is good and plentiful. It's not gourmet. You'll find things like pasta/grain salads (I particularly liked the corn bulgar one), lox, bagels, pastries, eggs beni, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, salmon, steak salad, cheeses, french toast, shrimp, asparagus, eggplant, cauliflower, scalloped potatoes, etc. Plus copious amounts of desserts -- chocolate torte, cheesecake, mousse, chocolate dipped strawberries, a butterscotch pudding, fruit tart, cookies, cream puffs and much more. It's a good spot for groups. I think if I were going on a romantic date...I'd eat in the restaurant so as not to be 2 inches from my neighbor's table. Adults are $45 for the champagne brunch, kids are half that. If you do have kids in your party they might want to check out the giant camera obscura behind the restaurant afterward.
(4)Cando T.
Second time here for a special family gathering and the service was as i remember... Attentive, extremely warm and friendly! Five stars for service :) Good value for the price at brunch here. Fresh and solid quality foods and decent variety of breakfast foods, including French toast, pastries, eggs Benedict, bacon and more, cold foods such as smoked salmon, cheese, fresh fruits, and several pasta salads. Bottomless champagne is always a plus. Live music by a harpist. Beautiful ocean view. Come hungry! Definition of buffet: you never leave hungry!
(4)Crisy G.
Love this Sunday brunch buffet..last time here was twice in MAY for my birthday.. Staff is great..and non stop refills on champagne n other drinks..$50 not include tax n tips..first sitting is best..!! Best view too..!!
(4)Olivier L.
Amazing views, great food. Ambiance is great. Very family friendly without being overly noisy. We were able to get a reservation the day before and while the place was busy, it did not feel crowded.
(5)Christy C.
Wonderful place for Sunday brunch! $50 (including tips) per head is worth the money! Foods are good quality, service is nice, brunch is located in a small but nice lounge, the sea view is spectacular even in a foggy morning. Many yelpers comment they serve cheap champagne. I don't drink so can't add comment to it. However, I like their coffee and cider. As I said, foods are well made, but mainly salad, egg, ham, bacon, sausage, cheese, fruit and some desserts. It's good but nothing wow. I agree that this brunch may be no match against some brunch in Vegas at the same price, but it is in San Francisco. It's not very fair to compare, anyway.
(4)T A.
Had brunch here with a friend and it was damned near perfect. It's buffet style and the staff is ON that buffet..keeping it clean & keeping it stocked with food. It was a very non-germy atmosphere for a buffet and that's just how I like it. I also didn't see many kids around so, it made it that much more sterile and pristine :). I loved that they had all you could eat Eggs Benedict (I replaced the poached egg with scrambled due to egg yolk ooze & salmonella freakoutedness). I only had 2.. but in hindsight, wish I had grabbed one more.. I want one so bad right now. Damn they were perfect! I also loved the huge dish of roasted onions and garlic. I can put that stuff on just about anything and it kicks up the tastegasm levels to the 9th power. The waitresses were on point with the champagne refills.. left no glass empty on our table. Being the beverage whore that I am, this was greatly appreciated. I kinda didn't like the way the tables were set up. I almost wish they'd have a designer come in and do a make-over on the whole set up. I hate sitting right next to strangers in restaurants.. but the rows of tables left no other option. So, my friend and I engaged in our normal chit chat and I believe we made one couple leave earlier than they planned with the topics we were discussing. Hey, if you're going to be nosey and listen to us, we're gonna give your ass an earful! The table set up made it impossible to enjoy the view outside the window, unless you sat at a window seat, of which most were set with a 4-seater table and that sucks for peeps with just 2 folks in their party. All in all, it was a deliciously good time. I'll definitely come again and maybe with more folks so we can take advantage of the window seats with the phenomenal view. I was a little thrown off by the gay mannequin in the lobby (see pic)..but, it kinda made the place seem more down to earth and definitely pro-SF culture :)
(4)Laura C.
After doing a bit of research for Sunday champagne brunch buffets - I settled on the Cliff House. Reasons: the price was mid range ($45/head), it was supposed to have a beautiful view, unlimited champagne, and the food had reasonable reviews. I called in to make a reservation (they say it's recommended) and I didn't want to get stuck waiting for a table. It's located in the Ocean Beach area - on a nice day, parking can be a bit tricky as Cliff House is right next to the beach. However, we found a lot (10 minute walk to Cliff House) across from the beach that had a number of spots, and by the time we were leaving, all the spots were taken. Upon entering, it's a little confusing as Cliff House is home to several restaurants - the Sunday brunch buffet is located downstairs. The place is nice and bright with a clean mid-scale/classy feeling. Large windows allow you to enjoy the outside view of the water. I requested a window table and was lucky that there was one open. The food is in the center of the room - the variety wasn't huge, but not bad. Partial food selection: Smoked salmon, miso glazed salmon (I hate fish, but people seem to rave about it), eggs benedict, scrambled eggs, bacon/sausage, something that resembled jambalaya rice, shrimp salad, cocktail shrimp, few kinds of cold pasta, asparagus, cheese/crackers, tri tip, french toast, and cut fruit. Dessert included: Chocolate covered strawberries, cookies, mini eclairs, mousse, tarts, pecan pie, and chocolate dipped macaroons. Overall, the food was OK, but definitely not impressive. For $45, I'd expect a bit more, but it wasn't to the point where I would complain. Pros: -Nice views and a classy venue -Unlimited champagne/coffee -The Lands End Trail is nearby....it definitely helped to take a walk to burn off the food. Having brunch and then taking a nature walk is a great way to spend a morning/afternoon. -Reasonable food variety -Yep, they do have someone playing the harp Cons: -Buffet area can get crowded at times -Some of their tables are too close together. Our table was situated less than 5 inches away from the next table. -Our champagne glasses ran dry for 20+ minutes at times. I can't say that they did a good job of keeping our glasses filled. I was a little peeved at this - for $45, it better keep flowing. Plus yours truly likes to drink!! -Food quality was OK, the grade could have been a bit better for the price paid. I would also include fancier dishes - I can always get sausage and bacon from Denny's. -Caliber of the service wasn't quite there. It wasn't terrible, but for $55 a person (after tax/tip), I expect service a notch above Applebee's. Overall, Cliff House was OK. There aren't a whole lot of Sunday brunch buffets (w/ unlimited champagne) to choose from, so I might come here again the next time.
(3)Susan C.
I only came here for Sunday brunch once and I believe it was for a birthday or Christmas eve. LOL. How I get my events mixed up I'll never know. But man, was it scrumptious. I tried to get a little bit too much of everything and my plate was a mountain of food. I got eggs, bacon, some of the pastries and a lot of cheese and crackers and fruit. And I even tried to go back for seconds and it was uber fun not to mention the view was just as tasty as the food.
(4)Piper P.
It has been a couple of years since dining at The Cliff House, and so friends and I decided to spend our Sunday at their Champagne Brunch. You couldn't ask for a better view (of course) beautiful ocean, blue sky, birds and whales and surfers visible from the beautiful windows in the room. And then of course, three stars for the food!! Endless assorted salads, fruits, cheeses, desserts, and my favorite, thinly cut flank steak. I also enjoyed their famous popovers and my all time favorite dessert, the butterscotch "pot de creme." Staff members were incredibly friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Our server, named Dusty, never let our glasses of champagne run dry. We even received a table side explanation from one of the chefs, his name was Steve-o, about the process of making the butterscotch eggs. He was extremely friendly and made us feel like old friends. Overall, I would 100% recommend the champagne brunch at the cliff house to anyone in the lands End region of San Francisco interested in fine food, beautiful views, wonderful staff with unique names, and a beautiful dining experience in general.
(5)Gonzalo Y.
What a great View!!!! Food is good I strongly recomend
(4)Cameron B.
I was here over winter vacation with friends for brunch! It was after a very successful birthday celebration night (the world was very fuzzy, Advil hadn't kicked in yet, and the need for greasy food was high) and I was looking forward to the buffet style brunch (be sure to make reservations ahead of time). There are many reasons to come here, great view, beautiful dining room, nice location, but seriously, if you've read my brunch reviews, you know there's one major decider for me: UNLIMITED MIMOSA BRUNCH!!! What better way to nurse a hang-over, then to get drunk again! We had our DD, and our appetite, and we got to it. The buffet has a great assortment of cold and hot dishes. The thin sliced ham was perfectly salty and juicy and the french toast was brought out fresh and hot! Most importantly is that they kept your table clean of used dishes and NEVER stopped filling my glass. I think I had to wave down our waitress once for a refill and that's only because I chugged my glass after eating something spicy! It's a bit pricey for brunch, but the mix of decent and ample food, great costumer service, and yes, booze! BOOOOOZE makes it a once-and-awhile worth endeavor! If you have an aversion to elderly people (who also like to booze, and prefer YOU don't turn the place into a frat house) then maybe asked to be sat in a corner away from them....they are the majority clientele! I hope to be one of them one day!!
(4)Evelyn T.
This is where my fancy Sunday brunch habit was born. I LOVE breakfast foods!...eggs benedict, thick cut crispy bacon, garlic potatoes, french toast, bagels with salmon and lox...oh mmm.. During the week, who has time to make or enjoy a breakfast feast? Well, who EVER has time to? It makes Sunday brunches that much more indulgent IMO. Whether Sundays are the end of a week or the beginning of another, brunch at Cliff House is a perfect way to start the day. A romantic walk to Lands End or Ocean Beach after brunch tops off the experience.
(5)Carloalexi M.
This is the second time I've eaten here. First was with my partner on Christmas Day. Having lived in SF Bay Area for a few years, we've passed this place on our way to Ocean Beach and wondered how scrumptious a fancy restaurant with a KILLER view would only taste like... and my, oh my, was our prediction accurate. The Champagne Brunch is usually held weekly on Sundays, with reservations HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The space is relatively small, with a dining area of about less than 1200 sq feet (fits less than 80 people comfortably). I always envisioned that the entire Cliffhouse building was occupied by one restaurant. But unbeknownst to me, it was divided by 2 restaurants: the casual dining Bistro Restaurant and the more formal Sutro's. Although the Terrace Room isn't technically considered a restaurant (coz it only holds the champagne Sunday Brunch), it was located underneath the main floor, downstairs from the entrance. Sutro's had the more enviable view with the dramatic ocean scenery of waves crashing against the rocky coast, but the Terrace Room's expansive view over the horizon of the Pacific Ocean was like looking at a California postcard. The Christmas Day Champagne Brunch had an additional treat: lamb roast ($65/person for holidays (because of the lamb) and $45/person for regular Sunday brunch). Aside from that, it serves a buffet of endless smoked salmon, eggs benedict, french toast, pasta carbonara. The desserts were equally as impressive: chocolate-covered strawberries, Pot de Creme (butterscotch-flavored pudding inside an eggshell), and standard NY cheesecake. Waiters come around tending to patrons by filling drinks, including coffee and champagne. I was surprised that OJ was a premium and that it was an additional charge, however. Nonetheless, As the champagne flowed, so did the trips back and forth to the buffet line. Considering the size of the room, I was happy to see that the average wait time in the line was only a few moments before you can make your selections. Adjacent to the buffet tables was a harpist who would play a few pieces that range from classical to oldies (I remembered "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"). Definitely added to the elegance to the restaurant. Two hours had passed and after consuming nearly three plates each of an assortment of breakfast, lunch and dessert-foods, we decided that it was time to leave. The buffet only runs Sundays from 10am - 330pm. At around 3pm, the crowd thins out and the food is slowly being put away by the staff, but they never make you feel like you are being rushed away. We thoroughly enjoyed our meals, and after paying $190 (incl tip and tax) for three adults and one child, I was overall satisfied. Top-notch food, warm and inviting ambiance, and spectacular views are reason why I will continue to return to the Terrace Room. TIP: Remember to make reservations! Also, parking is a chore if you arrive for lunch. People usually park on the side of the road in front of the restaurant, otherwise find parking next to the lot where the Sutro Baths once stood.
(5)Jen B.
Okay so I came here for a dear friends milestone birthday celebration. it was a gorgeous day and the views were breathtaking. While everyone was excited about the all you can drink champagne..well, im not a fan..but i was happy they had sparkling cider as substitute..the food i can actually say majority of it was really good..i was definitely not shy heading over to the buffet several times..hehe..i really like their eggs benedict and their cheese raviolis..the presentation of it all was tasteful...literally..i could not stop heading back to try a lil of this and that..and our waiter was absolutely the greatest..he was as attentive as can be, had a sense a humor, and was patient enough to put up with a bunch of loud champagne filled ladies..haha..he practiacally became part of the brunch party..i say i would definately come back again..as long as finding parking isnt too bad..which can seem impossible..but sooner or later you will..and probably if you dont mind the walk which i didnt mind at all..the scenic walk made it worth it =)
(4)Kathleen W.
I hope the lady who's been stalking me for giving her restaurant a 2 star review reads this. Came here for a day time wedding (11am - 4pm) and weather and waves were perfect. Things ran a bit late (which we all expected), but the views were gorgeous, the sun kissed our cheeks and the light salty breeze fluttered our hair. Do take note that waves are LOUD ... it's great soothing background noise, but we had to strain to hear the vows. Open bar (wine and beer) - manned by 2 gentlemen, the lines moved quickly and staff was always traveling the tables to refill our glasses. Several trays of appetizers and unlike most places where you have to chase down the ever elusive appetizer waitress for that last stuffed mushroom, the ones here found you. Option of 3 choices of entrees. All the food to all the tables were delivered promptly and professionally. The food was also very good. Today's set up had ~13 tables with 10 seated comfortably per table ... while providing ample room for the dance floor, bar line and wedding cake display. The service staff here were efficient and knew what they were doing.
(5)Eric L.
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away" That's my current inspirational quote of choice, and the views from the Cliff House WILL take your breath away. Parking is a little tricky, there are some parking spots by the Cliff House, but you might need to park at the bottom of the hill where the beach is. No worries though, the walk to the Cliff House is scenically beautiful and worthwhile. The Champagne Brunch, is a buffet with a mix of some interesting mixed salads, Chinese food, and classic breakfast food. Perhaps it's not worth the expense of entry, but the real value is the location and the exploration of the Cliff House's decks after gorging yourself on the buffet. If you've eaten a bit too much, there's a beach that begs for an afternoon stroll right down the hill.
(4)Lorri A.
Okay - here goes: Sunday "Brunch" you have several choices at the Cliff House. One of the choices is the buffet brunch. I think it's about $45 per person with "unlimited champagne" Er, uh..... may I correct that? It's "unlimited sparkling fermented alcohol" that the Cliff House pays about $2 / a bottle. So what does the Cliff House do with the other $43 it gets from YOU? I guess they pay their Chefs. (and rent, since the property is on the cliffs) yeah, the choice of bubbly was extremely disappointing. EXTREMELY. I mean, C'mon. How about Chandon? At the very least? We nearly left after being seated. Seriously! But we were there and said "what the heck" we will tough it out. And I will say, the 4 stars above are a reflection of the food choices and quality - -i was VERY surprised at how good the food was. YES - really. Peel and eat shrimp that is already peeled? : - ) Several seafood salads. ; - ) Perfectly cooked and chilled miso salmon that was not too sweet ; - ) Other meats and KILLER POPOVERS - and the roast beef was cooked perfectly too. Surprise, surprise! (hard to not overcook food on a buffet.) Really nice caramel dessert pudding poured into an EGG SHELL - such a nice presentation. Atmosphere - inside - very casual. (which was a bit disappointing) Atmosphere - outside- it's on the CLIFFS. Can't beat the view. NOT disappointing. Sparkling wine - very cheap and very disappointing. Food - really very good. Service - very nice and accommodating. Would I reccommend it? Weeeeeeeellllllll - in a foodies paradise (as SF is) in a word: NO. But I still give it 4 stars because the food saved it. The location, why we selected it - IS hard to beat on a clear Sunday day. Next time we are in the area - if we want to stop and take in the view, we'll visit one of the OTHER dining/bar areas that are also located in the same building.
(4)Denice R.
Delicious! Brought the family here for brunch. Not a huge selection, but plenty of choices. Favorites: French toast w apple compote, popovers, and cream puffs. They accommodated our children without any problems and provided them with sparkling cider. A casual but nice atmosphere. .
(4)Helen V.
Had the eggs bendict with dungeness crab. Poached eggs. Good. Crab. Great. It's a great heart meal...however...towards the end of my meal...started to get too much but still was yummy. Could have a hint more salt in it without me having to add. Comes with a side of fresh fruit. Potatoes were okay but nothing outstanding. Popovers, yummy! I wish they had strawberry butter like other locations with popovers. But strawberry jam and butter seem to be a good combo though.
(4)Jenny K.
A lovely place for brunch. My boyfriend took me to this place to celebrate my b-day:) *Great selection of food. The dessert was outstanding (the chocolate mousse & the roast beef was delicous!). *Good service * Included in the price is unlimited food and unlimited champagne (very bubbly) & coffee. *Spectacular view of the ocean if you have a window seat. *Live harp music. *Available on Sundays from 10am to 3:45pm with the last reservation taken at 2pm. *The cost per adult is $43.00, children under 12 yrs is half price. *Reservations recommended at least 1 week ahead.
(4)Kelly B.
This is for Sunday brunch only... This was a fabulous place for a special occasion. We had just one such event, my parents have been married to each other for SIXTY years (and haven't killed each other yet!). My sister started suggesting that we take mom and dad somewhere special and I agree. They aren't the type that let us make a party for them for even their fiftieth party, so we decided to make the sixtieth something special with a "surprise" brunch. I did due diligence in my job of picking the venue. I looked at a venue in Capitola (didn't start serving until 5pm), at one in Yosemite (too far, transportation issues), cruise dining (a bit pricey), San Jose (ala carte, my folks would try to go cheap and just order soup, I know them), the revolving restaurant in SF (closed for two years) and about ten other places. I gathered up my research (I was probably avoiding the research paper for my assessment class) and took it to my sister. She looked at all the posit notes and the rubric and maybe was a little overwhelmed. She said, "You decide!" I picked the Cliff House and Bob made the reservations. We reserved for twelve, and would you believe it, EVERYONE showed up! My sister and nieces took mom and dad to a "museum day" and then said that they had made reservations at the Cliff House. My mom fussed that it might be a little expensive, but went along with it. She was rather confused when they seated her at a table for TWELVE! Yep, everyone showed up, little by little. Champagne was poured and coffee was served. She grew more excited by the minute. Of course, both my mom and my dad were very pleased to see every one of the children and grandchildren. My niece made jordan almond keepsake boxes with ribbon and an engagement ring and diamond centered daisies. The Cliff House staff were very friendly. The food was very, very nice, especially their lox (high grade), miso encrusted salmon, sliced fruit, sesame marinated asparagus. There were excellent scrambled eggs, sausages, scalloped potatoes, homemade mac and cheese, paella, tortellini, more pasta dishes, an onion/garlic fry, and roast beef slices. Then there were the deserts. OMG!!! Their chocolate mousse was dark chocolate with a strawberry garnish.... very nice! There were chocolate dipped strawberries, mixed pastries, a peach melba tart, pecan pie, a huge bowl of strawberries, french toast with apple topping. I 'm sure I've left something out, but it was a special spread, with very fresh and high-grade ingredients. I didn't have any champagne, but the coffee was excellent. When we first arrived, there was a lovely harpist. Then, of course, there was the fantastic view. There simply isn't a bad table in the room. The room is decorated in a calming combination of butter yellow and cream in a very orderly Edwardian manner. The effect is one of warmth and calm. The dramatic view of the ocean is the icing on this decoration. We were treated very well by the Cliff House staff. They were attentive and professional. Reviewing the bill, we noted that 18% was added to our bill automatically (because we were a large party?). We didn't have any argument to that. All in all, it was a very refined and lovely event. We are very grateful for The Cliff House and it's champagne brunch. I would heartily recommend it for a upper tier event.
(5)