Nepenthe, Coastal restaurant in Big Sur, United States.
Nepenthe is a restaurant stretching along the California coast at an elevation of about 800 feet (240 m), overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The building sits on Highway 1 in Monterey County, surrounded by the Santa Lucia Mountains.
The restaurant opened in 1949 when the McWay family purchased the property and built the structure. This marked the beginning of its long presence along the famous Big Sur coast.
The name comes from ancient Greek mythology, referring to a potion in Homer's Odyssey that banishes sorrow. Diners sit at tables overlooking the ocean and feel connected to this timeless tale.
The location sits right on the coastal highway with ample parking available for visitors. Plan for changing weather conditions and potentially longer wait times, especially on sunny days.
The menu features the Ambrosiaburger, a ground steak sandwich on a French roll topped with a signature sauce. This dish has been a staple for decades and draws many visitors specifically to try it.
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