Restaurant Choices

Arena Cove and spots beyond offer varied and interesting dining experiences. For those choosing to dine close to the inn there are a few casual spots in Point Arena. Venture north or south on the beautiful coast highway and you will find still more dining opportunities.

We have dined in all of the restaurants listed here and can recommend them. On most weekends it is advisable to have reservations for fine dining both north and south and we are happy to arrange that for our guests, just call or email. The restaurants listed in More Eateries are cool, informal spots, some serve dinner and most are good choices for lunch.

Dining Spots in Point Arena

Phoenix is located on Main Street with a casual and comfortable atmosphere. The chef, John makes delicious Italian entrees that are easy on the pocketbook and beautiful to behold. The other half of the Phoenix duo is Paula who makes mouthwatering desserts, for which you will barely have room. Her cobblers and brownies are fantastic. The wine list here is short but well considered and tips the scale in favor of our fine Mendocino vintages. Located in beautiful downtown Point Arena a mere three minute drive, Visa and MasterCard accepted, open Wednesday through Sunday for dinner.

Pier Chowder House & Tap Room is a seafood house in a casual atmosphere with an awe-inspiring view of the lively activities at Arena Cove. Get the literal bird's eye view of the pier, the fishing boats and jagged cliffs plunging into the sea as you dine on fresh seafood, some caught locally that day, or enjoy entrees from the grill. The Chowder House has an extensive wine list and 40 brews on tap. Every day finds colorful locals and visitors alike relaxing at the historic 100-year-old bar or gazing at the Pacific on the deck. Located at Arena Cove, a 2-minute walk, Visa and MC accepted, open daily for lunch and dinner. 

Pizzas and Cream is just downstairs from the Chowder House at Arena Cove and offers pizza, ice cream, salads, pasta, beer and wine. Credit cards accepted, open daily.

Rollerville Cafe a comfortable place with a simple and delicious menu. They serve dinner only on Friday and Saturday nights, but they prepare a super prime rib as well as fish, steak and chicken specials. Located just north of Point Arena on the road to the Point Arena Lighthouse, wine and beer served, credit cards accepted.

Dining North on Highway One

Ledford House provides a Mediterranean style menu with the crashing surf below. This restaurant has an enviable view and a comfortable dining environment. It is a good choice for those planning a day trip to Mendocino and wishing to dine early before returning to the inn. We love the lamb and duck dishes and appetizers of warm beet salad. In Albion, 40 minutes away, open Wednesday through Sunday, Visa and MasterCard accepted.

Albion River Inn features an acclaimed chef known for his elegant and original cuisine. Spectacular ocean-view dining, full bar and extensive wine list. In Albion, about 10 minutes south of Mendocino. Open nightly, all major cards accepted.

Dining South on Highway One

Top of the Cliff sits overlooking the Gualala River as it flows into the Pacific. Continental full course dinners are provided in a simple and accommodating style. In downtown Gualala, 20-minute drive, all major credit cards accepted, open Thursday through Sunday.

St. Orres is an interesting redwood structure reminiscent of a Russian orthodox onion dome. It features quirky food presentations focusing on wild game and fish, with some offerings for vegetarians. Price fixed menu, no credit cards accepted. Just north of Gualala, 15-minute drive, open all week.

More Eateries

Fogeater's Cafe is housed in a lovely historic Victorian  offering eye-popping organic and locally grown produce, baked goods, cheeses and delicious sandwiches and salads, great for a portable picnic (Point Arena Main Street a 2 minute drive)

Arena Cafemakes nice sandwiches to take to the beach or eat there, on the west side of Main Street (a 2 minute drive)

Laura's Bakery and Taqueria offers real Mexican fare that is fresh and yummy to eat in or to take-out in Gualala (20 minutes south)

Bones is Texas barbeque with great cocktails and a captivating view of the Gualala River where it meets the ocean (22 minutes south)

Redwood Grill something for everyone, prime rib, burgers and fish & chips in Anchor Bay (15 minutes south)

Queenie's Roadhouse Cafe nice place to grab a wholesome lunch if you are in Elk (20 minutes north)

Bridget Dolan's bangers and mash and Guinness on tap in Elk, they only do dinner.(20 minutes north)

Other Things To Do

Coast Guard House Home Page in Beautiful Point Arena