🍽️ Marisol at the Cliffs
New-american dining in Shell Beach
✓ Verified Information • Last Updated January 2026 • 4.5★ Across Platforms
📌 At a Glance
🍽️ Restaurant Overview
Marisol at the Cliffs in Shell Beach draws locals who don’t need a menu. Walk in and the lighting sits between cozy and functional, tables fill with repeat faces, the kitchen sends out familiar smells. Chatter runs steady, punctuated by the occasional cheer when the game tilts.
New American plates spotlight local ingredients through fresh seafood entrees, signature weekly features like Thursday prime rib, and coastal-inspired breakfast favorites. Portions don’t apologize. The kitchen doesn’t chase trends.
Weeknights at 5:30, families claim booths—kids armed with crayons, parents ordering beers before the food arrives. Friday and Saturday after 6pm, the energy shifts: bar stools fill with regulars watching the game, waitlists stretch to 20 minutes, conversation volume climbs with every pitcher.
The place works for families who don’t want to whisper, weeknight regulars, anyone chasing comfort over fuss. At the Cliffs Resort in Shell Beach, overlooking the Pacific with access to trails and spa. No reservations—first-come seating, Friday waits run 15-25 minutes after 6pm.
Perfect for: families, sunset dinners, special occasions, casual dining
🪑 Dining Options & Pricing
| Meal Type | Avg. Price/Person | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lunch (Dine-In) | $14-$21 | 45-60 min | Fastest service, lighter crowds, lower price point |
| Dinner (Dine-In) | $23-$28 | 60-90 min | 20–30 min waits Fri/Sat after 6pm; arrive by 5:30pm to skip lines |
| Takeout/To-Go | $16-$23 | 15-20 min | 15–20 min prep time, call ahead to skip wait |
| Private Events/Catering | Quote-based | Contact | Call for quote and availability |
Reservations Recommended: Call (805) 773-5000 or book online to secure your table.
🌮 Must-Try Menu Highlights
{{#if restaurant.portion_warning}}Portions run large—appetizers and sides are shareable for 2-3.
🕐 Hours, Location & Access
📍 Address
2757 Shell Beach Rd
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Nestled in Shell Beach, 2.5 miles north
🅿️ Parking
Parking lot on-site.
Operating Hours
| Hours | Daily 8am-3pm and 4pm-8:30pm |
Accessibility & Amenities
♿ ADA Access
Wheelchair accessible entrance and restrooms.
👨👩👧 Family Friendly
Kids menu available. High chairs provided.
🍽️ Dietary Options
Vegetarian and gluten-free options available upon request.
🍷 Full Bar
Wine and beer available.
💡 Tips for the Best Experience
⏰ Timing Strategy
Fridays fill by 6:15pm — add your name, then grab a pint at the bar while you wait. Waitlists run 15-25 minutes. Weekday dinners seat immediately most nights.
🅿️ Parking
Parking lot on-site. Arrive a few minutes early on weekends.
🍴 Order Smart
Portions run large—onion rings and fries are shareable for 2-3. Ribs come with sides that fill the plate. Save room or plan to take home leftovers.
👨👩👧 Family Seating
Request booth seating for families—more space for kids, easier to corral crayons and sippy cups. High chairs available, just ask the host.
👶 With Kids
Kids menu keeps it simple: chicken tenders, grilled cheese, burgers. Crayons at the table. Casual noise level means nobody side-eyes a toddler meltdown.
Getting There
The address is 2757 Shell Beach Rd. A parking lot is available on-site, with street parking as backup. Combine your visit with a sunset walk along the Shell Beach bluffs or a quick trip to nearby Pismo Pier.
{{/if}}What Diners Are Saying
Reviewers consistently praise the spectacular clifftop views and upscale coastal cuisine. The sophisticated atmosphere, excellent wine list, and sunset dining experience at The Cliffs Resort earn top ratings.
Top Review Mentions
💡 Local’s Tip
Request outdoor cliff-side tables (limited availability) for the most dramatic ocean views in Shell Beach. The sommelier’s wine pairings showcase Central Coast wineries worth discovering. Book the latest seating (8-8:30pm) for lingering sunset views without feeling rushed.