News and Reviews: San Jose Mercury News

Half Moon Bay day trip: 3 great spots to eat

The famous lobster roll at Sam’s Chowder House (Bay Area News Group)

Whether you’re beach bound or hitting the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail — or Devil’s Slide to the north — you’ll need to refuel. Here are three tasty options near the coast.

Dad’s Luncheonette

Located in a charming, bright red caboose on Highway 1, this casual roadside counter-service spot hails from chef-owner Scott Clark, who spent three years at San Francisco’s Michelin-starred Saison. Here Clark turns out decked-out burgers ($12) made with grass-fed beef or maitake mushrooms, topped with melty cheese and a soft egg and served on grilled Rosalind Bakery white bread. The potato chips are housemade, the herb salad tossed with a Meyer lemon vinaigrette and there are seasonal specials, too.

Details: The popular eatery menu occasionally sells out — especially on weekends — so if you’re going on the late side, you’ll want to call ahead. Open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Sunday at 225 Cabrillo Highway in Half Moon Bay; www.dadsluncheonette.com

The Barn

How can you resist a big ol’ barn that proclaims itself Barnalicious? Add in outdoor beer garden seating, Four Barrel Coffee and locavore fare, including Marin Sun Farm Barn Burgers ($10.50), What the Cluck chicken sandwiches ($15.25), deep-fried Mac Attack ($6.50) and seasonal salads, all made with ingredients from nearby producers. Order at the window, then grab a perch in the tent or garden.

Details: Open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and until 6 p.m. on Sunday at 3068 Cabrillo Highway in Half Moon Bay; www.thebarnhmb.com.

Sam’s Chowder House

This Half Moon Bay seafood mainstay has not yet reopened for indoor dining — renovations are still underway to make the interior safer for guests — but don’t fret. Sam’s full menu is available for alfresco dining. And you can still get those signature lobster rolls ($27) and chowder ($9) at the eatery’s takeout window to enjoy at the beach or on the lower lawn. (That chowder is available by the quart to reheat at home, too.)

Details: Sam’s outdoor dining is open from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekdays for reservations and walk-ins, and 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekends for walk-ins only. Order takeout online or at the window, just be aware that the weekend wait may be 30 minutes or more. 4210 Cabrillo Highway in Half Moon Bay; www.samschowderhouse.com