We used to love to drive down the coast to the Ventana Inn, have lunch, relax and enjoy the view. We live in Monterey so this is a "local" place for us. Yesterday was the first time we have gone since Covid. We took my...aunt and uncle for lunch. The Ventana Inn has sold, and it is now an all inclusive resort that we learned has only recently opened for "outsiders' to dine at. The vibe of Big Sur is completely gone. The menu is very limited, ridiculously expensive, and the tip of 22% is included so there is absolutely zero motivation for the wait staff to worry about their level of service. We waited for some time for the waiter to come to the table, and then when my husband ordered a second beer it sat at the bar while the waiter socialized with other staff members. At these prices the beer should be cold as should the glass. We finally asked one of the bus staff to find out about the beer. We had the fish tacos and honestly you had to hunt for the fish! The portion would never be described as "generous" more like microscopic! My aunt and uncle split a chicken sandwich, they are elderly and don't eat much, and the total bill was $134. This is one of those places that is on the "that place really changed" list with a note next to it that reads "sure glad we went when we did, not going back." If you enjoy paying a fortune for smash burgers and fish tacos with almost no fish, this is the place for you!More

























