Cliff House Restaurant

Perched elegantly overlooking the shimmering waters of Tacoma, the Cliff House Restaurant offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest dining experience that masterfully blends classic American and fine dining seafood traditions. This iconic venue is not only renowned for its breathtaking views along Marine View Drive but also for its meticulously crafted menu that appeals to discerning palates seeking exceptional flavors and refined hospitality.

Step inside to an atmosphere that effortlessly balances casual sophistication with warmth. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just savoring a memorable night out, the ambiance here is enhanced by attentive, unobtrusive service that has won praise from guests like Louis D'Angelo and Camilo Sealey — the former lauding seafood that’s cooked to perfection, the latter appreciating the friendly, attentive staff and the spectacular, money-worth view.

The menu is a celebration of the finest local ingredients, presented with culinary artistry and a flair for indulgence. From the moment you sit down, the aroma of the Organic Sourdough Bread and Butter sets a comforting tone, inviting you to explore a symphony of flavors. The Cioppino, revered by patrons for its perfectly balanced medley of fresh seafood, is a standout—rich, savory, and brimming with tender prawns, scallops, and clams, simmered in a tomato-based broth that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

For those who crave surf and turf grandeur, the Ribeye Steak paired with Lobster Tail offers a decadent fusion of smoky, juicy beef alongside buttery, succulent lobster. This dish, highly recommended by Robert Garcia, pairs flawlessly with cocktails like a smooth Jameson Old Fashioned or a crisp, tantalizing Margarita. Meanwhile, lighter options such as the Grilled Salmon and Prawns and Scallops Risotto combine fresh, coastal flavors with comforting textures, showcasing the kitchen’s expertise in seafood preparation.

Salad selections, from the crisp House Salad with its balsamic onions and cucumbers to the hearty Steak Salad featuring garlic pan-seared tenderloin tips and tangy bleu cheese, add vibrant freshness to the meal. Complement your entrée with decadent sides like Creamed Garlic Spinach, Saffron Risotto, or the indulgent Garlic & Cracked Pepper Jumbo Scallops, which perfectly elevate the dining experience.

Dessert lovers will find delight in the luscious Key Lime Pie and velvety Strawberry Cheesecake, or revel in a sweet surprise like the complimentary cannoli, thoughtfully offered in celebration of personal milestones, such as 60 days of sobriety. This gesture not only speaks to the restaurant’s attention to customer experience but also to its inviting, community-oriented spirit.

Wine enthusiasts can indulge in carefully curated selections like the Duckhorn Cabernet from California, known for its complex aromas of chocolate-covered blueberry and fig, layered with marzipan and sage, a perfect match for hearty meat dishes.

While some find the price point moderate, the overwhelming consensus among visitors is that quality, service, and memorable views justify the splurge. Guests appreciate convenient parking when arriving in quieter hours and the restaurant’s capacity for intimate, elevated dining upstairs, away from the buzz.

For couples considering a wedding venue, the Cliff House combines stunning waterfront vistas with exquisite cuisine, making celebrations truly unforgettable. Whether indulging in fresh seafood, savoring crafted cocktails, or simply soaking in panoramic sunsets, the Cliff House Restaurant delivers an authentic Pacific Northwest experience that resonates long after the last bite.