Hi there - we'll be spending two days in Carmel, but want to head down the coast one morning to Big Sur. We thought we'd either lunch at a restaurant with a view or hit Pfieffer State Park. Any suggestions for what worked for you? We are foodies, but would rather pack a lunch than simply pay for a view and have an expensive lunch with sub par food. Thanks so much!

Nepenthe! It's amazing, and just down the road from Pfeiffer.
http://www.nepenthebigsur.com/

Get a picnic lunch before you leave Carmel, head south and have lunch at Pfieffer Beach. Where are you staying in Carmel? Some of the hotels will pack a picnic lunch for you, or you could find a gourmet shop and put together a fun spread. This is not in Big Sur, but one of my favorite places for a picnic is Point Lobos just south of Carmel. There are lots of nooks and crannies that make great picnic spots.

"We are foodies, but would rather pack a lunch than simply pay for a view and have an expensive lunch with sub par food." That's Nepenthe in my humble opinion. Try lunch at the Post Ranch Inn, should please your foodie palate.

We have found Ventana to be a lovely spot with fabulous views, relaxing atmosphere, good food. However, it has been a while since we were there last, and things may have changed. Perhaps someone can fill you in on a more recent evaluation. Have a great trip!

All great suggestions!

Post Ranch and Ventana are more "upscale"; Nepenthe's food is variable but the view is terrific.

iamq's suggestion of a picnic at Point Lobos State Reserve is great too.

Pfeiffer Big Sur is great for viewing redwoods during your hikes.

Much further along is Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park with McWay Falls. It would be a pity to miss the falls if you are headed to Big Sur just for the day. JPB also has a nice inland hike to a much smaller "falls" in the other direction.

One morning while you are in Carmle, go out to Carmel Beach and wathc the dogs and the dog owners.

Have fun!

Nepenthe is near legendary. I think you have to go for the unique view and accept that you'll have better food at the next meal.

doogs,
You don't mention when you are going, but be aware that Sierra Mar, the original restaurant building (the one built on the cliff overlooking the ocean) at Post Ranch Inn is closed until July 30. They have been remodeling the kitchen and moved the restaurant down the hill to a pavillion so if you go before July 30 you will be dining without that spectacular ocean view in a temporary pavillion.

Cielo at Ventana is very good with pretty views! ***kim***

I would agree with the packing a lunch idea. Stop at Nepenthe for the view and a wander through the gift shop.