Nick's cool neon sign

Pacifica is a town just outside of San Francisco, along the Pacific Ocean. Close enough to be considered a bedroom community but far enough away to maintain its own coastal personality.

It reminds me of small beach towns in Southern California – quaint, small family businesses and many unique restaurants and local bars – but a lot colder temps.

One such unique spot in Pacifica is Nick’s at Rockaway Beach – that name alone makes me forget that they are just outside San Francisco’s city limits. You can definitely stop here for a meal on any Sunday drive along Highway 1.

Nick’s Restaurant and Sea Breeze Motel is right on the ocean. It is so close that when you pull into the parking lot, there are many signs warning you to be careful because of rogue waves.

Nick's at Rockaway Beach

Stepping into Nick’s you will find a wide open dining room with a large bank of windows facing the water. The wait staff has always been friendly whenever we have gone, and if you go for dinner but arrive early, you can enjoy some of the best people watching at their huge horseshoe shaped bar. This classic bar is next to the largest dance floor I have seen since my high school gymnasium. And they have dancing and music on most weekends.

Nick’s menu is known for having a savory crab sandwich offered at lunch or dinner. During crab season in the fall, I suggest getting their marinated cracked crab to share as a starter, it is delicious!

NICK’S RESTAURANT
100 Rockaway Beach Ave.
Pacifica, Ca. 94044
650-359-3900

Open Daily for Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner

Photo credits to ikkoskinen and sfcphotography