"With one way in and out (Highway 1), Big Sur’s allure is for the committed. Sierra Mar resides in one of the most beautiful and proudly undeveloped Pacific gems. Located on the site of Post Ranch Inn, diners are introduced to Sierra Mar’s breathtaking floor-to-ceiling windows and impressed by chefs Reylon Agustin and Il Hoon Kang’s modern Californian menu. The duo sources from local farmers, cheesemongers, and ranchers and showcases a rotating $185 tasting menu that always has a fresh catch along with lamb or chicken from adjacent farms. The Sierra Mar Smoked Old Fashioned runs a cool $50, but it’s worth it. Reservations are required." - Mona Holmes