The Cliff Restaurant in Laguna Beach sits right on the edge of a bluff with 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean spreading out before you while you eat. It’s the kind of place where you can actually watch surfers and dolphins from your table, and your dog gets to be part of it all on the open-air patio.

They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas, so there’s flexibility if you’re planning a coastal visit. The menu leans toward fresh seafood and steaks, and the kitchen handles special requests pretty well—whether that’s dietary adjustments for you or just making sure your dog stays comfortable during the meal. The patio itself is multi-level, which means there are different seating options depending on what you’re looking for. Some spots catch more of the breeze than others.

Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome on the outdoor patio, and staff members genuinely seem to like having them around. You’ll typically get a friendly greeting, and someone will usually bring out a water bowl without you asking. It’s a straightforward setup—they’re not treating dogs like celebrities or anything, but they’re clearly comfortable having them there, which makes a real difference in how relaxed you’ll feel during the meal.

The location itself matters. You’re basically dining on a cliff in a town known for its coves and dramatic coastal scenery, so even if the food was just okay—which it isn’t—the setting would still be worth the trip. But the combination of decent cooking, actual ocean views that don’t feel contrived, and a genuine acceptance of dogs makes it worth planning around. Reservations are smart during peak times, especially if you want a specific spot on the patio. If you call ahead, you can let them know you’re coming with a dog and ask about the best seating options for your situation.