Sierra Mar sits high on the cliffs of Big Sur and is the main restaurant at the famous Post Ranch Inn. Since opening in 1992, this eco-luxury spot has set the standard for combining fine dining with strong environmental care. Ninety of its 100 acres are protected as natural habitat. Here, you get a true “Sense of Place” dining experience, with bio-structure architecture designed by Mickey Muennig that is just as sustainable as the food served.
The Sustainability Print:
Post Ranch Inn goes beyond simply practicing sustainability. It builds it into everything they do. The property aims for zero to minimal environmental impact through several innovative systems:
Greywater Innovation:
Post Ranch created the first commercial greywater system approved in Monterey County, recycling water for landscaping. All water used on the property is sourced from seven private wells and treated on-site.
Solar Power:
In 2009, Post Ranch switched on a 945-panel solar installation. According to the EPA, it reduces carbon emissions by approximately 600,000 pounds annually, generating almost 350,000 kWh of clean electricity per year.
Plastic-Free Zone:
Single-use plastic bottles and styrofoam are completely banned throughout the entire property.
Zero Foodprint Member:
Sierra Mar and Post Ranch Inn donate 1% of food revenue to Zero Foodprint, a nonprofit advancing regenerative agriculture through systemic change.
A Study in Sourcing: The Chef’s Garden & Beyond
The Sierra Mar team follows a “Beyond Green” culinary philosophy that supports the regional economy and the health of the Big Sur coast.
The Chef’s Garden:
The Executive Chef oversees an on-site garden that employs regenerative farming practices, supplying Sierra Mar’s kitchen with fresh produce and herbs harvested daily, ensuring the lowest possible food miles.
Regenerative Proteins:
The menu features all-natural, free-range beef and poultry, alongside seafood sourced from sustainable fisheries. Threatened or endangered species are never served.
Composting & Biodegradables:
All food waste is composted to feed the property’s gardens, and any necessary to-go containers are made from biodegradable corn starch.
Wildlife Stewardship:
The land is home to several rare and endangered species, including the California condor, California red-legged frog, and Smith’s blue butterfly, all protected through active habitat conservation programs.
Photo by Sierra Mar and Post Ranch Inn
Photo by Sierra Mar and Post Ranch Inn
Photo by Sierra Mar and Post Ranch Inn
Photo by Sierra Mar and Post Ranch Inn
Photo by Sierra Mar and Post Ranch Inn
Insights
Sierra Mar is a great example of “Holistic Eco-Gastronomy.” With solar power, advanced water recycling, a regenerative on-site garden, and memberships in both Kind Traveler and Zero Foodprint, it shows that luxury and caring for the earth can go hand in hand. If you want a truly “kind” travel experience, Sierra Mar is a must-visit, offering breathtaking views and exceptional food while staying true to your environmental values.
Montrio sits in Monterey’s first firehouse, built in 1910, and has become a cornerstone of the Central Coast’s sustainable dining scene. Since opening in 1995, it has grown from a local favorite to a nationally recognized restaurant.
Quail & Condor is a small bakery that combines expert baking with thoughtful sourcing. Melissa Yanc and Sean McGaughey are a husband-and-wife team, with Sean as a former Head Chef at the renowned three-Michelin-starred SingleThread.
Lunchette takes a fresh approach to the grab-and-go concept, showing that convenience and caring for the planet can go hand in hand. Founded in 2017 by Naomi Crawford and Joel Baecker.
