Looking for the best restaurants in Humboldt County?
After years of visiting California’s North Coast, these are the places we find ourselves returning to again and again. Humboldt County has been part of our lives for years. Mary Elise grew up here, and every visit feels a little different. Some trips revolve around the redwoods. Others revolve around the coast. Somehow, good food always ends up being part of the experience.
What we love most about Humboldt’s food scene is that it is still local. Locally owned by people Mary Elise grew up around and locally sourced ingredients by people who are well known in the community. These are restaurants that have been serving their community for decades and have become destinations in their own right.
If you’re planning a trip to Humboldt County, these are the restaurants we recommend most often.
1. Seascape Restaurant (Trinidad)
If we had one recommendation for a first-time visitor to Humboldt County, it would probably be Seascape Restaurant in Trinidad.
Perched at the entrance of Trinidad Harbor, the restaurant offers some great dining views on California’s North Coast. Large windows overlook a cozy cove and the fishing pier. Even on foggy days, the views feel dreamy.
We usually try to grab a table by the window and linger a little longer than planned.
Some of our favorite menu items include:
- Smoked salmon omelette
- Pancakes with fresh berry syrup
- Clam chowder
- Fried oyster sandwich
- Fish and chips
- Homemade pies
What makes Seascape special isn’t just the food, it’s the connection to the working harbor below.
Depending on the season, you’ll often see commercial fishing boats coming and going while you eat. From spring through fall, local fishermen target Chinook salmon, Pacific halibut, lingcod, and rockfish. During crab season, the harbor becomes even more active.
While they do serve all-day, breakfast tends to be our favorite time to visit. We almost always walk down toward the harbor or head over to Trinidad Head before continuing the day.
It’s one of those places that perfectly captures the character of Humboldt County: beautiful and deeply connected to nature.
2. Los Bagels (Arcata & Eureka)
Every region seems to have that one place locals insist you visit.
In Humboldt County, Los Bagels is one of those places.
Part bagel shop, part coffee stop, and part local institution, Los Bagels has been serving the community for decades. The atmosphere feels uniquely Humboldt.
On most Humboldt trips, Los Bagels is one of our first stops after arriving. There’s something satisfying about grabbing breakfast in Arcata before heading toward the redwoods, the coast, or wherever the day happens to lead.
Mary Elie’s go-to order is a slug with pesto cream cheese. A slug?! It’s a unique, long, everything bagel that pays tribute to banana slugs you may see on the trails.
James’ go-to order is a regular bagel with cream cheese and lox with Larrupin sauce.
Whether you’re visiting Arcata Plaza or Old Town Eureka, it’s an easy stop that gives you a taste of local culture beyond the typical tourist attractions.
3. Larrupin’ Cafe (Trinidad)
Hidden among the trees just north of Trinidad, Larrupin’ Cafe is a must-visit if you’re a true foodie. For locals, it’s a common place to celebrate a special occasion. It also attracts top celebrities visiting or traveling through the area.
The garden and redwood tree setting and eclectic decor alone makes it memorable, but the food keeps people coming back.
Known for fresh seafood, steaks, and locally sourced ingredients, Larrupin’ has built a reputation as one of Humboldt County’s classic special-occasion restaurants. The menu changes with seasonal ingredients so it’s fun to come back during different seasons to see what’s cookin.
If you’re looking for a Humboldt county style “upscale” date-night dinner after a day exploring the coastline, this is one of our favorite choices.
4. Six Rivers Brewery (McKinleyville)
Nicknamed “The Brew with a View,” the well-known local establishment is located on a hillside in McKinleyville overlooking pastures and the Pacific Ocean in the distance. On a clear evening, the outdoor patio is hard to beat.
The menu features classic brewpub fare alongside a rotating selection of house-made craft beers. Some of our favorite drinks include the Raspberry Lambic, Macadamia Nut Porter, and seasonal cocktails.
What makes Six Rivers even more special is the story behind it. In 2008, owners Talia and Meredith bought out their third partner, making Six Rivers the second all-women-owned brewery in California. Their commitment to the community extends far beyond brewing beer. Over the years, they’ve built a reputation for supporting local organizations, events, and businesses throughout Humboldt County.
When you stop in for a meal or a pint, you’re not just supporting a local brewery. You’re supporting owners who have invested deeply in the community they call home.
With both indoor seating and a heated outdoor patio, it’s a comfortable stop year-round. Whether you’re grabbing a pint after a hike, meeting friends for dinner, or simply looking for a place to relax and take in the view, Six Rivers Brewery is worth adding to your Humboldt itinerary.
5. Renata’s Crêperie (Arcata)
Located just off the Arcata Plaza, Renata’s has been serving sweet and savory crêpes for decades and remains a favorite among locals, college students, and visitors.
The menu offers everything from classic breakfast crêpes to savory options, with plenty of choices for all tastes. Beyond crêpes, they also offer vegan soups and organic salads. The generous portions will have you full when you leave.
The atmosphere is unhurried, reflecting the community of Arcata. This makes it an enjoyable place for a cup of coffee and a crêpe any day of the week. On busy weekends, you may find yourself waiting for a table. Just take a stroll around the quaint Arcata Plaza. We promise it’s worth the wait.
Why These Places Keep Making Our List
We love supporting local businesses and these stand out to us as some of Humboldt’s best restaurants.
If you find yourself driving Highway 101 through Humboldt County, consider making time for a few of these stops. The redwoods may be what bring you to the region, but the food just might become part of the reason you come back.