You don’t have to pay a lot for a million dollar view in Bodega Bay. The tiny Birds Cafe, perched above the harbor, serves only a handful of items — fish and chips, salads, clam chowder, shrimp tacos — but may be one of my new favorite places on the coast. Order at the counter, then walk up the stairs (there’s also a handy ramp) to the concrete patio for a lovely view and a picnic-style meal for under $15. Best bets: Creamy chowder, artichoke fritters and a lightly-battered fish and chips plate. Spicy tartar sauce makes this red-basket special, well, special.
Open daily from 11:30a.m. to 5p.m., 1407 Hwy 1, Bodega Bay.