Dinner was incredible. Elk has a fantastic thing going here. Everything was perfectly cooked and prepared. The Halibut in green coriander vinaigrette was silky and flavorful. The anchovy and heirloom tomato toast was sooo good i almost ordered a 2nd one. The black cod melted in my mouth. Before this, I’ve never had squid that wasn’t at least a little rubbery. It was perfect. My wife and I were blown away. If you have an opportunity to eat here, do it!
Maritime Cafe is such a special find. Tucked just off the highway in sleepy Elk, this was one of those dinners where every dish felt thoughtful and beautifully executed. Incredible local produce, creative flavor pairings, and food that feels elevated without trying too hard. Absolutely do not skip the sourdough, and order any salad they put in front of you. A truly memorable meal in the most unexpected little spot.
What a gem of a restaurant on Highway 1 in the town of Elk! Be prepared to be surprised by the delicious, fresh, seasonal foods. Ended up ordering the fresh oysters, sugar snap pea salad, and Monterey squid. Everything was perfectly prepared and tasted wonderful. A must-stop if you are driving through Elk.
What a find! The food is incredibly fresh and perfectly prepared. We ate there two days in a row. This is a wonderful, charming, small, family owned and run establishment that not only provides fantastic food but also a warmth and unpretentiousness that feeds your soul. I can’t say enough so I’ll add pics but this is some of the best food on the planet. The fried oysters, Monterrey squid and pork meatballs were fab! They have great salads, rice and bean bowls and pancakes. Go to Elk and be amazed!
Stumbled upon this hidden gem in Elk during a road trip, and it turned out to be so much more than just a quick stop for food. Maritime Cafe offers beautifully crafted, creative dishes that feel thoughtful and unique—nothing like the generic meals you might find elsewhere.
We tried the California Cured Halibut—fresh, balanced, and the kind of flavor that makes you want to order a glass of white wine on the spot. The Weisswurst was also memorable, though it was the crispy potato cake on the side that truly stole the show. Portions are on the smaller side, and the prices lean high, but the quality and creativity really justify it.
The space itself is clean and cozy, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Service was genuinely warm and welcoming, which made the experience even better. Parking is street-side, but easy enough.
It’s still under the radar for now, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it shows up in travel magazines soon. I’d happily come back again—it feels like a special find.
Evan Wrenn
Dinner was incredible. Elk has a fantastic thing going here. Everything was perfectly cooked and prepared. The Halibut in green coriander vinaigrette was silky and flavorful. The anchovy and heirloom tomato toast was sooo good i almost ordered a 2nd one. The black cod melted in my mouth. Before this, I’ve never had squid that wasn’t at least a little rubbery. It was perfect. My wife and I were blown away. If you have an opportunity to eat here, do it!
Emma Rolader Martin
Maritime Cafe is such a special find. Tucked just off the highway in sleepy Elk, this was one of those dinners where every dish felt thoughtful and beautifully executed. Incredible local produce, creative flavor pairings, and food that feels elevated without trying too hard. Absolutely do not skip the sourdough, and order any salad they put in front of you. A truly memorable meal in the most unexpected little spot.
Trung Bach
What a gem of a restaurant on Highway 1 in the town of Elk! Be prepared to be surprised by the delicious, fresh, seasonal foods. Ended up ordering the fresh oysters, sugar snap pea salad, and Monterey squid. Everything was perfectly prepared and tasted wonderful. A must-stop if you are driving through Elk.
JP K
What a find! The food is incredibly fresh and perfectly prepared. We ate there two days in a row. This is a wonderful, charming, small, family owned and run establishment that not only provides fantastic food but also a warmth and unpretentiousness that feeds your soul. I can’t say enough so I’ll add pics but this is some of the best food on the planet. The fried oysters, Monterrey squid and pork meatballs were fab! They have great salads, rice and bean bowls and pancakes. Go to Elk and be amazed!
Yoon Lee
Stumbled upon this hidden gem in Elk during a road trip, and it turned out to be so much more than just a quick stop for food. Maritime Cafe offers beautifully crafted, creative dishes that feel thoughtful and unique—nothing like the generic meals you might find elsewhere.
We tried the California Cured Halibut—fresh, balanced, and the kind of flavor that makes you want to order a glass of white wine on the spot. The Weisswurst was also memorable, though it was the crispy potato cake on the side that truly stole the show. Portions are on the smaller side, and the prices lean high, but the quality and creativity really justify it.
The space itself is clean and cozy, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Service was genuinely warm and welcoming, which made the experience even better. Parking is street-side, but easy enough.
It’s still under the radar for now, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it shows up in travel magazines soon. I’d happily come back again—it feels like a special find.