Where To Eat in San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo is a small town with a large amount of things to do. At the top of that list is indulging in the local food scene.
The food is so delicious because a lot of it comes from local farms. This gives the food a freshness you can taste. Here are our favorite places to eat in San Luis Obispo.
Top 12 Places to Eat in San Luis Obispo
Firestone Grill
Firestone Grill has been a staple of downtown SLO for years and is a must-have if you’re in the area.
It’s a casual BBQ place and sports bar and it’s not uncommon to wait in a long line to place your order. Luckily the line moves fast. If you’re feeling lucky, you can try and find a spot inside in the bar area where you will be waited on.
While they have a good size menu with plenty of delicious items, the reason Firestone is so popular is their Tri-Tip sandwich. I’ve been there hundreds of times over the years and I have literally never ordered anything else. The meat is cooked to perfection and the bread and BBQ are the perfect complements. Pair it with a side of their perfectly-seasoned fries and you’re officially in BBQ heaven.
Novo Restaurant & Lounge
If you’re looking for something more intimate, Novo Restaurant & Lounge is the perfect spot. Located downtown right on the creek, Novo has indoor and outdoor seating. Try to get a reservation outside where you can overlook the creek and enjoy the beautiful SLO weather.
With a wide array of menu options (Gina recommends the shrimp ravioli, I recommend the filet mignon), you’re sure to find something you like.
At some point in the evening, they clear out the front of the restaurant and set up a DJ or band to play.
Splash Cafe
Starting in Pismo Beach, Splash Cafe has expanded to include 2 locations in SLO. While being a full-service bakery, Splash Cafe is known for its award-winning clam chowder bread bowls.
Made from fresh ingredients on the central coast, it isn’t hard to understand why their clam chowder has turned them into one of the best restaurants in town.
Big Sky Cafe
Big Sky Cafe prides itself on fresh, healthy dining. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it is a great choice to find a delicious meal any time of day.
Once you visit it’s easy to understand why it has been voted one of SLO’s best restaurants and featured in several regional and national publications.
Buona Tavola
Buona Tavola is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for some fine dining. Buona Tavola is open for lunch and dinner and serves up traditional Italian meals.
They’ve been in business for over 2 decades now, and their popularity has only increased over time. With their continued dedication to serving the freshest food in an authentic Italian family-style environment, they don’t show any signs of slowing down.
Woodstock’s Pizza
While not specific to SLO, Woodstock’s is worthy of a stop if you’re craving some pizza. The pizza is great, but the environment is even better. If you’re around on Wednesday, swing by to enjoy game night where the beers are heavily discounted and the good times are sure to follow.
High Street Deli
Located about 5 minutes outside of downtown on High Street, you can find High Street Deli. While SLO seems to have a large amount of good sandwich places, High Street Deli is right up there at the top.
Like any good sandwich spot, there is usually a line and you might have to wait to find a table. But I promise it is well worth it. Between the classic sandwiches and their signature creations, you’re bound to find something that appeals to your palate.
Louisa’s Place
Louisa’s Place is known for its tasty breakfast menu. Get there early as the line tends to get long as the morning goes on. While Louisa’s Place may not look like much from the outside, don’t let the exterior fool you.
Their simple yet delicious menu makes you feel as if you could be eating a home cooked meal at your own kitchen table.
Giuseppe’s Cucina Rustica
Another spectacular Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown, Giuseppe’s Cucina Rustica is known for delivering some of the freshest meals in the area. A lot of their food comes from their locally owned farms and the pastures of Cal Poly just a few miles down the road.
Giuseppe’s is a wonderful way to savor some of the highest quality food and wine in SLO for lunch or dinner.
Creeky Tiki
Creeky Tiki offers some tropical charm in the heart of the historic downtown in SLO. With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, you’ll find ample space to relax as you dine on fresh, local foods.
We enjoyed our visit with some tropical drinks at the tiki bar out back located right next to the creek. Visit on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday to enjoy some live music.
Breakfast Buzz
Breakfast Buzz is a local breakfast favorite located just outside of downtown. Here you’ll find generous portion sizes for the price and their breakfast burritos are absolutely delicious.
It gets crowded fast, so the early you can arrive the better.
Gus’s Grocery
Gus’s Grocery is another one of the great sandwich shops in town. Located just around the corner from the SLO train station, Gus’s Grocery is a small deli that puts out savory dishes that will surely satisfy an empty stomach.
With local beers on tap and some peaceful patio seating, Gus’s Grocery is a great way to acclimate to the SLO lifestyle.
Bonus – Powell’s Sweet Shoppe
After dinner, head over to Powell’s Sweet Shoppe for some delicious gelato. We’re so glad we stumbled upon this place that we went back for seconds the next day. Gina says it’s the 2nd best gelato she’s had so far, only behind Mrs. Ferg’s in New Zealand.
Bon Appétit
Where are your favorite spots to eat in San Luis Obispo? Let us know in the comments below!
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