One of my favorite things to do on a trip is eat and drink my way through a city. I love to get the flavor of a place that way. There are some great places to eat in San Luis Obispo from breakfast and coffee to dinner and nightcap cocktails. Here are a few of the amazing SLO restaurants I’ve had the chance to try:
Mint & Craft
Near the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, Mint & Craft has bright modern energy where you can grab coffee, food, and some souvenirs. There’s a great patio to sit and savor while you watch people stroll by. I was recommended the biscuits by an employee at the hotel, so naturally, I had to get a breakfast sandwich on a biscuit. It did NOT disappoint.
Lincoln’s Market & Deli
This local favorite is part deli (there will be a line at lunch) and part market. It’s not your typical corner store. It’s so charming and cute! We stopped there after a morning hike up Cerro San Luis—also known as Madonna Mountain. It’s not walking distance from downtown San Luis Obispo, but worth a trip for the Anholm Sweet Anholm sandwich.
Novo Restaurant
There’s a creek that runs through the city, which you can enjoy a stroll along. When you build up an appetite, stop at Novo Restaurant for lunch or dinner. They have indoor and outdoor dining. I recommend a meal on the patio. They have one of the best lobster rolls I’ve had on the west coast and I’d pair it with a SLO Cider for extra local flavor.
Ox & Anchor
You feelin’ fancy? A reservation at the Ox & Anchor steakhouse, part of the Hotel SLO and recognized in the Michelin Guide, is in order. It’s a classic steakhouse menu that will please even the pickiest eater. And since you’re there, go check out the rooftop bar at the Hotel SLO for epic views of the landscape.
Highwater
San Luis Obispo welcomes everyone, and this LGBTQ+-owned bar and restaurant reflects that welcoming vibe. Whether it’s drag brunch or live music, there’s always something going on here. Highwater’s groovy 70’s vibe sets the stage for music-themed cocktails selected from menus that live within record covers. And when it comes to their shareable plates it’s always delicious, but you NEED to order the mushroom donuts. They will blow your mind.
Bear & The Wren
This hip Downtown SLO restaurant has a small but tasty menu complete with Detroit-style pizza that (in my opinion) is a must order. It’s family-friendly with a delicious wine list including a local selection. The space is indoor-outdoor and it’s lovely to enjoy the fresh coastal air on a summer evening.
Region Wine Bar
Wine on tap? Yes, please. Region Wine Bar, right near Hotel SLO, allows visitors to use an on-tap system to try wines from all over the SLO Coast Wine region. Of course, you can get some charcuterie, too, but this is your change to taste everything from bubbles to Syrahs from the local area without the need to drive to all the wineries yourself. The perfect place to go on a date or with your girlfriends.
There’s a lot to do in San Luis Obispo outside of drinking wine and eating delicious food. Explore my blog about things to do in San Luis Obispo.
