Top 5 Restaurants in the Central California Coast
According to Rusty Tweed, if you’re heading to the Central California coast for a vacation, there are many great places to dine. From small, family-owned restaurants to grand-scale resorts, these establishments are worth a visit. In this article, we’ll highlight our top picks. These coastal establishments offer a variety of food options, including fresh seafood, delicious grilled fish, and classic California dishes.
If wine is your thing, you can try the award-winning wines at the Edna Valley. The area is filled with award-winning wineries, and restaurants here offer prized bottles and glasses for your enjoyment. For a unique dining experience, you can buy picnic food and wine at the local grocer or take a guided tour. If you’d like to try some of the local wines, there are also many vineyards and distilleries in the area.
If you’re visiting Arroyo Grande or Paso Robles, a visit to Bell’s will provide plenty of culinary delights. The French-style menu is paired with a wide selection of crisp local wines from the greater Santa Ynez Valley. The prices are reasonable for such a big restaurant. But keep in mind that it’s possible to get a room for more than one table in this restaurant.
The Sur House at Ventana Big Sur combines rustic redwood charm with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch spot, a romantic date, or a night out with the family, you’re sure to find a place to satisfy your palate. With so much to do on the central California coast, it’s important to choose the right place to dine.
Rusty Tweed thinks that Nest Cafe in Atascadero can offers delicious breakfast and lunch fare, and the cozy atmosphere is perfect for family gatherings. The menu features seasonal produce and local ingredients, and the patio is dog-friendly. The menu changes regularly, so check with the owner to find the best options for your budget. This restaurant also serves wine and beer, and has a thriving microbrewery. It is also known for its tasty kombucha and coffee.
The renowned Michelin-starred Birdsong, a quaint and romantic restaurant located in Lindsay, California, is a must-visit destination. The restaurant is home to one of the best New York-style pizzas in the state. With more than 40 years of experience under its belt, this popular restaurant is a cult favorite among locals. And with a relaxed and playful atmosphere, it’s easy to see why it has received two Michelin stars.
Lark restaurant in Santa Barbara is another must-try destination for foodies. Located in the historic Santa Barbara Fish Market, this restaurant boasts a farm-to-table concept with a family-style atmosphere. A sprawling outdoor patio and a lively open kitchen make the dining experience just as convivial as the inside. There’s no shortage of great places to eat on the central California coast, so make the most of your time in Santa Barbara.
Big Sur Bakery is another must-visit. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this casual bakery is popular among locals. It serves delicious pastries, cakes, and pizzas, and its unique style of plating makes it a must-visit location. In addition to its delicious baked goods, Big Sur Bakery is also a popular stop along Highway
Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, located inside the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, is an excellent choice for lunch and dinner. The views are spectacular, and the atmosphere shines during sunsets. The menu features a wide variety of American favorites, including the Hearst Ranch Beef burger. You can sit at the window to enjoy the view, or on the patio for an even better view.
Jocko’s Steakhouse is another popular choice. This famous Santa Maria-style steakhouse is an institution in this area, and its roots go back to the California Gold Rush. Its owner, Emery Knotts, opened a saloon in Nipomo, which means “foot of the hills.” The restaurant moved a few times before opening a second location in Santa Monica. The decor at Jocko’s is filled with cow branding, which reflects the local culture. The menu is seasonal and changes monthly, and the owners are very passionate about the quality of their product.
Rusty Tweed feels that dining in Cambria is an enchanting experience. The town is a magnet for a variety of cuisines, from casual delicatessens to elegant white-lined bistros. Simple pizzerias and gourmet waffle shops are just some of the unique dining options in Cambria. The eclectic array of international styles is also apparent, with some restaurants serving dishes from multiple continents. You can even find American favorites and comfort food at a variety of restaurants.
