Explore the culinary wonders of Paso Robles, a renowned food and wine destination on the Central Coast. Hungry visitors flock downtown to enjoy a melting pot of global cuisines all within a three-block radius. From French and Italian plates to Japanese and new American delicacies, this colorful array of menus reflects the city’s status as a world class foodie haven. Restaurants in Paso Robles are helmed by skilled chefs always working towards that next great plate. From Michelin-Star meals to cozy vegan take-out, each dining experience in Paso proves memorable. With close proximity to local farms, fisheries, and ranches, Paso Robles restaurants offer a diverse array of farm-to-table dishes both in upscale establishments and family-friendly eateries. With a famous wine region boasting 250+ tasting rooms and endless rolling vineyards, there’s always an exciting pairing to discover. Needless to say, the wine list is sure to transcend all expectations, featuring local and important bottles plus craft beer and cutting-edge artisan spirits. This celebration of local and seasonal bounty means that there’s always a new flavor to savor in Paso Robles.
Explore Paso Robles
Best Breakfast in Paso Robles
Brunch
Wake up to a decadent meal at Brunch, located near Paso Robles Downtown City Park. The menu at this cheerful Paso Robles locale offers an array of breakfast-lunch fusion dishes beloved by locals and visitors alike. Traditionalists can savor creamy eggs benedict on tender sourdough English muffins with a side salad, while health-conscious diners may opt for vegetarian street tacos featuring potatoes, avocados, scrambled eggs and house-made pico de gallo. Sweet cravings are sure to be satisfied with Brunch’s irresistible s’mores French toast, featuring brioche slices bathed in chocolate ganache, graham crackers and toasty marshmallows. Culinary adventurers can explore a trio of breakfast pizzas, from bacon and chorizo-topped delights to caprese-style variations. With options catering to vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free preferences, everyone can dine happy. Elevate the experience with a mimosa, kombucha, or hard cider – the perfect accompaniment to a leisurely afternoon hangout.
Joe’s Place
Savor classic Americana flavors at Joe’s Place, wIth two bustling locations in Paso Robles. Owned by the patriotic Joe Ontiveros, find classic breakfast and lunch options plus well-portioned traditional comfort food. Diner breakfast staples like eggs, bacon, sausages, sandwiches, pancakes, French toast and Joe’s “world famous” biscuits and gravy are all popular choices. Chilaquiles, a local favorite, features sautéed corn tortilla strips tossed with eggs, cheese and ranchero sauce, with the option to elevate the experience with tri-tip, ortega chiles and sour cream. Plus, Joe’s Place offers a lineup of satisfying sandwiches, including Philly cheesesteaks and tuna melts served with fresh soups, chili and salads. With beloved greasy spoon favorites like burgers and hot dogs, patrons can enjoy a satisfying meal without the fuss.
Touch of Paso
Touch of Paso is known by locals as one of the best downtown Paso Robles destinations for breakfast. Since the 1980s, the cozy brick establishment has served up eggs, corned beef hash, French toast, mimosas, bloody marys and more. Visitors can indulge in fluffy omelets, decadent Benedicts, and a selection of flavorful Spanish breakfast staples such as Huevos Rancheros and Chilaquiles. For those with a sweet tooth, the menu features tempting options like breakfast croissants, Belgian waffles, or hot cakes drizzled with delectable maple syrup. The comprehensive menu extends beyond breakfast, encompassing lighter fare options and lunch items, including artisan-crafted sandwiches, wraps, burgers and salads.
Best Lunch in Paso Robles
Red Scooter Deli
A time-honored favorite, Red Scooter Deli is a small-yet-mighty deli offering an array of fresh and flavorful sandwiches, salads, breakfast items and desserts. Despite its modest size, the deli boasts an extensive menu designed to satisfy diverse palates. Accommodating various dietary preferences, the offerings include gluten-free, keto, low-carb, vegetarian and an impressive selection of vegan dishes. Popular lunch choices include the “Rubenesque,” a hot sandwich featuring pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and 1000 Island dressing on handmade rye bread. The menu spans hot and cold sandwiches, wraps, soups and salads, all meticulously prepared with fresh ingredients. The kids’ meal presents a substantial offering featuring a half a sandwich, yogurt, crackers and a beverage. For diners embarking on Paso Robles wine tasting excursions, Red Scooter Deli provides convenient box lunches containing a cold sandwich, side salad, potato chips, a cookie, and an optional drink, accompanied by cutlery and napkins. While indoor seating is limited, patrons are welcome to enjoy the outdoor, dog-friendly patio.
Odyssey World Cafe
Odyssey World Cafe is cherished for its inviting ambiance, diverse menu and long standing local history. Open for lunch and dinner in downtown Paso Robles, visitors are known to stop in before or after a day of wine tasting and sightseeing. Standout options include curried chicken salad presented on a bed of leafy greens and drizzled with orange-sesame-ginger dressing as well as a seared ahi tuna stir-fry from the Stir Fry Bowls menu topped with seasonal veggies. Classic choices like spaghetti and meatballs, grilled ribeye with mashed potatoes, lamb feta burgers and ahi tacos offer even more versatility. With Gyros, fish and chips, gourmet soups and cakes all available, there’s a global flavor for each occasion. Pair the meal with beer on tap, wine, espresso drinks and more. Don’t forget to try Odyssey’s famed freshly baked bread, an extra treat.
Taste! Craft Eatery
For a customizable culinary experience in Paso Robles, visitors head to Taste! Craft Eatery. Located in Downtown City Park, this popular establishment offers breakfast, lunch and dinner paired with unique libations. Indulge in California-style comfort food elevated by the brilliance of fresh and local ingredients. Taste! Craft Eatery presents a diverse menu that allows patrons to curate their culinary adventure. Choose from an array of sliders, mac and cheese, salads, soups and sides. Opt for two, three, or four selections at a fixed price, customizing the meal to suit any preference. The beef sliders feature inventive, non-traditional toppings such as fig jam and chevre, truffle aioli, strawberry chipotle jam and more. Foodie-friendly options extend to lamb, chicken, pork, fish, and vegetarian sliders. Explore fanciful “mini-macs” served in personal ramekins with any choice of cheese and toppings. The menu also includes substantial salads, creative brussels sprout preparations and an extensive list of shareables and appetizers. For drinks, explore wines by the glass and bottle, rotating craft beer taps and cocktails. Cap off a great meal with seasonal cobbler, flourless chocolate torte, sorbet, cheesecake or crème brûlée.
Best Dinner in Paso Robles
La Cosecha
La Cosecha is a Latin-inspired farm-to-table restaurant in Paso Robles helmed by acclaimed Chef Santos Macdonal. A master of world cuisines, Chef Macdonal infuses La Cosecha with Spanish and South American flavors in honor of his native Honduras. Translating to “the harvest” in Spanish, the restaurant epitomizes authenticity and innovation, sourcing local ingredients. The menu at La Cosecha reflects a commitment to this freshness with daily specials like ceviche del dia, sopa del dia, ensalada del dia and paella del dia. Indulge in a taste of Honduras with the pastelitos catracho, savory empanadas filled with beef and potatoes. La Cosecha stands out not only for its flavorful Latin-influenced cuisine but also for its impressive wine list and craft cocktails. A perennial recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, the restaurant offers a thoughtful selection of wines by the glass and bottle. Explore Paso Robles wines and a diverse array of bottles from Spain, Portugal, Argentina, Chile and beyond. The stylish cocktail menu highlights cachaça, pisco and mezcal, to name just a few.
Six Test Kitchen
Discover fresh and inventive plates at Six Test Kitchen, the realization of Chef Ricky Odbert’s incredible rags-to-riches tale. What started as a modest venture in his parents’ garage transformed into a Michelin-starred dining sensation in Paso Robles. Reserving a seat at this Tin City hotspot has become a sought-after experience, requiring reservations months in advance. Chef Odbert and team present an elaborate dining experience, featuring multiple courses — sometimes as many as 20 — delivered in small tasting menu quantities over approximately 2.5 hours. Wine pairings, available for an additional fee, are a non-negotiable complement to the experience and cannot be substituted (corkage is unavailable). With only a dozen reservations available per night, dining at Six Test Kitchen is an intimate and rare occasion. While the menu undergoes constant changes, the food rarely fails to elicit expressions of awe.
The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar
The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar is many things: Southern restaurant, dimly lit whiskey joint and a California farm-to-table kitchen. Owned by Maggie Cameron, a Boston native with childhood ties to the South, the downtown Paso Robles eatery offers a distinctive blend of wood-fired comfort food with Southern influence and a West Coast twist. Start with a shareable portion of pimento cheese with house-made salt and vinegar chips before digging into the star of the show: The Hatch’s juicy wood-fired rotisserie. The vanilla and orange-cured Jidori rotisserie chicken is served nightly with limited availability (these birds tend to be very popular, so come early to ensure a bite). Enjoy this crispy-skinned delight with sides of Carolina Gold rice, roasted chicken jus, Hatch Hot Sauce, fermented cabbage, cucumber parsley salad and grilled bread. While the rest of the entree offerings are seasonal, options might include wood fired steaks, meatloaf, pot pie, pork chops, pasta creations and shrimp and grits. The Hatch also introduces daily specials, like the popular fried chicken, available on select nights and served while supplies last. Beyond these coveted offerings, the restaurant is renowned for beautifully crafted, produce-forward cocktails. To finish off the experience, indulge in cream pies in flavors like chocolate, key lime and banana.
Best Sushi in Paso Robles
Goshi
Goshi offers an authentic Japanese meal in downtown Paso Robles. Specializing in sushi and sashimi, Goshi’s skilled chefs meticulously prepare traditional Japanese cuisine that is both beautiful and delicious. First opened in San Luis Obispo by Tokyo-born chef Takeshi Goshi Yamada, the business’s culinary legacy traces back to Yamada’s father’s esteemed restaurant in Tokyo. Today, Goshi in Paso Robles adheres to the traditional Japanese culinary style Yamada learned in Japan. The menu encompasses a diverse selection of Japanese dishes served à la carte, featuring appetizers such as gyoza, edamame and takoyaki octopus cake balls. Options extend to tempura, broiled fish, salads, fish and poultry. For lovers of sushi and sashimi, Goshi is top notch: The menu includes an array of rolls, including hand rolls to specialty rolls. Patrons will also find the eatery accommodates various dietary preferences, offering options for vegetarians, pescatarians, and gluten-free guests.
Yanagi
Yanagi serves spectacular sushi favorites in Paso Robles ranging from traditional to contemporary. One of several locations on the Central Coast, the Paso Robles Yanagi offers a calm atmosphere with direct view of sushi chefs working diligently behind the bar. Choose from fresh cut rolls, hand rolls, sushi, sashimi, noodle and rice bowls and more. Sushi choices number over two dozen, with local favorites like albacore and ono taking the spotlight. Yanagi also serves Teppanyaki—meals cooked over propane-heated, flat-surfaced grills—and is one of just a few local restaurants to do so. Dinner combinations are a great choice for those seeking more than great sushi, too: Go for teriyaki, tempura or bulgogi, served with sides of miso soup and rice. Plus, kids will love Yanagi’s children’s platter with sweet teriyaki, crunchy vegetable tempura, savory gyoza and rice.
Umi Sushi & Sake
Umi Sushi & Sake crafts specialty sushi rolls with care in downtown Paso Robles. Located in an elevated location overlooking the scenic Downtown City Park, savor sushi, hot noodle bowls and “sizzling plates” with rice, steamed veggies and teriyaki-glazed chicken, salmon, spicy pork, barbecue or short ribs. Fresh salads topped with poke, seared albacore and seaweed keep things interesting while fried tempura creations provide a satisfying crunch. The extensive menu offers something for everyone. For those in the mood for sake, Umi Sushi & Sake boasts a great lineup to choose from.
Best Italian Restaurant in Paso
Il Cortile Ristorante
Il Cortile, meaning “the courtyard” in Italian, serves fine Italian cuisine in downtown Paso robles. This white-linen establishment offers up classic Italian dishes made with locally-sourced produce, grains, meats and more. Trained under prominent Italian chefs, Il Cortile Executive Chef Chef Santos Macdonal brings a wealth of inspiration to the kitchen. Savor a light arugula salad with portobello mushrooms, parmesan and gorgonzola or go for the decadent braised osso buco, grilled seafood, tender steaks or housemade pasta dishes. Notably, Il Cortile boasts a meticulously curated wine list crafted by co-owner and sommelier Carole Macdonal. Enjoy wines by the glass or bottle, including selections from Paso Robles, Italy and Spain. Sampled alongside fresh, just-picked flavors, diners can expect an enticing fusion of wine country bounty and Italian preparation.
Buona Tavola Paso
Paso Robles-based Buona Tavola Ristorante, meaning “the good table,” serves as the playground of Chef Antonio Varia, hailing from Italy’s exquisite Piemonte region. The restaurant specializes in northern Italian cuisine, featuring a full menu of regional specialties crafted from a blend of locally-sourced and imported ingredients. Chef Antonio’s menu encompasses appetizers, housemade pastas, satisfying main courses and rich desserts such as Tiramisu and Apple Tart with Polenta Crust. The culinary experience is complemented by a carefully curated list of Italian and California wines, with a particular emphasis on selections from Paso Robles and the Central Coast. Buona Tavola Ristorante also features a full bar, creating an inviting spot for drinks and shared apps. Be sure to try the Italian salumi and sausages courtesy of Alle-Pia fine cured meats, Chef Antonio’s sister business. For those seeking an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Paso Robles Wine Country, Buona Tavola Ristorante is a fitting choice.
Etto Pasta Bar
Etto Pasta Bar cooks freshly-made pasta with classic Italian preparation and local ingredients. Located in the hip foodie hub of Paso Robles’ Tin City, there’s no better place to slurp up handcrafted spaghetti, reginette, gemelli and ragu pasta. Come for lunch or dinner and choose from classic tomato sauce, mushrooms in garlic olive oil or kale and walnut pesto, to name just a few pasta preparations. Sprinkled with authentic pecorino, parmesan, cracked pepper or spicy nduja, these plates are good to the last twirl of the fork. All of Etto’s incredible pastas are made on-site and meals feature ingredients sourced from more than a dozen local farms. Meatier meals featuring T-bone steak, roasted chicken and cioppino seafood stew round out the flavorful Italian options. Plus, happy hour is served each weekend so everyone can cheers to a fabulous craft beer or cocktail. With a wine list spanning producers from across Italy (including orange wines, rich barbera and sparkling prosecco), there’s always an occasion for celebration. Finish off the meal with housemade Tiramisu, lemon cheesecake or “Tulip,” a mix of guava mousse, pineapple, gel and fresh mint cake.
Best Steakhouse in Paso
The Steakhouse at Paso Robles Inn
Since 1964, the Paso Robles Inn Steakhouse has served hearty dishes in a casual-yet-elegant setting. The historic inn itself traces back to 1889, the same year Paso Robles attained city status. During that era, folks flocked to the inn’s soothing natural hot springs—even the notorious outlaw Jesse James made a visit. Today, the steakhouse embodies that same pioneering spirit. Slide into a booth or find a cozy, fireside table and enjoy classic steakhouse favorites, including an iceberg wedge salad with creamy blue cheese, fingerling potatoes and grilled artichokes. Premium choice, hand-trimmed steaks such as top sirloin, New York strip, filet mignon, and ribeye cuts dominate the menu alongside the renowned prime rib special available exclusively on Wednesdays and Sundays. For those seeking a more casual dining experience, the steakhouse also offers options like buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches, fish tacos, burgers and more. Pair the feast with a signature cocktail or opt for a glass or bottle of Paso Robles wine.
Cool Hand Luke’s
Cool Hand Luke’s Steakhouse and Saloon offers a taste of the Old West in Paso Robles. With tantalizing appetizers, entrées, and desserts, enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner sure to fill up even the hungriest cowpokes. Indulge in signature steaks—like the popular fire-grilled ribeye cooked to juicy perfection—or succumb to the allure of slow-roasted and tender Throwdown Ribs. For those with a preference for lighter fare, try the bourbon salmon, a sweet and smokey delight or the crowd-pleasing California Chicken Sandwich. The restaurant’s salad selection also stands out, featuring crisp greens adorned with tender proteins and complemented by flavorful dressings. Pair it all with beer, wine and cocktails or grab a meal to go and enjoy the goodness at home. No matter the craving, Cool Hand Luke’s Steakhouse menu invites folks to unlock the untamed spirit of the Wild West one delicious bite at a time.
Best Pizza in Paso
Della’s
Owned by the same team as The Hatch, Della’s combines sizzling wood-fired pizzas and herbaceous gin cocktails. The restaurant exudes a modern and lively ambiance, keeping in step with the craft drink menu. Newcomers are encouraged to sip a curated selection of signature concoctions, notably a set of four distinct gin and tonics. Begin with pre-pizza options such as fried artichokes, meatballs, salads and rock cod ceviche. The centerpiece of the menu is the wood-fired pizza, featuring upscale options ranging from traditional to inventive. Order up the classics like red sauce, mozzarella and basil or go bold with “Girl Crush,” with pepperoni, hot honey, and jalapeno or “RHOPR” with creme fraiche, mozzarella, red onion, greens, feta and avocado. Fans of spicy buffalo sauce will appreciate “Next One Meets Your Ex One,” featuring fried chicken from The Hatch, blue cheese, celery leaves and drizzles of the tangy game day sauce. Needless to say, all that savory pizza fare is balanced by Della’s crisp cocktail concoctions.
Rustic Fire
Rustic Fire Pizza’s casual setting belies its exceptional pizza menu. Situated near the northern entrance of the Paso Robles Event Center, the Paso Robles pizza joint is a popular choice for folks visiting the renowned Mid-State Fair. Here, pies are cooked at high temperatures exceeding 1000 degrees Fahrenheit in a brick oven, ensuring perfectly-cooked crust and bubbling cheese. Owned by siblings Jonathan Gannon and Connie Kahanu, both of whom share local agricultural roots, the business prioritizes local ingredients whenever possible. While the menu offers classics like pepperoni, sausage and mushroom, Hawaiian, and BBQ Chicken options, patrons will also find innovative variations like chicken Caesar, Greek Garlic Shrimp and Italian Bacon Cheeseburger pizzas. For lunch, don’t miss Rustic Fire’s great flatbread sandwiches, served open-faced on freshly baked Rustic Fire pizza dough. For a sweet finisher, indulge in locally-made Leo Leo Gelato or opt for a gelato sundae.
Via Caravaggio 147
Via Caravaggio 147 in Paso Robles exceeds most pizza expectations—and then some. Located in the Paso Market Walk, this chef-driven hangout was named after the two Michelin Star restaurants where Via Caravaggio’s Chef Pat trained in Naples, Italy. From start to finish-the creative menu does not disappoint: Begin with a Ceasar or arugula salad topped with crispy prosciutto, throw in a tasty appetizer like the “Caprese Stack” (fresh tomato and imported bufala mozzarella, basil, olive oil and balsamic glaze), followed by a “white,” “red,” or “special” pizza pie. Depending on the whim, patrons can enjoy rosemary and pistachio pizza with fresh ground Italian sausage or perhaps cherry tomato pizza with goat cheese and toasted pine nuts. There’s even a sweet “Nutella and Strawberry” pizza pie for dessert. Calzone style sandwiches, filled with mortadella and cheeses, make for a robust alternative. Meanwhile, local craft beer and fine wines by the glass or bottle create epic pairings.
Best Mexican Food in Paso
Fish Gaucho
Located in downtown Paso Robles, Fish Gaucho is celebrated for championing vibrant Mexican flavors. Since its inception in 2014, this culinary haven has presented Baja-style Mexican cuisine alongside an impressive array of tequila and mezcal-based cocktails. Enjoy a modern sit-down experience marked by bright seaside decor, rustic furnishings and attentive service. Home to an extensive collection of agave spirits, visitors are known to admire the towering bar wall housing over 250 bottles of tequila and mezcal from around the globe. Dive into this diverse selection with a margarita, mezcal on the rocks or in a tequila flight. The dinner menu features a range of tasty appetizers, tacos, and combination plates, all meticulously crafted with locally sourced seafood, produce and organic meats.
Órale Taqueria
Órale is downtown Paso Robles’ classic taqueria owned by Joel and Kristen Casillas. The couple invites diners to discover a menu of tacos, burritos, soups, salads, combination plates and specialties, alongside a dedicated children’s menu. Choose from adobada, carne asada, carnitas, chile verde, carnaza (shredded beef), chicken, and pastor for tacos and burritos. The local favorite “Surf ‘n’ Turf Burrito,” featuring sautéed shrimp and carne asada with rice, beans, cheese, grilled onions and bell peppers is a standout choice. Customize the experience with burrito bowls or “wet” options complemented with sour cream and cheese. Additional offerings include nachos, flautas, quesadillas, tortas, and tostadas — all affordably priced. In fact, nothing on the menu exceeds $25, making this terrific taqueria the perfect setting for family gatherings.
Best Dinner and Cocktails
The Alchemist’s Garden
Blending locally-sourced shared plates and imaginative cocktails, Alchemist’s Garden invites downtown Paso Robles diners to choose their own adventure. Here, plant-based meals, local meats, fresh seafood and vibrant cocktails intersect. Choose from an array of global entrees and shared small plates all paired with whimsical drinks. A popular choice, “Meetings with Faustus,” is crafted with tarragon-infused Citadelle gin, Fever-tree classic tonic water and butterfly pea flower ice cubes. For more cocktail intrigue, inquire about “The Remedy,” a secluded ten-seat lounge nestled within the restaurant (reservations required).
Cane Tiki Room
For those yearning for an authentic tiki bar experience, the Cane Tiki Room is the epitome of tropical fun. Located along Paso Robles’s City Park, discover massive tiki statues and Polynesian-inspired dishes like Spam Musubi, fried rice and Hawaiian kabobs. Whether opting for a classic Cane Mai Tai or venturing into exclusive concoctions—like the frozen rum cocktails, pineapple-based drinks, or punch bowls catering to 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 people—the options are colorful. However, a word of caution: some of these drinks pack a punch. For guidance, refer to the legend at the top of the menu, which conveniently defines the alcohol level of each drink.
Cattleman’s Lounge at Paso Inn
Claim a comfy booth at the Cattleman’s Lounge in Paso Robles, a throwback to the best old school bars in the West. Located upstairs at the historic Paso Robles Inn, take in the view of Downtown City Park from the bar or the balcony. Sip beer, wine and signature cocktails around a crackling fireplace or dig into a limited food menu of soups, flatbreads, burgers and chili. “The Burning Ember,” a nod to the historic fire that destroyed the Inn’s magnificent ballroom, is a strong mix of Bulleit rye whiskey over ice with muddled cherry, a dash of bitters, and simple syrup. Established in 1942, The Cattlemen’s Lounge was indeed a hangout for local cowboys of the area. Today, this local lounge is still a favorite spot for ranchers and visitors to relax after a long day.
Best Organic Dining in Paso
Thomas Hill Organics Bistro
Farm-to-table cuisine takes center stage at Thomas Hill Organics in downtown Paso Robles. Since 2009, this beloved local restaurant has served all-organic fare from its elegant courtyard on Park Street. Restauranterer Debbie Thomas opened the eatery with the aim of featuring farm-fresh cuisine, and was one of the first to champion a true locavore menu. More than a decade later, Thomas Hill Organics’ commitment to local food remains strong. Take a seat in the serene dining room, at the luxurious bar, or on the cozy fireplace patio. Choose from a list of dishes packed with color, texture and flavor, constantly changing with the seasons. Crisp greens, sumptuous pastas, silky pumpkin curry, or delicate fruits — all served at the pinnacle of freshness. Purveyors include local purveyors Loo Loo Farms, Olea Farms, Gracious Greens, Back Porch Bakery and many more. Plus, a thoughtfully-curated wine list accompanies the menu with local wines by the glass and bottle.
In Bloom
Embark on a vibrant edible adventure at In Bloom, an anchor eatery of Paso Market Walk. Colorful and creative farm-to-fork plates are the crowning jewel of this playful establishment. Explore carrot croquettes with lavender aioli (shaped like a hashtag) or tempura shallots resembling butterfly wings. Experience soy-glazed octopus on a bed of chickpea salad, lemon puree, peewee potatoes, and “olive soil” presented as a work of art almost too pretty to eat. A commitment to local agriculture is a constant, with ingredients sourced from nearby farms. This local creativity extends to drinks, featuring a curated selection of regional and global wines, craft beer and CBD cocktails.
Ziggy’s
Serving a 100% plant-based menu of charred, fried and sauced Americana goodies, Ziggy’s is all pleasure, less guilt. Located in downtown Paso Robles, this cozy vegan joint offers a few tables for dine-in, although most patrons choose the take-out option. Grab breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, including loaded breakfast burritos, tasty vegan tacos and kale salads alongside house made black bean and Impossible burgers piled high with all the fixings. The vegan Crunchwrap Supreme is notable for its striking similarity to a certain fast food favorite: Munch on ground impossible beef with melted pepper jack cheese, crispy tostada shells, sour cream, chipotle aioli, chopped tomato and lettuce all wrapped and grilled in a flour tortilla. Additional savory snacks include egg rolls and loaded fries drizzled with vegan American “cheese,” sauteed onions and zesty Ziggy’s sauce. For dessert, thick vegan milkshakes are the go-to.
Best BBQ in Paso
Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ
Get your grub on at Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ, where barbecue and wine come together for a winning pairing. Nestled in downtown Paso, the restaurant is hidden along “Norma’s Alley,” offering a casual retreat in a charming brick courtyard. Chef Jeff Weisinger, known for winning dishes at the Paso Pinot and Paella Festival and the Mac & Cheese Fest, incorporates market-fresh ingredients to his barbecue creations. The extensive menu showcases wood-fire smoked sandwiches, trays, tacos and salads. Customize the order with a choice of tri-tip, pulled pork, pork loin, brisket, chicken or housemade bacon. Alongside the main dishes find enticing sides like dijon-dill potato salad and sesame-ginger slaw. Jeffry’s caters to diverse dietary preferences, offering gluten-free and vegetarian options, too. The beverage selection is equally thoughtful, with craft beers and local wines on tap alongside nonalcoholic choices.
Best French food in Paso
Les Petites Canailles
Enjoy exquisite French flavors at Les Petites Canailles in downtown Paso Robles. Co-owned by French-born Chef Julien Asseo and his wife Courtney, Les Petites Canailles is a culinary gem that brings a touch of Parisian flair to wine country. Chef Julien hails from winemaking roots: his father, Stephan Asseo, is the acclaimed winemaker behind the cult label L’Aventure. After honing his skills in Parisian bistros and working with Guy Savoy in Las Vegas, Chef Julien has crafted a Paso Robles dining experience that reflects his vibrant culinary style. The intimate dining room sets the stage for farm-fresh ingredients to transform into true masterpieces. Here, simple leeks are covered in a warm herb vinaigrette, complemented by pine nuts and espelette pepper. Under Julien’s direction, even traditional French peasant dishes like the Burgundy escargot risotto, moules-frites Hortense and heirloom tomato salad are elevated to new heights. While the beer list showcases a curated selection of local craft bottles, the real highlight is the exceptional wine list. Savor a glass or bottle of French or California wines, including L’Aventure.
BL Brasserie
BL Brasserie has enchanted Paso Robles diners with classic French cuisine since 1997. Frenchman Chef Laurent Grangien, former chef and partner at two-star Michelin restaurant Le Bistrot d’à Côté in Paris, remains the longtime visionary behind this intimate dining experience in downtown Paso Robles. Explore a la carte delights like eggs mimosa, roasted quail, crab croquettes and escargots in the shell to entrees ranging from sautéed salmon with braised lentils to heartier options like croque monsieur with pommes frites and steak frites. Be sure to also check the ever-changing wine list for the perfect pairing. Visitors are sure to relish the dining room’s white-linen tables, exposed brick walls and vintage wine posters, all echoing a chic Parisian vibe.
Best Gastropub in Paso
Blast & Brew
Discover a hub for diverse drinks and casual wood-fired cuisine at Blast & Brew in Paso Robles. Located a block from Downtown City Park, the unique restaurant boasts over 26 self-pour taps featuring craft beers, wines and ciders. Favorites like Firestone-Walker, Modern Times, Drakes Brewing Co., and Belching Beaver Brewery grace the endless tap lineup. Utilizing a personalized tap card, patrons independently pour pints or samples, making the selection process seamless. Pair a cold one with a range of “tappetizers,” like loaded nachos, pub pretzels, garlic fries and chicken wings. For the main course, indulge in artisan pizzas, satisfying salads, pasta bowls, burgers, sliders and sandwiches. Gluten-free crust options are available and the culinary experience caters to all ages, with a children’s menu offering personal pizzas, chicken strips and mac ‘n cheese delights.
Street Side Ale House & Eatery
With crowd-pleasing pub grub and a massive array of rotating beer taps, Street Side Ale House & Eatery serves brews and bites in downtown Paso Robles. For a great pint, make a beeline for Street Side’s rotating, 25-tap bar overlooking Downtown City Park. When hunger calls, an impressive lineup of burgers saves the day. Choose from a lamb burger, picante raspberry burger and bacon crusted burger, to name just a few. Shared apps are popular here, with sliders, nachos and wings gracing tables of friends. Pair the meal with craft cocktails, mocktails and local wine, noting the happy hour discount Monday – Friday. For the night owls, tuck into late night bites divided into “savory” and “sweet” camps. Try a few from each, following up pretzels and cheese with a caramel-laced Rockslide Brownie.
Where to Go
Wine Tasting on Highway 1
Ready to round out your Highway 1 road trip in Paso Robles? A little planning goes a long way. Be aware that the region is characterized by extreme temperatures—hot days and chilly nights (so bring a sun hat as well as a light jacket). For a temperate climate year-round, travel to the coast via Highway 46 West. Along this route, encounter unique vineyards and wineries, culminating in a panoramic vista overlooking the Cambria and Cayucos coastline. This coastal region offers a range of attractions, including history and heritage sites, wildlife observation, farm-to-table dining, hiking trails and cycling routes. Wineries and tasting rooms are scattered throughout San Simeon, Cambria, Cayucos and Avila Beach. For fans of pinot noir and chardonnay, Edna Valley and the SLO Coast Wine region to the south are a must-visit. Here, coastal influences contribute to the production of fresh, cool-climate wines. Additionally, the proximity of white-sand beaches provides a welcome opportunity for surfside relaxation.
Best Dining on Highway 1
Discover fresh seafood and ocean views at the best restaurants on Highway 1. From white tablecloth dinners in San Simeon to creative, world fusion eats in Cambria, there’s a plate for every palate. Along the way, find Elephant Seals, lighthouses, uncrowded beaches and incredible coastal hiking trails. From wine tasting near Hearst Castle to fish tacos enjoyed along the sand, savor every last bite on Highway 1. Family-friendly diners, casual cafes and exciting plant-based restaurants await. Come hungry, leave happy on Highway 1.
