20 Best Restaurants in Paso Robles, CA
This article was written by local contributor Esme Hill & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As a passionate food lover and someone who's been fortunate enough to call Paso Robles my home, I can't wait to share with you my insider's scoop on some of the best dining experiences that are just waiting for you to discover.
With its picturesque vineyards, historic downtown, and bustling food scene, Paso Robles has something to offer every palate.
So, let's dig into the best restaurants in Paso Robles, California, and embark on a gastronomic adventure together!
Paso Soul Food Grill
I still remember the first time I stumbled upon Paso Soul Food Grill, it was completely by accident.
I was looking for a place to eat and happened to park right next to this restaurant.
I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did!
Everything at Paso Soul Food Grill is fresh and made to order, so I knew I'd have to wait a little longer for my meal.
I ordered a large sweet tea to share with my companion, and we both got chicken combos.
I must say, it was the crispiest, juiciest chicken I've had in a while, and the seasoning was just as delicious.
They also have a wide variety of hot sauces available, so I tried at least three I'd never heard of before.
Our combos came with beans and rice, super cheesy mac 'n cheese, and the softest buttery cornbread ever.
Not only is the food amazing, but the atmosphere is fun and family-friendly too.
I've been back several times since that first visit, trying different dishes like the catfish, which was seasoned just right, and the pork ribs, which were equally delicious.
You could easily make a meal out of just the cornbread and sides, they're that good!
Ziggy's
I'm a big fan of Ziggy's vegan restaurant. I've been to a lot of vegan places, but this one really stands out.
My absolute favorite dish is the Korean Cauliflower Bites (K.C. B.). They're just so flavorful and have the perfect crunch.
I also enjoy their Ratchet Fries - it's such a delightful treat.
The service at Ziggy's is always friendly and fast. It's mostly a to-go place, but they do have a small seating area if you want to dine in.
One time, I tried their mushroom burger and cauliflower salad.
While it was a bit rich for my taste and quite filling, I appreciated the homemade patty they used.
Somm's Kitchen
I recently had the pleasure of spending an evening at Somm's Kitchen in Paso Robles, and it was nothing short of spectacular.
The curved, 14-seat counter made it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow diners, making the evening a truly communal experience.
Each course of the meal was expertly paired with notable wine, allowing me to taste a variety of flavors and learn more about the intricacies of wine pairing.
Ian's passion for his craft was evident in every dish and wine selection, and his storytelling added an educational aspect to the dining experience.
The dinner was worth every penny, especially considering the wide selection of wines, some of which retail for several hundred dollars per bottle.
The atmosphere at Somm's Kitchen was a breath of fresh air in our increasingly digital world.
The genuine conversation, delicious food, and exceptional wine made for a memorable evening that I'll be raving about to friends and family.
I can't wait to return for one of their other events and continue learning from Ian's extensive knowledge.
Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery
One of my favorite places to spend a relaxing afternoon in Paso Robles is the Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery.
As soon as you step onto the property, you're greeted by beautiful rose bushes and a charming Spanish-themed building.
The interior is just as inviting, with a wide array of their signature Stella Rosa and San Antonio wine collections on display.
As a family-owned winery that was established in 1917, it's fascinating to learn about the generations of winemaking history that have shaped this local gem.
The walls are adorned with pictures of the family through the years, creating a comfortable and nostalgic atmosphere.
I recently tried their 'Sweet as Spring' flight, which included Lemon Lime, Orange Fusion, Golden Honey Peach, and Royals.
Each of them was delightful in its own way, but the Lemon Lime tasted like a refreshing, uncarbonated Sprite – perfect for a warm day!
In addition to its excellent wines, the on-site bistro offers some delicious food choices.
I highly recommend the Filet Mignon stir fry and the Combination Pizza.
The filet was incredibly tender, and the sauce had a wonderful peppery kick.
The thin-crust pizza came loaded with pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers – a fantastic combination!
The Neighborhood Cafe & Juice Bar
One of my favorite things about living in this town is starting my day with a visit to The Neighborhood Cafe & Juice Bar.
From the moment I walk in, I'm greeted with warmth and positivity, which really sets the tone for my day.
It's no secret that I'm a health enthusiast, so finding a place with fresh and clean ingredients is a dream come true.
My go-to breakfast at the cafe is avocado toast.
The bread they use is simply amazing, and the avocado is always perfectly ripe.
I've even tried their 3-day cleanse multiple times, and it's helped tremendously with my digestive balance.
It goes without saying that their smoothies and juices are top-notch as well.
The kombucha they serve on tap has become my favorite beverage to wind down with after a long day.
I'm truly grateful to have a place like The Neighborhood Cafe & Juice Bar in town.
It's become a staple part of my daily routine, and I couldn't imagine my life without it.
Sunrise Cafe
Sunrise Cafe has always been one of my go-to spots for a delicious breakfast.
Every time I visit, I'm always impressed with the fast and attentive service they provide.
One of my favorite dishes to order is the Bacon Florentine Benedict – it's always cooked to perfection, and I can't get enough of it.
The last time I went to Sunrise Cafe, I also tried their macho burger, which was juicy with just the right amount of spice.
It's no wonder that even people visiting from out of town end up loving this place.
The cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a comfortable dining experience, and the prices are unbeatable for the quality of food you get.
Les Petites Canailles
I still remember the first time I dined at Les Petites Canailles, and it has since become one of my favorite restaurants in town.
I was lucky enough to snag a reservation, as this place is often booked up due to its popularity.
The dining experience was truly exceptional, from the atmosphere to the service and, of course, the food.
As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was struck by the lively atmosphere and positive vibes.
Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, which only added to the anticipation of a great meal.
As for the food, I wanted to order everything on the menu!
One dish that stood out was the special flounder, cooked to absolute perfection.
I also had the chance to try their unique escargot risotto, which was a delightful departure from the usual butter-drenched snails.
The desserts were, as one might expect, simply divine.
Another thing worth mentioning is the extensive wine selection at Les Petites Canailles.
With a 50-page list featuring options from $45 to $6,800 and spanning most of the world's wine-growing regions, there truly is something for every wine lover here.
Niner Wine Estates
The other day, I decided to pay a visit to Niner Wine Estates with some friends!
The family-owned winery offered a cozy and warm atmosphere with its beautiful tasting room and on-site restaurant.
We were immediately impressed by the selection of wines and the carefully sourced food.
To top it all off, they even served house-made ice cream and coffee, which was such a rare and precious treat.
It truly made for a wholesome and enjoyable experience.
Pizza Planet
I must say, Pizza Planet has some of the best pizzas in town!
As someone who's been living here for quite some time, I've tried a lot of pizza places, but Pizza Planet always stands out.
Not only is their pizza delicious, but it's also affordable and easy to digest.
The atmosphere at their unfussy take-out and delivery place in a strip mall is cozy, giving off that mom-and-pop shop vibe.
Hana Korean BBQ
As someone who has been living in this area for quite some time now, Hana Korean BBQ is one of those places that I've always enjoyed visiting.
I still remember the first time I tried their bulgogi dish with rice and kimchi, and it was absolutely delicious.
It's quite a challenge to find authentic Korean food like this in SLO, especially since I moved here from LA.
The Hana Korean BBQ is a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant, but it has a warm and homey ambiance, perfect for a cozy dinner with my partner.
Joe's Place
Every time I want to treat myself to a delicious breakfast in Paso Robles, I always head to Joe's Place.
After all, it's not every day that you find a restaurant that lives up to its reputation of being "The Best Breakfast In Town".
No wonder it's so popular among the locals!
It's a cozy mom-and-pop joint that serves old-school American eats for breakfast and lunch, and they never disappoint.
I remember the first time I tried their Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs with Biscuit & Gravy - it was simply amazing.
I also can't resist their Lorraine Omelette, especially when it's loaded with bacon!
My friends rave about their chilaquiles and the salsa that brings back fond childhood memories for them.
The pancakes are generously-sized and above average in taste, while their coffee is the best I've had at any breakfast place.
Aside from the delicious food, the service at Joe's Place is always exceptional.
Goshi Japanese Restaurant
One of my favorite places to grab a delicious sushi meal is Goshi Japanese Restaurant.
I've been a regular customer for years now, and it never ceases to amaze me how cozy and sun-lit the place is while offering a sushi bar and a traditional range of cooked Japanese entrees.
Just last week, I visited Goshi with a group of friends, and we ended up sitting at the sushi bar.
This turned out to be a fantastic choice as we got to watch the chefs create mouthwatering sushi rolls right before our eyes.
The service was impeccable, and the food was absolutely delightful.
It's refreshing to see that their sushi rolls don't have that commercialized feel to them.
During this visit, I tried their Scallop Dynamite Roll, which was absolutely amazing.
My friends ordered the Chris Roll and the Seared Albacore Roll, both of which looked fantastic as well.
One of my friends even tried matcha beer, which had a unique green color and a mild green tea flavor.
It's these little touches that make Goshi such a memorable dining experience.
Stokehouse Grill
I have to say, as someone who's been living in this town for quite some time, I was pleasantly surprised by my experience at Stokehouse Grill.
The service was outstanding, and they were more than willing to accommodate my vegetarian needs by tailoring their menu offerings.
I thoroughly enjoyed the scallop potato gnocchi with vegetarian broth and scallop on the side, as well as the Brussels sprouts with bacon on the side.
The food did not disappoint – I loved Chef's soup of the day, which was a creamy Butternut squash soup with corn, and the Fried Calamari with Aioli and Sweet Thai Chili sauces.
The Chicken Picatta was a delight, too, as the chicken breast was cooked to perfection – juicy and tender.
Another fantastic dish was their Ciopinno, which had a hint of spice, and the Pan Seared Salmon was absolutely delicious.
Poke Chef Paso
I've been living in the area for quite some time, and I absolutely love stopping by Poke Chef Paso whenever I get a chance.
The best part about dining at this Asian fusion restaurant is their large poke bowls that are not only filling but also taste incredibly fresh.
I remember the first time I tried their seaweed salad, and I was blown away by the burst of flavors.
In fact, I even brought my boyfriend here for his first poke experience, and he instantly became a fan.
What I appreciate the most about Poke Chef Paso is the warm, perfectly served rice that accompanies the delicious poke.
It's an ideal spot for a quick bite, especially when you're on a road trip.
The variety of ingredients and reasonable pricing makes it a go-to place for me and my friends.
Buona Tavola
As someone who lives in the area, I often find myself visiting Buona Tavola when I crave authentic Northern Italian cuisine.
The moment I step inside, I'm always greeted by the casually elegant atmosphere, which sets the tone for the delightful meal ahead.
During one of my recent visits, I started off with their Caesar salad, and I was pleasantly surprised to see it topped with two anchovies - a unique touch.
For my main course, I opted for the pappardelle pasta with prawns and Pancetta in a tomato cream sauce, which was incredibly delicious.
To wrap up the meal, I treated myself to some of their mouth-watering gelato.
Finca Paso Robles
I must say, living in this area has its perks, and one of them is having Finca Paso Robles as my go-to Mexican restaurant.
Their Pork belly tacos are truly scrumptious, and I've been fortunate enough to visit quite a few times.
I remember trying their octopus dish, which was surprisingly good, and the temple, which had a very unique and mild flavor.
I also enjoyed their pork belly nachos, though I do wish there was a bit more pork belly in it.
What I really appreciate about Finca Paso Robles is that their dishes are not your typical Mexican fare, and their uniqueness makes each visit a fun experience.
The ingredients they use are always top-notch, and you can really taste the quality in every bite.
For instance, their wood-fired oysters are plump, fresh, and perfectly complemented by the buttery goodness of the woodfire.
Their yellowtail ceviche is also quite enjoyable, with fresh chips and fish in every bite.
The warm, clean patio and tasty tacos, including the fish, shrimp, and carne asada options, make it a place I'm proud to call my local favorite.
Il Cortile Ristorante
I had the pleasure of dining at Il Cortile Ristorante - a charming Italian restaurant in town.
The seasonal, contemporary Italian cuisine never disappoints, and this visit was no exception.
The homemade pasta is something I eagerly look forward to whenever I dine here.
The beef carpaccio was incredible, and the scallops, though smaller than usual, were still packed with flavor.
My friends enjoyed their meals as well - the veal chop was cooked to perfection, and the squid ink pasta got a solid 4/5 rating.
Villante's Authentic Homemade Italian Cuisine
I had been hearing rave reviews about Villante's Italian Cuisine from my neighbors, so I decided to finally give it a try.
Let me tell you, this place did not disappoint!
The atmosphere is casual yet warm, making it the perfect spot for a family dinner or a date night.
Upon entering, I noticed that it was an order-at-the-counter-style restaurant.
I went with their linguini and mussels, and the portions were absolutely huge!
The dish was bursting with a pound of mussels and a delicious tomato sauce.
My partner had the chicken parmesan, which was equally impressive in size and flavor, featuring four cutlets and a generous serving of spaghetti.
One thing I appreciated was that our meals were served in takeout containers, making it easy to bring home leftovers.
And trust me, there were plenty of leftovers!
We were both so full from the main courses that we couldn't even try their tempting array of homemade cakes and cheesecakes for dessert.
China Gourmet
China Gourmet is truly a gem in Paso Robles. Ever since it opened its doors in 1992, I've been a fan of its Mandarin, Sichuan, and Hong Kong seafood dishes.
I particularly love their exquisite wine list, which features high-scoring local wines that pair perfectly with their delicious meals.
One of my favorite dishes at China Gourmet is their homemade dumplings or potstickers.
They are simply the best I've ever tasted!
The restaurant offers a clean and modern décor, which makes it a great spot for both takeout and dine-in.
Their special luncheon bento box is also a must-try - the fried wontons, egg rolls, and fried rice are all tasty, although the rice can be a bit oily sometimes.
I'm not the only one who loves this place - it's quite popular among the locals.
Brunch Paso
One of my favorite spots to enjoy a leisurely weekend brunch is Brunch Paso.
This trendy eatery always has a welcoming atmosphere and an impressive menu that caters to a variety of tastes.
I'm a huge fan of their creative takes on breakfast and brunch classics, and their mimosas are absolutely perfect for setting the weekend mood.
What I truly appreciate about Brunch Paso is that they don't take reservations, making it a walk-in-only establishment.
This means I can just pop in whenever I feel like it, although there might be a little wait at times.
But trust me, the wait is definitely worth it!
The menu offers a mix of savory and sweet dishes, with fusion options and vegetarian choices as well.
Final Thoughts
Living in Paso de Robles has truly been a delightful experience, and I can't imagine calling any other place home.
The incredible variety of delicious restaurants, from soul food to farm-to-table to authentic international cuisine, has made exploring the local culinary scene an adventure in itself.
The next time you find yourself in Paso de Robles, I highly encourage you to stop by any of these fantastic establishments and savor the flavors that define our beloved city.
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