Welcome to San Luis Obispo! With local produce, quality meats and fresh seafood, there are plenty of great dining options in the area. Here’s a short list of where to eat in San Luis Obispo. Scroll for details and map locations for each restaurant. Happy eating!
- Jewel of India – Indian
- Mistura – Modern Peruvian
- Ziggy’s – Vegan Takeout
- Novo – Global Cuisine
- At Bites – Vietnamese
- Taco King – Mexican
- Flour House – Modern Italian
- SLO Public Market – Indoor Food Market
- Lokum – Turkish Coffee & Sweets
- Granada Hotel Bistro – Upscale Brunch
Jewel of India – Indian
A family-owned restaurant where everything is made in house — the yogurt, sauces, paneer, roti and spice blends. Not only does the time, dedication and care shine through in the food, but it’s atmospheric.
This is a homecooked, made-with-love meal that happens to be served in a restaurant.
What to Order: Samosa Chat, Chicken Jalfrezi, Paneer Tikki Masala
Mistura – Modern Peruvian
Mistura blends classic Peruvian dishes with modern techniques creating a unique dining experience unlike anywhere else in San Luis.
Innovative cocktails and delicious entrees are grounded by the artful, soulful atmosphere. Grab a box of artisan desserts and truffles on your way out.
What to Order: Escabeche, Lomo Saltado, Ponja
Ziggys – Vegan Takeout
A great selection of vegan junk/comfort food. There’s just enough spots to eat there if you’d like or take it to go.
Recommended for vegans and non vegans alike!
Get classic burgers and cheesy loaded fries all made vegan. Or try the avocado tacos for something different and delicious.
Novo – Global Cuisine
Voted Best SLO Restaurant and Best Outdoor Dining 2022, New Times.
An open air restaurant that uses local produce and caters to all tastes.
Open from brunch til dinner, Novo is a great spot to grab a bite in Downtown San Luis Obispo. Sit by the creek under the trees enjoying international fare, or even just drinks and small bites.
What to Order: Meze Plate, Duck Breast, Thai Green Curry
At Bites – Vietnamese
Housed in the shell of a former Carl’s Jr. At Bites serves fresh pressed juices, Vietnamese coffees, traditional Bahn mi (yes, with pate) and pho. All are delicious!
What I really enjoy about at bites is their other entrees. The spicy garlic chicken comes with a half a chicken, an addictive spicy sauce and beautifully sautéed vegetables. It’s a gourmet plate fit for a fine dining restaurant at a casual dining price.
What to Order: Hot Garlic Chicken, Beef Pho, Hot Lemongrass Pork Ribs
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Taco King – Mexican
There are a lot of Mexican restaurants across San Luis Obispo County. When we’re talking specifically about the city of San Luis Obispo, Taco King is hands down the best around.
Tucked away out of Downtown San Luis in a strip mall, Taco King provides a fragrant, delicious haven of Mexican classics complete with a proper salsa bar.
What to Order: Fajita Burrito, Torta de Birria, Sopes
Flour House – Modern Italian
Ranked 35th Best Pizzeria in the U.S.
Owned and operated by a certified Napoletana pizzaiolo, Flour House produces authentic Italian with a modern, coastal flair. Not your standard meatballs and marinara, Flour House balances Italian tradition with culinary creativity.
Visit on a Monday to experience a full meter of pizza, with different flavors of your choice.
Read my full review of Flour House here.
What to Order: Carpaccio di Bresaola, Gnochetti alla Milanese, Calabrese Pizza
SLO Public Market – Indoor Food Market with Multiple Vendors
An evergrowing collection of food stalls, artisan treats and local goods. The SLO Public Market is a great place to spend a few hours snacking, sipping and shopping.
Try: Bing’s Bao Buns, Central Coast Creamery, Mama Ganache Artisan Chocolates
Lokum – Turkish Delight and Coffee
Incredible selection of baklava, Turkish delights and coffee!
Sit down for a cup of Turkish coffee with friends and enjoy a good conversation, or pack up a box of Turkish delights to go. It’s a worthwhile stop in San Luis Obispo for coffee, dessert or even just to admire the gorgeous light fixtures.
What to Order: Chocolate Hazelnut Brownie, Almond Caramel, Pistachio Pomegranate
Granada Hotel Bistro – Upscale Brunch
Situated in an open courtyard in downtown SLO, the bistro of the Granada hotel serves up a decadent weekend brunch.
From oysters to french toast, their menu features Californian cuisine made with local ingredients.
What to Order: Sweet Potato & Chorizo Hash, Bistro Benedict, Specialty Mimosas
Looking for more recommendations?
Follow me on Yelp for more recommendations around the Central Coast. Sign up for email subscriptions to receive San Luis Obispo County restaurant guides, activities, and recipes right to your inbox.
