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1. Giuseppe's Cucina Rustica
With its menu inspired by Italy's Puglia region, Giuseppe's offers an unforgettable experience dining in San Luis Obispo. Start with the prosciutto and burrata platter or calamari from the appetizer menu. There's also an incredible selection of house-made pastas. Other menu standouts include lamb lollipops, free-range chicken, and bacon-wrapped prongs. Giuseppe's is one of those places where staying for dessert is not negotiable! Do leave room for the tiramisu, orange-scented cannoli, and artisan gelato.
2. Novo
Enjoy a hip, upscale atmosphere while enjoying globally inspired dishes made exclusively with locally sourced ingredients. Novo is as famous for its lovely setting as it is for its incredible selection of handcrafted artisan cocktails. The restaurant has been voted the best place for outdoor dining in San Luis Obispo. The menu here boasts braised lamb shank, diver scallops with brown-butter sweet potato, duck breast, and Thai red curry. If you're looking for an early option on the weekend, Novo does an incredible Sunday brunch. Brunch here means everything from farm-fresh omelets to strawberry cheesecake French toast with citrus cream cheese icing and just-picked berries.
3. Mistura
Mistura is a Peruvian restaurant in San Luis Obispo that combines Incan culinary traditions with European and Asian influences. This fusion restaurant prioritizes organic, locally sourced ingredients in every inventive, unforgettable plate served. The careful intentions and unmatched culinary skills behind this restaurant are notable in every bite. A standout dish is the "hot stone" ceviche, which is served by drizzling sauce over a hot stone in the middle of the bowl. Other dishes worth trying are the Peruvian scallops, Peruvian fried mixed seafood, beef heart, and grilled rack of lamb. For dessert, the flourless chocolate cake and papaya crème brûlée more than hit the spot!
4. Luna Red
Don't miss the chance to try the award-winning paella and refreshing handcrafted cocktails at Luna Red. Offering gorgeous outdoor seating right downtown, this popular eatery is lauded for its creative dishes and polished ambiance. The signature paella dishes offer your choice of chicken, vegetables, or seafood. The "del mar" paella plate combines clams, rockfish, and scallops in an unforgettable medley. Luna Red's taco bar menu offers incredible specialty and street tacos. The margaritas are among the best in San Luis Obispo. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays.
5. Black Sheep Bar & Grill
If you're looking for a bar vibe while dining out in San Luis Obispo, Black Sheep Bar & Grill offers a friendly, laid-back atmosphere with a menu full of comfort foods that have been given the upscale treatment. With its carved wood accents and warm brick walls, this neighborhood eatery feels like an authentic European pub. Choose to get cozy in a booth near the fireplace or enjoy the surroundings on the open-air patio.
The big draw at Black Sheep Bar & Grill is the award-winning macaroni and cheese. You can customize your order with grilled onions, sautéed mushrooms, sautéed bell peppers, tomatoes, grilled jalapeños, sautéed spinach, or goat cheese. Other options for pub fare include nacho plates, chicken tortilla soup, chile verde bowls with simmered pork, house tacos, veggie chili, and bistro goat cheese salad.
San Luis Obispo Is the Perfect Stop for Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner
Having an incredible meal is an important part of any trip! Here's a little tip for anyone exploring California's Central Coast. If you're driving down from Cambria to Morro Bay, it's more than worth it to keep going just a little further to reach San Luis Obispo. It will take just an extra 15 minutes of driving to have lunch or dinner at one of the best restaurants San Luis Obispo visitors can choose from!
