50 Best American Restaurants near Avila Beach

“Absolute gem in an unexpected place. Morro Bay Oysters were among the best we've ever had. The menu items were outside typical expectations and we're so glad they were! Delish tapas and the smoked fish dip and chips is incredible! Thanks for the recommendation from staff as its not something we would have ordered on our own. Shockingly good wines with unique varietals and super friendly hosts. Shuck Shack is where talent and passion come together for a fun and above average experience. - perfect for a day at the beach!“

“Stopped by Mulligans at Avila Beach Golf Resort and had a great experience. It was nice and quiet, the food was really good, and the staff was super friendly and inviting.

It’s kind of tucked away at the end of the beach walk, we actually thought it was just a wedding venue at first, which they do host as well, but it turns out it’s the golf clubhouse. Really welcoming spot with genuinely good people who take care of you.

We’ll definitely be back, next time to play the course right by the ocean.“

“We decided to try them on a whim, simply because I was curious to finally try escargot. Everything was so delicious! We just tried them today, and they are now on my list of absolute favorite places! The food is so delicious, the staff are amazing, and the views are stunning. 10/10. I can’t wait to come back!“

“Good food and great atmosphere“

“Amazing food and ambience“

“always GREAT! Very cool nw menu every month!“

“We were immediately greeted and seated (we made reservations online in advance)... our waitress greeted us within a short period of time and took our cocktail order... I'm happy they offer my favorite wine, Austin Hope Cabernet by the glass... I've only known Ember to offer it!... My son ordered a Ni Rada? Martini that tasted how I imagine a household cleaner to taste, he reluctantly sucked it down... we didn't bother to complain but we wouldn't recommend it... he later ordered a Paper Plane Martini which he liked better... After reading other reviews, I see we didn't get the initial bread w/Ricotta offering, probably for the best since we've cut down on gluten and wanted to try a pasta dish... We started with a (not pictured) POLPETTE (large meatball) and it was moist, flavorful, & yummy... alongside PAPPARDELLE RAGU, I was hesitant about it due to not being a fan of lamb... however, it was cooked perfectly without any hint of the game flavor I dislike... my only complaint is there isn't a gluten-free pasta substitute option... It may not be Michelin standard... but it would be great to have some gluten-free Ancient Harvest pasta with any of those yummy ragu/pasta sauces available for the many people with gluten sensitivities... MARY'S 1/2 CHICKEN was flavorful and yummy with the silky mashed potatoes... and the melt-in-your-mouth OSSO BUCCO and tasty polenta did not disappoint!... The atmosphere is cozy with home-style elegance... From the initial welcoming greeting, the friendly & timely food service, the "in-tune" staff that directs you to the restroom without having to ask, the constant spotting of Nate's friendly smile as he ensures his operations are running smooth and the thanks for your patronage as you leave... our experience was pleasantly memorable... This was my 2nd visit to Nate's... the first time I had the pork chop which was flavorful, tender and simply superb... We will return!“

“Urbane Cafe went above and beyond my expectations with their teacher appreciation day. I enjoyed my free meal and the 1:1 attention and greeting that welcomed me to the location. It was my first visit to any Urbane Cafe and Arroyo Grande did the name and their store proud. Thank you.“

“3 piece fish chips very small pieces over seasoned fries. Fish bite wet in mouth with oil. First time here“

“Feels like an island getaway! Service has always been superb, the food tastes incredible with a beautiful presentation, and visit the very personable bartender for a well made cocktail or mocktail! We will always come back.“

“We had the bacon wrapped dates, Brussel sprouts and coconut shrimp tacos with key lime pie for dessert. Perfect amount shared by two. Every bite was delicious! Very creative drink menu, non alcoholic. Lovely outdoor seating and dog friendly.“

“We loved it! Excellent breakfast! Laid back atmosphere with friendly service. We especially loved the pancakes.“

“Well established and great reputation. Very good service.“

“Hands down best burger ever had! Service was great but the food was literally amazing!!“

“I had to get my Spirit burger and sweet potato frie Fix! soooo good. But honestly the whole menu is great“

“We simply loved our first time at Kitchen & Vine today! (SLO Public Market). I enjoyed the classic breakfast. Hearty, high quality bacon! Delicious. The potatoes were awesome. I grew up on a farm, and on breakfast like this, and I love that I can find it "farm fresh" here in SLO. The sourdough bread was fantastic! It had us ask "do you make your bread or who does?" Back Porch Bakery was the response. So great. Peter said to me, "please get some." 😊 We also loved the setting, the spaciousness of the place. Really big patio and outdoor space. And, a wonderful woman took our order. She totally heard me, got us and delivered. See, my husband likes his hot food really HOT in temperature and his cold food really COLD. So when we order we always make a special request about it. She was so great AND when she brought his Carnitas Scramble out it was STEAMING. 🥰 It was also delicious. Finally, our dog Sophie was seen and appreciated. A server came by and asked if he could bring her a bowl of water. A big bowl came and she lapped it up appreciatively. We'll be back. We already know it's going to be a favorite. Wonderful energy. ❤️“

“We arrived for 5 p.m. Friday evening for patio dining and live music. Pleasantly surprised to be offered free champagne or a glass of wine (from 4-6 pm weekdays)The view was spectacular the service was great and I have recommended to my friends that we should come back on another Friday.“

“this is my happy place! staff always go above and beyond to make our stays great. they are friendly and i love how every time you walk thru the lobby they greet you with good morning...welcome back ..etc. the restaurant is absolutely to die for. the rooms are amazing and the views breathtaking. we visit at least twice a year and always celebrate our anniversary here ! January cant come soon enough.“

“Wonderful place to relax and enjoy great food and cocktails.“

“This place is absolutely wonderful, the vibes are great, but most importantly the people and servers are wonderful! Big shout out to Tawnya who served us today (and was absolutely the best!) and accepted my daughters pretend name of “Ballerina” 😂 Great place for sure!!“

“I had the tuna bowl and the filet Mignon with mashed potatoes. My friend had the Mushroom Alfredo pasta. Everything was delicious.“

“Service was outstanding! Food and beer great as well. First time there and will go back.“

“The best Tri tip tacos I've ever had and super fast service and friendly courteous staff and highly recommended“

“I had their chorizo and eggs so yummy!“

“Pretty good stuff from what I saw. I was there visiting a friend.“

“Amazing Gluten free options as well as great burgers!“

“We are from the Bay Area, but Zorro’s is probably my top restaurant for Mexican food among all we frequent. Tastes are exquisite. A very large selection. Staff is friendly and efficient. I wish we could go there each week, but alas, we would have to travel 200 miles to do so. You will not regret this. Enjoy and savor the experience.“

“First time and attended Graduation dinner.
Casual ambiance with multiple seating options on multiple floors. We were seated outside on a warm summer day.
Service was efficient.
Food was presented well, flavorful and portioned perfectly to share.
Overall, a solid spot for a great meal.“

“I’m a working musician and I play Pismo a lot! This place is absolutely the most consistently enjoyable grub always!!! Today was even better! Missa was so kind and made sure I got grilled Serranos with my Baja Tacos!Chris was such a pleasant waiter… very attentive and super cool to chat with. Great job, AGAIN Cool Cat. See you in March with Lipstick Revolver.“

“Beautiful ambiance. The guitar player’s music hit just the right balance of soul/jazz. The dishes were fantastic and the portions substantial.“

“Just the best food, service, and vibe. If you haven’t checked this place out, you should. You’ll be a regular in no time.“

“Amazing food! I love this place, the food is sooo good, fresh and good quantity and friendly service. Today, I had one of my fav: biscuits and gravy, hash browns and a pancake!!!!!!! Can’t wait to go back“

“Cool hangout, we sampled a few of the beers and are planning on trying the food.“

“Delicious food and a most excellent Bloody Mary.“

“Always awesome with great food and good drinks.“

“Sidecar is a must here in San Luis Obispo! The staff and the owners and everything about the place will knock your socks off. I think it’s high time. You guys open a second Sidecar by me in So Cal!“

“Great atmosphere. Great food“

“Delicious Mac n cheese and very good tri-tip, loved the breezy seating and friendly staff!“

“We had an amazing meal for my daughter's birthday and our server was great.“

“7 of us went there after a hike. Food and service was excellent!!! Will definitely be back!“

“Great breakfast selections! Excellent curation of ingredients to make your tummy happy!“

“When traveling along the coast, I always make it a point to stop at ManRock Brewing Co. Beers are incredible (loved the “Get Him a Hoppy Bag” triple hazy IPA), food is great and comes out fast (try the bacon covered hot dog) and service is always friendly. Was surprised and happy to find they were open July 4th too! Was also able to get some cans of my favorites to bring home.“

“Wonderful staff and service! The food is fresh and delicious, and the cocktails too. We love coming here for happy hour to catch the beautiful sunsets.“

“Watch out for the chairs!“

“Local breakfast place downtown SLO. Free parking Sunday until 11am. Nice selection of egg dishes. We split an omelette, 4 eggs! It came with a biscuit which was delicious. The staff were all working together to make sure everyone had a great meal experience.
This is a small restaurant with limited space. We got the last seats at the counter. It’s worth the wait when you’re in the area.“

“We stayed at Vespera Resort last December for a local anniversary staycation with our two dogs, and it far exceeded our expectations. From the moment we checked in, the front desk staff made us feel so welcomed and celebrated—especially Danielle, Aiden, and several other team members whose names I can't recall, but whose kindness made a lasting impression. The little touches throughout our stay, like a surprise delivery of wine and cake to our room and genuine warmth from every staff interaction, made our celebration feel truly meaningful. Thanks to this stay, we’ve already booked a return visit for our next celebration in October. We’re so grateful to the Vespera team for making our anniversary unforgettable.“

“Took my mom for lunch. I ordered daily special of lobster chile relleno which came with rice, and it was absolutely delicious. Mom had seafood salad croissant and she loved it. Generous servings and good service. Will definitely be back“

“Great service Great food Good selection of beer & wine“

“Sylvester’s is a great place to get delicious food there so good“

“Absolutely love staying at this resort, and the Clubhouse Grill is a large part of that. Lively atmosphere, always friendly servers, and excellent food! Fun to eat outside on the patio while watching live music or golfers (depending on the day), or to eat inside watching sports on the large screen TVs. My husband generally gets the rib eye, and I have a few different favorites.“