27 Best American Restaurants in San Luis Obispo

“Amazing food and ambience“

“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!“

“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.“

“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. ❤️“

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

“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.“

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

“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.“

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

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

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

“Delicious food and a most excellent Bloody Mary.“

“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!“

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

“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.“

“Firestone food. Delivered and made for you. It's a no brainer.“

“First, I feel that this restaurant has some of the best food in the county! Last night we went there with 2 other couples and had a fantastic meal...however, the real highlight was our server Erik!!! Wow, some of the best service I think I have ever had, he was engaging, funny, very professional and very knowledgeable! His tableside manners were amazing and he was always nearby to take care of us all! Erik....Thanks buddy...we will ask for you next time we come in!!!“

“Awful service!!! We needed a table for 2 and was told 5 minutes so we put our name on the list. Another server came to the next couple in line. Asked how many and the server took them straight to a table. At one point there were no servers on the floor for a solid 10 minutes. Nobody checked on us and we wanted another beer. I went to the bartender to order the beers, having to pay separately because they can't transfer the tab to the table. Not to mention that the bathrooms had ZERO toilet paper. None of the stalls. Not a good experience“

“Awesome, beautiful and very relaxing place!“

“Though I’m a smoker and smoking is banned in Downtown SLO I’ll still put my 40 year old habit on hold for the libertine we always enjoy the atmosphere and the people along with the beer“

“Another tasty chicken joint 🐓 🤤“

“The location is key. This is a wonderful place to have a meal, especially if you're staying at the resort. The menu is brief, but filled with enough delicious items to choose from. The terrace is especially nice: romantic, great ambiance, terrific light as sunset turns to night.“