14 Best Bars in San Luis Obispo

“I’ve been here a handful of times and I can assure you the team at Kiko’s does not miss. From the moment you step in, everyone makes you feel at home. The staff seems genuinely excited to teach you about the cuisine and they always bring the best energy. Food is always incredible, the seafood risotto special was a 10/10. Paco worked with us to make sure the night was special and did an amazing job. Couldn’t speak higher of this establishment.“

“Scenic rooftop bar with great drinks.“

“My wife love staying in the rooms there with the hot tub right in your room. We also like to use the hillside hot tubs. The gift shop is nice also.“

“I decided to go with a recommendation from one of the hotel staff La Esquina.

I was warmly received when I walked in and said I was okay with a spot at the bar because I didn’t want to take a table away from other paying customers unnecessarily but nonetheless the hostess provided me with a table.

I ordered the steak fajitas and as someone who is VERY picky about the quality of steak fajitas, that thought was put to rest instantly. The steak was tender, perfectly flavored and seasoned and paired with the onions and peppers on the hot plate, it simply hit the spot perfectly.

The star though was not the steak; it was my server Francisco who embodied hospitality and was so personable. To put it simply, he made the dining experience with his service!

I look forward to returning on my next SLO layover!“

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

“Good food Good service Good price Will be back!!!“

“We loved swinging into the bar late at night! It was pretty empty, but the bartenders were fun and the drinks were good! We grabbed a slice of cake too, which was huge but not exactly what we were hoping for, but we couldn’t leave without trying the cake. We got the bees knees and raspberry lemon drop.“

“The July 4th Fried Chicken and Bubbles Event was awesome. Service was great and the fried chicken and bubbles was phenomenal. Making this an annual event.“

“Headwaters at Hotel Cerro offers something unique that you won't find in the area - a rooftop pool bar with views of the best area on the central coast. The food and drinks are great, the staff are friendly, the vibe/atmosphere is inviting and relaxing, and the pool is always at a comfortable temperature. I would highly recommend checking this place out!“

“Eric is a master of his craft. Knowledge and attention to detail like he possesses is very rare in the industry. My wife said one of his cocktails (Clover Club) was the best she's ever had, and I agree. He also gave us a detailed history of the cocktail as well. Super cool! If you appreciate great cocktails this is the best place in SLO, easy. And thank you Eric, for a fantastic experience! 👍“

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

“I haven't eaten here yet but the bartenders here are so spot on amazing it's unbelievable. They see me approaching and my drink set up is on the bar just the way I like it. I love it here and everybody is loads more fun than a barrel full of monkeys. I prefer the daytime/early evening cast of local characters and hard working folks who have manners, intelligence, and moral fiber, which is sorely lacking these days. McCarthy's is the shizzz!“

“No trip to San Luis Obispo is complete without a trip to Bull’s Tavern. My first drink here was in 1981 when I was a Senior at Cal Poly.“

“Clean and comfortable rooms. Exceptionally hot shower. Friendly Staff. Free games in the restaurant (do yourself a favor and get a smashburger from there)!!!“