12 Best Cocktail Bars in San Luis Obispo

“Piadina offers an exceptional breakfast experience, with dishes that are not only delightful to the taste buds but also visually stunning. The avo toast and salmon bagel are standout menu items, with their vibrant colors reminiscent of a California sunset. The restaurant's atmosphere is light and comfortable, complemented by the fiber art that gives it a cool, art-exhibit vibe. Chef Matti and the attentive staff, including Hakeem, ensure a memorable dining experience, even accommodating last-minute guests. Vegetarian options, such as the avocado toast with tomato and pickled onions, cater to diverse dietary preferences. Overall, Piadina offers a breakfast that is truly worth raving about.“

“The Granada Hotel & Bistro is a heritage-infused hotel that blends historic allure and contemporary conveniences. The rooms feature a mix of antique Persian rugs, hardwood floors, and exposed brick walls, with some offering private balconies and fireplaces. The hotel is conveniently located near downtown, providing easy access to events and attractions, and offers free bike rentals. Guests can enjoy a welcoming glass of champagne or rosé, as well as a complimentary breakfast. The on-site restaurant offers a nice selection of food options and a good wine list, with a cozy bar serving great cocktails and outdoor fire features.“

“Sidecar is a vibrant spot with an extensive cocktail menu featuring fun names and photos. They offer a unique experience with a colorful atmosphere and live music events. Guests can enjoy strong and creative cocktails while being impressed by the knowledgeable staff. The venue is highly recommended for its jazz nights, happy hour menu, and energetic EDM nights on Saturdays. It's a must-visit destination for those passing through town.“

“Finney's Crafthouse in San Luis Obispo offers a wonderful atmosphere and helpful staff. The menu features high-quality dishes like pretzel, nachos, chicken and waffles, fish tacos, smash burger, and tri-tip tacos. The drinks are flavorful, and the vibes are great for a good time. This spot is a must-visit for delicious food and drinks that will keep you coming back for more.“

“Rambling Spirits Bar & Grill is a must-visit spot in SLO Public Market. The friendly staff ensures quick seating in a clean establishment. The top shelf old fashion and pulled pork fritters were highlights, followed by a perfectly grilled 10oz ribeye steak. The owner, John, adds a special touch with his creations in the distillery lab. Customers can enjoy bar food, video games, and Skeeball, along with on-site brewed spirits. This unique place is sure to lift your spirits and provide a great dining experience.“

“Rod & Hammer Rock is a great venue for small concerts and casual dining. The restaurant offers plenty of parking and a lovely atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, lawn games, and fire pits, making it perfect for date nights or larger groups. The food is a highlight, with dishes like the smash burger and crispy fries receiving high praise. While service can be efficient but unremarkable, the food is consistently hot, fresh, and delicious. The venue also hosts events and has room for improvement in its catering logistics.“

“The Silver Bar Cocktail Lounge, located in the Madonna Inn, is a popular spot for a lively and enjoyable time. The bartenders, such as Landon, are known for their attentive service and entertaining personalities. The bar area is cozy, with tables, a fireplace, and the option to order food. It's a great place to grab a drink before shopping at the inn. The bar is famous for its signature Pink Cloud cocktail and Pink Champagne cake. On special occasions, like birthdays, guests can enjoy a delicious half chicken BBQ meal, although it can be a bit messy for cloth napkins. The atmosphere is described as "pretty in pink" and comfortable for all ages.“

“1865 Craft House & Kitchen offers a delightful dining experience with its delicious food, great service, and cozy ambiance. The 1865 classic burger with pickled onions is a standout, while the fries and potato taquitos also receive high praise. The restaurant boasts a friendly and knowledgeable staff, who keep customers informed about any delays. However, some guests have noted a lack of cordial greetings from the hosts, which can be a deterrent for return visits. Overall, 1865 Craft House & Kitchen provides a generally enjoyable experience for diners.“

“Nightcap is a charming bar in SLO, offering a unique selection of cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, serving up creative drinks like the Mezcal cocktail. The menu features dishes such as albacore with a sweet, sour, and spicy sauce. While the room can get crowded and loud, the staff ensures great service and a welcoming atmosphere. With reasonably priced drinks and a fun vibe, Nightcap is a great spot to cap off the night.“

“Bar Peixes offers excellent service, atmosphere, and drinks. The private patio provides great seating options. Signature cocktails include the house-made gin Bees Knees and the coco loco tequila cocktail. The mocktail Piña Colada is also top-notch. The spicy tinned sardine plate and patatas bravas, despite being a bit al dente, are flavorful, with the latter's sauce reminiscent of Barcelona.“

“Quesadilla Gorilla is a popular spot in the Central Valley and coast, serving delicious quesadillas and sauces. While they usually impress, some visitors have experienced inconsistencies, like missing queso in their quesadillas. However, friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere make up for it. Try their Classic, featuring house-made pork chile verde, whole black beans, and Spanish-style rice in a white cheese dilla, paired with avocado salsa and cilantro cream.“

“The Oak Grill is a convenient spot connected to Hotel Cerro, offering fluffy eggs in the breakfast sandwich and a choice of ribeye or pizza. The friendly staff provides quick service, although some menu items may be unavailable. Guests appreciate the nice atmosphere and knowledge of the bar manager, promising a return visit.“