Grabbing a Bite in SLO? Try These Unique Spots
If you’re visiting San Luis Obispo, you better come hungry. SLO has a plethora of great food options, many of which you won’t want to miss. If you’re not sure where to start, try these options:
Deli Sub Sandwich
San Luis Obispo is renowned for its deli scene. Perhaps it’s due to its college-aged, on-the-go population, but be sure to try a deli grinder (or sub) while you’re here. The irresistible High Street Deli offers towering sandwiches that can be customized, or you can opt for one of their top-selling subs. This must-visit spot also sells a variety of merchandise and has a half-off deal after 4:20 pm during the last hour of operation.
A tip: for a smoother experience, call ahead or order online, as the wait can be quite long. If you don’t want to wait in line, there are plenty of other sandwich options around town. Just up the street, check out the newer and more organized Broad Street Grinder for the most affordable and enormous subs you’ve ever seen. Their half sandwich measures an impressive 9 inches, so imagine the size of a full sandwich! For more deli options, explore Gus’s Grocery for a grittier vibe, Ben Franklin’s for its overflowing lettuce, Kona’s Sandwich for its sweet Hawaiian rolls, and the popular Lincoln Market and Deli.
Morro Bay Oysters
Did you know that oyster farming in Morro Bay has a rich history dating back to the 1930s? The tranquil and sheltered bay provides the ideal environment for raising millions of oyster seedlings. The unique combination of salt and freshwater in the estuary enhances the flavor and character of these delicious mollusks, known as the “merroir.” To taste the distinctive flavor of Morro Bay oysters, head to the coast and sample them fresh and raw, or with a squeeze of lemon. The Morro Bay Oyster Company and Grassy Bar Oyster Company raise some of the best oysters in the area. These delectable treats can be found in high-end restaurants across the US, but they are best enjoyed locally. Visit local restaurants, farmers markets, or go straight to the source along Morro Bay’s Embarcadero.
Fruit and Nuts
We’re aware of the joke and SLO CAL truly does have a wealth of delicious bounty. While the region is famous for its wine, Paso Robles was once known as the almond capital of the world. Revisit those days with the delicious Paso Almonds, available in brittle, corn, or hots. Pair the hots with jerky (as mentioned above) for a winning combination. Our personal favorite is the classic brittle, available with either candy sugar or natural sugar. SLO CAL is also home to the best strawberries you’ll ever taste. Try the locally grown Hayashi Vegetable Stand strawberries at farmers markets, or choose from many other vendors. With a plethora of farm stands and CSA boxes, you’ll soon realize why SLO CAL is worth giving in to your sweet tooth. So, go ahead and indulge – you won’t regret it!
Negranti Sheep’s Milk Ice Cream
In the mood for a unique sweet treat? Try this creamy and refreshing dessert for a post-lunch treat or a mid-day pick-me-up! At Negranti Creamery in Paso Robles, Templeton, and Atascadero, you can sample ice cream made from sheep’s milk – a twist on the typical cow’s milk ice cream. This ice cream is just as delicious and it’s also more lactose-friendly. As one of the first ice cream companies in the country to use sheep’s milk, Negranti is leading the way with its use of fresh, local ingredients and tempting flavors. Stop by and try a scoop, milkshake, ice cream sandwich, affogato, or more!
Cattaneo Brothers Jerky
SLO CAL locals will tell you that there is no better snack to enjoy while watching a movie, attending a ballgame, or going on a wine tasting tour than Cattaneo Brothers jerky and sausage. This locally made, grass-fed beef jerky is legendary and comes in a variety of flavors, including sea salt, cracked black pepper, chipotle, and cayenne. It’s a far cry from the average gas station jerky and you can even visit their production facility just a few blocks from downtown San Luis Obispo. Once you try these dried SLO CAL strips, any other jerky simply won’t do. So go ahead and indulge in this addictive treat – we guarantee you’ll be back for more!
Giovanni’s Fish Market
If you like fish tacos, check out Giovanni’s Fish Market in Morro Bay. Be warned, one taco is filling enough, but you may be tempted to have more! You can choose from options like deep-fried cod, shrimp, grilled halibut, and grilled salmon, and top it off with jack cheese, cabbage, tomatoes, cilantro, onions, and salsa. For an extra kick, add some locally made Cayucos Hot Sauce. You’ll find these delicious tacos served at the plastic tables outside, so there’s no excuse not to try them. When in SLO CAL, why not indulge in some local cuisine?
Brown Butter Cookie Co.
Do you love a balance of sweet and salty flavors? Look no further than the Brown Butter Cookie Company in Cayucos, Paso Robles, or San Luis Obispo. Local residents know that it’s worth saving their pennies because they’ll end up buying two bags at a time, as one bag never makes it past the car ride home. The original brown butter cookie is a fan favorite, but don’t overlook their other flavors like cocoa, almond, and citrus – they’re all worth a try.
