Best Southwest American Restaurants in San Luis Obispo

11 restaurants available nearby

1. The Oak Grill

4.2

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 7 times today

The Oak Grill in San Luis Obispo is a gem for those seeking exemplary Contemporary American cuisine. Nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative Californian dishes that highlight the freshest ingredients from the Central Coast. Patrons rave about the "perfection on a plate" salmon and the wood-fired grilled ribeye that is "so flavorful and delicious." The ambiance, characterized by a rooftop pool and city views, complements the dining experience, making it feel like "a mini-vacation." With glowing testimonials about both the food and the attentive service, The Oak Grill stands out as a must-visit for discerning diners. As one satisfied customer puts it, "the vibes are immaculate," making every meal here a delightful journey through contemporary culinary excellence.

A photo of Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House, at Madonna Inn restaurant

2. Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House, at Madonna Inn

4.7

Exceptional(4537)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 46 times today

Dine in the opulent surroundings of Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House, nestled in the vibrant San Luis Obispo. This world-famous Steakhouse is celebrated for its delicious oak-pit-barbecued steaks, creating a unique smoky flavor that is both "buttery and tender" inside. Patrons rave about the "best Filet ever" and the steakhouse’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish. Alongside a superb wine list and decadent desserts like the iconic Pink Champagne cake, the restaurant offers a whimsical, European atmosphere with live music and dancing, making it not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience. Whether it's a special occasion or a delightful splurge, visitors consistently "can't wait to return" to relive the exceptional service and atmosphere at Alex Madonna's Gold Rush Steak House.

A photo of Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn restaurant

3. Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn

4.3

Awesome(1981)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 112 times today

At the heart of San Luis Obispo, the Copper Café and Bakery, located within the charming Madonna Inn, is celebrated for its exceptional dessert offerings. The café’s atmosphere, reminiscent of a quaint European village, perfectly complements the indulgent dessert experience. Guests rave about the "world-famous cakes, pies, cookies," and a delightful array of French and Danish pastries that are "huge and so delicious!" A standout is the Champagne pink cake, a "must-try dessert" that, along with their German chocolate cake, has earned glowing praise for being both "tasty and fresh." Whether you're passing through or dining in, the Copper Café’s desserts are a decadent highlight not to be missed, making every visit truly memorable.

A photo of California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - San Luis Obispo restaurant

4. California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - San Luis Obispo

4.6

Exceptional(41)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 5 times today

California Tacos Cantina and Distillery is a restaurant that offers authentic Mexican food, great ambiance, a full bar, and distillery. Our new location in San Luis Obispo is located at the SLO Public Market. Our fresh, handmade tortillas are at the heart of many of the signature plates, and we offer a full bar and the best selection of 100% agave tequila. We are motivated to provide San Luis Obispo County with authentic Mexican food, as every flavor, color, and shape in our food is inspired by the best of Mexico's culture. Anyone who has visited our original location in Solvang and Buellton can attest that eating at California Tacos is a fun and authentic experience.

5. Ventana Grill

4.6

Exceptional(3213)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 46 times today

At Ventana Grill in Pismo Beach, the essence of traditional American cuisine is elevated by the fresh coastal ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Guests rave about the "delicious food" and the "amazing" ocean views, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and ambiance. The menu features beloved American classics with a twist, such as the highly praised "coconut halibut" and "seafood penne." Patrons particularly appreciate the "very flavorful food" and the warm, welcoming service, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic American dining experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual meal, Ventana Grill stands out as a prime destination for exceptional American fare.

6. Sea Venture

4.6

Exceptional(2403)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 24 times today

At Sea Venture, located in the picturesque Pismo Beach, the seafood is not just a meal; it's an experience! With glowing reviews like "Best seafood around! Beautiful and stunning views," and "The food was amazing! Our server Chris was great and the drinks were on point," it's clear that this eatery takes pride in serving top-quality dishes. The menu, inspired by local wine country, features the freshest fish and premium seafood, making every dish a delightful indulgence. From the pistachio-crusted halibut to the swordfish and clam chowder, every bite is a testament to their commitment to excellence. As one diner raved, it's the "best food & view experience in Pismo Beach!" Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving exquisite seafood, Sea Venture promises an unmatched culinary adventure.

7. Oyster Loft

4.8

Exceptional(3637)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 30 times today

Oyster Loft in Pismo Beach is a culinary gem, renowned for its impeccable seafood offerings. Diners rave about the "outstanding" quality of dishes such as the sablefish and the diversity of fresh oysters from both coasts, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality. The seafood is not only fresh but also "artfully prepared," with a menu that allows patrons to "choose their dining experience." With a stunning view of Pismo Beach, the ambiance adds to an already exceptional dining experience. Guests consistently praise the "excellent service" and the beautiful presentation of dishes, making Oyster Loft a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking a top-tier dining experience by the ocean.

A photo of Marisol at the Cliffs Hotel and Spa restaurant

8. Marisol at the Cliffs Hotel and Spa

4.8

Exceptional(1370)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 41 times today

Marisol at the Cliffs Hotel and Spa in Pismo Beach is celebrated for its exceptional seafood, where each dish is a testament to the freshness and authenticity of local produce. With ingredients sourced directly from local fishermen, diners can relish in unparalleled seafood dishes like the praised "pesto-crusted halibut," which is a consistent favorite among guests. The restaurant's commitment to quality is echoed by guests who rave about the "amazing" seafood risotto and the "delicious and generous portions." The atmosphere complements the dining experience with its stunning oceanfront views, making Marisol not just a meal, but a memorable dining adventure. This culinary gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking the true flavor of the coast.

A photo of Gardens of Avila Restaurant restaurant

9. Gardens of Avila Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(942)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 16 times today

At the Gardens of Avila Restaurant located in the picturesque San Luis Obispo, dining becomes an unforgettable experience. This gem is renowned for its "award-winning contemporary coastal cuisine" inspired by local wine country, making it a pinnacle of Fusion/Eclectic dining. Guests rave about dishes like the "delicious" bees knees and short rib, and the "amazing" halibut, praising their perfect blend of flavors that "compliment each other" beautifully. With ingredients sourced from local farms, each meal is a fresh, creative celebration of the region's bounty. The setting, in a lush garden near mineral pools and hiking trails, adds a magical touch to the dining experience, making every visit truly special. Whether it's a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal, the Gardens of Avila promises and delivers a top-notch culinary adventure.

10. Ada's Fish House

4.8

Exceptional(244)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 47 times today

Ada's Fish House in Pismo Beach is the go-to destination for shellfish enthusiasts craving authenticity and quality. Family-owned and celebrated for its fresh, daily-sourced seafood, Ada's delights with an array of East Coast-inspired dishes that highlight the finest oceanic offerings. Diners rave about the "best clam chowder ever" and the "delicious and perfectly prepared" scallops, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to excellence. The lobster mac and cheese is another standout, with guests describing it as "the best I can ever remember." Ada's Fish House not only promises a relaxed atmosphere but consistently delivers culinary masterpieces, making every meal memorable and every visit a reason to return.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Explore OpenTable

San Luis Obispo

Mexican

Best Southwest American Restaurants in San Luis Obispo

Price

Regions

Neighbourhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Accessibility

11 restaurants available nearby

1. The Oak Grill

2. Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House, at Madonna Inn

3. Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn

4. California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - San Luis Obispo

5. Ventana Grill

6. Sea Venture

7. Oyster Loft

8. Marisol at the Cliffs Hotel and Spa

9. Gardens of Avila Restaurant

10. Ada's Fish House

Explore OpenTable