29 Best American Restaurants in San Luis Obispo

Nate's on Marsh - A NRL Food Group Restaurant American • $$$
450 Marsh St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Spaghetti Bolognese with Meatball
Flourless Chocolate Torte
Pasta with Meatballs
Wild Arugula Salad
Burrata Prosciutto
Spaghetti Pomodoro
Niman Ranch Ribeye
Mushroom Carbonara
Bone in Pork Chop
Strawberry Gelato

“Nate’s on Marsh was a truly delightful experience. The food was absolutely delicious, the ambiance was both cozy and elegant, and the owner and server went above and beyond to accommodate our celiac dietary restrictions. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a fantastic dining experience in the area.Dietary people in our family have celiac disease, and our waiter and the owner personally made sure that our dishes were prepared gluten-free. They even called the maker of one of their products to ensure it was 100% gluten-free. We have eaten at Nate’s on Marsh several times, and none of our celiac family members have gotten sick.The servers and owner make you feel welcome and are very supportive of your dietary restrictions, and open to making food substitutions for you.Parking: Plenty of paid street parking is available, and there is limited free parking in their parking lot. We have eaten at Nate’s on Marsh several times, and we haven’t had any issues with parking.“

4.4 Superb156 Reviews

2
Novo

Novo American • $$
726 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Fresh Avocado-Shrimp Spring Rolls
Thai Green Chicken Curry
Singapore Chicken Satay
Burrata and Charcuterie
Grilled Salmon Salad
Pork Carnitas Sopes
Novo Lettuce Wraps
Korean Short Ribs
Thai Red Curry
Potato Samosas

“Novo made my partner and I's two year anniversary feel special even though the weather was so bad. We didn't special request anything, we just put in our reservation that we were there for an anniversary, and they went above and beyond. Our waitress, I do not remember her name, was extremely friendly and helpful. She checked in on us frequently enough that we didn't feel forgotten about, but infrequently enough that we didn't feel put upon. It was a busy night and, with the rain, everyone was sat in their downstairs dining room. I'm amazed no one dropped anything going up and down those stairs! Big thank you to the staff at Novo for making our night memorable!“

4.6 Superb132 Reviews
Cool Cat Café | San Luis Obispo Hamburger • $
3165 Broad St Ste 102, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Sandwich
Western Chicken
Onion Rings
The Duke
Fries
Chili

“We pulled this place up on Google Maps because we were looking for fish n chips. Well, they don't serve that at this location and good thing because I never would have tried The Duke, which was FANTASTIC! My kid got the Bogy Burger and a custom shake, both delicious. I would highly recommend this 50's themed diner. Our waitress Sarah was cool and friendly. Oh, and the custom mixed Cola was good, which is a lot from this Coca Cola forever fan.“

4.8 Superb75 Reviews
Granada Hotel & Bistro American • $$
1126 Morro St, San Luis Obispo

“Ask to be seated with waiter Doug. I recommend this quiet, relaxed atmosphere restaurant. The drink and food was hit and miss. But overall the “hits” is worth returning. You step out of the restaurant into the buzz of morro street. It's nice to able to walk around the shops and bars and other places while you walk off the dinner and alcohol. It's located beside the Granada Hotel. The interior and exterior design is worth the visit. The patio and dining room is well designed. Except for the small tables. However is does rave as a “bistro “ If you love raw fish do not leave without trying the Albacore Cherry Crudo. I love beets and thoroughly enjoyed the beet salad. The hubby smacked his lips to the Leboke Seabass. I ordered the Wagyu Tri tip; although very flavorful it was difficult to swallow after chewing on the slice of meat. For beverage I enjoyed the Fresh start cocktail with elderflower.“

4.2 Good196 Reviews
Cafe Roma Italian • $$
1020 Railroad Ave, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Ravioli Della Casa
Pork Chop Milanese
Lasagne Bolognese
Calamari Fritti
Veal Osso Buco
Caesar Salad
Spumoni Bomba
Beet Salad
Tiramisu
Cafe Roma

“Amazing atmosphere, and friendly staff. The chicken Parmesan was phenomenal. the tortelli De Zuca was good, but it was way too sweet it’s ravioli filled with a candied squash. But aside from that I truly enjoyed my visit and will return when I come back to the area.“

4.4 Superb196 Reviews
Finney's Crafthouse - San Luis Obispo New American • $
857 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

The Finney Burger and Fries
Crispy Coconut Shrimp
Finney's Taco Party
Baja Chicken Tacos
Buffalo Cauliflower
Chicken and Waffles
Jalapeno Egg Burger
Bone-In Hot Wings
Pastrami Sandwich
Onion Ring Tower

“you gotta check out Finney's Crafthouse in San Luis Obispo!!. This place is all about the vibes, with drinks that pack a punch and an atmosphere that screams good times. And let me tell you about the food—it's straight fire. I chowed down on the smash burger and it was next-level delicious. Meanwhile, my wife went for the tri-tip tacos and they were a total game-changer. Whether you're looking to grab some grub or kick back with a few drinks, Finney's has got you covered. Trust me, you'll be coming back for more.“

4.5 Superb108 Reviews
Firestone Grill Barbeque • $
1001 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Tri Tip Sandwich with Extra BBQ Sauce
Tri Tip Steak Sandwich
Basket of Onion Rings
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Tri Tip Cobb Salad
The Pig Sandwich
Firestone Salad
7 Rib Pork Ribs
Steak Cobb Salad
Side of Fries

“Delicious BBQFirestone has a wonderful varied menu of BBQ items. Beware that the servings are pretty large, and in a number of stops, the food is delicious. If you like ribs, they are wonderful and not fatty at all. I've dealt mainly with the bar staff and they are great and for as busy as they are, pretty attentive. A must stop when in or near SLO“

4.4 Superb148 Reviews
Luna Red American • $$
1023 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Wrapped Dates
Gambas Al Ajillo
Seafood Paella
Paella Del Mar
Shrimp Paella
Chips & Salsas
Tortilla Soup
Vegan Paella
Taco Tuesday
Spicy Spuds

“The vegetarian paella was amazing, and it was such a fun meal to share with the table. The place was busy, the service was good, and the food came out more quickly than expected.Vegetarian options: Having a veggie paella is incredible! And there were options for veggie tacos and other items as well.Dietary restrictions: Great options for vegetarians, dairy-free, gluten-sensitive“

4.5 Superb94 Reviews
Bon Temps Creole Cafe Cajun/Creole • $
1819 Osos St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Pain Perdu French Toast with Honey Rum Syrup & Pecans
Fried Green Tomatoes Breakfast
Bon Temps Breakfast
Buttermilk Biscuits
Cajun Pain Perdu
Crawfish Etouffee
Cajun Breakfast
Eggs Benedict
Seafood Gumbo
Eggs Sardou

“I didn't eat here so I'm not going to leave a negative star review. Why didn't I eat here? Their menu posted outside on the sidewalk is out dated. Like pre Covid; pre inflation outdated. I believe outside menu had Eggs Benedict @ $10.95 but when you sat down and received "toaday's" menu the price is $14.95 - almost a 40% increase. Hard pass and departed restaurant due to bait and switch on menu pricing.“

4.5 Superb93 Reviews

10
Piadina

Piadina American • $$
877 Palm St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Wild Caught Pacific Swordfish
Bautista Farms Tomato Salad
Smoked Salmon & Caviar Pizza
Mushroom Pizza Bianca
Kobe Smash Burger
Grilled Artichoke
Artichoke Pizza
Tots Appetizer
Hamburger

“My family and I came here for a birthday lunch. Our server, Tyler, was amazing! He was so personable, kind, and made us laugh a number of times. I can't speak highly enough of Tyler! My entire family left saying how it was the best food we've had in a while and best dining out experience in years! The atmosphere was beautiful: lots of natural light, modern design, comfortable seating. They were able to accommodate our 1 year old with great menu selections, flexibility with her allergies (and mine), a high chair, and patience with her walking around our section. The food was also incredible! The artichoke pizza and burger were a fan favorite at our table! Every recommendation Tyler made was top notch! Tyler even came around the table to top off everyone's wine glasses when they were getting low. I feel like this hasn't been a service standard since Covid and I'm so happy to see this elevated attention to detail is making it's way back. I wish I could rate this experience a 10/5!Vegetarian options: Good vegetarian options in the appetizer, pizza, and salad sections! The beet salad and artichoke pizza were amazing!!Dietary restrictions: My family has a lot of dietary restrictions and they were willing to make any changes needed to accommodate. Their menu was naturally accommodating as well! The server was even cautious and double checked on all ingredients in our appetizer when one of us mentioned a dairy allergy. So thankful for people like that who are aware and mindful!!Kid-friendliness: They were super accommodating to my 1 year old! They had a high chair, great menu selection, and even tailored some of the food to her allergies. They let her wander a little around our empty section which kept her very entertained and I was so thankful for!!“

4.4 Superb59 Reviews
Kitchen & Vine American • $
3897 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Lemon Poppy Waffles with Bacon and Fruit
Breakfast Burrito
Classic Breakfast
Hot Chamomile Tea
Carnitas Scramble
Avocado Toast

“Great spot. They have plenty of outdoor seating which is nice and super family and dog friendly. Staff was very nice and helpful. Breakfast was soo good. The poppyseed waffle omg so good. And bacon was delightful. We will definitely come back. Thank you everyone.“

4.5 Superb76 Reviews
Urbane Cafe Sandwich Shop • $
952 Higuera Street, Morro St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Peanut Chicken Salad
Turkey Club Sandwich
The Ahi Tuna Salad
Southwest Sandwich
Chicken Sandwich
Soups of the Day
Chocolate Chip
Turkey Sandwich
UC Shrimp Bowl
Southwest

“This is a healthy casual food option. There were bowls and sandwiches and soups, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. With the oven making fresh focaccia up front, I ordered a sandwich. The banh mi was tasty and unusual with a focaccia bun. It was messy (needed two napkins and a fork), but I would order it again. The salad that accompanied it was so much better than the typical free side salad. It was dressed with a fresh herbal vinaigrette and not a single leaf was wilted or past its prime. There is indoor seating, which has that fast food vibe, and a covered outdoor area, where you are mostly protected from the occasional rain shower.“

4.5 Superb63 Reviews
Hoagies Sanwiches & Grill, San Luis Obispo American • $$
1234 Monterey St #120, San Luis Obispo

“Casual breakfast and lunch spot with a bar & indoor/outdoor seating! Order at the counter and sit yourself. The service was quick and the staff was very friendly. I ordered the Cali Breakfast Burrito which was super tasty and filling! Two of us split it and were satisfied. Will definitely be back to try other menu items“

4.3 Superb156 Reviews

14
Eureka!

Eureka! American • $$
1141 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich
Housemade Charcoal Lemonade
Grilled Chicken Nachos
Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Truffle Cheese Fries
Bone Marrow Burger W
Veggie Beet Burger
Mac & Cheese Balls
Fresno Fig Burger
Chipotle Burger

“Went early in the afternoon on a Friday. We were seated quickly by a young man who seemed he didn't want to be working that day. Before our food came, we saw the same young man that seated us, cleaning tables with dirty towel and bucket, then leaving the dirty towel on top of the table before removing it. Our server was nice, and the food was tasty. Lastly, they could have had the place warmer, it seemed cooler inside than outside, and outside, it was in the 60's at best. With all that said, we all would go back, as the food was prepared well, and presented nicely.“

4.4 Superb88 Reviews
SLO Provisions Cafe • $
1255 Monterey St B, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Breakfast Burrito with Avocado
Green Goddess Veggie Sandwich
Fried Chicken Sando
Breakfast Sandwich
Fried Chicken
Deviled Eggs

“This place was fantastic. We stopped in SLO on our road trip to Monterey Bay. The food and service were excellent. I'm stilling thinking about the sandwich I had. My family and I all swapped half of the sandwiches we ordered and couldn't decide which we liked the most. My son also had the kale salad which was wonderful too. We loved the outdoor patio because we were traveling with our dog. If I'm ever in SLO again we will definitely be returning.“

4.4 Superb80 Reviews
Black Sheep Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $
3607, 1117 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Breaded Chicken Strips with Your Choice of Ranch Bleu Cheese Barbecue or Honey Dijon Sauce
Turkey Burger and Tortilla Soup
The Original Pub Mac 'N' Cheese
Western Guinness Burger
Cowboy Mac and Cheese
Cajun Shrimp Tacos
Black Sheep Salad
Chicken Quesadilla
Buffalo Wings
Western Burger

“Nice ambiance with the beautiful wooden bar, copper tables and fireplace. We enjoyed our server: she was friendly and fun! She helped us decide on 1/2 order of the bacon and jalapeño Mac and cheese (delicious and verrry filling) and nachos (good) to share.“

4.3 Superb102 Reviews
Cowgirl Cafe American • $
1055 Olive St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Sausage Has Brown and Sunny Side Up Eggs
Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast with Eggs
Tomato Bacon Omelette with Green Chili
Kitchen Sink Omelet with Home Fries
Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs
French Toast Combination
Avocado Bacon Omelette
Turkey Avocado & Bacon
Hash Browns and Eggs
Pancakes Cowgirl Size

“My husband is a huge fan of Chicken Fried Steak and he said this was the best he has ever had today. Savy and Jesus were our servers and kept the coffee flowing. I had the 2+2 breakfast and the pancakes were super puffy and delicious! The decor is old school western with photos and tools. This is our new SLO breakfast spot for sure! Bonus:Easy on and off Hwy 101 and clean bathrooms.“

4.3 Superb91 Reviews
Spirit of San Luis Restaurant American • $
925 Airport Dr, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Open Faced Crab Cake Sandwiches
Beer Battered Fish and Chips
Short Rib Scrambled Eggs
Piece of Apple Crumble
Breakfast Quesadilla
Breakfast Burrito
Tri-Tip Sandwich
Orchard Salad
BBQ Burger
Taco Salad

“I had the breakfast of brisket Benedict. It was satisfying but the brisket had a salty crust. My partner ordered from the lunch menu and had the patty melt. 5 stars for the melt also.Being a viewpoint and adjacent to the airport adds interest but also noise. Our patio seat was a big factor for the noise but you roll the dice on seating for the great food and hospitality from the owners.“

4.3 Superb74 Reviews
TASTE! craft eatery Gastropubs • $$
2550 Broad St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Shoestring Fries
BBQ Pulled Pork
Truffle Fries
Salmon Salad
Calamari
Quartet
Banh MI
Sliders
Burger
Trio

“We tried this out on a whim. My girlfriend and I loved the ambiance, the food, the service was great and we still left with food for the next day.I love how they give you options to choose and try multiple things and we were both surprised at how big the portion sizes were!I would highly recommend it and we will be going back the next time we head down to the SLO area!“

4.2 Good98 Reviews
Jay Bird's San Luis Obispo Chicken • $
3845 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Mac Daddy Chicken Sandwich Combo
Chicken Sandwich & Spicy Fries
Chicken and Waffles
Mac Daddy Sandwich
Comeback Sauce
Blazin' Fries
The Chop
Tenders
Mac N

“This place rocks. Spicy chicken all the way every time I come here. I'll admit I have a tendency to overeat a bit when I go here, but I regret nothing except the heartburn I have afterwards ?. I usually have the mac daddy sandwich which is a spicy chicken tender sandwich with creamy mac and cheese on it. Their spicy fries are also quite delicious.“

4.2 Good92 Reviews
Libertine Brewing Company Brewery • $$
1234 Broad St, San Luis Obispo

“Second time here, though first visit was several years ago so I had forgotten. Then I remembered I liked it. And I still do. Their specialty for their own brews is sours. And they have a really nice range of those, from berry to citrusy, salty to sweet. If you don't like sours, have no fear: They have a huge range of other beers and ales on tap. Again, a really nice range, one that favors California breweries. The food is very good, a step up from standard bar food. They have good burgers and sandwiches, of course, and various fries. But also really good salads, tater tots, and more. Pleasant open space, and very friendly, helpful waitstaff. SLO has a few other good, local brewery restaurants, including Antigua and Central Coast, but Libertine should be on your go-to list as well, and if you're a bit foodie at the top.“

4.3 Superb51 Reviews
1865 Craft House & Kitchen American • $$
1865 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Korean Fried Chicken Wings
All American Burger
Korean Beef Salad
Beignets

“I went in for the happy hour specials. I got the brussel sprouts and the cheeseburger for $10 each. The service was great and the food was delicious. Almost forgot to mention the beignets, they are amazing and moist. I cant wait to go back.“

4.2 Good90 Reviews

23
Sidecar

Sidecar Cocktail Bar • $$
1040 Broad St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Wasabi Fries

“One of my favorite spots for a classy drink+nice atmosphere in dt SLO. The dinner menu provides pretty decent options that accompany the cocktails well. Their kitchen isn’t unlimited, however, and I’d recommend arriving before 6 if you want variety in the menu as they run out of options quickly. They are currently serving Chinese fusion courses. I’ve attached a picture of the happy hour specials!“

4.3 Superb43 Reviews
Milestone Tavern American • $
972 Foothill Blvd, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Wrapped Date Pizza
Short Rib Mac and Cheese
Carnitas Nachos
Pepperoni Pizza
House Burger
Poutine Tots
Wings

“Great food, great people, great times! In a city known for exceptional dining experiences, this place is on top! I've been here a half dozen times for a variety of events and have never been disappointed. Everything on the menu, from burgers, to hot chicken sandwiches, to tater tots are fresh, flavorful, and filling. An absolute "must go in SLO!!"“

4.2 Good59 Reviews
The boardroom American • $$
San Luis Obispo

“My husband and I stopped here on our way back from Big Sur. It looked like a super cool place that allowed dogs. The owner Steven opened up and immediately welcomed our pups (and us). Steven is super chill and really fun to chat with, and we had such a great time we decided to stick around Pismo Beach for the night. We spent most of the day and night at The Boardroom playing darts, making friends, and having a total blast. The beer is delicious and most patrons are there to kick back and have a good time. People of all ages seemed at ease and it was clear how beloved Steven was in town. Thanks for teaching me how to stop throwing darts "like a sissy dinosaur" haha! We will 10000% be going to Pismo again so we can go to this bar!“

4.2 Good53 Reviews
Gardens of Avila Restaurant Fine Dining • $$
1215 Avila Beach Dr, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Braised Beef Short Rib
Brussels Sprouts

“The salad was very tasty. The main meal, steak, mash potato and vegetables where all served quite warm and not luke warm or cool.Great to enjoy a meal and have the food stay that warm during the entire meal. Steak, mash potatoes and vegges where excellent. Desert was excellent. We have been here 3 or 4 times and always look forward to eating here. Would not even think of going else where for dinner.“

4 Good151 Reviews
Dairy Creek Restaurant Bar & Grill •
2990 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo

“This place is great! Unless you are at the golf course or Swing Time simulation golf, you'd never know it is here. It is definitely worth the trip. Super casual atmosphere with a great bar and tasty food. Free arcade games and shuffleboard is a hit with the younger.“

4.2 Good12 Reviews
Louisa's Place Family • $
964 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Country Fried Steak & Eggs
Fresh Baked Cinnamon Roll
Sourdough French Toast
Gluten Free Pancakes
Aric Burrito Special
Chicken Fried Steak
Chorizo Con Huevos
Breakfast Burrito
Eggs Benedict
Bacon Waffle

“Had Huevos Rancheros for breakfast. Easily the best I have ever eaten. The beans were creamy, the eggs prepared just right and the sauce out of this world. As breakfast was so good we ordered the Cheeseburger Salad to take back to the hotel for later in the day. Salad is excellent. Plenty of veggies and a hugh hamburger patty. Plenty of cheese and the Thousand Island dressing tasted freshly made. This is a typical diner ambience and VERY busy. Service was excellent. All told when we come back to SLO we will be eating here again“

4 Good104 Reviews
Koberl At Blue Fine Dining • $$$
998 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo

Customers` Favorites

Three Fish Scallop and Shrimp
Beef Filet Carpaccio
Chocolate Lava Cake
Ahi Tartare

“Beautiful atmosphere with white table clothes and table settings. Ryan, our server, was professional and fun. Oysters, butter lettuce salad, sea scallops, and lingue with veal..all amazing. It's definitely a great date night place. Guys, remove your ball caps and respect your date.“

4 Good42 Reviews
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