Best Southwest American Restaurants in Avila Beach

14 restaurants available nearby

1. Custom House

4.3

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Avila Beach

Booked 7 times today

At Custom House in Avila Beach, steak lovers are in for an exceptional treat. Known for their "hand-cut steaks," this restaurant combines quality ingredients with culinary expertise to create a truly authentic steak experience. Guests rave about the rib-eye, describing it as a highlight of their dining experience. The ambiance, with stunning views over San Luis Bay, complements the flavorful steaks, enhancing the overall dining pleasure. As one diner put it, the steak here is part of an "amazing food" experience in a location where "the service is beyond compare." Custom House stands out not just for its picturesque setting but for its commitment to serving up a steak that’s both succulent and satisfying.

2. Ocean Grill

3.9

Excellent(50)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Avila Beach

Nestled just steps from Avila Beach, Ocean Grill delights seafood enthusiasts with its exceptional California Coastal Cuisine and stunning ocean views. Diners rave about the "delicious steamed clams," "perfectly grilled salmon," and the "best seafood and pasta dish we ever had!" The authenticity of the seafood offerings shines through, with guests consistently praising the quality and flavor of dishes like shrimp ceviche and seafood pappardelle. Alongside the beautiful setting, the service at Ocean Grill is frequently highlighted as attentive and welcoming, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether it's for a casual dinner or a special occasion, Ocean Grill in Avila Beach is a top choice for fresh, flavorful seafood.

A photo of Gardens of Avila Restaurant restaurant

3. Gardens of Avila Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(937)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 9 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.

A photo of Marisol at the Cliffs Hotel and Spa restaurant

4. Marisol at the Cliffs Hotel and Spa

4.7

Exceptional(1363)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 9 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.

5. Ventana Grill

4.6

Exceptional(3205)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 30 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.

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

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

4.7

Exceptional(4483)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 52 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.

7. Oyster Loft

4.9

Exceptional(3624)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 15 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 Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn restaurant

8. Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn

4.5

Awesome(1948)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Luis Obispo

Booked 65 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.

9. Sea Venture

4.7

Exceptional(2392)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 11 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.

A photo of Pono Pacific Kitchen restaurant

10. Pono Pacific Kitchen

4.9

Exceptional(623)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Pismo Beach

Booked 5 times today

At Pono Pacific Kitchen in the charming area of Pismo Beach and Grover Beach, the seafood is not just a meal; it's an experience. The restaurant has mastered the art of Pacific Rim cuisine, with a menu that celebrates the best of local catch, creatively blended with Asian and Hawaiian influences. Patrons rave about the "award-winning ahi nachos" and the "macadamia nut crusted Mahi Mahi," which are just a glimpse of the innovative dishes offered. The freshness of the seafood is consistently highlighted in reviews, with one guest mentioning, "The fish is as fresh as it gets. Each bite of each dish we got was so FULL of flavor." The consensus is clear: Pono Pacific Kitchen delivers a seafood experience that is both authentic and exceptional, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking top-tier seafood with a unique twist.

‘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.

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Avila Beach

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14 restaurants available nearby

1. Custom House

2. Ocean Grill

3. Gardens of Avila Restaurant

4. Marisol at the Cliffs Hotel and Spa

5. Ventana Grill

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

7. Oyster Loft

8. Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn

9. Sea Venture

10. Pono Pacific Kitchen

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