Hungry visitors exploring Oceano and Nipomo are in for a delicious treat on Highway 1. After a day enjoying the Oceano Dunes, teeing off at Blacklake Golf Course or catching a show at the Great American Melodrama, there’s nothing like a hot, well-prepared meal. Oceano and Nipomo boast a diverse array of casual dining spots serving up local specialties like authentic Santa Maria-style barbecue, tender tri-tip, spicy Mexican fare and fresh-caught fish complemented by locally crafted beers, wines and spirits. From well-known eateries to hidden gems celebrated by the locals, these sister cities offer a laid back coastal vibe. Whether visitors dine in cozy dining rooms, sip drinks on sunny patios or belly up to welcoming bars—formal attire is never required.
Discover Dining in Oceano and Nipomo
Best BBQ
Jocko’s Steakhouse
Steeped in history dating back to 1838, the iconic Jocko’s Steakhouse transports visitors to California’s ranching heyday. This family-owned establishment has retained its authentic, down-home atmosphere with cattle brands adorning the walls and a menu virtually unchanged for decades. Locals and tourists alike line up for Jocko’s renowned Santa Maria-style steaks, cooked over red coals in an open pit and served with classic sides like loaded baked potatoes and Texas toast. While waiting for a table, guests can sit at the low-lit bar and sip local beer or “Jocko’s Fizz” while the jukebox plays. Jeans and cowboy boots blend right in at this quintessential steakhouse where generous portions ensure no one leaves hungry.
Rib Line
Earning fame on Food Network’s “Man vs. Food,” the Rib Line in Oceano dishes up award-winning pork and beef ribs, dry rubbed or sauced to perfection. But this barbecue joint offers far more than just ribs. Guests can indulge in decadent macaroni and cheese, garlic bread, pulled pork, barbecued chicken and even vegetarian options like grilled artichokes and pommes frites. The lengthy kids’ menu ensures even little eaters find delicious fun. While digging into hearty platters paired with craft beers, daring diners can attempt the Brahma Bull Challenge – a 2-foot loaded steak sandwich to be conquered in 90 minutes for a spot on the Wall of Fame, with the standing record earning free Friday lunches. Whether seeking stellar ribs or embracing outrageous eating challenges, the Rib Line delivers a finger-licking good time.
Best Burgers
Sylvester’s Burgers
Living up to its “Big, Hot ‘n Juicy!” tagline, Sylvester’s serves up gloriously messy burgers on specially-made buns that soak up every delicious dribble of juice. While the star of this Oceano burger joint is the fresh, house-made 100% USDA Choice beef burgers, the menu also caters to low-carb, vegetarian, vegan and veg-curious diners, too. The fun, relaxed atmosphere boasts customer photos and patrons can enjoy both indoor and heated patio dining. Try a California burger with avocado, jack cheese and Sylvester’s sauce or grab a handful of napkins and tuck into a spicy Habanero Burger laden with swiss cheese, mayo and fiery habanero mango salsa. Fresh sandwiches and salads offer up a host of delicious lighter options, although a side of garlic fries is always a great idea to share with the table. A kids’ menu keeps little ones happy, while burger fans of all ages are treated to a free beef burger up to 1/3 pound on their birthday. That said, the ultimate challenge is conquering “The Big One” — a monstrous five-pound beef burger that, if finished in 30 minutes or less, earns winners a spot on the wall, free t-shirt and entry into the $1,000 “Beef Bath Bonanza.”
California Grill Nipomo
California Grill Nipomo is a must-visit destination for hungry patrons craving delicious burgers, sandwiches, salads and more. An all-American restaurant serving up California-style grub, this relaxed Nipomo hangout is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Order mouthwatering Philly cheesesteaks, indulge in a big barbecue chicken salad with crisp lettuce, or savor classic BLT sandwiches bursting with salty-fresh charm. The menu boasts a variety of hearty lunch options, including beef burgers topped with cheese, bacon and fun savory toppings. Of course, lighter club sandwiches and Caesar salads are also in the mix, allowing everyone to agree on the menu. Don’t miss out on the grill’s tantalizing pastrami sandwiches, always made fresh-to-order and stacked high with quality deli meats. Whether hungry patrons are in the mood for a classic American meal or a West Coast inspired delight, California Grill Nipomo curbs a multitude of cravings.
Best Pizza
Palo Mesa Pizza
Palo Mesa Pizza in Arroyo Grande serves up award-winning pizzas and more. No stranger to the spotlight, this local pizzeria has racked up international, national and local accolades thanks to chef/owner Michael Stevens’ culinary expertise honed across fine dining and casual bistros. Opened in 2007 near Oceano and Nipomo, the original Arroyo Grande Mesa location quickly won fans with its delectable crust, fresh ingredients and generous toppings. Now expanded to four Highway 1 spots, the menu still features renowned pies like the sausage-topped “Award Winner” and the fully-loaded “Ken’s Favorite” made with pepperoni, ham, banana peppers, Italian sausage, hamburger, onions, bacon, green peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms and black olives. Adventurous eaters can sample seasonal dessert pizzas while pasta, salad and calzone options satisfy a range of cravings. Whether taking pizza to-go or dining in the cozy restaurant, guests are sure to taste the accolades in every glorious bite.
Pi Whole Pizzeria
Pi Whole Pizza in Nipomo has cultivated a devoted local following thanks to showstopping pies. With its clever name and crowd-pleasing “volcanic pizza” weighing in at a staggering 3.14 pounds, this friendly pizzeria is a fun place to explore new slices. Pi Whole Pizzeria’s generously-topped 16″ pies are named after volcanoes, both real and imaginary, and feature unique flavor combinations like the Mauna Loa’s ham, pineapple, carnitas, macadamia nuts and toasted coconut or the Mt Whitney’s garlic herb sauce, chicken, mushrooms, zucchini, olives and red onions. But the menu’s showstopper is the calzone-style “Lava Bomb” sandwiches stuffed with goodies like meatballs, veggies cheese and sauce. Completing the volcanic theme, traditional Italian favorites from lasagna to eggplant parmigiana offer additional eruptions of flavor, with a nod to the local Davidson Seamount underwater volcano, located just off Highway 1.
Stefono’s Sapori D’Italia
Stefono’s Sapori D’Italia might be best known for thick-crust Chicago-style pizza, but its hot dog menu remains a local treasure. Hungry patrons can discover dogs in a variety of flavors, including chili cheese dogs, jumbo spicy dogs, and the signature Al Capone Jumbo Spicy Dog, featuring an extra-thick dog topped with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, kosher pickles and sport peppers on steamed hoagie bread. Indulge in hot sandwiches guaranteed to satisfy visitors, such as the famous Chicago-style Italian Beef sandwiches and a Lamb & Beef Greek Gyro “sliced off of the cone.” Craving something hearty? Dive into piping hot bowls served with meatballs and peppers, or opt for a range of savory pastas. Don’t forget to enjoy French fries and perhaps a cannoli for dessert. At Stefono’s Sapori D’Italia, every dish is crafted with care to ensure an authentic East Coast dining experience.
Best Mexican Food
Efrens’ Mexican Restaurant
For an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, Efren’s Deli in Oceano cannot be beat. The menu spans egg-stuffed breakfast burritos and omelets to savory lunch and dinner specialties like housemade tacos, tortas, quesadillas, burritos and nachos with meats like carnitas, carne asada, pollo, shrimp and vegetarian options. Weekend menudo, sopes, chilaquiles and Mexican beverages like horchata and micheladas round out the crave-worthy specialties. Kick back and enjoy the vibrant interior murals depicting Oceano landmarks or grab a stool on Efren’s cozy outdoor patio.
Rancho Nipomo BBQ
Rancho Nipomo BBQ is a local gem serving up famous barbecue and Cal-Mex fare in Nipomo since 2006. Hidden off Highway 101, patrons are sure to enjoy the down-home atmosphere and friendly service—not to mention the delightful smell of smoking meats. While Santa Maria-style grilled meats are a regional staple, this South County spot specializes in smoked delicacies like pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, burritos and tacos. The indoor dining room, expansive patio and 20+ bar taps invite guests to linger over a cold craft beer and sizzling hot meal. Afterward, be sure to check out the newest addition to the restaurant, the Gold Rush Cantina dance hall and live music venue. Here, folks can enjoy a toe-tapping good time amidst smoky, flavorful barbecue bliss.
La Tapatia Markets & Deli
For mind-blowing Mexican fare that won’t break the bank, La Tapatia Markets & Deli is one of Oceano’s best. Home to juicy al pastor cooked the old fashioned way, visitors from near and far flock to this locally-owned joint for lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Savor an exceptional burrito stuffed with chopped carnitas or carne asada, or order a mess of street tacos laden with “the works:” meat, onions, cilantro and hot salsa. When it comes to Taco Tuesdays, locals are known to go slightly overboard—but who can blame them? For first-timers wondering what to order, go for the aforementioned al pastor, which is famously crowned with pineapple and onion before making its way to a two-foot-high trompo spit. Add a side of chips and guacamole, rice, refried beans, pickled radishes and a slice of fresh lime for a truly zesty dining experience.
Best Thai Food
Thai Villa
Tucked away in Old Nipomo, Thai Villa brings “super fresh California Thai” flavors to the Central Coast. The peaceful restaurant cocoons diners with Thai artwork and soothing music as they indulge in fresh spring rolls, mango salad, chicken satay skewers and potsticker dumplings. Next, savor delicate curries, rice dishes, noodles and Thai barbecue, a Thai Villa specialty. Another local favorite is the Cashew Nut stir-fry, which brings together fresh veggies, sweet chili, rich cashews and a choice of protein. Singha beer on tap and a “secret” wine list of rare vintages perfectly complement these vibrant Thai recipes.
Sister Kitchen
A family-owned gem, Sister Kitchen offers up an authentic Thai dining experience in Grover Beach. Enjoy a surprisingly fresh atmosphere that combines culinary performance with dynamic Thai flavors. At the exhibition kitchen’s counter, guests can watch as edible magic unfolds, producing delicious starters like Sister Kitchen’s chicken-and-pork dumplings, a cult-favorite appetizer. Stay tuned for vibrant rice, noodle, salad, larb, stir-fry and curry dishes bursting with flavor, texture and color. With many gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and low-carb options, all diners can order easily and leave happy. Complemented by premium sake, wines and imported beers, Sister Kitchen deliciously transports local palates to far-flung Thailand.
Best Sushi
Izakaya Raku
Izakaya Raku serves exquisite Japanese cuisine and sushi on Highwa1. Located near Oceano, this restaurant features a warm, intimate setting with glowing lanterns and wooden accents. The menu stars customizable sushi and sashimi platters, fresh “chef’s choice” daily selections, teppanyaki favorites and vegetarian/gluten-free options like veggie-tofu ramen and rice noodle salads. Don’t miss signature dishes like the chirashi (seasoned rice topped with assorted fish) or indulgent Tonkatsu Dinner featuring delicate fried pork cutlet, tuna roll and veggie tempura. Complemented by local wines, craft beers, sake and cocktails, each artful dish celebrates the bounty of the sea.
California Sushi & Teriyaki
California Sushi & Teriyaki serves artful sushi rolls and popular Korean barbecue in Nipomo. An open kitchen invites guests to witness the chef’s culinary artistry first-hand. Watch these culinary experts craft fresh salads, dumplings, katsu, teriyaki, sushi and Instagram-worthy rolls like the whimsically plated “Spider Roll” using premium seafood, produce and grains. You’ll also discover meticulously-presented sashimi, udon noodle bowls and poke bowls, all great options for lunch or dinner. While Japanese fare dominates the show, diners also rave about the Korean specialties like bibimbap and Korean BBQ when available. Imported and domestic beers plus hot, cold and black label sakes pair perfectly each artistic, flavor-packed dish.
Best Breakfast
The Mayor’s Place
The Mayor’s Place is a quirky cafe serving delectable breakfast and lunch in Nipomo. Patrons will first notice the cartoonish architecture, but the dishes are just as eye-catching. Savor hearty morning options like the legendary chicken fried steak with eggs, hash browns, tomatoes, beans and biscuits or a stack of pancakes. Owners Gina and Ryan create a warm, casual vibe in the cozy country dining room—the perfect place to enjoy comfort food classics. For lunch, order up a filling sandwich, like the beloved chicken fried steak on sourdough or go for a lighter option like a fresh salad topped with a choice of protein. Whether visitors dine indoors or on the dog-friendly patio, they’re sure to leave with a smile.
Rock & Roll Diner
The Rock & Roll Diner dishes up hearty breakfasts, lunches and dinners to visitors from a pair of restored train cars parked on retired tracks in Oceano. Driving by on Highway 1, guests would be forgiven for mistaking it as an active train—a nod to the town’s railroad roots at the historic Oceano Train Depot & Museum just down the road. Visitors can step back in time into the vintage rail cars decorated with classic ads and movie posters and indulge in diner favorites like flapjacks, omelets, cinnamon rolls and biscuits and gravy. Carnivores relish the Two Eggs with a 12-oz Ribeye while vegetarians delight in the Veggie Omelet or Oatmeal and Fruit. This unique setting serves up delicious eats with a side of fascinating history for hungry patrons. All aboard for a one-of-a-kind dining experience!
Best Sandwich
Willow Nipomo
Nestled on the Nipomo Mesa near Blacklake Golf Course, Willow Nipomo is the go-to spot for hungry folks seeking a post-golf wind-down. Relax on the outdoor patio, shaded by market umbrellas during the day and twinkling with Mediterranean lights at night. Indulge in elevated American classics like prime rib dip sandwiches with balsamic glaze or crispy chicken sandwiches with garlic aioli. Pair a great meal with local wine from Willow’s curated list or choose from a variety of craft beers from their extensive selection. Don’t forget to grab a bottle for a picnic on the way out. Plus, with live music and a dog-friendly patio, Willow Nipomo is the perfect spot to unwind with friends.
Central Market
Central Market in Oceano is known for serving up convenient, authentic Mexican food on Highway 1 with close proximity to the dunes. Stop into this friendly neighborhood grocer for famously good tortas made with toasted bolillo bread, refried beans, flavorful meat, grilled queso fresco, tomato, lettuce, sour cream and jalapeno. Fans of classic Mexican flavors are also sure to get their fill of tacos, enchiladas, chile relleno, tamales and burritos with an emphasis on perfectly-seasoned birria, chorizo, pollo, carne asada and more. The market itself features several departments, including a fresh produce area, meat counter, beer and wine selection as well as curated household provisions. A diverse array of Mexican specialty items such as hot sauces, beans, rice, salsa, dry chilis and hand cut nopales are easily procured, as are Asian sauces like sesame oil, hoisin and Huy Fong Original Sriracha. A tradition in Oceano for half a century, this celebrated Highway 1 market has become the favorite one-stop shop for visitors of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, one of the area’s top outdoor destinations.
Fuego
Far from the average sandwich joint, Fuego brings a unique twist to the lunch table. Step into this cozy Grover Beach restaurant and get to know their specialty bahn mi sandwich, a delicious fusion of French-inspired baguette and Vietnamese flavors. Each bite of tender roasted pork, pickled daikon, carrots, and signature “sauXe” transports the taste buds to new heights. Explore other tempting options tri-tip and rotisserie chicken sandwiches, paired perfectly with housemade sides like Fuego slaw and creamy mac and cheese. Wash it all down with a refreshing glass of kombucha, nitro coffee or authentic Mexican Coke for an unforgettable dining experience.
Best for a Quick Lunch
California Grill
California Grill in Nipomo dishes out hot burgers, sandwiches, salads and more in a flash. Whether travelers are headed to Nipomo Adobe, Nipomo Dunes, or simply taking a scenic drive along the Nipomo foothills, this is the go-to pitstop for an epic lunch. Patrons can pop in for a quick bite or take an order to go (often ready in under ten minutes). Must-try favorites include The Cali burger with avocado and bacon, BBQ Chicken Salad and the Teri Burger with teriyaki sauce, grilled onions and pineapple. Indulge in perfectly crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, and garlic fries, or grab a thick milkshake — some say they’re the best item on the menu. Grab an Oreo, vanilla, chocolate or strawberry shake to-go and head to the dunes for a sunset spectacle.
Pier St. Deli
Located near the entrance to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, Pier St. Deli offers fresh sandwiches, salads, and more. Walk up to this cheerful yellow storefront for a fabulous lunch crafted with locally-made bread and farm-fresh veggies. With indoor and outdoor seating boasting ocean views, it’s a prime spot for visitors to enjoy a satisfying coastal meal on Highway 1. Indulge in a generously portioned sandwich — or consider sharing it with a friend. From towering burgers to tasty fries and vibrant salads, there’s a flavor to satisfy every appetite. Plus, vegetarian options like the Black Bean Burger and naturally gluten-free dishes like homemade soups and salads cater to diverse tastes. Little ones can enjoy items from the kids’ menu, while meat lovers will adore the Pastrami Burger and Baconator Burger. Save room for dessert and explore the bakery case for locally-made cupcakes, cookies, and more.
Best Drinks & Appetizers
Mongo’s Saloon
For a laid-back sports bar experience perfect for catching the big game, head over to Mongo’s Saloon. With multiple big screen TVs broadcasting NFL, baseball, soccer, basketball, hockey, and golf, sports enthusiasts won’t miss a moment of the action. On Sundays, the Red Zone Live big projector screen adds to the excitement. Indulge in classic pub cuisine like burgers, fries, tri-tip sandwiches, chili and fish ‘n chips. Kids can enjoy favorites like chicken strips and house-made mac and cheese. As night falls, Mongo’s transforms into a lively music venue with live bands, game nights and karaoke. Complete with billiard tables, a well-stocked bar and a late-night menu, it’s the ultimate spot for after-hours fun. Don’t forget to stop by for breakfast and brunch, where the Bloody Mary reigns supreme. Keep an eye out for drink specials and promotions to enhance the experience.
Old Juan’s Cantina
Since 1976, Old Juan’s Cantina has been synonymous with fun and flavor in Oceano. This family-friendly restaurant offers a vibrant party atmosphere and classic Mexican dishes that cater to all ages. Kids will love the festive interior and crowd-pleasing menu featuring enchiladas, quesadillas, tacos, burritos, chicken strips and hamburgers. Indulge in top-shelf tequila and premium triple sec poured into an ice cold Cadillac Margarita paired with nachos, combination lunches and dinners, a la carte items and desserts. Must-try favorites include the Taco Salad, Albóndiga Soup, Jalapeno Burger, fajitas and Chicken Mole Enchiladas. With its close proximity to the ocean, Old Juan’s offers a fantastic seafood selection, including popular fish tacos. Relax on the heated and shaded patio with a cold cerveza, and don’t miss out on Old Juan’s Sunday brunch featuring classic and innovative dishes served with bottomless mimosas.
Best Dining after Golf
The Butterfly Grille
Catering to hungry golfers at the Monarch Dunes Golf Club, The Butterfly Grille serves classic breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes daily. Whether seated inside or outside, patrons can enjoy stunning views of the Monarch Dunes’ “Old Course” and its serene lake. Opt for outdoor dining on the heated patio, complete with fire pits beside the table for added comfort. Breakfast offerings feature hearty favorites like breakfast burritos, pancakes, waffles and omelets. Lunch options range from American burgers to south-of-the-border specialties like quesadillas, taco salads and more. Dinner brings nightly specials such as teriyaki chicken bowls and tri-tip sandwiches, all accompanied by draft beer, local wine and cocktails. Take advantage of happy hour after a round or two of golf—and for those on the move, grab-and-go options are available from the deli case.
Blacklake Bar & Grill
Situated within the picturesque Blacklake Golf Resort, Blacklake Bar & Grill offers a variety of dining options for golfers on the go. Start the day with a full breakfast menu for sit-down dining or grab baked goods, coffee and egg sandwiches to go. For lunch, head to the spacious patio overlooking the ninth green and delve into dishes like smoked tri-tip chili, three-cheese mac and cheese, the “Blacklake Flatbread,” sandwiches and overflowing salads. If hunger strikes on the course, swing by for a bag of chips, a cookie or grab a cold beer to enjoy some fun gameplay. The bar boasts a fine selection of craft beers, wine, and signature cocktails, making it an ideal spot to unwind with drinks, snacks and good company.
Best Farm to Table
The Spoon Trade
Spoon Trade is a unique farm-to-table restaurant in Grover Beach that elevates American food in new and delicious ways. Owned by Jacob and Brooke Town, the restaurant embodies the culinary journey of two local talents returning home after thriving careers in San Francisco’s top restaurants. Nestled off Highway 1, the restaurant offers gourmet comfort food flavors combined with peak-season Central Coast produce. Savor exquisite biscuits, sourdough waffles and popular fried chicken, a Spoon Trade specialty. Don’t miss out on the baked goods from their bakery wing, especially the housemade “Grover Beach Sourdough” bread. Salads, burgers, soups, pastas and steak are all crafted with precision and concentrated flavor (even the American cheese on The Spoon Trade’s fried bologna sandwich is made in-house). Pair with a farm-fresh cocktail or local beer or wine for a well-rounded meal. Vegetarians and gluten-free diners will also find ample options and friendly staff ready to accommodate dietary needs. Plus, there’s a comfortable patio for outdoor dining, making great use of the Spoon Trade’s coastal location.
Nosh Paleo Cafe
At Nosh Paleo Cafe in Nipomo, healing recipes are always flavorful and fresh. This haven for nutritious, organic superfood was born from the owner’s love of classic comfort cuisine and desire to heal her own autoimmune disease through upleveled nutrition. Reinventing classic recipes with a host of natural ingredients, Nosh Paleo Cafe offers a great balance between flavor and feel-good vibes. The all-day breakfast and lunch menu celebrates vibrant ingredients like quail eggs and microgreens over artisan toast, fruit-topped waffles, fresh salads brimming with local produce, sandwiches and from-scratch soups. Plus, dessert lovers can rejoice, too: Discover indulgent-yet-wholesome treats, including chocolate chip cookies and flaky hand pies. Craving more? Opt for meal-ready entrees like creamy garlic chicken delivered wherever visitors roam. With a dedicated kids’ menu of pizzas, grilled cheese and sweet smoothies, the whole family can embrace Nosh Paleo Cafe’s nutritious, lovingly-crafted eats.
Halcyon Farms
Halcyon Farms, nestled on the border of Oceano and Arroyo Grande, embodies a vibrant community spirit and commitment to sustainability. Led by Ariela Gottschalk, boasting two decades of expertise in cultivating vegetables, flowers and nursery plants, and Jeff Pienack, a passionate surfer and environmental advocate, Halcyon Farms is more than just a local farm — it’s a cornerstone of the neighborhood. Offering a delightful array of locally grown produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables and cut flowers, Halcyon Farms prioritizes organic farming practices, as evidenced in their produce-packed Harvest Bags, a convenient way for visitors to enjoy the season’s best bounty. Plus, locals and visitors alike can get involved with fun seasonal events, from U-pick strawberry and raspberry days to personalized pumpkin engraving workshops and guest chef cooking demos.
Hayashi Fruit Stand
Hayashi Fruit Stand, located on Highway 1 just before the intersection of S. Halcyon, is a beloved fixture on the Central Coast. Open March through winter, stop by for fresh produce and warm hospitality. Local farmers since 1942, the Hayashi family have claimed Central Coast local status since 1942. In fact, their rich history traces back to 1918 when family patriarch Yeiju journeyed from Japan, eventually settling in California after traversing South America and Mexico. With his wife Toyo, they raised two sons, Haruo and Akio, establishing roots in the fertile lands of the Central Coast to create a better life. By 1942, the family business was thriving, with approximately 100 acres of land in the Arroyo Grande Valley dedicated to growing crops like lettuce and beans. Today, generations of Hayashis continue the tradition of offering fresh vegetables and fruits at their Oceano farmstand and farmers markets year-round. Their enduring commitment to quality and tradition ensures that Hayashi Fruit Stand remains a cherished part of the community for years to come.
