When she opened The Park at historic Railroad Square in San Luis Obispo last year, Chef Maegen Loring was immediately embraced for her soulful menu, which she describes as “California rustic cuisine.”
Loring has created a dining experience with the allure of both great food and approachable prices. The modern dining room contrasts red birch paneling with stainless steel to create an atmosphere that’s both high tech and serene. The reasonably priced wine list offers interesting local wines interspersed with selections from Spain, France and Australia.

Loring likes working directly with farmers to procure organic vegetables and considers her menu “produce-driven.” She keeps a restrained hand, never overpowering the natural qualities of the ingredients, and she’s mindful of complementing wine. Her Pacific Rim Crab Cakes, a golden patty of pure crab with zingy bits of ginger is served with tangy lime dressing; Park Paella, spicy rice in a flavorful broth, is topped with succulent baby clams and a toothsome Linguiça; and the Macadamia crusted Halibut expertly contrasts the delicate crunch of tropical flavors — each dish is so tasty, you’ll surely return for more. — Kathy Marcks Hardesty

The Park Restaurant, 1819 Osos St., San Luis Obispo, Calif (805) 545.0000