Paso Robles may be a bit off the beaten path from major cities in California, but its culinary scene makes it well worth the trip. Much like its burgeoning wine industry, the area’s restaurants are gaining a reputation for quality, innovative cuisine.

While tasty food is a draw, of course, Paso Robles’ restaurants tend to take sourcing locally quite seriously, so you can feel good knowing that much of what you’re eating is fresh and in-season. Whether you’re craving simple Italian, comforting California fare, or southern-inspired dishes, here are our top picks for the best places to dine in Paso Robles.

In Bloom

Stepping into In Bloom instantly invites a feeling of relaxation and enjoyment, with records spinning in the background and an ambiance that exudes laid-back charm. Despite this casual vibe, one glance at the menu and you’ll know you’re in for a sophisticated dining experience. Founded in 2022 by Chris and Nichole Haisma, In Bloom reflects the couple’s deep love for California’s Central Coast in every dish, cocktail, and wine. The diverse menu draws inspiration from the region’s bounty, featuring ingredients from local farms and purveyors. Creative flavors and whimsical presentations make each course an unforgettable experience, ensuring that dining at In Bloom is both memorable and delightful.

Insider Tip: It’s no surprise that In Bloom has an extensive wine list, as the Haismas have been avid wine collectors for years. Choose from over 300 offerings—a selection that helped earn the restaurant an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator.

1845 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 286-4344

Six Test Kitchen

This intimate, 12-seat dining destination in Paso’s Tin City neighborhood takes the average dining experience to new heights. Drawing inspiration from whatever is in season, the ever-rotating, 12-course tasting menu consists of thoughtfully composed dishes that showcase hyper-local, seasonal ingredients—all prepared in front of you. The One Michelin Star Six Test Kitchen offers two seatings per evening, Wednesday through Saturday, with reservations released on the first day of each month, so book early to secure one of the coveted seats.

Insider Tip: With 12 courses and optional wine pairings, one can expect to spend a good two to three hours dining here, so be sure to plan accordingly with your babysitter or ride home, especially since the restaurant is four miles from Paso’s downtown hotels and accommodations.

3075 Blue Rock Road Unit B, Paso Robles, CA 93446

Les Petites Canailles

Owned by husband-and-wife duo, Julien and Courtney Asseo, Les Petites Canailles is one of Paso’s most noteworthy restaurants. Nicknamed after the couple’s three children, French for “the little rascals,” this farm-to-table bistro focuses on sophisticated yet casual French cuisine served in a relaxed setting. The menu features a selection of elevated, seasonal bites and mains, from tarte flambee to steak tartare, rabbit to mussels with saffron aioli, but to really experience all the flavors and techniques of the chef, opt for the “Trust Us” five-course tasting menu. You can trust us when we say, your taste buds will thank you.

Insider Tip: If you can manage, try to save room for dessert—handmade daily—like the delectable Crème Brûlée and the Mousse Au Chocolat, made with 64% dark chocolate from Valrhona.

1215 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 296-3754

The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar

A go-to spot for locals and visitors, this bustling neighborhood gem in a historic downtown building is known for its tasty cocktails and mouthwatering southern-style fare. The comfort food-driven menu features small and large plates that change seasonally, served alongside a list of inventive craft cocktails with lighthearted names like ‘Saddle Up’ and ‘Greener Pastures.’ As to be expected, The Hatch’s wood-fired rotisserie oven is the star of the show, churning out rotisserie chicken and vegetables that are cooked to perfection.

Insider Tip: If you love The Hatch’s food and cocktail program, don’t miss checking out their sister restaurant next door: Dellas. Here, you’ll find wood-fired pizzas, a full bar (the gin cocktails are a must), and a variety of shared plates served inside an inviting and upbeat setting.

835 13th Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 221-5727

FINCA

Located at the Paso Market Walk, FINCA is a casual, family-owned restaurant focused on wood-grilled meats and seafood inspired by the traditional flavors of Baja and Sonora. Sourcing as locally as possible, owners Patrick and Stephanie Aguirre and their family offer a range of mouthwatering tacos, shared plates, and burritos, along with a tasty selection of oak-grilled entrees like Spanish octopus and oysters with chipotle butter.

Insider Tip: After grabbing food from FINCA, be sure to spend time exploring the other merchants around the Paso Market Walk, such as Hog Canyon Brewing Co., Leo Leo Gelato, Paso Robles Wine Merchant, and The Vreamery, a vegan cheese shop. And if you’re visiting on a Friday, don’t miss the Market’s Friday night music series, with live music from 5-8 pm.

1803 Spring Street Suite A, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 369-2308

Somm’s Kitchen

Somm’s Kitchen is the brainchild of chef and sommelier, Ian Adamo, who combines his love for wine and food with the bounty of the Central Coast to offer expertly curated pairings every Thursday through Saturday. While seated around a curved granite counter, 16 guests can enjoy at least eight courses (shared per couple), along with 16 wines from around the world—each course thoughtfully paired to showcase the marriage of food and wine.

Insider Tip: Looking to learn more about the world of wine from an expert? Ian is available to host private educational workshops for small groups, tailoring the experience to your tastes and interests. He also hosts various events, both at the restaurant and offsite, throughout the year.

849 13th Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 369-2344

The Restaurant at JUSTIN

Since wine and food go hand-in-hand, it’s no surprise to see a winery restaurant or two on this list, including The Restaurant at JUSTIN. Boasting a coveted Michelin Star and a Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide, this dining destination is not only a critic’s darling, it’s a testament to the winery’s commitment to delivering memorable Wine Country experiences. Utilizing ingredients grown on the winery’s own 26-acre farmstead, the menus celebrate the changing seasons, with multiple courses perfectly paired with JUSTIN’s extensive portfolio of wines.

Insider Tip: Choose from the Estate Tasting or the three-hour Chef’s Tasting Menu. Either way, you’ll enjoy a delightful multi-course dinner in the refined ambiance of the restaurant.

11680 Chimney Rock Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 238-6932

The Alchemists’ Garden

At The Alchemists’ Garden, creativity in both drinks and food takes center stage. Their playful cocktail menu invites you on a whimsical journey, while the impressive spirits list offers bolder choices. When hunger strikes, the delightful food menu won’t disappoint either. Start with appetizers like the bone marrow with cherry-onion jam or the tiger prawns with jalapeno mousse. For main courses, dishes like the duck bucatini and skirt steak are always crowd-pleasers. Be sure to save room for dessert; the bruleed banana split and affogato are the perfect sweet finales.

Insider Tip: While reservations are recommended, you can always pop in and grab a seat at the bar or patio, which are first come, first served. If it’s just inventive drinks you’re after, don’t miss The Remedy, the restaurant’s intimate and secluded lounge, dedicated to elevated cocktails with a side of theatrics.

1144 Pine Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 369-2444

Restaurant at Niner Wine Estates

The Restaurant at Niner Wine Estates is open for lunch daily and makes for a delicious pit-stop while venturing around Paso Robles Wine Country. While the interior has a grand fireplace and is a lovely place to enjoy a meal, the best seats are outside on the covered patio overlooking the vines and chef’s garden. Niner tries to keep the menu as fresh and seasonal as possible for their “garden-to-table” inspired menu, utilizing ingredients grown in their own organic garden, eggs from the winery’s 20 chickens, meat from local butchers and farms, and artisanal products made locally. The winery even has its own extra-virgin olive oil milled from the property’s 350 olive trees.

Insider Tip: Before lunch, get your palate inspired by exploring the expansive chef’s garden, which is home to over 300 types of fruits, herbs, vegetables, and flowers. When you do sit down to eat, don’t miss out on the house made sourdough focaccia—it’s seriously delicious.

2400 CA-46, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 239-2233

Thomas Hill Organics

As one of the pioneers of farm-to-table dining on the Central Coast, Thomas Hill Organics excels at showcasing local and seasonal ingredients. From organically grown lettuce from Paso Robles farms to locally-made bread and local, grass-fed lamb, every dish highlights the region’s bounty. The dining area is refined with a California-casual vibe, perfectly complementing the approachable menu which changes weekly. Open for lunch and dinner every day except Wednesdays, the restaurant also offers a nice brunch on Sundays.

Insider Tip: Make a point to try Thomas Hill’s herb and cheese biscuits, made daily from scratch. They’re the perfect addition to any meal—it’s nearly impossible to have just one!

1313 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 226-5888

Il Cortile Ristorante

Located in downtown Paso Robles, Il Cortile specializes in upscale yet contemporary Italian cuisine served in a cozy, quiet setting. Here, dishes are inspired by local and seasonal ingredients, from housemade pastas and local cheeses to locally-caught seafood. Il Cortile even has a dedicated culinary garden, growing ingredients for use in the restaurant.

Insider Tip: The restaurant is regularly recognized for its wine list, featuring a selection of regional and Italian wines specifically chosen to enhance your meal and add to the overall dining experience.

608 12th Street #101, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 226-0300

BL Brasserie

BL Brasserie (formerly Bistro Laurent) is modeled after the French cafés and bistros of Paris. Offering classic French brasserie fare like steak frites and croque monsieur, along with an oyster and raw bar selection, BL Brasserie offers an unpretentious setting in which to enjoy the flavors of France with a dash of Californian influence. And definitely save room for the tempting French-style sweets, including French macarons, raspberry clafoutis, and a chilled chocolate tart.

Insider Tip: BL Brasserie doesn’t just do food, it’s also got its own wine club. Members receive personalized shipments of French wines alongside expertly paired recipes by Chef Laurent Grangien, in addition to invitations to private member dinners at the restaurant.

1202 Pine Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 226-8191