What are the 10 best restaurants in SLO right now? Here’s what Yelp says
Ask someone what the best restaurant in San Luis Obispo is and you’ll get vastly different answers.
If they prioritize atmosphere they might pick a swanky dinner spot downtown, while someone who is all about the grub could pick a hole-in-the-wall that’s further away from the main stretches of town.
Luckily, Yelp has a weekly feature that tracks the most popular restaurants in the city based on recent user reviews.
Here are the 10 best restaurants in San Luis Obispo according to Yelp, as of Nov. 4, 2023:
Coya Peruvian Food
Address: 1401 Osos St.
Rating: 4.9 stars
Recent review: “Absolutely the best ceviche I’ve ever had — sorry mom — along with almost every plate I’ve tried. I am always left amazed at the amazing flavors. I recommend calling ahead and placing your order, as everything is freshly made and can sometimes take 10-30 minutes depending on how many customers she has. The owner is energetic and lovely to talk to. I’m originally from the Los Angeles area, and finding delicious food like Coya is life changing! Some of the finest food I’ve ever had — give the Inca Kola a taste (sweet soda) not for everyone’s palate, but worth a try. I 100 percent recommend this place — it’s a hidden gem in SLO! The ambiance is ‘hole in the wall’ as they say ... but we all know those are best spots!!” — William R., CA
To contact: Call 805-634-3504
High Street Market & Deli
Address: 350 High St.
Rating: 4.6 stars
Recent review: “This market & deli is located in a residential area. We decided to try this place out after our hotel front desk staff stated that this place has the very best sammich in SLO!! High Street Market & Deli started way back in 1927. It was the community store for the neighborhood. They sold milk, butter, tobacco plus fishing gear. Nowadays they sell the most delicious and huge sandwiches, which are freshly made from scratch. We ordered two build-your-own smoked turkey sandwiches with the works, a side order of potato salad along with a big pickle. The inside deco is more like that of old-school vintage vibes, with old signs, plus they sell merchandise inside ... hats, T-shirts, mugs, hoodies along with other accessories. The staff was very nice, we had staff check on us twice on the patio to make sure we OK or needed anything. Since leaving that day, I had the opportunity to talk to the manger Jacob who was also so kind and very helpful. I would definitely, ‘HIGHLY’ recommend ‘High’ Street Market & Deli.” — Tommy M., Los Angeles
To contact: highstdeli.com or call 805-541-4738
Ox+Anchor
Address: 877 Palm St.
Rating: 4.6 stars
Recent review: “Best breakfast in SLO! I ran into this restaurant 10 minutes before closing and the chef, Matty, fired up the absolute tastiest quiche of my life. This superstar quiche was the perfect amount of flaky buttery crust, fluffy eggs, and fillings. I was starving and so appreciative they seated me at all so I was pleased that I didn’t get some over-dried-out last piece of quiche for the day. Also equally as yummy was the tomato salad accompanying the quiche. I could eat that every day for the rest of my life. If you don’t like tomatoes, this salad will change your mind. Matty asked how I enjoyed my breakfast (after I practically inhaled it) and indulged me as I went on and on and on about how great the breakfast was. I wholeheartedly recommend this place for breakfast.” — Caroline S., Sacramento
To contact: oxandanchor.com or call 805-234-9968
Taqueria El Guero
Address: 1122 Chorro St.
Rating: 4.6 stars
Recent review: “Someone recommended me this spot as they claimed this restaurant’s tacos were the most authentic in all of SLO, so I decided to try it out. I ordered a carne asada taco plate, which came out to around $16. The food came out fairly quick but you have to get the food yourself. The presentation of the tacos were amazing and they give you a side of spicy sauce on the side. The meat was the best part of the taco as it was juicy and tender. I have never eaten a carne asada taco with so much juice and flavor! I wish they seasoned or put some sauce in the taco so the other ingredients would stand out a bit, but I’m not complaining!” — Kyle F., San Luis Obispo
To contact: taqueriaelguero.com or call 805-540-4637
Buona Tavola
Address: 1037 Monterey St.
Rating: 4.3 stars
Recent review: “We had a group of 5 and we were some hungry people! Made reservation and sat in back patio. It was a bit chilly and the heaters were on, so it was comfortable. We brought some wine which they were quick to serve us, and we enjoyed a brochette appetizer with toast, tomato, eggplant and burrata cheese. Very tasty. We also had a lot of attention from the manager as we discussed wines and pairings. We enjoyed the lamb special, mahi mahi special, a cioppino-type dish and a couple pastas. I think the pastas were the best dishes and I will try the one with fettuccine, chicken, veal, duck next time. Dessert options are plentiful and we shared a couple. It was a great meal overall and so many good choices. The wine list had some great options as well and will try those next time.” — Leo B., Atascadero
To contact: btslo.com or call 805-545-8000
Finney’s Crafthouse
Address: 857 Monterey St.
Rating: 4.3 stars
Recent review: “Absolutely everything is DELICIOUS!I Highly recommend trying a few appetizers, because they do not disappoint! We had way more dishes than pictured, but they were devoured too fast to snap a photo! Swing by!! Cocktails and beer are also a PLUS!” — Sarah E., Nipomo
To contact: finneyscrafthouse.com or call 805-439-2556
Luna Red
Address: 1023 Chorro St.
Rating: 4.2 stars
Recent review: “Luna Red is one of my go-tos. Amazing food, efficient service, elegant ambiance and unmatched accommodation for food allergies/sensitivities. 12/10 recommend!” — Katie H., San Luis Obispo
To contact: lunaredslo.com or call 805-540-5243
Mistura Restaurant
Address: 570 Higuera St.
Rating: 4.2 stars
Recent review: “The food was wonderful. Perfectly prepared with very fresh ingredients. Lots to choose from, even if you don’t eat fish. The desserts were beautiful and yummy. Mine was shaped like a rose. Service was on point — lots of helpful suggestions but not hovering. Relaxing ambiance. Do allow a little extra time to find parking. Very highly recommended.” — Belle D., Panorama City
To contact: misturarestaurants.com or call 805-439-3292
Nate’s on Marsh
Address: 450 Marsh St.
Rating: 4.2 stars
Recent review: “Nate’s (has) been on my bucket list of restaurants in (downtown) SLO. I saved my visit for our 19th wedding anniversary and was the best restaurant, IMHO, on the Central Coast. I have lived in Chicago, North Carolina and San Jose for the past 30 years and have been to some Michelin star restaurants. Nate’s should be on their list. I’ve never had such great customer services; from the receptionist, servers and the bartender who was shaking a martini in one hand and making another drink with her other hand. Our waitress and servers were so nice and attentive. The food was excellent and so was the bottle of pinot noir from Center of Effort, (it) was a-m-a-z-i-n-g. I believe Nate stopped by and asked if we needed anything from the bar. Love this place, love the ambiance and service. It is my new go-to dinner place and the martinis are to die for. Thank you Nate’s on Marsh. Well done!” — Anita L., Avila Beach
To contact: natesonmarsh.comor call 805-544-4454
Novo
Address: 726 Higuera St.
Rating: 4.2 stars
Recent review: “We had a fantastic first anniversary dinner at Novo. We had the filet mignon and the ribeye followed by the creme brûlée. The filet mignon was chef’s kiss. We will be back.” — Nicholas M., Walnut Creek
To contact: novorestaurant.com or call 805-505-7137
Check back with The Tribune next month to see if your favorite restaurant can make it to the top.
