Having lived almost my whole life in this coastal state, I thought I was jaded by the ocean. In this part of California though, waking up to the sound of the ocean was, actually, quite nice. I'm sure it didn't hurt that this area had no crowds, no traffic and ample parking.
Here are some of the things I've enjoyed.
The Hidden Kitchen
2164 Center Street, Cambria, CA
This small but adorable shack down an alleyway cranks out hearty smoothies and fulfilling blue corn waffles. With organic, seasonal and 100% gluten free ingredients, folks who don't mind sitting outside will be more than happy with the sweet and savory waffle toppings, hot coffee and kind staff. Lucky for all of us, a new, larger space will be opening in March of 2020.
https://www.hiddenkitchencambria.com/
Moonstone Buzz. This was a thick, rich and creamy smoothie made with banana, almond butter, coffee grounds, cold brew coffee, cinnamon and dates. The gentle sweetness was balanced with all the other ingredients and the kick of coffee and cinnamon came through very nicely.
Morro Melt. The blue corn waffle was thick, hefty without being too dense, soft and moist on the inside but a bit crisp on the outside with a pronounced corn taste. The toppings of turkey, caramelized onion, melted havarti cheese, secret sauce (I suspect it was mayo based with garlic, chili and other spices) and avocado were savory and perfectly balanced.
San Luis Sunrise. The same wonderful blue corn waffle topped with secret sauce, two free-range eggs, avocado and a generous handful of savory, salty, crispy bacon ends. This is a waffle for the people who "don't like" waffles. Every aspect was delicious with the flavors, textures and aromas.
Fish Goucho
1244 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA
This establishment offers a modern take on Latin American fare with an emphasis on seafood. The decor was simple and elegant, with just enough rustic Latin embellishments to make you feel a bit of whimsy for traveling. The service was attentive but still easy going, well informed and forthcoming with recommendations. I was happy to see a small food menu along with a large mezcal and tequila menu. I would say this would be one of the better places to try mezcal or tequila for a novice mezcal or tequila drinker.
http://www.fishgaucho.com/
Braised Short Rib Chile Verde. An excellent choice for the meat lover. Made with slow braised beef short rib, pulled and piled on top of a mound of jalapeno mashed potatoes, nestled in a tasty pool of savory salsa verde and topped with a runny egg yolk. The asparagus and warm flour tortillas on the side gave a little extra with texture and a hands-on eating experience.
Mole Camaron. Fresh and perfectly cooked gulf shrimp were encased in crispy flour tortillas along with perfectly al dente butternut squash, pepitas, queso cotija, artisanal cheese and topped with a well-balanced mole, toasted sesame seeds and fresh micro greens.
Side of Garlic Rice. This was seasoned, buttery rice with a fragrant amount of garlic. It made for a nice side to help sop up sauces.
Jeffry's Wine and Country BBQ
819 12th Street, Suite B, Paso Robles, CA
Wine country and barbecue are two things that seem independent of each other. However, this place has brought them together seamlessly and gloriously with rustic outdoor seating, counter service and fantastic food.
https://jeffryswinecountrybbq.com/
Tray of Fries. A simple side brought to new heights by the culinary genius responsible for this creation. The seasoned light batter on each piece of potato enhanced the crispy crunchy texture, flavor and enjoyment of these beauties. The house made ketchup and ranch dipping sauces provided just enough extra oomph to push you over the flavor cliff. I could have easily eaten a lot more of these.
Signature Smoked Tri-Tip Sandwich. The thin slices of dry rubbed and smoked tri tip were cooked until tender, moist, juicy and succulent. Enveloped between a soft brioche bun, the house made bbq sauce had just enough tang and sweetness to provide a great symphony of flavors with the mouth-watering meaty goodness. A side of sesame cole slaw was a nice crunchy palate cleanser and the pickle added a great acidic balance to the meal.
BBQ Combo Plate. One of the specials of the evening that I could not resist. Their creamy and cheesy mac and cheese, flavorful and juicy chopped brisket, smoked pork ribs that had the perfect texture and finger-licking goodness, crisp cole slaw, sweet and savory baked beans, and cucumber pickles to help cleanse the palate. This was a delicious tray of food that, in my humble opinion, has put California BBQ on the map.
This will most likely be the first of many visits to come. I look forward to exploring the culinary delights of SLO Cal for years and years.
