Every year, New Times asks SLO County residents to weigh in on the best the region has to offer across food, drink, wellness, experiences, and more. Every year, the competition is tough. This county punches well above its weight, and the ballot reflects it. This year, Pismo Beach and Shell Beach came out strong, earning recognition across nearly every category. It’s a good reminder that the South Coast is home to some of the best businesses, experiences, and people in the entire county.
Here’s where we landed.
Credit: @adventuretraveloffroad
Food & Drink
- Best Restaurant in Pismo Beach: Giuseppe’s Cucina Rustica
- Best Italian Food: Giuseppe’s Cucina Rustica
- Best Restaurant in Shell Beach: Zorro’s Café & Cantina
- Best Oyster Bar: Oyster Loft
- Best Clam Chowder: Splash Café
- Best Chinese Food: Mei’s Chinese Restaurant
- Best Drink with a View: Ventana Grill
- Best Bloody Mary: Marisol at The Cliffs
- Best Mocktail: Marisol at The Cliffs
- Best South Coast Bar: Marisol at The Cliffs
Credit: @televisionofnomads
Wellness & Beauty
- Best Medical Spa: Aesthera MedSpa
- Best Tattoo Removal: Bungalow Day Spa
- Best Place to Get a Massage: The Spa at The Cliffs
- Best Local Grocery Store: California Fresh Market
Credit: @morgan_smith_photography
Experiences
- Best Hike: The Pismo Preserve
- Best Surf Lessons: Sandbar Surf School
- Best Surf Shop: Moondoggies Beach Club
Venues & Events
- Best Place to Get Married: The Cliffs Hotel and Spa
- Best Event Venue: The Cliffs Hotel and Spa
- Best Event Planner: Anna Fergus at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa
Congratulations to every business and individual on this list. Winning a New Times Best of award in SLO County means earning it against real competition from across the region, and these wins reflect the quality and care that South Coast businesses bring every day. We’re proud to call you neighbors, and proud to see Pismo Beach and Shell Beach so well represented.
