Finding amazing restaurants near Avila Beach is one of the best parts of visiting California’s Central Coast. The restaurants near Avila Beach offer everything from fresh seafood and farm-to-table fare to casual beachfront dining and European-inspired bistros. Whether you’re staying at Cobbo’s Beach House or just exploring the area, these dining spots will make your vacation unforgettable.
From our prime location just steps from the beach, we’ve discovered the best restaurants that capture the true spirit of coastal California dining. Our guests love how easy it is to walk to these amazing eateries or take our complimentary golf cart for a scenic ride to their favorite spots. After spending days exploring Avila Beach from our luxurious vacation rental, we’re excited to share the dining gems that make this area so special.
Top Restaurants Near Avila Beach
1. Blue Moon Over Avila
This French wine bar and bistro brings European influences to the California coast with stunning seaside dining. Blue Moon Over Avila offers a rotating menu of seasonal dishes that pair perfectly with their boutique wine selections.
⭐ Ratings: 4.4/5 based on 572 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate to upscale
📍 Location: 460 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-595-2583
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
The restaurant features imported cheeses, charcuterie, fresh produce, seafood, and distinctive meats. Their small plates and dinner entreés showcase global cuisine with seasonal ingredients. The beachfront setting makes this a romantic spot perfect for special occasions.
Learn more about Blue Moon Over Avila
2. Mersea’s Seafood
Located on the historic Harford Pier, Mersea’s serves fresh, delicious seafood with awesome views of San Luis Bay. This pier restaurant offers the perfect combination of oceanfront dining and quality coastal cuisine.
⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5 based on 1,555 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate
📍 Location: 3985 Avila Beach Dr, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-548-2290
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Mersea’s specializes in Pacific Ocean fresh catches and offers a full bar with local beer selections and wine. The pier location provides a unique dining atmosphere where you can watch fishing boats and enjoy the maritime setting.
Learn more about Mersea’s Seafood
3. Custom House Restaurant
Custom House offers beachfront dining just steps from the beautiful Pacific Ocean. This casual dining spot features an excellent menu with something for everyone, including fresh fish, steaks, salads, and specialty appetizers.
⭐ Ratings: 4.3/5 based on 2,644 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate
📍 Location: 404 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-595-7555
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
The restaurant features a cocktail bar and outdoor seating with gorgeous San Luis Bay views. Custom House is perfect for casual dining with friends and family, offering diverse menu options to satisfy all tastes.
Learn more about Custom House Restaurant
4. Gardens of Avila Restaurant
Voted “most romantic” restaurant, Gardens of Avila at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort sits in a beautiful garden setting. This upscale dining spot is known for its seasonal and spontaneous garden cuisine.
⭐ Ratings: 4.2/5 based on 114 reviews
💵 Price Level: Expensive
📍 Location: 1215 Avila Beach Dr, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
📞 Contact Details: +1805-595-7365
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
The restaurant specializes in contemporary Californian cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. The garden atmosphere creates a romantic spot perfect for special occasions and intimate dining experiences.
Learn more about Gardens of Avila Restaurant
5. Mr. Rick’s Beach Bar
Mr. Rick’s is a true Avila Beach institution located just steps from the sand. This oceanfront patio restaurant offers the ideal setting for enjoying coastal scenery while sipping your favorite beverage or enjoying delicious appetizers.
⭐ Ratings: 4.3/5 based on 661 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate
📍 Location: 404 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-595-7425
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
This beach bar features 16 varieties of local, domestic, and imported beer on tap. The menu includes pub staples and the beachfront location makes it perfect for casual dining with ocean views.
Learn more about Mr. Rick’s
6. Hula Hut
Hula Hut features freshly made salads, sandwiches, wraps and smoothies in a Hawaiian-themed setting. This casual spot offers healthy options with a scenic view of Avila Beach.
⭐ Ratings: 4.1/5 based on 346 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate
📍 Location: 380 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-627-0488
⏰ Opening Hours: Monday-Wednesday, Friday-Sunday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Thursday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
The restaurant also features ice cream and locally made fudge in various flavors. Hula Hut’s tropical ambiance paired with fresh, healthy menu options makes it perfect for a casual beachside meal.
Learn more about Hula Hut
7. KravaBowl
KravaBowl brings healthy acai bowls to Avila Beach, along with cold pressed juices, fresh salads, breakfast bowls and smoothies. This fast casual spot focuses on fresh, nutritious options.
⭐ Ratings: 4.4/5 based on 569 reviews
💵 Price Level: Inexpensive
📍 Location: 310 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-439-1166
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
KravaBowl specializes in signature acai bowls made with fresh ingredients. The menu includes various healthy options perfect for breakfast or a light meal while enjoying the beach atmosphere.
Learn more about KravaBowl
8. Woodstone Marketplace
Located off San Luis Bay Drive, Woodstone Marketplace is an eclectic combination of deli, country market, coffee & espresso bar, and wine shop. This unique spot is worth the short drive from downtown.
⭐ Ratings: 4.2/5 based on 404 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate
📍 Location: 6675 Bay Laurel Pl, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-595-1018
⏰ Opening Hours: Monday 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday-Thursday 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM; Friday-Saturday 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Woodstone offers craft coffee, fresh produce, and distinctive meats. The marketplace atmosphere combines dining with shopping, making it a perfect stop for breakfast, lunch, or picking up gourmet items.
Learn more about Woodstone Marketplace
9. Ocean Grill
Ocean Grill sits just steps from the sand along the Avila Beach Promenade. This beachfront restaurant offers expansive Pacific Ocean views and a menu created by a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.
⭐ Ratings: 4.1/5 based on 574 reviews
💵 Price Level: Expensive
📍 Location: 268 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-595-4050
⏰ Opening Hours: Hours vary by season
Ocean Grill specializes in seaside dining with a focus on fresh seafood and quality ingredients. The promenade location offers beautiful ocean views and a sophisticated dining atmosphere.
Learn more about Ocean Grill
10. Mulligan’s Bar & Grill
Mulligan’s offers casual, comfortable dining in one of the most beautiful settings on the Central Coast. This restaurant features a full bar and outdoor seating with stunning views.
⭐ Ratings: 4.4/5 based on 155 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate
📍 Location: 6460 Ana Bay Rd, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-595-4000
⏰ Opening Hours: Monday-Wednesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday-Saturday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The restaurant’s dog-friendly patio and beautiful garden setting make it perfect for relaxed dining. Mulligan’s combines great food with a comfortable atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
Learn more about Mulligan’s Bar & Grill
11. Reimer’s Candies & Ice Cream
Reimer’s is a family-owned candy shop offering over 80 varieties of rich chocolates made with fresh cream and select ingredients. They also serve European-style ice cream, gelato, and shaved ice.
⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5 based on 171 reviews
💵 Price Level: Moderate
📍 Location: 324 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-627-0243
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
This sweet shop is perfect for desserts and treats. The handcrafted chocolates and premium ice cream make Reimer’s a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Learn more about Reimer’s Candies & Ice Cream
12. Avila Beach Market
Avila Beach Market is one of the area’s fast casual restaurants offering one of the most diverse menus on the coast. The market serves burgers, tacos, and various quick dining options.
⭐ Ratings: 2.8/5 based on 44 reviews
📍 Location: 354 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424
📞 Contact Details: +1805-439-1480
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
The market offers quick and convenient dining options for busy beach days. Their diverse menu includes various options for casual meals and snacks.
Learn more about Avila Beach Market
Tips for Dining in Avila Beach
From our experience hosting guests at Cobbo’s Beach House, we’ve learned some insider tips that can enhance your dining experience in Avila Beach:
Make Reservations: Popular restaurants like Blue Moon Over Avila and Gardens of Avila can get busy, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Call ahead to secure your spot.
Try the Local Seafood: Being right on the Pacific Ocean, the fresh seafood at places like Mersea’s and Ocean Grill is exceptional. The daily catches are always worth trying.
Walk or Use Our Golf Cart: Most restaurants are within walking distance from Cobbo’s Beach House, or you can take our complimentary golf cart for a fun ride to dinner.
Happy Hour Timing: Many restaurants offer happy hour specials. Places like Mr. Rick’s and Custom House have great deals on drinks and appetizers during certain hours.
Explore Beyond Downtown: Don’t miss spots like Woodstone Marketplace and Gardens of Avila that are a short drive away but offer unique dining experiences.
Pack Layers: Coastal weather can change, especially for outdoor seating. Bring a light jacket for evening dining on patios and decks.
For more dining insights and local tips, check out our Avila Beach blog where we share more about the best local experiences.
Conclusion
The restaurants near Avila Beach offer an amazing variety of dining experiences that perfectly capture the spirit of California’s Central Coast. From romantic French bistros with ocean views to casual beachfront bars and healthy acai bowl spots, there’s something to satisfy every taste and budget. The combination of fresh Pacific seafood, farm-to-table ingredients, and stunning coastal settings makes dining in Avila Beach truly special.
Staying at Cobbo’s Beach House puts you right in the heart of this culinary paradise, with most restaurants just a short walk away or a fun golf cart ride through downtown. After a day of exploring these incredible eateries, you can return to our luxury vacation rental with its chef’s kitchen, wine tasting room, and oceanfront views to continue the perfect dining experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, family meal, or casual drinks with friends, these restaurants will make your Avila Beach vacation unforgettable.
Ready to experience the best restaurants near Avila Beach? Book your stay at Cobbo’s Beach House today and start planning your culinary adventure at cobbosbeachhouse.com.
What are the best seafood restaurants near Avila Beach?
Mersea’s Seafood on Harford Pier and Ocean Grill along the Promenade are the top choices for fresh seafood. Mersea’s offers pier dining with daily catches, while Ocean Grill provides upscale seaside dining with Pacific Ocean views. Blue Moon Over Avila also features excellent seafood dishes with French influences.
Which restaurants near Avila Beach are good for families?
Custom House Restaurant offers a casual atmosphere with diverse menu options perfect for families. Hula Hut provides healthy choices like wraps and smoothies in a Hawaiian-themed setting that kids love. KravaBowl is great for breakfast with fresh acai bowls and juices.
Are there romantic dining options near Avila Beach?
Gardens of Avila Restaurant is voted the “most romantic” spot with its beautiful garden setting at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort. Blue Moon Over Avila offers intimate French bistro dining with ocean views and candlelit ambiance perfect for special occasions.
What restaurants near Avila Beach have outdoor seating?
Most restaurants feature outdoor seating to take advantage of the beautiful coastal weather. Mr. Rick’s has a beachfront patio just steps from the sand, while Mulligan’s offers a dog-friendly patio with garden views. Custom House and Mersea’s also provide outdoor dining with bay views.
Which restaurants are within walking distance of Cobbo’s Beach House?
Nearly all downtown restaurants are within easy walking distance, including Blue Moon Over Avila, Custom House, Hula Hut, KravaBowl, and Mr. Rick’s along Front Street. For a more scenic trip, you can use our complimentary golf cart to visit any of these dining spots. Check out our location page for more details about nearby attractions.
What are the price ranges for restaurants near Avila Beach?
Restaurants range from budget-friendly options like KravaBowl and Avila Beach Market to upscale dining at Gardens of Avila and Ocean Grill. Most casual spots like Custom House, Hula Hut, and Mr. Rick’s fall into the moderate price range, offering great value for quality coastal dining.
