It’s 6:00 p.m. on a Thursday and you’ve just finished wrapping a mountain of presents. Doesn’t the question inevitably roll around to: “to cook or to take out?” We say pick the latter this holiday season. Not only will you be supporting locally owned Paso Robles restaurants who truly appreciate your patronage, but you’ll also skip the drama, work and cleanup of it all. This holiday, make “dinner and drinks” as easy as throwing on your favorite cozy sweater. Follow our lead: Uncork a few bottles of world class Paso Robles wine and grab contactless pickup to-go (support your local restaurants!) and remember to purchase some gift cards for friends and family while you’re there. Cheers! Yes, a fantastic holiday meal can really be that effortless. Almost feels like magic, no?
Wine country wow: Parrish Family Vineyard
Crazier things have happened. Bet you didn’t think you could get a fancy, perfectly paired winery meal to go? Well, pigs can apparently fly. Case in point: Parrish Family Vineyard’s Friday Meal Special, where you can enjoy a lovely drive to the scenic winery and leave with a meal to feed 4-5 hungry bellies. What’s been on this wondrous weekly menu as of late? Why, Chef Samantha’s wine country take on classic enchiladas, which include ten delectable enchiladas and four cups of flavorful Spanish rice. While the kids chow down, you’ll want to pair this meal with the winery’s 2018 Sauvignon Blanc. Or this week, try Sam’s Chicken and Lavender Waffles served with orange butter and honey paired with their 2018 Chardonnay or 2016 Silken. Who says you can’t enjoy brunch for dinner! Good thing you can pick that up all in one fell swoop.
For mapping and directions to Parrish including one click to hail an UBER or LYFT, click here
Mix and match mmmmm: Pappy McGregors
Why choose? Have your calamari and eat it too! Whether you crave a big bowl of bubbling mac and cheese, a finger-licking mess of garlic crispy hot fries, tender prime rib, or an amazing slice of meatloaf with a side of fresh steamed veggies, Pappy McGregors in downtown Paso Robles has the down-home flavors that will stick to your ribs (and your memory) for some time. Load up on crowd pleasing faves like halibut and chips or go for a lamb burger that really scratches your itch for a meaty morsel. That’s right: it’s time to choose your own adventure. The possibilities are endless! (They are currently open for outdoor dining too!)
For mapping, directions and phone number to Pappys including one click to hail an UBER or LYFT, click here
Fresh and spicy: Fish Gaucho
Boozy and beautiful: A squeeze of vibrant lime juice, a dollop of rich sour cream, a splash of fiery salsa—there’s nothing zestier than a lovingly crafted from Fish Gaucho, Paso Robles’ own Mexican fusion fiesta (and yes, you can take that party to go!). The flaky fish tacos, fried-egg topped chili verde and surprising sous vide and grilled octopus all have their own way of inspiring your average taco night to new, foodie-approved heights. The best part? You can order perfectly mixed cocktails to go! We’ll take two rounds of the classic Gaucho Margarita, a no-fuss mix of classic El Jimador Tequila Blanco, salt and lime. Santa’s wearing flip flops this year. (They are currently open for outdoor dining too!)
For mapping, directions and phone number to Fish Gaucho including one click to hail an UBER or LYFT, click here
Curry up and get it!
See what we did there? Lone Madrone Winery in westside Paso Robles may have closed its tasting room doors during the California lockdown, but you can still swing by for curbside bottles or cases of their elegant vineyard-specific wines! Plus, the winery’s popular Atascadero cider house, Bristols, is continuing to offer its famous curry nights Thursday through Sunday 4-6 p.m. All you need to do is call or order online, then drive by and pick up to enjoy simmering Indian spices spooned over fluffy perfectly-cooked rice. On a cold winter night, we can’t think of much better.
For mapping, directions, and phone number to Lone Madrone including one click to hail an UBER or LYFT, click here
For mapping, directions and phone number to Bristols including one click to hail an UBER or LYFT, click here
What about Christmas and Christmas Eve?
Wishing for a festive feast or Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? No need to stress. Order from Cello at Allegretto Vineyard and Resort in Paso Robles recognized with the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Award #7 Top Resort in Northern California. This is where the Mediterranean inspired fare is casual, yet upscale (the classic Paso Robles vibe). Relax and let the chef conjure up the holiday magic, a course at a time. Need great Paso Robles wine to keep the cheer rolling? The happy elves at Cello have you covered with their luscious Allegretto Wines or a wide selection of wines crafted in Paso Robles.
View the menu, click here
For mapping, directions and phone number to Cello including one click to hail an UBER or LYFT, click here
Gourmet to go: Thomas Hill Organics
This is farm-to-table dining as you’ve never experienced. Whether you choose a “family meal to go” featuring the finest local winter produce or a “friend chicken family pack” piled high with all the gourmet fixins, you can fill up on remarkable regional fare in a snap thanks to Thomas Hill Organics in downtown Paso Robles. Craving something warm and comforting you can dip some crusty toasted bread into? Check out the eatery’s nifty “soup kitchen,” which promises to wow you with an array of gourmet soups that are not of your mother’s (or grandmother’s) making. Intrigued? You should be. (Thomas Hill Organics reopens Sunday, December 27, 2020)
For mapping, directions and phone number to Thomas Hill Organics including one click to hail an UBER or LYFT, click here
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
Looking for a place to stay in Paso Robles?
The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, lo
cally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.
Directions: speedfind.com/Allegretto
Wouldn’t you love to wake up among the vines? Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Bed & Breakfast is on a real working vineyard and longhorn ranch in the Paso Robles Wine Region. Our rooms overlook vineyards, creeks and oaks, right in the Paso Robles Wine Country of Central California.
Directions: speedfind.com/edenhouse
Spend an idyllic getaway at Briarwood Cottage at ONX Estate Vineyards in an English-cottage inspired vineyard-side home. Guests may rent rooms in the main cottage, reserve the entire main cottage for a large group, or book the fully equipped apartment. Wake up to peaceful vineyard views and spend twilight hours sipping wine on the back porch of the cottage. It’s a time you won’t quickly forget. Contact us for pricing and availability (see form below). Case, 6 Bottle, and 4 Bottle Collective Members receive preferred pricing.
Directions: speedfind.com/BriarCottage
Hoyt Family Vineyard Retreats Two very cool, tiny houses, designed using fertile imagination and repurposing of materials are located on Hoyt Family Vineyard.
Directions: speedfind.com/hoytfamilyvineyards
Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®
Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
The Kiler Canyon Vineyard Retreat Perched on top of a hill on ONX Estate’s vineyard with gorgeous 360 degree views of the Willow Creek AVA
Directions: speedfind.com/KilerRetreat
La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at chic, sparkling clean Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping. TAKE AN AERIAL TOUR
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Oxford Suites Paso Robles You’ll find that from our lobby, our on-site restaurant, to our meeting spaces, to our 101 spacious suites, every space is beautiful + functional as well as comfortable + chic.
Directions: speedfind.com/oxfordsuitespasorobles
Peachy Canyon Guest Inn Sits above Peachy Canyon Winery + acres of vines at Mustang Springs Vineyard. The house has 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, living room, family room + panoramic views.
Directions: speedfind.com/PeachyInn
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals
Rio Seco Winery Guest House 2 comfortable suites each with 2 bedrooms, complete with kitchens are set amongst the vines at iconic Rio Seco Vineyard & Winery. Enjoy your own barbeque + firepit.
Directions: speedfind.com/riosecovineyard