If you are traveling up the highway 101 wine trail from the Southern California coast, we know of some great places along the way to adventure to. Many times we get visitors wondering where to go to eat or taste on the way up to Paso Robles as well as where to go once up in the region. We know there are some great Central Coast wineries in our sister cities so here are some helpful tips on where to go!
– Kelsey Winery in Avila Beach
This winery is 10 minutes off of the 101 right after you pass Pismo and Shell Beach. You will exit off of the 101 and find a twisty little road that leads you to this beautiful peacock ranch and winery. There are gracious peacocks strolling about that you can feed (they give you the food) and photograph, a lovely garden area to picnic, and on most weekends they have live music. They let you tour their cellar room and offer cheese and crackers to pair with their great selection of wines! We suggest their Scrumpy hard cider and their blend of Red Delicious.
– Custom House
If you want a quick meal by the beach try out the Custom House right on the water in Avila Beach. They have indoor or outdoor seating and most locals choose the outdoor patio by the heaters. You will hear the waves and see the ocean right next to you, have a great selection of entrees, salads, apps and wine as well as enjoy friendly service. This casual beach front restaurant has a classy ocean decor, is right next to Mr. Rick’s bar and not far from some great hotels.
– Luna Red
If you are looking for something more swanky, drive 5 minutes North to downtown San Luis Obispo, to Luna Red where you will enjoy an outdoor patio experience, excellent service, organic and gluten free options, a wide array of entree and tapas menu plates and weekend live music. Only 10 minutes from the 101 you can park anywhere in downtown SLO after 6pm for free on the streets and metered parking, or you can go for an hourly selection in one of the three parking structures. They do charge a corkage fee but if you want to keep your bottle for later, try their exquisite wine selection featuring many of Paso Robles wines. Not far are many bars, other restaurant options, shops and on Thursday night, the LARGEST farmer’s market in the area.
– Baileyana
While you are in SLO, drive a little further into town to visit the winery in Edna Valley called Baileyana. The wine selection is exquisite and if you like Chardonnay, they have the best selection of buttery varietals to no-oak selections. The casual and friendly service shines and the tasting room has an outdoor seating area to watch the sunset or hang out with friends.
– Sextant
Right down the road is Sextant winery which has a sister winery in Paso Robles. They have amazing Zinfandels, GSMs and Pinots that are fruity, bold and smooth at the finish. The historical house where the tasting room is in Edna Valley is next to the ranch and you walk by goats, gardens, and their guest house. They also have a delicious deli inside that makes sandwiches, salads, cheese plates and other good eats.
Driving Directions : speedfind.com/sextantwines
Paso Robles…
Well you have arrived over the grade, up the highway and into our paradise! Stay tuned for more winery selections in Paso Robles that will be featured in the many festivals coming up!
