Favorite Restaurants of mine in Templeton, CA

Templeton, California conjures images of soft sunshine dappling rolling fields and vineyards unfurling to the horizon. Life here is relaxed and unhurried. The dress code leans more toward jeans and cowboy boots than the latest trends – and that’s just fine with the local ranchers and townspeople. This quaint family town is a neighbor to wine darling Paso Robles, but Templeton has plenty of star quality in its own right.

With the many growers and wineries Templeton has to  offer, it is no wonder this old-fashioned town features one of the most exciting culinary scenes in the area. And this joyful community delights in celebrating every chance it gets. From Founder’s Day and the Fourth of July feast to tasting parties and fresh, authentic flavors, Templeton is a true farm-to-table town. Read on to learn about my favorite and  best restaurants in Templeton, CA.

Known as one of the best places to eat on the Central Coast, McPhee’s Grill exemplifies the flavors of the wine region. Located in downtown Templeton, this acclaimed bistro dazzles with fresh seafood, wood-grilled steaks, gourmet pizzas, and handmade pasta. The atmosphere is charming and cozy, perfect for a romantic dinner or catching up with friends. With exquisite service and excellent wine pairings, dinner at McPhee’s is a lesson in fine dining. Start with the oak-grilled California artichoke or the warm goat cheese and roasted garlic toast before moving on to the filet mignon or macadamia-crusted king salmon. And, of course, order a bottle of wine for the table.

Located in the heart of Templeton, Kitchenette is a relaxed breakfast and lunch eatery with big flavors. This hidden gem has been earning rave reviews for years and continues to enjoy a reputation as one of Templeton’s best breakfast spots. With a vibrant ambiance and fresh menu ranging from sweet treats and light bites to hearty meals and burgers, Kitchenette is sure to become a go-to on your dining-out list. Try the loaded avocado toast with smoked bacon and a sunny egg, or perhaps the almond french toast with strawberry jam and cream cheese. Heartier appetites will enjoy the mushroom polenta with spinach, parmesan, and a poached egg or the pastrami Reuben with braised cabbage and Russian dressing.

A fish market and restaurant, Pier 46 Seafood is where Templeton caterers, locals, and fellow restaurateurs get their fresh seafood. Committed to sustainable practices and responsible fishing, Pier 46 Seafood is the authority in healthy eating. Pick up fresh hand-cut fish from the market to prepare at home or a tin of caviar to enjoy as an hors d'oeuvre at your next cocktail party. There are so many stunning choices you'll have to visit more than once. Lunch offers casual fare, like grilled seafood sandwiches, salads, and fish tacos, while dinner features a gorgeous array of culinary standouts. Start with steamed mussels, crunchy bread, and a crab Louie salad before moving on to grilled pecan-crusted halibut or herbed ahi steak.

The fusion Nouveau-Latin cuisine at Chulo’s spans eight different countries and a vibrant array of flavors. Consistently ranked one of the best restaurants in San Luis Obispo, Chulo’s pampers guests with a warm, cozy dining room and a delightful mix of wine, hand-crafted cocktails, music, and art to accompany your meal. Breakfast is served all day and includes classic coastal options, like the seafood omelet with shrimp and crab, as well as eggs Florentine and Benedict. You will also find authentic flavors like the enchilada con huevos and the Chulos breakfast burrito. Lunch brings an impressive selection of enchiladas, beans and rice, burritos, burgers, and more.

Griff's is a true Templeton mainstay with fresh farm-to-table ingredients, pasta, and handcrafted pizzas. This casual, laid-back spot is perfect for family dinners or post-Little League celebrations and features a menu of Italian classics like eggplant parmigiana, ravioli, pasta alfredo, and more. You can also enjoy an impressive grilled panini menu, toasted sandwiches, and hearty salads, but the standout here is the pizza. Try the flower child pizza, a local favorite featuring housemade pesto sauce, roasted veggies, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, or go with a traditional Margherita pizza.

From craft coffee to fine cocktails, Pig Iron takes you from breakfast to dessert with an outstanding menu of eclectic tastes. Sunday brunch shines with truly indulgent dishes like the biscuit and gravy plate, pancakes, and a burrito-inspired concoction called the Main Street Waffurito. Start dinner with ceviche tostadas or the stone fruit Caprese before digging into the cast iron seared ribeye or the fried chicken sandwich. Make sure to leave room for dessert – the bourbon biscuit bread pudding is a Templeton favorite.

A breezy, relaxed atmosphere awaits at Joe’s Place, Templeton’s old-fashioned, mom-and-pop style diner. Boasting a reputation for the best breakfast in town, this quaint spot has become a Templeton legend. The Joe behind Joe’s Place was inspired one evening when he confessed to his restaurateur family that he dreamed of opening a greasy spoon diner, complete with sassy servers and a surly cook. Less than a year later, Joe’s Place was born.

Staying true to his initial vision, Joe’s Place features an expansive menu and classic diner meals, like omelets, biscuits and gravy, eggs and bacon, pancakes, and french toast. Not sure where to start? Go straight to Joe’s Favorites and try the chorizo supreme or Monterey omelet. But don’t fret – you’ll want to come back time after time, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try everything on the menu.

A list of wine country dining isn’t complete without a nod to the region’s grapes. Stop in at award-winning AronHill Vineyards and enjoy spectacular hilltop views, fresh seasonal ingredients, and stunning wine pairings. The elegant menu includes light fare like the baked Brie en croute and the fresh roasted beet salad with goat cheese crostini.