Morro Bay, a picturesque coastal town in California, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and fresh, locally sourced seafood. For food enthusiasts and culinary adventurers, dining in Morro Bay offers an unforgettable experience where the ocean's bounty is served directly to your table. This guide will take you on a gastronomic journey through some of the best tide-to-table dining spots in Morro Bay, ensuring every meal is as memorable as the town's famous Morro Rock.
Dockside II: A Seafood Haven on the Dock
Dockside II is a hidden gem for seafood enthusiasts. Located right on the dock with Morro Rock views, Dockside II offers an authentic tide-to-table outdoor dining experience. Every table is greeted with the fresh sea breeze and the soothing sounds of the ocean, creating a truly immersive coastal dining atmosphere. Even better, Dockside II is pet-friendly and includes leash tie-ups, water bowls, and treats. Local musicians are a common sight, too, playing outside.
The highlight of Dockside II is undoubtedly its fresh fish tacos. These tacos are not just a meal; they're an experience. Made with the freshest fish caught locally, the tacos are a burst of flavors, combining the tanginess of freshly squeezed lime with the richness of the locally caught fish. The freshly caught fish is seasoned and cooked to perfection, enveloped in soft, warm tortillas, and topped with crisp vegetables and a special sauce that adds an extra zing. This dish perfectly captures the essence of dining in Morro Bay — fresh, simple, and absolutely delicious.
Dorn's: A Fusion of Flavors with a View
Dorn's Original Breakers Cafe, commonly known as Dorn's, offers a different but equally enchanting dining experience in Morro Bay. Recently remodeled, Dorn's combines modern comfort with classic charm. The restaurant boasts an impressive view of Morro Rock, providing a stunning backdrop to your dining experience.
Dorn's menu is a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce. The seafood here is a must-try, with the rich and creamy clam chowder and the perfectly grilled salmon being local favorites. But what truly sets Dorn's apart is its ability to cater to various tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a drink and an appetizer, a hearty steak, a refreshing salad, or a savory seafood dish, Dorn's has something for everyone, all enjoyed with a breathtaking view of one of Morro Bay's most iconic landmarks.
Thai Elephant: A Taste of Thailand in Morro Bay
Thai Elephant is a culinary gem in Morro Bay, offering an authentic Thai dining experience. Thai Elephant is known for its local vibe and a menu brimming with traditional Thai flavors. The chefs at Thai Elephant are experts at blending spices and herbs, creating aromatic and flavorful dishes.
One of the highlights of dining at Thai Elephant is the variety of dishes available. From spicy curries that tantalize your taste buds to soothing soups that comfort the soul, there's something for every palate. Their Pad Thai, a classic Thai dish, is particularly popular among locals and tourists alike. It's a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, combined with the freshness of vegetables and the juiciness of shrimp or chicken. Additionally, the restaurant offers a range of vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the flavors of Thailand while dining in Morro Bay.
The atmosphere at Thai Elephant is as inviting as the food. The décor is traditionally Thai, with intricate designs that make you feel like you've stepped into a little piece of Thailand right in the heart of Morro Bay.
Bayside Cafe: A Healthful Retreat in Morro Bay
Situated right on the bay, Bayside Cafe is the perfect spot to start your late morning or relax after a long day exploring Morro Bay State Park. This charming cafe is dedicated to offering nourishing, wholesome food that tastes good and makes you feel good. It's a perfect spot for a lighter, more health-focused dining option in Morro Bay.
The cafe was established in 1986 and soon expanded to include the patio locals love so much today. The menu blends traditional American with well-known Mexican dishes, like tacos, burritos, tostadas, enchiladas, and fajitas.
Bayside grinds its coffee and serves a unique clam chowder recipe (get it in the sourdough bowl). Meanwhile, the kids' menu suits picky (think grilled cheese sandwich) or more adventurous (buttered pasta with Parmesan cheese) eaters. One of the highlights of the cafe is the salmon sandwich, which is a hit among regulars. In addition to sandwiches and burgers, Bayside offers a range of lighter salads: Caesar, spinach, shrimp, veggie, and fish of the day.
You can bring your leashed dog to the patio, which is open year-round and protects you from the elements with umbrellas and space heaters. Dining here is an experience that aligns with the laid-back, natural beauty of Morro Bay, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a nutritious and delicious meal in a serene setting.
The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar
The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar is a waterfront restaurant with island decor reputed to have the freshest seafood in Morro Bay. The restaurant prepares dishes with hand-selected ingredients produced on its own farm. Guests rave about the oysters, scallops, chowder, and lobster.
The service is attentive without intruding upon the place’s laid-back yet polished atmosphere. The Galley has a relatively low capacity for such a high-quality restaurant, but the wait is well worth it whether you’re visiting Morro Bay or just moved there. Bring your appetite, and don’t overlook the extensive wine list designed to complement the various seafood dishes.
Windows on the Water
Windows on the Water is a fantastic place to enjoy the scenery and enjoy organic, locally farmed produce purchased at nearby farms and fisheries. Many guests start their dinner by sharing and dipping bread from Back Porch Bakery. The wood-fired oven toasts pizza to perfection, the oyster bar is the best around, and the starters, designed by Executive Chef Neil Smith, cater to a wide range of tastes.
Like all the excellent restaurants featured on this list, Windows serves dishes characterized by free-range and grass-fed farms, as opposed to food with added hormones or antibiotics. They serve seafood that’s either wild-caught or ethically farmed. Though the nightly dinner menu is “subject to change at chef’s whim,” you can expect an array of upscale seafood options, including scallops, halibut, shrimp, and crab.
Seeking Morro Bay Real Estate?
And while you're savoring the best of what Morro Bay has to offer, don't forget that this charming coastal town could be more than just a dining destination — it could be your home. If you're considering moving or purchasing property in this picturesque locale, Brittany Hensley is here to assist you. With her expertise and knowledge of the area, Brittany can help you find the perfect home that complements your lifestyle. Reach out to Brittany Hensley for all your real estate needs in Morro Bay, and start your journey towards loving where you live on the central coast.
*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
