Welcome to 2004's Very Best!
Food and Drink
A bull's-eye view
Edna Valley's tasting room hits the mark
In our voters' minds, this Edna Valley pioneer makes
wines second only to Wild Horse, as it did again this year. But when
it comes to the spectacular, panoramic view - can you think of another
Central Coast tasting room that equals it? - Edna Valley Vineyard is
like an Olympic archer; it hits the bull's eye every time. According
to tasting room manager Peter Vandersluis, "We think of it as wine with
a view." Of course, it takes more than eye candy to bring people back,
repeat business requires a good attitude from the people pouring wine.
"Most of our staff is pretty much tenure," Vandersluis explained. "Our customers really get to know the staff and vice-versa." They also feature an impressive gift shop filled with logo clothes (for the geeks who want to show their friends and neighbors how much they really love Edna Valley wine), wine souvenirs, Italian ceramics, and a gourmet food selection for that impromptu picnic among the vines. It's no wonder their fans are so loyal. "We don't just pour the wine and walk away, like so many tasting rooms," says Vandersluis. "We go the extra mile for our customers and it really pays off."
-Kathy Marcks Hardesty
2nd: Tobin James Cellars
3rd: Great Gatsby's
Best Breakfast
Big Sky Café
1121 Broad St., SLO
When it comes to breakfast, no matter how much we love it, most early eaters stick to comfort foods. If you're an egg person, you probably want it with pork fat, yeah baby, and crispy-fried hash browns. If pancakes float your boat, you're gonna order them with wild blueberries, or bananas and walnuts or just plain and hot off the griddle with melting butter and sticky-sweet maple syrup. It makes my mouth water. Those are the breakfasts of champions, and you'll get all that and much more at Big Sky Café, where every plate deserves a gold medal for featuring the freshest ingredients.
According to the owner and inspiration behind San Luis Obispo's best restaurant, Charles Myers, whose Big Sky won five gold medals this year, the regulars love the "Devil's Mess," an unctuous scramble of eggs, Andouille sausage, chilies and peppers. But they also come for the freshly baked buttermilk ginger coffee cake or fluffy, pillow-sized beignets and wash them down with a hot cup of SLO Roasted Coffee.
-Kathy Marcks Hardesty
2nd: Margie's Diner
3rd: F. McLintocks Saloon
& Dining House
Best Brunch
The Cliffs Resort
2757 Shell Beach Road, Shell Beach
Hey, hotels aren't supposed to have good food! Well, don't tell Chef José Garcia; we don't want him to change anything about the gargantuan, gold-medal-winning brunches the champ serves on Sundays. The champagne flows freely and Garcia's foods are so varied and delicious looking, you'll want to try everything, but we bet you can't do it. The seafood table, piled high with ice, is piled even higher with steamed crab, freshly shucked oysters, plump little prawns and, when it's available, caviar.
Don't feel like hot Belgian waffles with whipped cream and strawberries? Then head to the entrée buffet for hand-rolled enchiladas with house-made ranchero sauce, or perhaps roasted chicken, veal and pasta. Don't want the standard lunch? Head to the omelet station where Chef Mario, who's been standing there five year's worth of Sundays, will make it every which way but loose. And just ignore those of us in line for the house favorite, eggs Benedict enrobed in decadent Hollandaise; we want it all to ourselves. Of course there's always room for carrot cake, chocolate cake and cheesecake, but hey, save room for chocolate truffles, fresh fruit, berry-topped blintzes and freshly baked strawberry-rhubarb pie, my, my.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Sea Venture
3rd: Vigneto
Best Local Wine
Wild Horse Winery
1437 Wild Horse Winery Court,
Templeton
"We like to say, 'Wild Horse is safe in the stable,'" laughs Scott Welcher, meaning no matter which of their classic varietals you buy, you're going to open a wine that's delicious. Welcher explained he's been working there since "back in the age of fossils." During those 15 years, he's pretty much worn every hat, "from working as the sump chump to cleaning out drains." Seems it was all worthwhile for his illustrious title now: general manager of winery operations and viticulture. Welcher says this year's gold medal got them to lucky 13, and now they're headed toward celebrating the gold for 20 years-to which we at New Times say, "Now that's the right attitude, Scott."
"A strong part of the reason we have such good local recognition is the fact that we make serious wines that are fun to drink and they're reasonably priced," Welcher added, who then credited Wild Horse founder Ken Volk for his "great influence on the San Luis Obispo [County] wine industry.
"People recognize our label and know we focus on what we do best," says Welcher, "and a good price is always guaranteed."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Edna Valley Vineyard
3rd: (tie) Tobin James Cellars, Talley Vineyards
Best Salad Bar
Fresh Choice
876 Marsh St., SLO
"This is a kid-friendly restaurant," says Dave Culver, master and commander of the most popular salad bar in town. "The majority of our diners are families, and 90 percent of their decisions on where to eat are based on their kids." He went on to explain they offer reasonable prices for kids, the dollar amount set according to their age (watch out for those hungry teens), plus they have coloring contests, kid fund-raisers, etc., etc. That's sweet Dave, really, it is. But to college students, health nuts, seniors on a budget, not to mention all those singles out there looking for a comfortable, safe place to dine alone, take note: There's good quality food here at reasonable prices.
You say you're on the Atkins or South Beach diet,
or maybe the much more sane Weight Watcher's program? Join the e-mail
list at Fresh Choice and they'll keep you informed on the latest diet
trends and tell
you which new and tasty treats you can splurge on with your particular
diet. Now that's the only way to eat fast food. And as Dave says, "Fresh
Choice stays on top of
the health aspect, it's all about serving the freshest food possible."
And fresh always tastes best.
-K.M.H.
2nd: New Frontiers
3rd: Hometown Buffet
Best Coffee House
Uptown Espresso
1065 Higuera St., SLO
A big breakfast may be great for you health-food types out there, and you know who you are. But most of us are on the run, so we drop by Uptown Espresso for a freshly baked berry muffin topped with cinnamon and crunchy nuts, along with a "caramello," a rich latte that's gilded with their homemade caramel and whipped cream, just the ticket for the start of a beautiful morning. Admittedly, this is not the breakfast of champions, let alone Olympians, but who cares when you're only viewing the games from a comfy couch?
"We have a lot of customers who come in for a special coffee and their favorite muffin every day," says manager Eric Pettis, who's run this show six years. And when he heard they beat out some fast competition in the coffee shop marathon for first place, he enthusiastically exclaimed: "That's awesome." Said like a champ, Eric, and he can tell you exactly what it takes to win: "We make all our pastries in our kitchen every day [except the bagels, he added], and our coffee is a custom blend, roasted in Santa Barbara and brought in every Tuesday. You'll never get a coffee drink here from beans roasted more than a week ago."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Starbucks
3rd: Linnaea's Café
Best Seafood
Steamer's of Pismo
1601 Price St., Pismo Beach
"You know what makes Steamer's so good?" Steamer's General Manager Tom Pendegrast asked with an air of authority. "Chef Michael Albright, period. He's the backbone, the reason this restaurant does so well." Tom, do you really think local foodies don't know this? Duh . that's why the readers voted for this talented chef who made a name for himself when he started at the Gardens of Avila, then helped make the F. McLintocks group, already so successful in beef, do the same with fish.
And yet, Albright, a gifted cook who's earned the prestige that's given to Olympic torch relay carriers, passes that brilliant flame to his staff. "I can't cook every piece of fish that goes into the dining room." That's right. It's up to the kitchen team he leads to send out fish that's cooked to the exact temperature, unlike those ubiquitous chowder houses that send out fish tasting like it's been washed ashore and ignored by seagulls awhile. Albright added: "They have to make sure the fish is in prime condition before it's sent to your table." Still, it's obvious to us, when a restaurant sells over 100 pounds per week of Chilean sea bass and 15 to 20 pounds a day of fresh clams, they better have a leader who can teach the cooks how it's done right.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Cracked Crab
3rd: Olde Port Inn
Best Mexican Food
Pepe Delgado's
1601 Monterey St., SLO
This quaint, old-time eatery can boast it's the longest continuously operating Mexican restaurant in San Luis Obispo, open since 1971. Upon hearing it won first place once again, owner Yvonne Poulsen spoke with the authority of someone who prides herself on consistency: "I'm grateful to the people for voting us number one again." And when asked if she had any changes for the future planned, she retorted: "If it works, why break it?" Another part of the credit for their success goes to manager Barbara Fleckenstein, who's greeted and seated their loyal patrons for 26 years.
"It's teamwork," Fleckenstein says with pride. "This is a family restaurant and we treat our customers like family. When you have a good, positive atmosphere, the customers feel it." Most of her staff has been there a decade, even the young ones, so they know all the regulars on a first name basis (that's not just in bars, like those wearisome reminders of Cheers, you know). Another reason for their consistency is the chef, Jorge, who has been taming the flames and watching over bubbling bean pots for 10 years. Fleckenstein says: "When Cal Poly grads come back to visit, they always say: 'we're so glad this place hasn't changed, it's just like we remember it.'"
-K.M.H.
2nd: Chilie Peppers
3rd: Old Juan's Cantina
Best Chinese Food
Golden China
SLO . Atascadero . Morro Bay
When Chinese water polo Olympians finish a game, they're famished. They want something good, they want it plentiful, and they want it fast - so where are they gonna fill such a tall order? Golden China, of course. Where else would they want to eat, were they in San Luis Obispo, than at the restaurant voted the standing gold-medal champion for 18 years straight? Manager Sandra Yu accepted the honor modestly but happily, and praised their loyal customers for telling the world that Golden China is the best around.
Although many diners love to order traditional dishes off the menu, and these chefs will do anything they can to meet your special requests, the big draw is the plentiful - naw, huge - buffet. There's no wait, you can see what you're getting before you commit to it, and revisit the grand buffet as often as you like - it's all you can eat with complimentary hot tea. All that and a family-friendly environment, too, sounds like the key to their success, but Yu says it's all about the food: "We maintain the quality of the food at all times."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Mandarin Gourmet
3rd: Golden Gong
Best Japanese Food
Sakura Rikyu
11560 Los Osos Valley Road, SLO
In the clash of games for the top Japanese title, two formidable fighters have battled each other for years to win the gold: Sakura and Tsurugi. You have to admire their fans who keep voting for their favorite one. Each year these two houses, so famed for their sushi, continually kick, whap, punch, and knock each other out of first place only to be returned to the pedestal after the next year's game. So it is again in San Luis Obispo 2004, with Sakura earning the gold, just like Judo Olympian Tadahiro Nomur who beat out all competitors in Sydney 2000.
And Sakura Rikyu plans to keep improving the quality of their food, according to Manager Hitomi Martinez, who's among the new management team. To do that, they brought back Haruo Hayama. He was one of the original chefs who helped Sakura's founder, Hongo, open the restaurant. Now Hayama is guiding the sushi bar and kitchen team in preparing classic Japanese cooking. Martinez says Hayama has 52 years of experience in his field.
"We want to thank our customers who voted for us," Martinez added. "We'll continue to keep improving the quality of our food, and please, keep coming back."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Tsurugi Japanese Restaurant
3rd: Harada Japanese Restaurant
& Sushi Bar
Best Thai Food
Thai-riffic
SLO . Atascadero
This year marks the sixth first place win for this wonderful Thai restaurant. But it's only been six times because seven years ago, all Asian restaurants were lumped into one category. It may have been reasonable then, given the limited choices, but no more. Now SLO locals and businesspeople can choose from an array of good restaurants that feature the fine cuisines of Japan, China, and Thailand. But just like a "Muay-Thai" Olympian, guess who keeps popping up at the top of the Thai category? Thai-riffic. Like a kickboxer who manages to always land on his feet, this terrific little restaurant that's not easily walked to (happily, there's plenty of parking) is the people's choice to win the gold.
Liz Kochprapha, a partner in this well-liked restaurant, runs the dining room. She credits winning the award to Chef Sam and his nephew Jay (the latter their chef in Atascadero) for sticking with the same ideas they always had about operating a high-quality, family-run business. And during the lunch hour it's always packed with locals who want a quick lunch, and some who don't. Kochprapha added, "Nothing is made up ahead so many of our specials sell out at lunch. But dinner isn't as fast paced."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Thai Palace
3rd: Thai Classic
Best ItalianFood
Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant
891 Price St., Pismo Beach
When Giuseppe's Chef John Pastore heard they scored first place in two competitions, not just best South County but best Italian in SLO County, he couldn't be more pleased. The highest compliment you can pay any chef, other than asking for seconds or thirds, is telling him he's No. 1 in these categories. Know why? "Our cuisine is familiar to people because a lot of our recipes are comfort foods," Pastore explained, adding the food is Southern Italian in style, classic but rustic, and the portions generous. Of course, he credits the restaurant's leader, Giuseppe Difronzo: "We try to cater to whatever our customers want, that's the foundation Giuseppe built his restaurant on, that's his success."
When I heard from Giuseppe, he was riding his tractor through his vineyard, like a "viticoltore" in Chianti. While appreciative his restaurant earned the grand prize, he remembers his roots: "I had to sacrifice a normal family life, putting my passion for this restaurant ahead of everything else, but now I spend time with the people I care most about." Nevertheless, the restaurateur credits his wife and kids who he says were always at the restaurant too, helping make Giuseppe's a family place.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Café Roma
3rd: Buona Tavola
Best Vegetarian Food
Big Sky Café
1121 Broad St., SLO
To get in shape for the Olympics, it takes more than skill and endurance; being fit requires the right diet. That's why many athletes are vegetarians. You're not going to see a sprinter gear up for a race by sucking up a greasy burger and fries, unlike most Americans who don't give a damn about their health. Fortunately, the American diet of living on fattening, nutritionally empty foods is changing. It can be credited to the focus on the Mediterranean diet at the end of the 20th century. Now, foods like hummus, tofu and vegetable curries, soba noodles and quinoa are becoming more mainstream. And you know who's been ahead of the game?
Big Sky Café, of course, where they've been serving these healthy yet always interesting foods for 10 years, and you don't have to be a vegetarian to appreciate how delicious they can be in the hands of a chef like Timothy Koch. But they've always featured delicious foods prepared with meat, too - that's why Big Sky Café is always a popular choice for a vegetarian college student who's taking his or her meat-eating dad out for a meal.
-K.M.H.
2nd: New Frontiers
3rd: Fresh Choice
Best Pizza
Woodstock's Pizza
1000 Higuera St., SLO
"It's great to hear people who are fans of Woodstock's took the time to vote for us," says restaurant manager Jeff Lafranchi. And why wouldn't they, when this pizzeria has taken first place honors for the past 16 years. It's all about the food, yet it's not about the fact they deliver a piping hot pizza to your front door free. "People really make the effort to dine here, despite two major construction sites and the hassle of parking," he added. Surprisingly, Woodstock's delivers more pizzas to their dining room tables than they do to their customers' front doorsteps.
"We've realized over the years, we're a destination and people like to eat here rather than order take-out," Lafranchi added. Must be the ambiance: the mood is fun, there are four TVs beaming the latest games from Athens and San Francisco, the latter for which they pay dearly to receive (paying attention, Mike Kruckow? He should, the Giants' TV announcer lives in SLO), all-you-can-drink sodas and the pizzas are made from the freshest, quality ingredients. Woodstock's' motto: "We never go cheap on anything."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Fatte's Pizza
3rd: Round Table Pizza
Best Steak
F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House
Pismo . SLO . Paso Robles. A.G.
When the citizens want steak, they want a good one, not one of those tough, old, rawhide-like critters you need a shark-toothed saw to rip into. We want a toothsome steak that's thick and juicy and damn near mooin,' only those lily-liver types eat 'em well-done with their little pinky in the air. So where does Wild Bill Hickock or Calamity Jane go to get the best one? F. McLintocks Saloon and Dining House, the gold medalist that knows how to satisfy a hungry cowpoke.
Leave your arms by the door boys and loosen your belts, it's time to settle down and enjoy suppertime in Pismo where the food is plentiful and beers are icy cold. But hey, it ain't just satisfying for leather-skinned cowpunchers. Families love it, too. Especially parents who know their kids eat free in celebration of McLintocks' 30th anniversary and their earning the California Beef Backer Award, according to Toney Breault, who runs the F. McLintocks restaurant chain, which includes Steamer's of Pismo. "Our steaks come from Midwestern corn-fed cattle," Breault tells with pride. "We age them and butcher them ourselves so there's 100 percent control over the quality, and we guarantee it 100 percent."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Jocko's Steak House
3rd: Tahoe Joe's
Best Burger
Firestone Grill
1001 Higuera St., SLO
After seeing the crowds that invade this popular eatery every day, boy do I feel like Johnny-come-lately. Everybody knows about their burgers and they've rated them at the top of the heap for seven years in a row. But earning the gold hasn't held them back from making improvements. Now they're cooking the burgers over an oak flame: "Cooking the hamburgers on the barbecue pit adds a smoky-charred flavor and seals the juices inside," Manager Darnell Harris explains, "and we'll cook your hamburger any way you want it. If you want pickles or jack cheese instead of cheddar, we'll add it. We want you to be completely satisfied when you finish one of our burgers."
When I finally discovered the burgers at this busy lunch spot, I was impressed. They were packed yet the food came fast, and there was nothing "fast food" about it. The burger was a perfect medium-rare, the cheddar cheese was just starting to ooze out the sides, the lettuce was fresh and crisp, the tomato slice was ripe and the bun toasted and warm. I rarely indulge in such high-calorie meals, so I still dream of the taste of that delicious hamburger. You know, I think I'm overdue for another one.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Sylvester's
3rd: In-N-Out Burger
Best Grocery Store
Trader Joe's
Arroyo Grande . SLO
Need a bouquet of freshly cut flowers for your favorite Olympic champion? While you're there, how about picking up a Caesar salad, sushi and a dozen eggs? No matter how peculiar your grocery list, you'll find it all at Trader Joe's. The captain of the Arroyo Grande ship, Eric Tucker, says: "It's exciting to shop here. We have top-notch quality and we get new products all the time. And while it can be frustrating to lose a product you love, we always have something new and exciting to take its place."
The convenience foods are big sellers, but locals also love their frozen French onion soup and Joe's O's. The cereal selection is amazing in itself. Another reason Joe's rates high - the staff lives by the rule the customer comes first. Ask any one of them to find something and they'll go all-out to help you. They typically carry foods no other grocer does, and then offer it at discounted prices. And with the huge selection of good local wines, priced as low as $5.99 to $10, earning the top spot was a cinch.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Vons
3rd: Food 4 Less
Best Ribs
Mo's Smokehouse BBQ
Pismo Beach . SLO
To those of us who love barbecue, it's all about the sauce. And we want variety: hot or mild, smoky or sweet, and always thickly coated so every rib is finger-licking good. Of course, it's the specialist who does it best, and at Mo's Smokehouse BBQ, they've been saucing up their thick-cut pork ribs and beef for 10 years. And they win the gold at cookoffs across the country, even beating out all those Southern cooks in Florida and Kansas City.
"We're very fortunate to be able to barbecue and make a living at it," he admits. Here, just like any good rib joint in the South, the best ribs only come from a very unique animal, the pig. And care is taken in every step of the process, from smoking and tenderizing the ribs to grilling them. "I absolutely believe in simplicity; like In-N-Out Burger, we keep our menu limited to the foods we do best," says Kowalski. "And no matter which Mo's you visit, you'll get food that tastes just as good."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Alex's Bar-B-Q
3rd: F. McLintocks Saloon
& Dining House
Best Tri-Tip
Firestone Grill
1001 Higuera St., SLO
Most people call it Santa Maria-style barbecue, some of us love it, some of us hate it. One thing's sure; it makes for some good cheap eats. It can also be found at every restaurant in the county, but not all tri-tips are created equal. But its fans know just the place to hit for high-quality Angus beef: Firestone Grill. They've won the top prize for five years in a row. Weightlifting Olympians love Firestone's tri-tip, just the ticket for getting the protein you need to build muscle.
This popular eatery, where you can get a meal anytime from noon until late at night, is owned by the Billingsley family, who created Firestone's special seasoning salt 20 years ago. The recipe is a secret, but Manager Darnell Harris says it's what makes their tri-tip so good: "We like to say we pile it aplenty." He explained that the seasoning and the long, slow roasting keep it tasty and juicy. Then it's grilled to order over the oak flames. "We're really happy people keep voting for us," Harris says in appreciation of winning the gold medal again. "We're very appreciative of every person who comes to eat here."
-K.M.H.
2nd: F. McLintocks Saloon &
Dining House
3rd: Mo's Smokehouse BBQ
Best Deli Sandwich
Gus's Grocery
1638 Osos St., SLO
If you can wrap your mouth around one of the tree-trunk-sized wraps at Gus's Grocery, you earn the bronze medal. Gus's, however, earns the gold for the best sandwiches in the county. And all their competitors better listen and learn if they hope to beat the champ. Owners Mike and Ellen Stanton have been winning over their fans since they opened the deli 15 years ago, and they've taken first place for their skill in the ring every year. But it's not quantity that won them fame; it's the quality that comes between those slices of bread.
"We buy the best-quality meats, cheeses and produce we can get from our purveyors," Ellen says, "and we give value for whatever you buy here." The sandwiches are huge and you can order them in any oddball combination you can dream up. That's not all, you can order as little as a half-sandwich or up to 2,700 sandwiches, enough to feed the famished athletes at Cal Poly. It's also worth stopping by Gus's for its nice salad bar and huge selection of drinks, from beer and wine to sodas and freshly squeezed lemonade. You're sure to find the perfect thirst-quencher for washing down one of their weekly specials, like the popular Tuscan turkey on focaccia.
-K.M.H.
2nd: High Street Deli
3rd: Subway
Best SLO Restaurant
Big Sky Café
1121 Broad St., SLO
Like the Olympic gold medalists who win the modern pentathlon, Big Sky Café has proven it has the skill and endurance to win five gold medals in this year's bout to be the Best of San Luis Obispo. And when you win honors like Best Restaurant, Best Vegetarian Food, Best Breakfast, Best Service, and Best Meal for Your Money, you're No. 1, baby - you're the torch carrier. The credit goes to restaurateur extraordinaire Charles Myers, a chef who has worked in this business 28 years and still loves it.
There are many people who love to eat the same dish in the same restaurant, every time. I understand - when no other place makes a dish as well, you just have to order it again. Consistency in a restaurant usually keeps it successful. But that's not true of Big Sky Café or the team of people leading it. They rate among the elite at their game for being flexible with their cuisine and creating unique specials. Both Myers and Chef Timothy Koch, who frequently travel, take notes and watch trends within the restaurant industry to keep the menu innovative. "Many restaurants copy those who are successful," Myers admits with a laugh, noting dishes like nut-crusted fish. "But when the chains catch up, you've got to change."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Buona Tavola
3rd: (tie) Café Roma, Tahoe
Joe's
Best North County Restaurant
Ian McPhee's Grill
416 S. Main St., Templeton
"I'm always surprised to hear people voted us as the best in North County," says Chef Ian McPhee, who admits he's up against some tough competition in Paso Robles. But he built his reputation long before, when he opened very successful eateries in Cambria and San Luis Obispo. Now in Templeton, this month McPhee's is celebrating 10 years of cooking meals that bring his loyal customers back over and over. "We've stayed our course," McPhee said, "by offering the freshest foods and by trying new things all the time."
He also takes great pride in helping other local businesses. Like the fresh eggs he gets from a Templeton farmer every day. "They make the best crème brûlée," says McPhee. The chef recently added pizza to his menu again, and he encourages people to come by anytime, even if they only want a glass of wine and an appetizer. "Consistency in food and service is all there is," says McPhee. "If your customers can count on that, it makes you a more popular restaurant."
-K.M.H.
2nd: A.J. Spur's Saloon &
Dining Hall
3rd: F. McLintocks Saloon
& Dining House
Best North CoastRestaurant
Windows on the Water
699 Embarcadero (at Marina Square), Morro Bay
When team Windows heard they earned the gold medal in this battle of titans, their conquering yells and high fives could be heard all the way to Pismo Beach. The staff probably threw flowers at the feet of Chef Pandee Pearson. "It's not about me," she modestly responded, "The restaurant business is a team sport, we did it together." Of course, then she thanked the people who made it happen, New Times readers. "We've always tried to cater to locals, it's important to us, and now it's coming back."
Dining room manager Jeff Schlichting says he's worked in a few other San Luis Obispo County restaurants, and Windows on the Water is the best one he's ever been a part of: "People think of Morro Bay as a small town, there's no nightlife, but they come here and it's more than they expected. Just the other night, a couple told me they had been to Spago (Wolfgang Puck's restaurant in L.A.), and this restaurant was better." Windows attracts its share of tourists along the Embarcadero, but more and more locals have come to realize it's not just a special-occasion place. With 65-cent oysters on Tuesday nights, the word's getting out you can eat well without breaking into the piggy bank.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Dorn's Breaker's Café
3rd: Hoppe's Garden Bistro
Best SouthCounty Restaurant
Giuseppe's
891 Price St., Pismo Beach
Ever experience the feeling of being ravenous and desperate to find a parking spot close by to get a good meal fast? And then you drive past this restaurant with its queue of loyal followers waiting on the sidewalk and you know you're not going to quell those hunger pangs soon at all? When it comes to the Five Cities, locals voted this Italian trattoria their favorite, and they're willing to wait, whatever time it takes. Now they have more reason than ever to wait with the addition to the eatery of sommelier Aaron Warren.
Every night, he goes over the five or six daily specials with Chef John Pastore, then carefully selects wines on their list that are best suited for those foods. Pick something off the usual menu, and he can help you find the perfect wine for it, too. He primarily chooses Italian wines in keeping with their cuisine, but he also knows local wines well. "I explain how the food works with each wine and people often let me help design their meal," says Warren with a sense of satisfaction. And he couldn't resist adding how much he admires his boss: "Giuseppe's so proud of his Italian heritage, and our guests feel like family. I like working with Giuseppe for his passion and enthusiasm. We share a fire for what we do."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Jocko's Steak House
3rd: Rosa's Ristorante Italiano
Best New Restaurant
Yanagi Sushi
1203 Marsh St., SLO
Are your taste buds demanding another taste of "caterpillar roll" or some fine Tataki? Or are they cryin' "Bring on the dynamite, baby!" You say you haven't experienced the caterpillar? Then you haven't been to the hottest new spot in town. "Yanagi Sushi is No. 1!" the crowds cheered.
"Everyone leaves very happy," says owner and chef Joo "Jay" Chang. Like a Sumo wrestler, only not as big, he's a man of few words but he's straight to the point. He says his food is fresh, reasonably priced, and offers many choices in specialty rolls. If you're unsure what to order, don't worry, Jay says people love all of his dishes equally: "Just come in twice and you'll be a regular customer."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Cornerview Restaurant &
Bar
3rd: Giancarlo's
Best Romantic Restaurant
Café Roma
1020 Railroad Ave., SLO
"Café Roma" - just the mere mention of the name elicits romantic notions. And when your date, whether he or she is a first date, a partner, or a soul mate, suggests dinner here, they're telling you that you're special and so is the night. In fact, the entire dining experience elicits romance: the fine northern Italian cuisine, the excellent selection of premium Italian and Central Coast wines, the sun-washed walls and candlelit tables reminiscent of Tuscany, and the soulful sounds of Sergio Franchi, among the many other incredible Italian tenors, playing in the background. Let's face it, you're gonna get lucky after dining here.
"We have many comfortable corners and booths where a couple can sit side by side," says the charming and handsome (sorry ladies, he's married) Marco Rizzo. Rizzo says many couples like to share an appetizer or dessert, and typically share both while dining here. Rizzo added that many people like to have a cocktail in the bar before they sit down to dinner: "And our new bartenders are making incredible martinis. If you order a Cosmo they crush the fresh cranberries right in front of you." You might want to make that martini dessert .
-K.M.H.
2nd: Windows on the Water
3rd: Buona Tavola
Best Outdoor Dining
Novo
728 Higuera St., SLO
From its inception, Novo, dreamed up and brought to life by restaurateur Robin Covey of Robin's in Cambria, has won the respect of the people who voted it among the best of its peers. Last year it earned first place for Best New Restaurant, and this year it won the gold again thanks to its romantic and serene creek-side patio. Equally nice, the kitchen and dining room never close, although they switch to a special limited menu between lunch and dinner. So when hunger pangs strike and dinner is still hours away, Novo provides the perfect respite. You can head out to the patio for a good glass of wine with a plate of assorted cheeses and breads.
Recently, Covey rented an additional patio beside Novo, also next to the creek, for private parties. It can hold parties of up to 50 guests without disturbing smaller parties on the other patio sections. "Its appeal is that it's so beautiful," says Covey. "Our eclectic menu offers excellent food and we provide good service. Combined with dining alongside the creek with its lush green trees and plants, it's really beautiful."
-K.M.H.
2nd: Mission Grill
3rd: Buona Tavola
Best Restaurant Service
Big Sky Café
1121 Broad St., SLO
Before moving here in 1996 I had visited and enjoyed the Big Sky Café several times. I was impressed with everything about it: the innovative foods, choice wines, casual ambiance and excellent service. Then came the fateful day I ordered a daily special and didn't like it. Although it sounded good, nothing about it thrilled my taste buds. My loss, I thought - despite quality ingredients, I just didn't like it. But our attentive server noticed my lack of appetite and said so: "Let me take it back," she asked, honestly concerned. When I told her how I felt, she insisted on replacing it with something I would like. Now that I know Big Sky owner Charles Myers, I know she did just what he would have wanted her to do.
"Many restaurants serve good food," says Myers. "But few think about whether the system works for the satisfaction of the customer." At Big Sky, every staff person is trained to listen to people to better understand their request. Myers explained: "If a diner asks if a dish is spicy and then doesn't want it because it is, then orders a Thai salad with chilies, a good server is obligated to warn them." You know, Charles, we can only wish that was the attitude of more servers everywhere.
-K.M.H.
2nd: F. McLintocks Saloon &
Dining House
3rd: Windows on the Water
Best Meal forYour Money
Big Sky Café
1121 Broad St., SLO
Long before I became a chef and then a food critic, I've always said I'll pay any amount for great food, but I hate paying even a penny for bad food. I've never steered from that belief. You realize, of course, this means not ever eating fast food, stopping in a hole-in-the-wall (save the rare place that's proven consistent), and passing by the majority of delis - I can tell if the foods have been hanging around a little too long in the case. Most times I'd say you're better off with a baguette from your grocer, but not with Big Sky Café nearby.
When I find a comfortable restaurant that serves delicious and interesting dishes made from fresh, good-quality foods and offers them at reasonable prices, I'm ecstatic. I babble on about it to everyone I know and every stranger willing to listen. I've done it over Big Sky, and they've kept everything reasonably priced, from the chicken satay and portobello brochettes to the smoked seafood and Devil's mess for the past 10 years. "Some of our customers have been eating here four or five times a week, some seven days, since the first year," owner Charles Myers admits appreciatively. And why not, if you could cook any of these exotic foods as well, it would cost you more to make it.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Margie's Diner
3rd: Firestone Grill
Best Restaurant When Someone Else Pays
Café Roma
1020 Railroad Ave., SLO
"If you had your wish to go anywhere you wanted, wouldn't you say you wanted to go to Café Roma?" co-owner Marco Rizzo said when asked how he felt about winning this category. "Of course," I answered, "anytime." The optimistic Rizzo doesn't think this means his prices are too expensive. Au contraire - he thinks it's the highest honor he can win. "Café Roma is the type of place where you can splurge if you want to, or you can eat at reasonable prices," he added. "You can get a very nice plate of pasta and a salad for $10 and enjoy lunch in a relaxed and beautiful setting. And these days, a sandwich and a coke will cost you eight or nine dollars." Who could argue when it's true?
-K.M.H.
2nd: Madonna Inn
3rd: F. McLintocks Saloon
& Dining House
Best Bakery
Utopia Bakery
2900 Broad St., SLO
The owner of Utopia, Kees Docter, has created a baking paradise grounded in his native Netherland's traditions. Pastries, cookies, and specialty cakes are all baked on-site, along with fine European breads, sandwiches, and salads for lunch. Among the usual standard bakery fare lovingly prepared at Utopia, they also specialize in unique Dutch treats like Vlaai (pronounced "fly"), a gateau-like sponge flan with a fruit or cream filling. With the outdoor seating and delicious smells wafting from the oven, this is a great place to lunch or pick up some treats to bring home.
-Leiana Miller
2nd: Carlock's Bakery
3rd: Madonna Inn
Best Kid Friendly Restaurant
McDonald's
Atascadero . Paso . Morro Bay . SLO . Nipomo . Grover Beach . A.G.
Of course it's the happy meals and toys that make kids beg for Mickey D's on the way home from practice, and with billions served, it is an American staple. Those who've read "Fast Food Nation" might be taking their kids elsewhere, but for the rest of us, McDonald's will be an American tradition we will all pass down to our kids. And, with the buzz generated from their new "McHealthfood" selections, even the weight-conscious soccer moms can pull over and drive through. With Justin Timberlake crooning the new Mickey D's hook on their commercials, who's not "lovin' it"?
-L.M.
2nd: F. McLintocks Saloon &
Dining House
3rd: Klondike Pizza
Best Bagel
Boston Bagel
1127 Broad St., SLO
As a Jew, I feel more than qualified to be writing about this years best "Jewish doughnut" category winner, Boston Bagel. Now I know bagels, and like my grandpa always used to say, "a bagel is not a bagel unless it is handmade on the premises and served with lots of good-flavored cream cheese toppings". (Actually, he said all this in Yiddish, so my translation could be off.) Boston Bagel serves fresh bagels toasty and hot, with great service and coffee to boot. Go in, grab an everything bagel, and tell them Grandpa Moishe sent ya.
-L.M.
2nd: Broadway Bagel
3rd: Bagel Café
Best Cocktails for the Money
Blue
998 Monterey St., SLO
Save your lunch money and head to Blue for after-work cocktails and fusion appetizers. Brick walls, hardwood floors, and black leather chairs are designed for patrons seeking an upscale casual environment. Blue patrons can order a martini, a mojito, or peruse the comprehensive wine list and beer selections. The dimly lit lounge in the back is perfect for big parties or late-night canoodling. On Sundays, cocktails are half price and draft beer is $2, making it an affordable way to come soak up the scene. Five nights a week, Blue features an eclectic lineup of live music and DJs, ranging from hip-hop to piano lounge music.
-L.M.
2nd: Gigi's Mediterranean Café
3rd: Firestone Grill
Best Place to Have a Beer
Frog & Peach
728 Higuera St., SLO
With over 40 beers to choose from, Frog & Peach is a great place to have a pint. Belly up to the bar, sit in a booth, or enjoy the tree-shaded back patio while enjoying occasional live music or a basketball game on the big screen. Famous for its Tuesday night "pint night," with $3 beers and $1.25 Bud refills, Frog & Peach is an affordable beer-drinking experience. You can also surprise your friend by buying them a beer on their next visit - check the chalkboard behind the bar, one may have already been purchased for you. Also, don't leave without checking out some of the best bathroom graffiti in downtown SLO . personal favorites include the list of men not to date, the pseudo-feminist drunken rants, and sorority sister shout outs.
-L.M.
2nd: SLO Brewing Co.
3rd: Firestone Grill
Best Margarita
Hudson's Grill
1005 Monterey St., SLO
Don't be put off by the giant machine churning out your margarita; it just makes for a consistent flavor. Texas-sized and available in multiple flavors, including traditional and strawberry, these slushy, sweet drinks are like slurpees for adults. To bad they don't sell these to go, as they would be a perfect drink to carry with you on a walk through downtown. The bartenders are friendly and fast, and will even leave the bar to sing a staff happy birthday to celebrating patrons. After one of these potent delights, one may be inspired to strike up a witty conversation with the Canadians next to you. Don't be alarmed if the phone is for you at the bar, its only your dream date calling and she wants you to order another round.
-L.M.
2nd: Old Juan's Cantina
3rd: Pepe Delgado's
Best Fish Taco
Taco Temple
2680 Main St., Morro Bay
This is a Morro Bay staple, and for good reason. The fish tacos have even NYC food snobs singing the praises of this California fusion taco joint. At $3.50 each, the tacos are fresh and affordable. A full Mexican menu is also available, with other favorites being tostadas, chili verde burritos, and freshly made taquitos. With Firestone beer on tap, this is a taco stand that actually makes you want to sit outside and enjoy the sun for a little while.
-L.M.
2nd: Cabo San Luis
3rd: Baja Fresh
Best Restaurant with a View
Steamer's of Pismo
1601 Price St., Pismo Beach
Did you know there's not a single table - not one - in Steamer's dining room that has an obstructed view of the beautiful Pacific Ocean? No kidding, not only that, at the right time of year you might just be treated to a whale parade; the pod sails right past Pismo Beach and Steamer's windows. Once you've seen it, and we can say we have, you'll wish you could be there enjoying a leisurely meal every time it happens. But, clearly, the view isn't the only draw to this wildly popular dining room; it's the fish - particularly the sautéed filet on your plate. Diners are equally enamored of the prime rib, fresh out of the hands of F. McLintocks butchers across the highway.
"It's very beautiful here," says the restaurant's appreciative general manager, Tom Pendegrast. And for that he thanks Steamer's founders and owners, Bruce Breault and Tunny Ortali, who also founded F. McLintocks: "They put a lot of their time and their money into Steamer's to make it so nice." Their steakhouse certainly proves these two savvy guys know what it takes to create and run a successful restaurant, and now they've done it again with seafood.
-K.M.H.
2nd: Windows on the Water
3rd: Sea Venture
Best Late Night Dining
Denny's
Paso . Atascadero . Morro Bay .SLO. Pismo
One night after two parties, one bar, and a few beers too many, "Jane" and her friends found themselves starving for a decent meal at 3 a.m. With no fast food joint in town, the ladies decided to cozy up to in a booth at the local Denny's. After polishing of some mozzarella sticks and some "moons over my hammies," the ladies were surprised by a group of ravishing sailors sending over strawberry milkshakes to their table. Jane doesn't remember if this was before she won the stuffed toucan from the claw in the front, but does it really matter? The moral of this story is, the later you go, the better it gets, and it can get pretty darn good at Denny's.
-L.M.
2nd: Fat Cats
3rd: Firestone Grill
Best Salsa
F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House
Shell Beach . Paso . SLO . A.G.
Good salsa goes with everything. At McLintock's they know that this is true, and it's why they're not shy about serving their salsa with, well, just about everything. It even comes with the onion ring appetizers that are served as soon as customers arrive.
The chefs at McLintocks make their salsa fresh every day at the Shell Beach location, using tomatoes, bell peppers, celery, onion, jalapenos and salt. Then it's shipped to their other restaurants, including Steamers at Pismo, which is also owned by McLintocks.
"It's really fresh, mild salsa," says Grace Bryner, a training supervisor with the company. And of course, it's good. So good, in fact, that the chefs make 8,000 gallons of it each year. Yes, that's right, 8,000 gallons. Now pass the onion rings.
-Kathryn Gillick
2nd: Pepe Delgado's
3rd: Tio Albertos
Best Frozen Yogurt
Bali's Self-Serve Frozen Yogurt
949 Higuera St., SLO . 890 Foothill Blvd., SLO
Just imagine, it's a hot day and you're walking around downtown San Luis Obispo. You've stopped at several bookstores looking for Richard Clarke's new book, you've shopped for birthday presents for your nephews, and now you're pooped. Your feet hurt. You're frazzled.
You're walking north on Higuera, trudging back to your car. Then you see it. Across the street, one stoplight away, it looks like paradise. You walk in and you can just sense it. You start feeling a little lighter right away, and by the time you're taking your first bite of that cool, smooth frozen yogurt, you've forgotten your aching feet and fatigue.
But really, you don't have to be exhausted to dash into Bali's for some yogurt. Their flavors are plenty, their staff is friendly, and the yogurt is divine.
-K.G.
2nd: Country Culture
3rd: Cold Stone Creamery
Best Ice Cream
Cold Stone Creamery
SLO . Atascadero . Arroyo Grande
When you have a craving for ice cream, nothing else will do. And at Cold Stone, they can satisfy that craving, no matter what combination of flavors it might be for.
"Customers can create their ultimate ice cream," says Steve Lodato, who owns the store with his wife Mary Anne. "One thing that's nice is that they can mix in whatever they want or leave out whatever they don't want."
The most popular combination, he says, is French vanilla ice cream with brownies, caramel, fudge and nuts.
The newest addition to the store's lineup is an ice cream cake that sounds sinful: layered cake and ice cream, any combination of flavors of course and covered in either a traditional icing or a ganache. It's a treat customers just love, Lodato says. But then again, if you've ever walked by Cold Stone, you know that they don't have a problem making people happy.
-K.G.
2nd: Doc Burnstein's Ice Cream
Lab
3rd: Hermann's Chocolate
Lab & Ice Cream Parlor
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