You know that “seafood diet” joke? The one you probably grew up hearing your dad say - that he’s on the seafood diet - he sees food, and he eats it? (Enter a laugh track here.) Well during our babymoon in Morro Bay, we were literally on a seafood diet - nearly all of our meals involved seafood… and it was AMAZING. You wouldn’t believe the amount of oysters Bobby consumed in a 72-hour period.
Anyway, this quaint seaside town is bursting with cozy restaurants and fabulous fresh fish, and if you’re on a “seafood diet” - it’s a definite must. (And even if you’re not a seafood fan, there’s plenty of spots for you too!)
Here’s our list of where you should eat (and drink) in Morro Bay:
BREAKFAST SPOTS:
BUTTERCUP BAKERY AND CAFE :: If a warm latte and a light breakfast is your jam in the morning, then Buttercup Bakery and Cafe is the spot for you. This homey and welcoming cafe has everything from breakfast bowls to avocado toast, and their baked goods are out-of-this-world delicious. It’s a casual, order-at-the-counter type place, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a favorite among locals. We’d hands-down be regulars here if we lived in MB!
FRANKIE AND LOLA’S :: For a more hearty, full-service breakfast experience, there’s no place better in town than Frankie and Lola’s! From their specialty omelettes to their famous iron skillet potatoes, to their hearty breakfast burritos, this is the kind of place you come hungry. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, try one of their delectable brioche cinnamon rolls!
SEAFOOD SPOTS:
TOGNAZZINI’S DOCKSIDE TOO :: Ask any Morro Bay local where to get to go for lunch, and chances are they’ll send you to the family-owned Tognazzini’s Dockside Too! This fish market sells some of the freshest, most delicious fish in town, and their spacious patio nearly always has live music. AND, it’s dog-friendly… so bring your pooch!
THE GALLEY SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR :: We’re big fans of this cozy seafood restaurant for two reasons - the unparalleled ocean views, and their dedication to fresh, local seafood and ingredients! Most of their fish is supplied from local fishermen, and their produce comes directly from their head chef’s farm! Oh, and if that’s not enough, The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar has a really impressive wine list, too!
DUTCHMAN’S SEAFOOD HOUSE :: You can’t go to Morro Bay without popping into Dutchman’s Seafood House and having a bowl of their famous clam chowder. It’s absolutely delicious, as is the rest of their extensive and affordable menu. (If you’re looking for a break from all of the seafood options, try their burger!)
WINDOWS ON THE WATER :: Our pick for a classy date night, Windows On The Water serves some of the finest, highest quality seafood in town, and boasts picture-perfect views of Morro Rock! They also have some incredible steak and woodfired pizzas on the menu (we opted for those), and the ambiance couldn’t be more romantic. Make a reservation in advance!
SPOTS TO HAVE A DRINK:
TOP DOG COFFEE BAR :: We love stumbling upon local spots, and this fun and welcoming coffee shop is definitely one of them. Top Dog Coffee Bar serves some of the best micro-roasted coffee in Morro Bay, and every purchase aids local dog shelters! Talk about a win/win! (They specialize in some pretty delicious hot dogs too, if you’re hungry!)
LIBERTINE BREWING COMPANY :: We knew we loved this bar from the moment we walked in and saw they were playing reruns of The Office on their TV’s. Known for their Double IPA’s, Barrel-Aged Stouts, and Belgian Sours, Libertine Brewing Company is a must-stop for beer drinkers. And Wednesdays-Saturdays they have live music!