Avila Beach has always been a family favorite. While Pismo is the obvious choice for visitors, Avila stays a bit more quiet and feels a bit more like a small town. It also has the best weather on the Central Coast, often remaining sunny and warm when fog is still hovering over the other beaches. After the downtown area was rehabilitated after an oil leak the additional bonus was a proper shopping and dining area that fronts the boardwalk. While our old favorites like the Custom House and Avila Grocery still remained in an upgraded, updated format, new additions have been added along the way – and one of our new favorites is Ocean Grill.
Although it isn’t brand new – they opened their doors in 2013 – it seems new when compared with the “oldies but goodies” that were a staple in Avila. With a full pizza oven, a focus on fresh, local food all set in a beautiful restaurant with ocean front dining that promises views from every seat in the house. For lunch we love the local winelist pairings with the Shrimp Salad over mixed greens with apples, cucumber, heirloom cherry tomatoes, avocado and gently dressed with a carrot ginger vinaigrette. Also the Thai shrimp lettuce cups that include fresh shrimp, cucumber, carrot, green papaya, red onion and strawberries – a fantastic mix of sweet and savory.
Ocean Grill
268 Front Street
Avila Beach, CA 93424
(805) 595-4050
Late afternoon walks on the beach are made even better with sunset dinners that feature yummy appetizers like Crab Cakes and Ceviche. And don’t worry if you or your dinner companions are not seafood lovers – the Pork and Apple Flatbread or the Carne Flatbread are delicious for the meat lovers. Don’t forget the pan roasted pork chop or grilled ribeye for the larger appetite!
The view alone will make your experience visually appealing, the food delicious, and the service will make it complete — knowledgeable, friendly staff that are genuinely invested in making your visit memorable (in a good way). Prices that are right on par as well. Next time you visit the “locals” beach, make a point of stopping and