1st Time in Paso Robles

[FranklinJefferson]

Heading north from LA to Paso Robles to meet a friend mid-way between my place and hers (Monterey/Salinas) on Friday. Looking for lunch/picnic ideas in the area. We've only got the one day together so looking for places that won't require a lot of advance notice as we'll be playing it by ear... Any thoughts?

[toodie jane]

been pretty hot in PR all week. The coast is close (20 minutes over a beautiful road) if you need to cool off in Cambria or Cayucos.

Cambria: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/642210

Paso: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/619622

[Ed Dibble]

I'm no expert on the area, but I loved my lunch at Thomas Hill Organics. Nice garden atmosphere and great food.

http://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/2...

Artisan also has wonderful food, though I have not had their lunches.

Less formal/expensive is Los Robles Cafe. Breakfasts until they close at three as well as Mexican and American food. Nice little family restaurant. Al Pastor is supposed to be a specialty - I love the green chile omelettes with home fries. Yum.

[rednikki]

I'm seconding Thomas Hill Organics. It's my must-stop whenever I go to Paso.

Artisan is also good, but pricier and the food's a little richer. If we're staying for two meals, that is our OTHER must-stop.