We love traveling around Cambria when visiting, but sometimes you just want to escape everyday life, relax, and take in the seaside atmosphere and scenery. Here in the summer, there’s nowhere better to do that than any of the picturesque patios offered by so many of our town’s exceptional eating and drinking locations, so settle in and read on to see our picks for open-air relaxation.
Harmony Café
Get a taste of Italy out in the crisp air of Cambria at Harmony Café. This best-kept culinary secret on the Central Coast features the authentic Italian flavors of master chef Giovanni Grillenzoni. The café is open for lunch during the week, and for both lunch and dinner on the weekends. The beautiful dining patio also sometimes features live music—give them a call at (805) 924-1219 to check if it will be happening during your visit.
Robin’s Restaurant
A local favorite, Robin’s Restaurant is a best-of-all-worlds eatery that offers eclectic menu options emphasizing farm-fresh, local ingredients. The spacious, vine-covered patio provides a gorgeous garden for outdoor dining. This eating area also hosts regular events including live music with Music Mondays in the Garden, and can be rented for small parties or full garden buyouts.
Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill
Enjoy dining in Cambria alongside arguably the finest facet of this Central Coast gem: Moonstone Beach. Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill offers a breathtaking oceanfront view on its patio—an effect that’s only multiplied if you get there in time to dine while watching the spectacular sunsets the area is known for. The ingredients for their menu options are locally sourced, ensuring you’re getting the taste of the sea as well as the awe-inspiring views of it you’re taking in during your meal.
Creekside Garden Café
The comfy California-country cooking eatery Creekside Garden Café features a spacious outdoor patio with plant and floral displays that live up to the “Garden” in its name. This location serves brunch on Sunday and, by special request, has begun offering Mexican dinners Wednesday through Saturday.
Las Cambritas
Enjoy a south-of-the-border flavor option right here in Cambria at Las Cambritas. Their homemade-style Mexican food can be savored on their spacious, pet-friendly patio with a tranquil creekside view. The deck also features live music on Sunday afternoons, and is available to host events like rehearsal dinners, weddings, and family reunions for groups of up to 80 people.
Indigo Moon
For a fancy dining option against a dramatic patio backdrop, look to Indigo Moon. This restaurant prides itself on an upscale experience centered on wine and cheese, with its menu offering seafood, salads, and desserts to make up your meal. They feature a garden and patio for you to settle into as you sip the night away—note that they are open for dinner only. You can also make reservations through their website if you’re already planning on dining with them during your visit to Cambria.
Lily’s Coffeehouse
There are few better places to while away a crisp Cambria morning than Lily’s Coffeehouse. The charming deck with colorful umbrellas will keep you shady and sheltered regardless of the weather, making it ideal to start any day with a cup of coffee on the Central Coast. Lily’s also offers a selection of delectable desserts to wake up with—their most popular is carrot cake. Plus, sweet and savory crepes are made and served right on the patio every Saturday. It’s such a quintessentially Cambria experience—you could spend your whole day there!
Cayucos Cellars
The classic small family winery, Cayucos Cellars offers an intimate wine experience, including an outdoor tasting area. The grapes used by the winery are sourced locally from the county of San Luis Obispo, and incredible attention to detail is paid to every bottle. The tasting location hosts wine trail events and can be rented for private events.