Your Next Bite

Enjoy Local Housemade Fare at Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe

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Last week, we kicked off the most traveled month of the year with a road trip to Sides Hardware and Shoes in Los Olivos. The next stop, literally right around the corner, is Los Olivos Wine Merchant and Cafe.

They've been serving local, organic, sustainable food since 1995. And, all their Dressings, Sauces, Pastas, Pizzas, Breads, Desserts, and Ice Creams are freshly made in house.

The exterior is beautiful, boasting of lush trees & vibrant colored flowers on the patio. Upon walking in, you might recognize the Wine Wall from a little 'ole movie that put Central Coast on the wine map, Sideways. (They even offer a 3-course "Sideways Tasting" for $39.) The interior is classic contemporary with white, black, and neutral tones. And, the service is neighborly, warm & inviting.

The Grubdown:

- tangy with a touch of spice, needed more creamy cheese, Golden Beets & Burrata with Roasted Hazelnuts, Fresh Horseradish, Spinach, Whole Grain Mustard & Lemon Vinaigrette $12

- hearty & rustic, Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Olive Oil Smashed Potatoes, Swiss Chard & Crimini Mushrooms $25

- divine, woodsy, rich 'n creamy, Housemade Mushroom Trio Ravioli with Ricotta, Porcini Cream & Parmesan $17

- zesty, herbacious, soft & fluffy, Rosemary Focaccia Bread with Parsley & Red Wine Vinaigrette (complimentary)

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If I had to compare Los Olivos Cafe to Sides Hardware & Shoes, I'd say the dishes here are richer, larger, and a classic Mediterranean style.

So, you better bring your appetite, as both the hand model and I had to take half our food home – not by choice.

But, don't worry. No one's gonna look at you Sideways if you drink the Merlot.

2879 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos, CA 93441. 805-688-7265.

 

Sides Hardware and Shoes - an Unsuspecting Must Eat in Los Olivos

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As August is the most traveled month out of the year, I thought it would be best to take you on a California culinary road trip up north.

The first stop is Sides Hardware and Shoes, a "New American" restaurant in Los Olivos. While it may sound quite unusual, it's actually named after the original storefront on the avenue. And, after perusing the menu, almost every item is so enticing, you'll want to order them like side dishes anyway – especially Dessert!

The outside is quaint with a standing white porch, painted blue gray brick, and red & white awnings. The interior is a bit more modern with a bronze tiled ceiling, industrial cement floor, and warm wooden tables.

The service is welcoming and friendly – just make sure you don't get stuck without a reservation at dinner time. Lunch, on the other hand, is first come first serve.

The Grubdown:

- spicy 'n smoky, Chef's Choice Kimchee Slider of the day with thick cut Bacon, White & Yellow Cheddars & Aioli $14

- fresh, sweet 'n sour, Seasonal Market Salad with Arugula, Peaches, Bacon Croutons & Balsamic Vinaigrette $12

- star of the night with best bang for the buck, Colorado Lamb Sirloin with Goat Cheese Gnocchi, Green Beans, Maitake Mushrooms & Lamb Jus $35

- bring your appetite as it's a mouthful, Coconut Macaroon Sandwiches with Dark Chocolate & Coconut Swirl Sorbet, Hot Fudge & Almonds $7

- warm ' gooey, all my favorite flavors, Blueberry Upside Down Cake with Lemon Custard Ice Cream, Ginger Caramel & Pistachio $9

 

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Sides Hardware And Shoes definitely loves their Bacon. It was a running theme throughout most of the menu items, and since their logo is a pig on-the-go, it all made sense.

Don't miss out on this Must Eat in Los Olivos!

2375 Alamo Pintado Avenue, Los Olivos, CA 93441. 805-688-4820.