You already know that riding the Pacific Surfliner is worth it for the views alone, but don’t your taste buds deserve a delicious journey of their own? All along the tracks are cozy cafés, brunch favorites, craft breweries, and foodie-approved hotspots that make exploring SoCal and Central Coast restaurants as easy as stepping off the train.
To help you out in your culinary adventure, we’ve rounded up some delicious, locally beloved restaurants near train stations from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. Hungry yet?
San Luis Obispo
Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe
The name says it all; Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe pours great coffee, serves hearty breakfast plates, and bakes pastries you’ll be talking about for the rest of the day. Even better? It’s practically next door to the San Luis Obispo Station at 0.1 miles away (an easy 3-minute stroll).
Bon Temps Creole Cafe
A little slice of Louisiana in SLO, Bon Temps Creole Cafe serves up Cajun and Creole comfort food with plenty of soul. Gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys are some tasty highlights here you don’t want to miss. It’s also right by the San Luis Obispo Station at 0.1 miles away (about a 2-minute walk)!
Bear & The Wren
A cozy, wood-fired pizza joint, Bear & The Wren is beloved for its creative toppings and rustic vibe. These are the kind of pies that taste even better after a day of train travel and adventuring around Central California. Located 0.9 miles from the station (a 20-minute walk, or a 5-minute rideshare), it’s well worth the extra steps.
Grover Beach
Pono Pacific Kitchen
Hawaiian flavors meet California freshness at Pono Pacific Kitchen, where poke bowls, seafood, and fresh local produce take center stage. At just 0.1 miles (an under-5-minute walk) from Grover Beach Station, it’s a tropical escape super close to the tracks.
The Spoon Trade
The Spoon Trade is a local gem that takes comfort food and gives it a gourmet spin, with an airy dining room and seasonal specials that make it a must-stop when you’re in Grover Beach. This tasty spot is 0.2 miles from the station, or a 5-minute walk.
Bee House Thai Cuisine
Colorful curries, fragrant stir-fries, and fresh Thai classics make Bee House a go-to for flavor-packed dining. The portions are generous, and the vibe is warm and inviting. It’s also a deliciously easy stop at only 0.2 miles from the station (a 5-minute walk)!
Santa Barbara
Loquita
Loquita brings a slice of Spain to Santa Barbara with a menu of gin and tonics, tapas, and paella. It’s only a few hundred feet from Santa Barbara Station… AKA, a quick trip to Spanish flavors!
Santo Mezcal
Santo Mezcal blends fresh Mexican flavors with a modern twist, offering ceviches, tacos, and mezcal-based cocktails. At just 0.1 miles from the station (a 3-minute walk), it’s easy to reach and a great way to fuel up before or after an adventure.
The Lark
Located right in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, The Lark serves seasonal California cuisine in a trendy, rustic atmosphere. Their small plates are perfect for sharing, especially with a glass of local wine. It’s 0.2 miles from the station (a 5-minute walk), and a total must-visit if you love up-and-coming eats.
Carpinteria
Siam Elephant
Bright, flavorful, and welcoming, Siam Elephant has been serving Carpinteria locals and visitors for years. Their Thai curries and noodle dishes are crowd favorites; paired with a Thai iced tea? Chef’s kiss. It’s also only 0.1 miles (a 2-minute walk) away from the Carpinteria Station!
Linden Square
Right in the heart of Carpinteria, Linden Square is a cozy cluster of cafés, bakeries, and local eateries perfect for strolling and snacking. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there’s a flavor waiting to steal your heart. Just 0.2 miles from the station (a 5-minute walk), it’s as convenient as it gets.
Island Brewing Company
When it comes to craft beer with coastal vibes, Island Brewing Company delivers every time. Their tap list features a rotating lineup of IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews, but the standout for Pacific Surfliner riders is the Hopliner Hazy IPA (also available onboard the train from the Market Café!). This hoppy spot is just 0.2 miles from the station (a 3-minute walk).
Guicho’s Eatery
Guicho’s Eatery is a family-run take-out spot that dishes out homestyle Italian comfort. If you’re craving pasta, sandwiches, and hearty entrées that taste like they came from grandma’s kitchen, this is the place for you! Located 0.3 miles from the station (a 7-minute walk), it’s a hidden gem worth seeking out.
Ventura
Topa Topa Brewing Company
The good folks at Topa Topa Brewing Company believe in “tasting life to its fullest, one sip at a time.” This Ventura staple is known for crisp beers, laid-back taprooms, and community-first atmosphere. Pacific Surfliner riders can enjoy their Huckster Double IPA onboard in the Market Café, but the full experience is just 0.3 miles from the station (a 7-minute walk).
Corazon Cocina VTA
Corazon Cocina’s Ventura outpost is all about bold, colorful Mexican street food with a modern edge. It’s casual, fun, great for sharing, and only 0.4 miles from the station (an 8-minute walk)!
Ten Tigers
Ten Tigers is a casual cocktail bar and restaurant in SoCal serving up burgers, tacos, and even more tasty bites. At 0.4 miles from the station (a 9-minute walk), it’s an easy stroll from your train.
Lure Fish House
A seafood staple, Lure Fish House is famous for its oysters, clam chowder, and a wide variety of fresh catches served in a breezy, coastal setting. Just 0.5 miles from the station (an 11-minute walk), seafood lovers are not going to want to miss this spot!
Oxnard
The Green Olive
Mediterranean plates shine at The Green Olive, where kebabs, falafel, and shawarma are served in generous, mouthwatering portions. Located 0.3 miles from the station (a 6-minute walk), it’s a satisfying stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
New Chicken
Chinese food classics and hearty favorites are the specialty here at New Chicken, served with convenience and plenty of flavor. It’s also just 0.4 miles from the station (an 8-minute walk).
Carnitas El Rey
Dubbed “the king of carnitas,” Carnitas El Rey is a local spot that serves up tacos fit for royalty. At 0.1 miles from the station (a 3-minute walk), convenience and flavor reign supreme.
Camarillo
Twisted Oak Tavern
Part brewery, part tavern, Twisted Oak Tavern brings house-crafted beers and hearty pub favorites together under one roof. Burgers, flatbreads, and share plates make it the kind of spot you’ll want to linger with friends. At only 0.2 miles from the station (a 5-minute walk), it’s basically built for a pre- or post-ride pint!
Azafran
Bright, bold, and buzzing with flavorful energy, Azafran celebrates Latin American flavors with a menu full of colorful tapas, entrées, and cocktails. Located 0.3 miles from the station (a 6-minute walk), it’s an easy gathering spot right off the train.
Twenty 88
Twenty 88 is a modern bistro that proudly leans into dishes that are elegant without being too much. The menu is seasonal, creative, and perfect for every occasion. It’s only 0.5 miles from the station (an 11-minute walk), so you can step off the platform and into a polished dining experience in no time!
Moorpark
M on High Restaurant
Upscale yet approachable, M on High focuses on seasonal California cuisine with dishes that feel fresh and inventive. The stylish dining room makes it a top pick for dinner out, and it’s only a few hundred feet from the station (a 2-minute walk).
Freda’s
Freda’s is a cozy café that leans diner-style, with hearty breakfasts, burgers, and comfort staples that keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more. Like our previous pick, it’s also a few hundred feet from the Moorpark Station (a 2-minute walk).
Hearth Restaurant & Coffee
Equal parts restaurant and coffee shop, Hearth is the kind of place where you can grab a scratch-made meal, sip a latte, and settle in with a pastry for dessert. At 0.5 miles from the station (a 12-minute walk), it’s a delicious little detour in Moorpark.
Enegren Brewery
Specializing in German-style lagers and ales, Enegren Brewing Company is a family-run brewery that’s become a Moorpark favorite. The taproom has a warm, welcoming feel to it, with plenty of crisp, classic beers that pair perfectly with good company. Just 0.5 miles from the station (a 12-minute walk), it’s a worthy stop for a pint before or after your ride.
Downtown Los Angeles
Traxx Restaurant
Located inside Union Station itself, Traxx is a landmark restaurant where Art Deco style meets modern California cuisine. The setting is iconic and perfect for anyone who loves a side of history with their entree. The best part? You don’t even have to leave the station to enjoy it!
La Luz Del Día
Tucked into historic Olvera Street, La Luz Del Dia is known for handmade tamales, carnitas, and other traditional Mexican favorites. At just 0.3 miles from the station (a 5-minute walk), this taste of old LA is just steps away from your stop.
Philippe the Original
Home of the original French dip sandwich (no, really!), Philippe’s has been serving hungry Angelenos since 1908. Sawdust on the floor, fast service, and legendary sandwiches make it a must-visit for foodies. Only 0.3 miles from the station (a 7-minute walk), this is one community staple you don’t want to miss.
Fullerton
Mamma Mia Restaurant and Bar
Mamma Mia is a neighborhood favorite, serving up all the Italian classics in a friendly, casual setting. The friendly staff and laid-back vibe make it easy to linger. Located 0.2 miles from the station (a 5-minute walk), it’s a quick stop for a truly hearty meal.
J’s Korean Cuisine - Seoul Eats
Looking for bold flavors? Say no more! J’s Korean Cuisine offers Seoul comfort food like spicy wings, bibimbap, and kimchi fries, only 0.2 miles from the station (a 5-minute walk).
Bootlegger’s Brewery + Two Saucy Broads Pizza
Bootlegger’s Brewery is a Fullerton fav, known for its specialty brews, laid-back taproom, and popular trivia nights. Even better? Their neighbors at Two Saucy Broads Pizza will deliver right to your table, so you can pair a hoppy flight with a fresh slice. Just 0.3 miles from the station (a 7-minute walk), it’s the perfect pairing for your train ride.
San Juan Capistrano
Trevor’s at the Tracks
Set inside a historic 1894 train depot, Trevor’s at the Tracks blends farm-to-table California cuisine with a bit of railway nostalgia. The patio seating, local ingredients, and restored setting make it a quintessential stop for foodies and railroad enthusiasts alike. Located right beside the station, it’s train-to-table in the most literal sense!
River Street Marketplace
River Street Marketplace is a lively open-air hub packed with food vendors, boutiques, and more local favorites. From tacos to ice cream, there’s something for every craving in this fun-filled community gathering spot. Only a few hundred feet from the station (a 2-minute walk), it’s the easiest foodie stop you’ll ever make!
Rosewood Social
With craft cocktails, small plates, and a stylish lounge vibe, Rosewood Social is the kind of place you’ll want to start or end your night. Just 0.1 miles from the station (a 2-minute walk), it’s also just steps away from your ride.
Oceanside
Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen
Comfort food gets creative at Flying Pig, where mac and cheese, burgers, and slow-cooked meats come with gourmet flair. Just 0.3 miles from the station (a 7-minute walk), it’s a solid choice for eats that feel upscale, but still familiar.
Amalfi Cucina Italiana
Neapolitan pizza fresh from the oven anchors the menu at Amalfi Cucina Italiana, alongside classic pastas and Italian dishes. At 0.3 miles from the station (a 7-minute walk), these carb-y comforts are practically within arm’s reach.
Toasted Gastrobrunch
Toasted Gastrobrunch is an all-day brunch spot that goes big with playful dishes like stuffed French toast, loaded benedicts, and craft cocktails. Only 0.3 miles from the station (an 8-minute walk), it’s every bruncher’s dream!
Solana Beach
Solana Beach Fish House
Fresh, no-fuss seafood is the specialty at the local mainstay known as Solana Beach Fish House. From fish tacos to poke bowls, everything tastes as fresh as the ocean breeze outside! Just 0.1 miles from the station (a 2-minute walk), it’s a casual and tasty stop.
The Coop
Located right by the beach, The Coop is a gluten-free bakery and café with an allergen-friendly menu that everyone can enjoy. Stop in for fresh lunch sandwiches or treat yourself to their wide selection of baked goods. Just a few hundred feet from the station (a 2-minute walk), it’s an easy stop for beach-town bites.
Pillbox Tavern
Comfort food with a coastal twist? Yes please! Burgers, wings, and local brews make Pillbox Tavern a go-to for all your comfort food cravings. Only 0.6 miles from the station (a 12-minute walk), check out this local tavern for good food, cold drinks, and even better company.
San Diego - Santa Fe Depot
Hidden Craft
Beer lovers, rejoice! Hidden Craft rotates taps from some of the best local breweries, paired with casual, shareable plates. A few hundred feet from the station (a 2-minute walk), it’s about as effortless as it gets.
Animae
Sleek, stylish, and a little dramatic, Animae is a modern Asian fusion hotspot that serves dishes as beautiful as the space itself. This is a destination restaurant worth planning your trip around! Located 0.1 miles from the station (a 3-minute walk), it’s an unforgettable stop before you roll on.
Burgeon at the Arbor
Part brewery, part community hub, Burgeon at the Arbor pairs its house-crafted beers with seasonal bites in a laid-back, modern space. If you’re looking for a restaurant in San Diego to raise a glass to the end (or beginning!) of your journey, this is the spot for you. It’s just 0.2 miles from the station (a 4-minute walk), an easy jaunt to the perfect pint.
The views might get you on board the Pacific Surfliner, but the flavors along the way will keep you coming back! With so many restaurants near train stations along the route, every stop is a chance to discover something truly delicious. Wherever you’re headed, the best restaurants in SoCal are always just a short stroll from the tracks.
Book your trip and dive into a world of flavor!