About
Splash Café is a quaint bistro with a classic Cali vibe, known worldwide for chowder, spices, and baked goods.
Splash Café has been a landmark in Pismo Beach since the 1980s, but when Joanne and Ross Currie took charge in 1991, they launched the eatery to dizzying heights of success. The couple has been so successful that a visit to Pismo Beach would be incomplete without trying its legendary clam chowder.
While the chowder in a bread bowl is the main attraction, Splash Café has a diverse menu. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu features everything from breakfast burritos to burgers to fish and chips. Its proximity to area landmarks like the iconic Pismo Beach Pier makes it the perfect stop after or before your adventures.
Even more impressive is the Splash Café extension beyond the Central Coast. They offer nationwide shipping on most products and are in chains like Costco.
As mentioned, visiting Splash Café is a right of passage on a Pismo Beach vacation, so include it on your to-do list.
Vibe
The exterior of Splash Café exudes Classic California soul. The vintage neon sign lets you know this eatery has been a staple in the community for over 30 years. The brightly painted mural on the facade reflects Joanne and Ross Currie's playful management style and hints at the laid-back vibe awaiting inside.
Inside the long and narrow cafe is a vintage beach shack vibe. Classic pictures of Pismo Beach, surfing stickers, and memorabilia adorn the walls. Toss in the beach-themed hues, and you'll feel like you're on the set of a vintage movie!
Small tables are tucked off to the side, allowing a clear path to the food counter. Additional stools line the far wall and window, offering countertop dining. It is idyllic for a hearty breakfast burrito before dashing off to Pismo Beach Surf Academy lessons.
No matter when you dine at Splash Café, the atmosphere is electric. The energy percolates from the staff and decor and radiates out to the customers, making it feel more like an adventure than a dining experience.
For the ultimate California experience, you owe it to yourself to dine at Splash Café and bask in its magic.
Splash Café: Menu & Drinks
As mentioned, this is the place to grab award-winning clam chowder. This signature dish is served in a homemade sourdough bowl and is creamy and rich with flavor.
Not a fan of chowder? No worries because the menu at Splash Café is a mish-mash of beach classics. Perhaps the fish and chips will hit the spot. This British classic features Wild Caught Alaskan Cod that is fried golden brown and served with fries. Or try the shrimp, calamari, or clam and chips.
If you are not a seafood lover, try an American classic like hot dogs, tacos, and burgers. The dogs range from corn to chili to plain, while burgers are made plain or with cheese and bacon. The tacos showcase seafood, but there is a chicken option. You can opt to have these Mexican handhelds made with "classic" fillings of lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and avocado ranch or with "Baja" flavorings like Aioli slaw, tomato, jalapenos, citrus salsa, and avocado ranch.
Healthier options like salads and wraps ensure there's something for everyone. The Morning Munchie Bowl will energize you for a day on the Bob Jones City to Sea Bike Trail. This hearty breakfast showcases cheesy tots covered with eggs, bacon, tomato, green onions, raucous aioli, chimichurri, and salsa.
Splash Café serves soft drinks, juices, coffees, teas, and hot chocolate. Beer and wine in cans are also available, perfect for toasting a day exploring Eldwayen Ocean Park.
Splash Café is a must-do on your vacation, where vintage California beach vibe and food unite.
Local Tips
- Splash Café gets busy, so expect lines. But it moves quickly!
- Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Check out their baked goods!
- Order carry-out and take it back to your Casago rental.
- They ship baked goods, spices, and chowder nationwide.
