Zorro's Cafe & Cantina

927 Shell Beach Rd Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Hours

Open daily 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

About

So, you're looking for a family-owned restaurant serving Mexican-inspired cuisine with a homey atmosphere. Zorro's Cafe & Cantina checks all those boxes and then some!

Founded by the warm and welcoming Cindy Foresee-Landriga, Zorro's Cafe & Cantina is a cozy haven that has been around for over 40 years. The eatery began as a Spanish restaurant and then as a real estate office until Cindy took ownership.

The charming cantina is in Pismo Beach and is near area landmarks, which makes it ideal for combining a day exploring an attraction with a hearty meal. In fact, Zorro's Cafe & Cantina is close enough to the Chapman Estate that you could walk to it.

Cindy chose "Zorro" to pay homage to their Blue Merle Australian Shepherd, known for his cunning and loyalty. The name also conjures images of the legendary swashbuckler and translates from Spanish into "fox." Whichever name resonates with you, Zorro's Cafe & Cantina will satisfy your breakfast, lunch, and dinner cravings.

Vibe

One look at Zorro's Cafe & Cantina's white and red exterior, and you know you're in for a laid-back coastal experience. While the restaurant is small, it exudes big-hearted charm and classic California architecture.

The interior is cozy, with Latin-inspired colors, tiles, and artwork that make you feel like you're dining in someone's home rather than in a restaurant. The front patio features umbrella-covered seating with relaxing street views, while the covered back patio is dog-friendly.

If the decor and ambiance don't make you feel at home, the staff at Zorro's Cafe & Cantina surely will! The family-owned and operated eatery is passionate about making your dining experience unique, fun, and memorable.

Zorro's Cafe & Cantina: Menu & Drinks

The breakfast and lunch menu offerings read like a list of characters from a Charles Dickens novel! From classic egg and bacon combos to the legendary Zorro's Burgers and Latin-inspired burritos and tacos, there's something for everyone on your Pismo Beach getaway. 

The Shell Beach Favorite #3 is the perfect meal before exploring the Pismo Preserve. The entree features four strips of bacon, two eggs cooked to your liking, and two pancakes. Another perk is that all traditional breakfasts are served until 3 PM, perfect for late risers!

Start your dining adventure with an appetizer like the Maiz Taquitos. Shredded chicken, beef, or beans are stuffed into four homemade corn tortillas and fried to a golden crisp. Garnished with sour cream, pico de Gallo, and guacamole, these mouth-watering starters will have you shouting, "Delicioso!"

The Spinach Enchiladas Vegetarianas showcase sautéed spinach and cheese stuffed into flour homemade tortillas. The vegetarian enchiladas are topped with homemade spiced green suiza sauce, Jack cheese, and sour cream with Spanish rice and black beans on the side.

The combinations are perfect for those wishing to explore taste profiles or crave multiple dishes. A classic example is Zorro's Combinaciones #6, flour tortilla enchiladas stuffed with Tiger shrimp, lump crab, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. This seafood wonder comes with white wine cream sauce and Jack cheese, showcasing the culinary finesse of Zorro's kitchen.

As for specialty drinks, Zorro's offers the Shell Beach Sunrise Mimosa and Zorro's Bloody Mary, along with creative spins on margaritas and other cocktails. Toss in the beer, wine, soft drinks, and Mexican beverages, and there's something for everyone.

Whether looking for a homey eatery to reflect on a day exploring Eldwayen Ocean Park or seeking a hotspot with superb fare, Zorro's Cafe & Cantina should be on your vacation itinerary.

Local Tips

  • Tacorona Tuesday is from 3-5 PM daily, featuring tacos and Corona beer deals.
  • Let Zorro's Cafe & Cantina cater your next event.
  • The outdoor patio and
  • Zorro's is family-friendly and has a fantastic kid's menu.

Location

927 Shell Beach Rd Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Frequently Asked Questions

Avila Beach is a small seaside town with a big-time charm that’s hard to condense into one day. But if we had to choose, our perfect day would start with breakfast and coffee at Fat Cat’s Cafe on Harford Pier. With classic breakfast food anyone would enjoy and located right next to the pier, it’s easy to walk off that delicious meal while enjoying the morning coastal air and listening to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean waves. You might even catch a glimpse of the local herd of sea lions. Being outside is a must, whether it’s walking the beach or taking a hike through the hills. Bob Jones Trail is highly recommended for people a leisurely biking/walking trail that goes from the land to the sea and can be accessed right from Downtown Avila.

After breakfast, take a drive down the famous Highway 1- a great way to experience the rich biodiversity of the central coast. Explore other nearby coastal towns like Morro Bay and Cayucos, each with its own unique charm.

However, the main thing to do in Avila Beach is relax. Spend time on the incredible beaches, get your toes in the sand, and enjoy the serene environment. Don’t miss the chance to shop the boutiques, go wine tasting, or dine at the ocean-side restaurants.

To wrap up the day, Mr. Rick’s offers a lively scene with great drinks and live music. One of the most popular places in Downtown Avila, hangout out with the locals and get a feel for what life is like in Avila.

While exploring the culinary delights of Pismo Beach and its surroundings, there are three top-tier restaurants you simply must visit. Each offers a unique dining experience that’s a testament to the area’s rich gastronomic culture.

First up, venture a little south to Arroyo Grande to visit Ember, renowned for its commitment to seasonal fare and artisanal wood-fired cooking techniques. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfectly complementing a menu that’s both innovative and comforting. Each dish reflects the chef’s passion for farm-to-table philosophy and the rich agricultural bounty of California’s Central Coast.

Next, Nate’s on Marsh in San Luis Obispo is a gem that locals and visitors alike adore. This eatery prides itself on a creative menu that pairs classic comfort food with a modern twist. The ambiance combines casual elegance with a touch of historical charm, set within the vibrant downtown scene of San Luis Obispo, making it a delightful culinary stop.

Lastly, Ox + Anchor in San Luis Obispo is a modern take on the classic steakhouse, serving up prime cuts of meat alongside fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The chic and sophisticated decor sets the stage for an upscale dining experience. The wine list is as impressive as the menu, featuring local Central Coast vineyards and beyond, ensuring the perfect pairing for your meal.

Each of these restaurants is a destination in itself, promising not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience that captures the spirit of the region.

When vacationing in Pismo Beach, CA, there are two main events that are absolute must-sees, each offering a unique slice of what makes this coastal city so special. The first is the Monarch Butterfly Arrival, a natural spectacle that takes place from late October through February. During these months, Pismo Beach becomes a temporary home to thousands of vibrant Monarch butterflies. The sight of these delicate creatures fluttering en masse is truly mesmerizing and one of nature’s most beautiful displays. Visitors from all over gather at the Monarch Butterfly Grove to witness this annual migration, which has become a beloved and awe-inspiring sight in the community.

Another event steeped in local tradition is the Pismo Beach Clam Festival, a hallmark event since 1946. This festival is a celebration of the city’s clamming legacy, inviting locals and visitors to enjoy a weekend full of festivities. With a parade, live music, food vendors, and a clam chowder cook-off, it encapsulates the heartwarming community spirit and the gastronomic heritage of Pismo Beach. The Clam Festival not only pays homage to the city’s past but also offers a delightful experience for all ages, making it an unmissable event for anyone visiting Pismo Beach.

More questions

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