Cass House Cayucos

The food at Cass House Grill was a lovely surprise on my weekend in Cayucos. It’s a fairly new spot for this little beach town, having opened in June this year. Everything is served family style, with portions large enough for two, and I ordered three dishes to come out in courses. The food is locally sourced from Cayucos and nearby towns, and there’s a vegetable garden on site. They also bake their own breakfast goods and desserts. You eat outdoors in a pavilion, but it’s sheltered, with heaters over every entrance, so it stays comfortable. The atmosphere is low key and the food is great. If you want a slightly nicer dinner, give it a try. I’ll definitely be back.

The roasted cauliflower was incredible: cooked just right with toasted almonds and sesame, served over yogurt and topped with a pomegranate vinaigrette. As a vegetarian, I had plenty to choose from, and my server helped me settle on that dish and picked a lovely wine with me. I’d ended up at Cass House after the restaurant I planned to visit was closed. I’m so glad I wandered over. Traveling alone as a woman, I often get poor service, even at nice places, and I think there can be a bias that women, especially older women, won’t tip well. I do tip well, since all my kids worked in food service growing up. My server was quick and helpful, offered suggestions when I asked, and never pushed. The service and farm-to-table food were terrific. I live hundreds of miles away, but I’ll stop at Cass House next time I’m up the Central Coast.

We tried most of the options across the four courses on the prix fixe menu, since each course had two choices. We skipped the optional sliced meat and cheese, as four courses were plenty unless you’re a professional eater. The melon appetizer with crackers and shaved feta, fennel bread, and both desserts were standouts. Nothing disappointed, and the waiters were attentive and knew their stuff. The kitchen was just as good. I’d highly recommend this restaurant.

Alex and Christine handled the wedding planning flawlessly, and the whole celebration at Cass House in Cayucos was wonderful. The night before, we had an outdoor gathering in the garden with delicious wines and hors d'oeuvres. Beautiful flowers were everywhere both days. On the wedding day, two excellent musicians played for the service and for the meal and dancing in the outdoor dining area. The food and wines were delicious, and the chef and wine steward were knowledgeable and gracious. Taken all together, it was a five-star experience.