Hungry for Chowder?

After watching the sunset and sinking your toes in the warm sand, you may be getting a bit hungry.   And what better way to enjoy your time on the Central Coast than to have a bowl of clam chowder.   So, I’ve listed for you some great places to savor this delicious thick, creamy soup. Whether you enjoy a bowl with crumbled oyster crackers on top, or go all out for the big sourdough bread bowl-filled delight, you are sure to enjoy.

But, first, a little about the origins of the dish.   First, the word chowder is derived from the French word for caldron or pot, chaudière.   In the days of ships and sailors, seamen would throw their catch of the day in a large kettle and cook the fish and shellfish with bits of potato, bacon, celery, and onion.   Depending on the region and the catch of the day, some areas were known for their lobster chowder, some for seafood chowder, some for a tomato-based stew, and others for the creamy white version served here on the Central Coast.   So, now that you are hungry, where should you go to try this local favorite?

Splash Café – Serving more than 30,000 gallons a year, this place has the best, creamiest, richest clam chowder in the area.   Not only are they award-winners, but magazines like Gourmet and Bon Appetit have requested their recipes.   Splash has three restaurants to serve you:   197 Pomeroy, Pismo Beach, 1941 Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and 893 Higuera in downtown San Luis Obispo.

Steamers – If you want to dine with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean, head to 1601 Price Street in Pismo Beach.   Their clam chowder is thick and tasty, with plenty of clams – and great views of the sparkling ocean below.

Custom House – Located at 404 Front Street in Avila, this restaurant offers indoor or outdoor seating while you enjoy your bowl of clam chowder.

Giovanni’s Fish Market – If you want to grab a bowl of clam chowder and head to the beach in Morro Bay, try Giovanni’s.   Their chowder is rich and creamy, and especially yummy if you order it served in a sourdough bread bowl.

Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant – For an informal spot in Morro Bay, you might try this bustling restaurant which serves good, hearty clam chowder.

Dorn’s Original Breakers Café – If you want something a little less informal, head to 801 Market Avenue in Morro Bay. This family-owned restaurant has been serving a rich, creamy clam chowder with views of the bay for years.    

If your wedding guests are arriving to town before the wedding ceremony, make sure they stop off at one of the places above for a hot bowl of clam chowder!

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