Abalonetti -  57 Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey
(831) 373-1851
11 am - 9 pm (Monday-Sunday)

We eat here every time we go to Monterey.  The seafood is fresh and well worth what you pay (not expensive).  Their wine list isn't bad either.  It's a nice spot to stop for a meal when you're walking/shopping at Fisherman's Wharf!

Cracked Crab -  751 Price Street, Pismo Beach  (no reservations accepted)
(805) 773-CRAB
11:00am until 9:00pm (Sunday through Thursday)
11:00am until 10pm (Friday and Saturday)

It was our first stay in Pismo Beach; we asked where to go for dinner (late); we were told the best place was Cracked Crab.  Oh my, were they right!  Not only did we have an awesome meal but our server and the bus boy were great to talk to!  Even though we arrived 15 minutes before closing, we weren't rushed; ever.  Even when they closed the door and started cleaning up; we didn't feel rushed.

Matthews -  1215 Spring Street, Paso Robles (website is for airport location)
(805) 237-7333
Open at 11am serving through dinner (Monday - Friday)
Open at 9:30am serving through dinner (Saturday & Sunday)
(not actually sure of closing hours)

We were doing a wine-tasting weekend in Paso Robles, staying at the Wild Coyote B&B (see below) and this restaurant was on their recommended restaurants sheet.  We are SO glad we chose this restaurant!  Even though we had no reservation, they accommodated us.  Although a bit disappointed because they didn't have the smoked salmon for their appetizer, the resulting substitution (seared salmon) was superb!!  We all (4 of us) were completely happy and satisfied with every aspect of our meals.  We can't wait to go back to try everything on the menu.  Matthew, himself, saw us out asking how our meal was.  All I can say is two thumbs up (or 8 if you count us all)!  They also have a location at the airport: 4900 Wing Way

Wild Coyote B&B -  3775 Adelaida, Paso Robles
(805) 610-1311
Breakfast served between 8:30 and 9

Okay, even though this isn't a restaurant, I just HAD to mention their breakfast.  It's included in your stay and is advertised as "gourmet" continental.  Gourmet, it is; continental? more than that!  Our first one was eggs benedict with tomatoes and potatoes and strawberries and juice and bananas and I am drooling just thinking about it.  You make your own in-room coffee (no 4-cup here).  Kati outdoes herself.  Another place we can't wait to "eat at" again!!  Oh, their wines are great too! :)