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    Splash Cafe

    4.2 (5.6k reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

    Order Splash Cafe Takeout or Delivery

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    SPLASH CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Classy
    Casual
    Outdoor seating

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    Recommended Reviews - Splash Cafe

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    Reviews With Photos

    Lobster Roll
    Justin S.

    While searching for restaurants in SLO County, Splash Cafe came up repeatedly as having some of the best clam chowder in California, so it quickly became a priority stop on my trip. When I arrived on a Monday evening, I was surprised by how long the line was to order. What impressed me even more was how quickly the staff moved everyone through and got food out. They clearly know what they're doing. The clam chowder absolutely lived up to the hype. It was rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Honestly, just writing this review makes me crave another bowl. My mom ordered the lobster roll, and we were impressed by how generous they were with the lobster. Another nice bonus is that they offer daily specials, giving you even more reasons to come back and try something new. Overall, I highly recommend Splash Cafe and would consider it a must-visit spot when exploring SLO County.

    Fish and Chip (3/10): lack seasoning and flavor
    Jonathan P.

    Located next to pismo beach. Theres paid parking lot or paid street parking nearby. Or you go a block away theres free 3 hour street parking. Process: - Line up - Order - Grab a table If you order to dine in, they will call your name when its ready. Just raise your hand to let them know where you are so they can bring it out for you. If you do to go, your food is called out at the back of the store. This place is pretty poppin. We arrived around 5 PM. All the tables were full but we got luckily and got 2 seats. I would not recommend bringing a large party here to dine in. They have 2 genderless restrooms located all the way in the back. It's clean and well kept. Order: - Clam chowder (9/10): the clam chowder is amazing. They have actual clam inside. You can get it in a bread bowl or container. The container size range from cup to pint. - Fish & Chip (3/10): This was also recommended on the menu but it was subpar. Lacked a lot of flavor. The chips looked season but it tasted like nothing. The tartar sauce and lemon helped out a lot. I would definitely come back for the clam chowder tho!

    Kaylie L.

    Perfect comfort food for an overcast day! We ordered the bowl of clam chowder, a pint of clam chowder to go, a lobster roll, and fries. The clam chowder was rich and flavorful, and I appreciated that they were generous with the extra toppings. The only downside was that the toppings were served cold, which cooled down the chowder a bit. I wish the chowder had been served piping hot, as it would have made it even more satisfying. The lobster roll and fries made for a great quick meal, and overall it's a solid spot when you're craving comforting seafood. Nothing too fancy just a decent place for a quick, satisfying bite.

    Deconstructed LOADED Clam Chowder Bread Bowl
    Karena S.

    Best clam chowder in California? I saw a claim saying that Splash Cafe was the best clam chowder in ALL of California and I had to go try it myself. I came on a Thursday when it was raining and there was still a line out the door. We also struggled to find a parking spot regardless of the weather being rain or shine. Majority of the parking spots are metered and it was $5 for 1 hour which is crazy. Since we came on a Thursday, the loaded clam chowder bread bowl had a $2 discount! The total came out to be $18.35 after tax. Obviously, we ordered that and shared it between two people! It took about 5 minutes after ordering for us to receive our order. Food: Loaded Clam Chowder Bread Bowl (9/10): Oh WOW! We decided to take it to-go and their packaging was so convenient. Everything was packaged separately and deconstructed so the bread bowl wouldn't be all soggy and the bisque would be non-existent by the time we got home. In the loaded bread bowl, they cut out the hole so we can place the bisque in and they toast the top with butter! The loaded clam chowder comes with cheese, clam, crab(?), bacon, and green onion! The clam chowder was SO creamy! Every bite was LOADED with all the toppings.

    Clam Chowder BREAD BOWL w/ extra clam  Calamari & chips
    Kyla Patricia A.

    I get the hype! The clam chowder actually contained chunks of seafood (even without the extra clams we added). Other clam chowders I've had are usually just the soup with barely any chunks. It came out pipping out and they hollow out the bread bowl and toast it for. I found that to be a really nice addition and you get more soup! The calamari & chips were good. There was a mix of rings and tentacles which we prefer! Great service. It does get a little crowded and might be difficult to snag a seat. If you get it to go you can sit closer to the pier.

    Menu - 4/17/26
    Courtney O.

    My family and I stopped into Pismo Beach to sightsee while on the way to Solvang on Friday! We did some research beforehand on where to stop in for a quick bite and came across Splash Cafe! When we arrived, the line was pretty short and we noticed that we had just beat the rush! The inside was pretty small and they request that you do not sit at a table or the bar area until after you have ordered at the counter which I like. We got a seat in front of one of their windows with a nice view of the area. We ordered the Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl with Loaded Toppings to share since we were still a little full from breakfast. It was so good - I loved the added toppings of green onions, seafood, cheese and even bacon! They also offer Fish and Chips, Chicken Strips, burgers and specialty sandwiches like their Lobster Roll and Shrimp SLO Boy. I also saw a entire case of fresh baked goods! Staff weren't overly friendly at the counter, but the employee who brought us our order was lovely. Overall, I'm glad we had the chance to stop in and check out their award winning Clam Chowder - I can see why there is always a line out the door! We will definitely stop in again next time we are visiting Pismo Beach! Check them out!

    Love those Clam Chowder BREAD BOWL
    Imara A.

    Best claw chowder in a bread bowl I have ever had. Great service and no wait at all. The place was very clean with employees coaching tables the minute you got up.

    Celyne D.

    Stopped by for lunch on a weekday. The line wasn't too long, so ordering was quick, and the food came out a few minutes after I sat down. There was also more open seating than I expected. I ordered the lobster roll and a cup of clam chowder. The lobster roll is pretty filling and comes packed with meat -- probably enough to share if you want to try other items. The clam chowder was good, creamy and straightforward. The place has a casual, hole-in-the-wall beach town feel that fits Pismo well. It's within walking distance of the beach, and there's nearby parking for about $5 an hour. Overall, a solid option for a quick, casual lunch.

    Inside Seating
    Susie K.

    We came here on a whim on our way down from Pismo, and we loved it! We heard a rumor that Splash won the best clam chowder nationally, so we had to give it a try. I thought clam chowder pretty much tasted the same everywhere but it was probably the best clam chowder we've ever had! We finished the whole bowl (which, we're never usually able to do.) The eggs brekkie was okay! The eggs were very moist, so that was a plus! :) Service was good. We ordered in the front and found some seats. The space is a little small. It's a long restaurant, so you could find some round tables in the back, but expect to sit at the bar.

    Interior
    Ian A.

    I had a lovely, memorable experience at Splash Cafe (Pismo Beach). I ordered the Clam Chowder Bread Bowl ($12.95). WOW! That immediate familiar clean salty flavor bubbles through. It's creamy and very fresh. Surprisingly, its buttery, fluffy bread brought a bright crunch. I couldn't stop myself from smiling as I continued to feast. I arrived at Splash Cafe (Pismo Beach) on Wednesday (around 8:50AM - 10 Minutes Before Opening Time). A line had already formed!! POPULAR spot! It's a brief two minute walk from Pismo Beach's Pier. Parking is challenging; nearby parking spots contain parking meters. Staff is very professional, welcoming, and efficient. Staff is very experienced and accustomed to the long line of customers. Staff quickly helped me. My food arrived within two minutes. Fast! As mentioned, I ordered the Clam Chowder Bread Bowl ($12.95). It's one of the best! Fresh food, thoughtfully prepared chowder, and delightful service is very apparent. This location has won multiple awards for their Clam Chowder, and the high quality truly shows. As I bit into those thick clams, I smiled. On ambiance, Splash Cafe (Pismo Beach) feels a little claustrophobic due to its narrow dining area and many customers. However, there's a couple large tables in the rear, and there's small tables & counters near the front. Muffled diner music plays, but the main noise are the chatting customers. Overall, I found a blissful experience at Splash Cafe (Pismo Beach). The long lines are well-deserved! It's one of the best clam chowders that I've tasted in a long time. If you love clam chowders, this is an easy recommendation. 5 out of 5. Go!

    Cristina D.

    One of the best clam chowders I've ever had was that splash!! We ordered two bread bread bowl clam chowders loaded with seafood on top. So good. We also ordered fish and chips. My husband wasn't a fan of the breading on the fish. But I did not mind it. You order at the counter and wait for your number to be called. You are not allowed to sit down until your number has been called. We found seats right away. They have a self-serve drink station. Seating is a little crammed... Outdoor seating would be ideal. Splash Cafe is a must stop when coming to Pismo Beach.

    Counter
    Carrie S.

    What a cute place in Pismo Beach!!!! I ordered a bowl of chowder with a side of sourdough. The chowder was full of clams and potato. It was thick snd chunky. I know the bread bowl is famous but I wasn't that hungry. I am including a pic of the loaded bowl. I tried some of the toppings and it was pretty good. I don't think I'd like all of that stuff on it though. I did try the carrot based hot sauce. I could only do a tiny drop at a time but it was really flavorful. I think you can taste the carrot. This was very unique. It could overpower the chowder if you use too much. Adds a nice kick though. You order at the counter and hope to find a seat in the busy restaurant. We lucked out and got a table. The food came out quickly considering how busy they were.

    Tanya M.

    Absolutely delicious! I was so excited to try their "famous" clam chowder bread bowl, and it did not disappoint. I am very picky and so many clam chowders are watery, full of potatoes, and very little clams. This one has the perfect consistency, great ratio of potatoes and clams, and nice and hot and hearty. I just wish I had some pepper because I felt like it needed a little bit of a kick. I am definitely going to buy some to go and take home and plan on going there again for lunch today. I also had their calamari and chips. They were pretty standard and tasted how calamari and fries should taste. They had friendly staff and they seem to deliver all the orders efficiently. They didn't make a mistake with my to go order and everything was packed neatly! The line moved fast as well. I wasn't a fan of the inside, but that's just my preference. It is just too packed and messy and it feels like everyone are just sitting on top of other parties. However, it's a quick order place and it's meant to be a "eat quickly and go" place. I just wish the tables were a bit more spaced. Again, that's my preference and doesn't warrant removing a star. Just an FYI for people because the pictures on here make it seem like there's lots of space.

    Fully Loaded Clam Chowder BREAD BOWL (no cheese).

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    Page 1 of 140

    Splash Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Splash Cafe

    Do they sell merch on site?

    Yes they do, but I only remember seeing shirts and maybe caps

    Open on New Year's Day?

    Yes, they should open on New Year's Day - the last time I was there they were open.

    Are dogs allowed In the outdoor dining area?

    When I went in late Feb, I didn't see any outdoor seating. I saw some folks take their food to-go down to the beach. It's a couple minute walk away

    Is the clam chowder bread bowl order equivalent to a cup or pint of clam chowder?

    My husband and I chose the Cup of Chowder over the Bread Bowl since there is quite a lot of Bread which unfortunately never gets eaten ! I think it's about the size of the Cup they fill it with. But the cup of soup and the side of bread makes it a… Read more

    Is the clam chowder gluten free?

    It is not.

    Does the lobster roll have real lobster? We ordered it and it came shredded and couldn't really taste any lobster.

    I believe it's probably not fresh lobster. We thought the same it didn't taste like it had lobster in it

    Is this a good restaurant for someone with celiac?

    No.

    Do they take reservations for seating? If not, when is the best time to go to avoid long waits? We will be (hoping) going on a Friday if that makes a difference!

    No, they don't take reservations! They are a counter-service restaurant. Any time that is not a typical meal time is probably the best time to go. Breakfast is usually less crowded than lunch/dinner, but their chowder is a must so up to you!

    Are there any vegan options?

    They have them now. A beyond meat backyard burger that is labeled vegan, a veggie burger that might be customizable to be vegan, bread, and fries. Probably can make a vegan taco with no protein alternatives. For vegetarians there is grilled cheese.… Read more

    What is in the seafood topping? Is it real crab or imitation?

    crab, extra clams, etc

    Do they have gluten free options or jicama for tortillas?

    Not that I have seen in regards to jicama. However, you can probably do a bun less hot dog, a lettuce wrapped burger, etc.

    When is the best time to go?

    They mostly busy from spring through the summer but if you go before 1130 or after 130, you should be ok.

    Is Clam chowders contain bacon?

    No, but you can add it as a topping. :-)

    Do they have a kids menu?

    I don't think they have an actual kids menu, but there are plenty of options for kids: burgers, hot dogs, corn dogs (my daughter loved it!), chicken strips and fries. Great prices too!

    Is it only seafood served here?

    No... They also have burgers, fries, etc. I just happen to love seafood.

    Clam chowder gluten free?

    No it's not

    Is the crab topper real crab or imitation crab?

    It's not real!!

    View All 20 Questions

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    Honeymoon Cafe

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    Wow! The food here is simply divine. I had the BLAT: a felafel sandwich with bacon, lettuce,…read moreavocado, tomato, and I also added an egg. It was bliss on a plate... :-) the tomato was perfectly ripen, the lettuce was crisp, the bacon was crispy, and the egg was cooked perfectly. There are so many places that make this kind of sandwich, but this by far is the best version I've ever had! The restaurant is very homey, with lots of cool artwork, and plants everywhere. Great little location right in downtown Pismo Beach! Service is friendly! I will definitely be back the next time I'm in the area.

    This experience involved me getting my food to go. As I was waiting on my food I noticed that…read moreeveryone in and out of the kitchen did not have their hair covered or pulled back. The individual working the register has bakery items on a rack that is eye level to her. She is constantly flopping her hair back and forth. In addition I noticed that when a server came out to clean tables and dirty dishes, they would put them in the sink and then just to grab food items to serve. They didn't even wash their hands! After I noticed that I had been waiting for a long time, I asked the person at the register about my food. She looked over to the rack and my food was just sitting there for an ample amount of time. All she could say was (very awkwardly) sorry. I decided to keep my cool and hoped the food was going to be okay, but when I got home there was hair in my plate.

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    Breezeway Cafe

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    Locally owned & operated
    Established in 2020

    This was my second time visiting Breezeway Coffee, and it's quickly become our go-to spot when…read morewe're in Pismo Beach. We usually stay near the pier, and this place is less than a 30-second walk, which makes it perfect for a quick morning coffee run. Both times we've been here, the coffee has been excellent. On our first visit, we got iced coffees, and they were great. They offer a wide variety of milk options, creamers, and syrups, along with the usual sugars and sugar substitutes, so you can customize your drink pretty much however you want. They also have a full menu beyond coffee, including iced tea, lattes, chai, hot cocoa, and Americanos. For food, they offer pastries, Belgian waffles, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, and breakfast burritos. I haven't personally tried the food yet, but everything I've seen coming out looks really good. On this most recent visit, we tried their affogatos, and they did not disappoint. We both went with vanilla, and it was exactly what you'd expect. The espresso was made fresh, and the balance between the hot espresso and cold ice cream was perfect. Seating inside is limited to a few bar stools, but if you walk just outside and around the corner, there's a breezeway seating area with comfortable chairs and a nice coastal breeze. It's a great spot to sit and relax for a bit. Overall, this is a great coffee spot in Pismo Beach. Consistently good drinks, quick service, and a convenient location. We'll definitely keep coming back.

    Cute patio. Weird though that they charged me to be able to take my burrito Togo…read more $30 for $1 burrito & 1 coffee seems a little crazy

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