We ordered the Elote Waffle and the Weirdos Waffle. The elote waffle was one of my favorite bites this year. With cheese, chilis, salsa on a blue corn waffle it was the perfectly indulgent and savory. I would definitely return just for this. The weirdos waffle was good, with bacon bits and a carmelized banana on top. It leaned a bit salty for something I expected to be sweet, but I think that just comes down to personal preference. Overall great place! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Elote waffle and Weirdos waffle - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

A friend recommended that we meet up at this restaurant in Cayucos. It is very popular so it took a while to get it. You have to order from the sidewalk, after standing in a long line. Then you can eat inside on the patio. This waiting in line wasn't good for me because my foot was in a boot and the line moved very slowly. Then I couldn't even see the menu until I got closer to the order window so that took more time. Anyway, my friend and I got a chance to catch up while eating our weird food on the patio, so thanks for that. I ordered some sort of smoothie and wanted to also try the waffle so ordered one of those. Can't recall what flavors, though, sorry. I wouldn't come here again, simply because this is not the type of food I prefer. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Some sort of Smoothie - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Had a really fun brunch experience at Hidden Kitchen! The outdoor seating has a beautiful ocean view and such a relaxed beachy vibe. It's counter service, so you order outside and wait in line, but even though the line was long, it moved surprisingly quickly. There was also plenty of seating both inside and on the patio. The food was fresh, unique, and super filling. I had the Weirdo waffle and my friend had the Mannix Machaca taco. The flavors were really interesting and everything tasted very fresh and homemade. I also tried the Big Sur smoothie, which was delicious and refreshing with a little spicy kick -- you could definitely taste the fresh ginger. Overall a really cute and fun spot if you're in Cayucos and want something different from a typical brunch place! read more

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What a find. Of course, it's not such a secret. Line out the door and tons of reviews...it's still...shhhhhhh. Smallish menu with mainly 4 items (with a handful of varieties): blue corn waffles, tacos, bowls, and smoothies. The anticipation was killing me, but it also gave me ample chances to vacillate between choices, change again, and yet again. The Weirdo won. Blue Corn Waffle with peanut butter, banana, and bacon. It was a wow. The waffle was dense, thick, and very filling. I guess I'd wish it to be fluffy, but I understand it's gluten-free. Way too much crumpled bacon, and I love me this piggy. Overall, yes, wow. I got one of their smoothies, too. Well, it was sticky and thick, I didn't like the texture (or the flavor, I got the coffee one). Anyway, they refunded my money without a hitch. It's got a Santa Barbara feel, casual and almost hippie. Gorgeous outside seating, if you wish, with that awesome beach breeze. Sign me up. read more

Interesting and delicious waffles! Loved having sweet and savory choices. Smoothie was also great but super, super thick. Enjoyed our meal here! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Oceano Orange smoothie - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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We love this place- this is our go to breakfast spot. Consistently good and healthy food We would have eaten here all week- but they are considerate of their employees and took Wednesday-Friday off for Thanksgiving week Love this for them, taking care of their team members. I tried a bowl this time- it was super yummy with the elote. I always get the elote taco My hubby got the carnitas tacos- 1 breakfast one with egg and 1 brunchy one. We love the blue corn waffles and tacos. We bought several bags of the mix to take home with us. Wish they had one near us- we would be there everyday Cute, beach vibe decor Very clean in the restaurant as well as the restroom Plenty of parking available when we were there right at opening 9 am read more

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This could have been a bad review, but the manager turned it around. We have been here a couple of times over two years and enjoyed it. This time we ordered and sat down. We waited about 40 minutes before I went in to check on it. We were told they were just busy and it would be another 10-15 minutes. We saw people who had come in after us get their food, so I knew it wasn't just that they were busy. Our food arrived an hour after we ordered and the manager let us know there had been a mishap in the kitchen and we shouldn't have waited an hour. He graciously offered a refund and turned around what could have been a negative experience. Things can happen and it's great that it was acknowledged and a gesture made. We will be back. read more

I'm so happy I finally came back here!! If you're ever in cayucos or Cambria, you have to try the hidden kitchen. Cayucos location is the one open during the week, while Cambria is only weekends! You order your food first then go find seating inside or out in the back. Super cute establishment. There's merchandise for sale, miscellaneous items. The food is amazing. They're known for their blue waffle (delicious), but their tacos...wow. So good!!! The whole menu looks good, it's hard to order. They have specials too. The staff is nice and greet you. Whenever I'm in cayucos or Cambria, I'll always have some hidden kitchen. read more

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Wow!!! Ok run, don't walk over here and enjoy some yummy food. I had a vegan bowl and my husband had the San Luis Sunrise and added turkey. Both were perfectly seasoned and flavorful. The blue corn waffle chefs kiss per husband! You order at the counter and staff bring the food to your table. Service was fast and staff were friendly. The dining area was a cute patio with a fantastic view! read more

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Every trip to the beach must include a stop at Hidden Kitchen. The blue corn waffles and tacos are gluten free and delicious. Each month they have new specials and should not be missed. Plus, there are standouts on the recurring menu like the pork tacos and the Monte cristo waffle. The staff here is so friendly and helpful, the food is surprisingly fast for being made fresh and the location is to die for, don't be scared of the long line. It's worth it and moves fast! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Barbacoa taco special of the month -- even my pup wants a bite! - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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The line outside was so short only had 2 people in front of me yet I waited for my order for an hour to go. Good thing I just love those blue corn waffles. I have yet to try a sweet one but the savory are so delicious. It was worth the wait read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Autumn specials - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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This place is darling and a one of kind type of place. It is a little expensive on the surface but so is everything in CA. Playing tourists we stopped in and sampled different tacos. The tacos were filled with top quality ingredients and the perfect mix of yum. There was not anything we did not like. Wish we had more time as we would have loved to sample the waffles. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Breakfast Taco and Crispy Carnitas taco - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

I had never even heard of The Hidden Kitchen before till my cousin told me about it, so we checked it out while on a weekend roadtrip through Cayucos. It's not really that hidden--pretty much right on the main strip--but whatever, catchy name I guess. I got the "Weirdo" waffle and swapped out the peanut butter for whip cream (personal choice, don't judge). The waffle wasn't crispy, it was more soft and kinda cakey. It had a good flavor tho--kinda earthy and just sweet enough. The deep fried banana on top was superb. Like, I would've eaten a plate of just those. And the bacon ends? Man, they were delicious. Salty, crispy, just greasy enough to be right without feelin heavy. Also ordered one of their smoothies with almond butter and holy crap--probably the best smoothie I ever had. Thick, creamy, nutty, and felt like it shoulda been a cheat meal but somehow still tasted healthy. Cool vibe, good service, and they give you drinks in mason jars so you feel all rustic n' earthy. Prices were a bit up there, but it's one of those rare times where I didn't mind payin a little more. Totally worth it. If you're anywhere near Cayucos, do yourself a favor and swing by. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

After seeing the endless posts about this place I knew I had to try it. But honestly, save your money at least for what I ordered. The overfilling of the smoothies leads to an anxiety inducing form of psychological warfare where you have to eat it quickly lest you risk spilling all over the table. This includes eating whatever topping is placed on the smoothie at an unkind ratio that does the smoothies flavor no favors. Additionally, I ordered the weirdo waffle and the almond butter used both looked excessively wet while simultaneously sucking all of the moisture out of every part of my mouth. My friends liked their food, and the service was fine but I cannot say I would spend money here again. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Weirdos waffle - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

The reef ranchero tacos were amazing! The blue corn taco shells were soft and filled with beans, eggs and avocado so I had to eat with a fork. Service was great, staff were attentive and super friendly. They had a nice indoor and outdoor seating overviewing the beach. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Reef Rancheros Tacos - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

What a fun place!! The setting is great with plenty of outdoor pup friendly tables with ocean views order at the counter and they bring your food to your table. We ordered the morro melt and the blue corn waffles with strawberries bananas and cream. Both were very filling, different, delicious and just fun!! Prices are reasonable. We will definitely be back next time we are in town. read more

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A little over half way through 10 day road trip w daughter. Favorite meal so far and I've been in the food business for 25+ years and own a bagel shop. Savory waffles, amazing location. Everything I'd want and expect in a coastal California experience. Peppers, corn, onion sautéed in something like a green chili sauce w melted havarti and half a nice ripe avocado. Blue corn waffle underneath. I added egg to mine. Delicious!! If you can stop there, it's a do not miss. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Edna Elote? Blue corn waffle underneath. - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

I ordered a blue waffle with fresh fruit to go and I was Not disappointed. Fresh coconut whipped cream, sliced strawberries and bananas and a side of maple syrup. Delicious! Customer service was quick and helpful. I did not eat inside. Maybe next time! read more

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So yummy waffles! Out of the world! We ordered some savory waffles and they are all good. Crowded of people because it is the long weekend. Be prepared to wait to order and to get a table. They have indoor and outdoor seatings. Highly recommend! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Love their tacos and smoothies! My husband usually orders two tacos and I order just one so we can split a smoothie. The smoothies are huge and could easily be a meal in themselves. I haven't tried anything I didn't like. We bring company here because the food is always so great. Highly recommend!! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Probably the best smoothie I have ever had. We were visiting cayucos for a few days and every time we walked by this place the line was down the street and around the corner. I decided to call in to order my smoothie so I didn't have to wait on the crazy long line which seemed to be pretty slow moving. The smoothie was ready in 10 mins and honestly was amazing. It is crazy thick, had to eat with a spoon!! So much flavor and sweet but not too sweet. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Big Sur blue smoothie, no ginger add protein - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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The Hidden Kitchen - Cayucos' Coastal Gem with Blue Corn Soul Tucked into the beachy heartbeat of Cayucos, The Hidden Kitchen isn't just a café--it's a vibe. A pulse. A gathering place where surf town charm meets organic soul. From the moment you spot the line spilling down the sidewalk, you know you've stumbled onto something locals have known all along: this is the place. There's nothing cookie-cutter about it. The setup is delightfully relaxed--walk up, place your order, grab a number, and find your spot among the weathered wood tables, either inside the boutique-modern interior or out on the cozy back patio. The staff, a friendly and youthful crew, keep things moving with a laid-back rhythm that somehow still hums with energy. It's casual, but intentional. Now, let's talk food--because that's where The Hidden Kitchen transforms from "cute spot" to must-return destination. The star? Blue corn waffles. Not your average breakfast fare, these things are deep, nutty, and beautifully textured--almost like someone milled the masa fresh out back just for you. But they don't stop at waffles. Imagine this: a golden fried organic egg, yolk as orange as a sunset, perched atop that waffle like a crown. A handful of freshly diced avocado, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a whisper of this magic chipotle aioli--somewhere between a smoky mayo and a secret sauce handed down from the gods of brunch. It's open-faced, savory, bold--and you'll think about it for days. Craving something hand-held? The blue corn tacos follow the same formula of excellence: same aioli, same rich egg, same avo goodness, wrapped in tortillas that feel like Grandma slapped them on a griddle just moments ago. Fresh, humble, unforgettable. Drinks? Oh yeah--they've got you covered. Self-serve local coffee, refillable stations, and smoothies that taste like someone bottled sunshine and chlorophyll. Whether you're rolling in after a morning surf, a hot summer hike, or a foggy coastal stroll, there's something to meet your moment. The Hidden Kitchen isn't loud or showy. It doesn't need to be. It draws you in with that line on the sidewalk, with the clink of mugs and the blend of salty air and sizzling skillets. It's where cyclists refuel, tourists linger, and locals keep returning, like waves to the shore. You come once for the waffles. You return for the way it makes you feel: connected, grounded, nourished. Cayucos has a heart, and this is where it beats. read more

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Our experience was not good. First of all, they say on the menu to let them know about nut allergies. Many menus say this, so they can make sure there won't be any cross contamination, so I wasn't surprised, after all, a peanut allergy is very common. After I ordered for me and my partner, I let them know about my peanut allergy. The cashier said she needed to talk to the manager. She brought the manager over who informed me that they have a peanut butter waffle on the menu, and that peanut butter gets everywhere because of it. I was confused because their menu didn't say, they couldn't accommodate allergies, it just said to inform them. I then said if you can't accommodate allergies then please cancel the bowl I had ordered. They didn't want to do that and we went back and forth a bit. Finally they said that they would put notes everywhere and inform the kitchen about it. It seemed like a big hullabaloo and like they had never encountered anyone with a nut allergy before. When it came to the eating the food, I was a little let down by the lack of flavors in my vegetarian bowl, but it was fine. That was until I took a bite of my egg, and there was egg shell in it. That was a bummer but I decided to keep eating because the food was expensive, and egg shell happens sometimes. However, when I continued to eat, I found bacon in my "vegetarian" bowl. I was shocked and disappointed. This kitchen is obviously just throwing food around (by their own admission) and not concerned with what is going where. I feel lucky that I didn't experience an allergic reaction that day. After this experience, I don't trust the kitchen is paying any attention to how food is prepared or probably how clean (or dirty) the kitchen is. I DO NOT recommend this place at all. If the prices aren't enough to turn you off, I hope this review helps. read more

I tried the Santa Lucia breakfast tacos, and wow, these were hands down the best breakfast tacos I've ever had! The homemade blue corn tortillas were incredible, and everything tasted so fresh. We went on a Saturday morning, and while there was a long line, it moved quickly. You order at the counter and then find a seat either inside or outside. The staff was so kind and attentive, and we sat inside, which was adorable! The decor is charming with lots of unique little tchotchkes from local businesses. I can't wait to come back. Bonus: The entire restaurant is gluten-free, which is a huge plus! read more

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Great employees and delicious food! Great place to eat if you are in town. Had the morro melt and the cayucos cowboy. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Morro melt! - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

Believe the hype--this place is worth the wait! Yes, there's always a line--and for good reason. Everything about this spot is stunning! The food? Out. Of. Control. If I had the room, I'd honestly order one of everything on the menu. The waffles are unreal--so many fun options to choose from, and every bite is better than the last. That grilled peach waffle? A personal fave. The churro waffle? Fire. But the real plot twist? The tacos. GET THREE. Just trust me. The salsa hits, the flavors are bold, and you'll be dreaming about them later. The bacon ends are crispy perfection, the eggs are always cooked just right, and the aroma of grilled mushrooms while you wait in line? Genius. Appetite = activated. The staff is super friendly, the view is gorgeous, and the whole experience just flows--even the table situation. It might feel a little weird to hover at first, but it works like magic. A table always opens up right on time. This spot is a whole vibe--and totally worth the wait! read more

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Wow! What a find! Food is amazing! Location is amazing! Hidden Kitchen IS AMAZING!!! The hidden kitchen is clearly not that hidden as demonstrated by the line in front to order. But good news is the line moves relatively quick and there is lots of seating inside and outside in the back. Their blue corn waffles are fantastic. Loved the one with peanut butter and bacon, and it paired amazing. Everyone said the tacos are also so good and we'll have to try on my next visit. read more

Delicious tacos and waffles, cayucos was craving this place. Yummy and rich smoothies. Mimosas. Lines at the door. Sweet little thrift stop inside and games for the littles. read more

The food is DELICIOUS! So many great options to choose from with sweet and savory options + coffee and drinks. The staff and service was friendly and quick to clear tables which is helpful since people are standing waiting for tables to be available. The ambiance is chill vibes and welcomes all who love food and coffee. I have been to the Cambria location and the Cayucos location and both are truly hidden gems. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Waffle with egg, bacon and avocado - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Hmm mixed feelings about this place. I loved their blue corn tortillas and waffle, just super delicious. However the macha taco I had lacked flavor. The ranchero taco was ok but again just needed salt/more flavor. My wife's waffle was great but the bacon had bits that were just fatty. The resteraunt had a great view of the beach and the resteraunt itself is super cute. After ordering our food, our order was out in about 10 minutes so it was pretty quick. Overall, the menu here is unique and extensive and worth checking out. Stay safe out there folks, happy holidays. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Machaca taco and ranchero taco - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Cannot go wrong with anything on the menu. Just thinking about the food makes me hungry. Breakfast tacos with pork are a must along with a waffle. I would eat this weekly if I was I in the area. The view of the ocean while having food delivered from the friendly staff is a win win. Will be back soon! read more

Let's get down to it...the food is fantastic, portions are huge, and the price is decent for the area. I especially like being able to order at a counter and seating yourself with a view of the ocean. The seating (specifically the seats) isn't very comfortable. No complaints about the service; staff is friendly! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Asada and elote tacos - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

Different for a sweet breakfast treat, the blue corn makes it somewhat savory even if it has sweet toppings. Coffee and shakes are really good here too. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Special: Peaches and Cream Waffles (Greek yogurt is the cream) - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Came here in a group of 4 for a late brunch around 2pm on a Saturday and were able to order and just barely manage to find an open table in the back patio. It was quite busy despite it being so late in the day. You order at the window at the front of the shop and take your number to a table of your choosing in the back. Its nice and beachy vibes, with wooden picnic table vibes and some good canopy shade cover from the sun. Bishops Buzz Smoothie ($11): my friend and I asked for this to be split between two cups, which was a good call because the smoothies are massive! This tasted mostly like banana, with a touch of dates and coffee, and was a nice cool treat. Elote waffle ($19): also split this between me and my friend; the waffle is fluffy and hearty, without any crispy and just a little sweet almost cornbready flavor from the blue corn. The elote topping was nice and cheesy, and exactly what we were expecting. Oceano Orange Smoothie ($11): this was another friends that I tried a taste of; this is really yummy and tropical, somewhat like a jamba juice carribean passion smoothie but less sweet. Overall, cute place for a relaxing brunch by the beach! Definitely recommend the ocean orange smoothie (to split probably if you're like me and the entire smoothie would be a meal in itself). read more

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Don't be intimidated by the line, stand in it, it's totally worth it! This place is fantastic, it's not exactly hidden, but the name is cool, it's not a large place, but it does have a rear patio for seating, if you're lucky, you can get an inside seat, the weather is so Weird in Cayucos that you can be freezing one second in blazing hot the second so bring a sweatshirt and sit in the shade so if it gets cold, you can wear the sweatshirt and if it's warm, then just enjoy the weather. All of their food is great, I've never had anything here that is not fantastic, they are very creative with their dishes, which regularly change And again all of its great, they've got good booze and really great coffee drinks, and we always make it a point of coming here if we're anywhere near slo. read more

We went there on a Sunday noon and there was a good amount of people. You would order your food outside and then you find a table. There were still a lot of tables available when we arrived. They have both indoor and outdoor seating but indoor seating can be limited. The outdoor seating leads you to a beach view. I ordered the monterey mushroom waffle and it was so good. The waffle was a lot filling than I thought it would be. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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** Visited on Friday, October 18th 2024 around 9:30am An incredible & kind staff, DELICIOUS food, and right by the ocean? SOLD. My boyfriend and I have been coming to The Hidden Kitchen a handful of times in the past two years, and have been BIG fans here. Both the Cayucos and Cambria locations have amazing staff members, and their locations are pretty awesome though the Cayucos location is much larger in space. OKAY THE FOOD: * smoothies - three words; HEARTY and YUMMY. Their smoothies are thick yes, but VERY filling and honestly a great breakfast smoothie to start out your day. I absolutely love their Oceano Orange and my partner LOVES their Baywood Berry. * San Luis Sunrise Waffle - my all time favorite savory waffle. It's pretty filling and comes with the right amount of toppings that don't outweigh the actual blue corn waffle. If you're ever visiting Cayucos and waiting a GREAT breakfast/brunch spot, this is the place to go. Happy eating! :-) read more

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Reliable local place for waffles. Always good food. Haven't tried the craft beer selection for breakfast yet.

This place was highly recommended to us, & it was good to try! I don't think the blue corn waffles were our favorite. We got one savory & one sweet, & expected the waffles to be slightly different but they tasted the same. Reminded me of eating a tortilla which was kinda interesting with the sweet stuff on top. Definitely a unique meal, and the stuff on top was really great, good flavor. Just didn't love the waffles, but that's just me. Service was great, location is awesome. We ate outside with a nice view of the ocean and the pier. Cool spot for sure! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - San Luis Sunrise - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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The food was very good but be prepared to wait a LONG time for it. We waited a HALF HOUR out front after we ordered for three to go smoothies. My two very hungry kids were going fully stir crazy. I asked the server it was a typical wait and she shrugged and said that they were a little backed up, but yes, often takes that long for a smoothie. This was on a Tuesday in April, it was lunchtime, but they weren't crowded (there was no line at the window, I just walked right up and ordered.) read more