Heard about this place on our recent visit to Cayucos. Not sure how long it's been open, but apparently it was all the rage. And from the look of the line stretching all the way down the street, apparently it was very popular. We didn't bother going on the first day, because we didn't wanna wait in the line. We found out some friends of ours and visited and they said they waited in the line, and it moved very quickly. We went back next day, and just walked right up to the window to order. Hidden Kitchen has quite a selection of items, ranging from waffles, to tacos, to smoothies. My wife and I tried one of their savory ("Cayucos Cowboy") blue corn waffles, and a pair of tacos (the Canyon Carnitas and the Estero Elote). Everything was excellent. I was admittedly skeptical with the toppings on the waffle, (I'm a big sweets guy). But boy was it delicious! I would describe it as a waffle-shaped, ginormous, sope. The consistency of the cornbread-like base with the fresh toppings, just absolutely worked. With the tacos, I almost ordered meat on top of the Estero taco, and I'm glad I didn't. It was actually perfect just the way it came. The Carnitas taco was very tasty as well, although there wasn't a whole lot of meat on it. But if you look at the photos, you'll see these things were not lacking for toppings. Honestly, I ate them with a knife and fork, because I didn't even think it was possible to fold them up like a taco. My son-in-law got a couple tacos himself, and he managed somehow, but I figured I would make too much of a mess doing it that way. So essentially, I ate them like tostadas, and they were excellent. The service was fast and friendly, and the interior was cute. Lots of decor everywhere, and they had a little shop area where you could purchase various items, a bar that a couple of patrons sat at, and outdoor seating as well. The bathroom was nice and clean and tidy with some murals on the wall. All in all, it was a great experience. Price-wise, it wasn't cheap, but I don't think it was overly expensive either. I feel like if you order a waffle, you're not going to leave hungry. And by the same token, if you order two tacos at $7 apiece, it'll most likely fill you up, unless you've got a really big appetite. And if that's the case, then maybe you might want to get a third one. read more

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This was a new location for breakfast for us. I The uniqueness of using blue corn for their waffles (and tacos) makes it unique. The waffles we both had were Amazing! The flavor of the blue corn along with the toppings made a great savory dish as well as sweet. The atmosphere is so relaxing, even with a cold breeze coming in from the ocean over Plexiglas. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to everyone... including kids and dogs. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Early 50th birthday breakfast with my girls - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Delicious! Plenty of seating, whether indoors or outside. Service is great, employees are very nice and helpful. read more

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Food was amazing, the quality was great. Service was also nice, it just gets a bit busy. Ambiance is also great. They have an outdoor area. Overall, great place! read more

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

My meal was really delicious. The atmosphere was alive and the service was outstanding

I'm visiting from Oregon and dream about the amazing blue corn waffles here I want to come here whenever I'm in the area! You order at the outside window, then find a table. They bring your food to you pretty quick. I love the outside patio which overlooks the beach it's the next best thing to having a picnic on the beach. You still get the fresh ocean breeze and sunshine. There are a few tables with umbrellas and indoor tables that fill up last. We had the Bahn Mi special waffle and the Elote waffle both equally yummy. The menu is extensive enough to keep exploring read more

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Very friendly restaurant. Had the canyon carnitas tacos and they were loaded with flavor! Nice spot right by the water. read more

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

The am chance is lovely, you can sit outside and you'll be right next to the beach! Also the service was quick and fast. Food was delicious I'd say if you're looking for traditional breakfast and something to fill you up get the San Luis Sunrise! read more

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

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Delicious smoothies from a friendly staff with a beautiful ocean view on the comfortable outdoor patio. read more

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

Although I'm down in the Central Coast on average twice a year, it has been a good 10 years since I've been to Cayucos. Although not as busy as Pismo or Avila Beach, it is no longer the sleepy town it use to be and the food offerings have definitely gotten better. Look no further than Hidden Kitchen for hand pressed blue corn tacos like this trio of Elote ones that are definitely fork and knife tacos, it is so loaded followed by blue corn waffles like this Weirdos Waffles of fried banana, peanut butter, bacon ends and maple syrup. Superfood Smoothies like the Gorda Greens that taste more like a soft serve ice cream than a smoothie that is good for you is just icing on the cake. It was enough to bring me back in 2 months later, this time for two Canyon Carnitas Tacos, the Elote Lovin' Waffle and another Gorda Greens Superfood Smoothie. I have found the sweet spot of the perfect amount of food for two to enjoy on their outdoor patio without feeling like I needed a workout at Cayucos Beach across the street afterwards. read more

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Crowd is pleased! We ordered the popular San Luis and it was THE BEST! Also ordered the Weirdo which was liked by some but too weird for others ;) The smoothies are huge. The Oceano Orange was the most like Jamba and was delicious! Cute vibe. We sat outside and enjoyed the waves and cloudy day. Service was attentive and polite though you do order at the counter and bus your own plates. read more

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

After three visits, always consistently excellent. The HK sauce is mild in spice and everything tastes unique. I have tried elote tacos, elote waffles, canyon carnitas, weirdo waffle and they are all excellent. My only mistake was trying to eat a taco with my hands. I had sauce all over my face and both hands were saturated with finger licking good sauce. The Gorda greens smoothie has been the only drink I have tried and I would recommend this one. Parking can be a challenge on weekends, there is indoor and patio seating. Bathroom is in the back patio area. self serve water is next to the coffee station read more

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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

Its our go to breakfast/brunch whenever we visit the town. Our son calls it his favorite place ever to eat. It's consistently delicious and service is great and has been each visit. We enjoy that it's next to the beach so the kids can fuel up then head to the water. The San Luis sunrise and Morro melt are our top favorites and our kids love the classic. read more

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

I think solid breakfast choice in this area. First you wait in line and thereafter you can go inside to find a seat. Don't worry somehow there's always plenty of seating! Plenty of parking too even on a Saturday when I went. Patio has nice seats but of course shaded one's are more desired. Patio seating is cute but there isn't really a view but close to ocean. Fiscalini Fruit Waffle--5/5 a must! Looks so plain in photos but I think they douse this gluten-free waffle in butter and it was amazing! Probably best waffle I have ever had! San Luis Sunrise Waffle--3/5 contrary to reviews was not great. Looked amazing presentation wise but flavors were not cohesive. Bacon wasn't juicy and fresh iono wouldn't recommend. Lucia Taco-4.5/5 yummy you can order 1,2 or 3 tacos! Bishops Buzz Smoothie 3/5 It was alright coffee banana blend. Oceano Orange Smoothie 4.5/5 Great portion size. Can easily share and all smoothies have creamy textures so comes with with a spoon too. Something weird is that you bus your own table yet they ask for tip... And by bus I mean clearing your whole table and putting your utensils, plates, clearing food in the bin etc. It wasn't a big deal but it was gross seeing everyone's food piling up in the bin etc. I don't think they get a chance to wipe down all the tables either. Overall, would recommend! read more

The Hidden Kitchen - San Luis Waffle 3/5 presentation was great but taste was not cohesive - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

What a fantastic place full of gluten free goodness!!!! Definitely gonna stop here every time we come to town. So yummy. Super Friendly staff. All around a fabulous and delicious experience read more

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

An easy to find spot along the main downtown area of Cayucos. I had never tried a savory waffle until I ate at Hidden Kitchen, and boy did it not disappoint! My go-to is the San Luis Sunrise, but the last time I went, they had a monthly special of a "jalapeño popper" waffle, so I decided to switch it up. It was the perfect amount of sweet, spicy, and savory, I wish they made it a permanent menu item! Maybe one day I'll try a sweet waffle or even the tacos, as I hear those are delicious as well. We just don't make it to the coast very often, so I default to my tried and true favorite. We sat out front, where they have a few tables set up, but they also have some indoor seating and seating out back where you have a beautiful ocean view. Parking can be rough to find, especially in the summer time, as the coast is always busy that time of year. Weekends are busy as well. Don't let any lines scare you, the staff powers through them rather quickly. Prices are a little steep, but you are paying for high quality ingredients along with fast and friendly service. Let's face it, eating out anywhere is pricy these days. Living in that area also isn't cheap, so I'm sure rent space isn't either. I like guess they pay their employees fairly as well. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Jalapeño popper waffle (an July 2024 special) candied bacon jalapeño jam, HK sauce, cream cheese, cheese stuffed jalapeño, lime zest - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

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Food is always amazing and tasty. Great views of the beach and cute decor. Staff always friendly and amazing. Will drive from Solvang just to enjoy the food. Never disappoints. read more

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Don't let looks deceive you - this place looks tiny from the Main street but once you go inside there is a cute bar with seating, indoor tables and ample outdoor seating that has views of the ocean. We came here on Thursday after surfing when they have their "community night", and there was live music outside until 8pm. For entrees, we ordered the protein bowl with carnitas and the carnitas nachos. They were both a absolutely superb!! Would come here again and again for the food, it was to die for! They have three beers on tap, and a wide variety of canned and bottled alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks as well. We ordered our local favorite, the Big Sur double IPA (YUM)! Everyone is very friendly and welcoming - Definitely will be visiting this place frequently! Thanks, Hidden Kitchen! read more

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Food was great , atmosphere was awesome will come again!! Waitresses are very attentive. Mimosas were wonderful with different juices to mix. Flavor of the carnita tacos was so good and I love carnitas! Waffle was delicious never had a blue corn waffle before it was odd to see but the taste was great the toppings were very fresh. read more

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

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Great food and atmosphere at The Hidden Kitchen. Service was good, will definitely return! read more

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I enjoyed a wonderful breakfast here. There were a lot of great options to choose from. The staff was warm and friendly.

This place has the most delicious food!! My daughter has celiac and she was perfect after eating there. Cross contamination is always a worry, I was so happy to have somewhere with no worry on vacation!! Thank you for the delicious food and friendly staff !! read more

Love this place and drive way out of my way to eat here every chance I get! Carnitas tacos are my personal favorites!!

The Hidden Kitchen is a hidden gem! Finding something different and a new experience with a different menu is always special. Blue corn creative dishes are a new experience. Keep in mind that it's a casual place--you order at a window, you find a table (inside or outside), and the food is brought to you. From outside, you can see the ocean and hear the waves. Blue Corn is made delicious and the base of a breakfast dish (waffles) or a lunch dish (taco variations). Didn't try the smoothies; but saw that many ordered them. This was a nice find while visiting the area! read more

I love this place. AMAZING blue corn waffles. The texture, the flavor...idk I literally can't. I don't know what they do but they made a deal with the devil to make their waffles so good. Breakfast tacos are pretty good. Tortillas tasted a little undercooked. Not pictured: the BEST smoothie! I'm obsessed! We split the Profumo Protein smoothie and oh boy wow. Y'all must get this. So creamy you have to eat it with a spoon. Cacao nibs on top make it a tad crunchy and extra perfect Generous portions but pricey. However, totally makes sense for the quality of ingredients and creative menu. Only reason I don't give it a 5 star is because, well preeety good bfast tacos, pricey &&& every time I have been here, I kinda get unfriendly/uncomfy vibes from the workers which makes me sad because I love this place so much! Overall I'd come here every single day if I could. Cute, right on the beach, not bad wait times, and the BEST bfast around slo/morro read more

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Went here for a quick bite & hand wash as I road trip my way up the coast and wow I was amazed by the carnitas taco I ordered. So crispy, terrific crema and not to mention seed oil free. Super open and vibrant inside, and a super jovial staff. My one qualm is I wished the coffee bar had whole milk for us dairy drinkers, but that's not anything worth getting flustered over lol. read more

Good solid food. The blue corn waffle was a nice mix of savory, gritty corn and the butter/syrup. My husband did not enjoy the texture, however. The mimosa was nice and my open faced taco was tasty. It was windy and cold at 1 pm in August on the patio, which wasn't all that pleasant. Overall a decent place for brunch. read more

The food was delicious and not your typical fare. We had the elote taco, lemongrass taco, and the morro melt. The elote taco was out of the world. Add a little honey and hot sauce to the morro melt and it takes it to a whole new dimension. read more

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

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Perfect for a sexy yuppie! Never had blue corn before, but I understand the hype. The carnitas tacos are the thing to order.

A great little place in Cayucos. It was our first trip to Cayucos, so we just trusted that everyone in the long line knew Hidden Kitchen was the place for lunch in town. The food and service were great and the lengthy line to order moved quickly. Everyone enjoyed the combination of waffles, tacos and smoothies for lunch. read more

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

Ya know, I thought I would despise this place before I actually tried because it was "healthy". But once I tried the blue corn breakfast taco my mind was changed completely. It was "quite delicious" as I said when I took a bite. The service was really nice and they treated you very tenderly. A little eerily tender in my humble opinion. I was honestly scared. Really good food. Very cool vibe on the inside and outside. read more

This place was recommended to us by a local and it did not disappoint! The blue corn waffles were AMAZING, service was good, and the sheltered outdoor seating had a great beach-town-vibe. Excellent! read more

My fav was The Weirdo Waffle- it was perfect! Savory AND sweet! The Chai tea was just right! The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating. Service was quick and the staff was friendly. read more

Holy crap this place is good. If you're a foodie, and like breakfast food, this is a must. They're known for their blue corn waffles and breakfast items, but just about anything you pick is going to be delicious. The back outdoor patio area faces the ocean, so weather permitting, you should definitely try to sit there. And the staff is super kind and helpful! read more

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Don't tip. You order your food at the window, find your own table, get your own coffee and water, and bus your own table. Wait until after you eat like a normal restaurant. Food was ok only. read more

Our family has been here so many times & I've not a bad thing to say about it. Insanely consistently delicious food. My oldest asks throughout the year just randomly if we can drive to Cayucos just for this restaurant. We LOVE it & highly recommend! We've tried so many things on the menu but two of my top favorites are the blue corn rancho el churro waffle & the Santa Lucia tacos. Best food in Cayucos. Well worth the wait. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - El Rancho Blue Corn Churro Waffle - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

I used to live around the area and moved away, but when I knew I was coming back to visit, this was first on my list to stop at. I've been here several times and I always love the atmosphere and the service on the food. It is right by the water so it's very beautiful whether you sit indoor or outdoor they sell cute little stuff as well like personal merch and other goods. The food is delicious I love the thick smoothies. The waffles are sooooo good you have to try it! I always recommend coming here to everyone. Haven't tried the tacos but as far as the waffles go they're aesthetically pleasing, most come with a lovely giant avocado half on top and they taste delicious. Especially with cheese and the hidden kitchen sauce. read more

The Hidden Kitchen - Monterey mushroom, fiscalini fruit, two sunrises, and one valentines weekend special drink ! - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - Cayucos, California

So. Buckle up. We were happy to find HK in a visit to Cayucos five years ago, mostly because I'm GF and can't have dairy. The waffle and tacos were so incredibly delicious that we came back the next morning and took one to go. OMG! So when we were passing by on our way south, we went out of our way for HK. I was happy to hear about their write ups and successes, so well deserved and had no problem waiting 45 minutes in line to order. We ordered waffles to heat there, one to take home and the mix as well. Big mistake. I don't know why they changed the waffle mix but they did. I can do just as good at home with an off the shelf mix. My waffle was under cooked and my egg overcooked and the bacon barely cooked down. My hubby had the special of the day and it was meh. I get it, with such high demand I'm sure quality control can sometimes suffer. I'm still giving them four stars because I'm hoping they read this and get their sh5t together and bring back that gorgeous food that I remember so fondly. But for now, not worth the long wait. read more

Very delicious superfood smoothies. They are a bit pricey but they are thick and creamy. The staff recommends having the smoothie with a spoon, and I can see why! We'd like to come back and try some other items, as the menu looks really good. The store has some seating indoors but the patio is big and spacious. This would be a good place to enjoy brunch on a nice day. Staff is very friendly. read more

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