If you’ve been thinking about visiting Paso Robles but are overwhelmed by the choices and how to organize it, don’t worry - I’ve got you covered. This Paso Robles itinerary is perfect for first time visitors, but with several off-the-beaten path recommendations, even veteran travelers will enjoy it as well.
Looking for more information on the region? You can check out this Paso Robles regional travel guide I’ve put together here!
Check-in : The Piccolo Hotel
You’re going to check in to The Piccolo Hotel located in downtown Paso Robles. This premium boutique hotel is located just off the main square and features a Moët & Chandon Champagne vending machine in the lobby, wine fridges in the room, and a rooftop bar called Tetto. This is definitely one of the more splurge-worthy hotels in the region, but if budget doesn’t allow, I also love the more wallet-friendly Oxford Suites. It’s not as walkable to downtown, but it’s a VERY close 3-5min drive and surprisingly new and well-appointed for a modest chain hotel. There’s also a ton of house rentals so for that be sure to check out Digs Vacation Rentals in lieu of AirBnB.
Friday Afternoon: Torrin
After you drop your bags you’ll spend the afternoon at the ultra-small production, Torrin Winery on Peachy Canyon Road. This was one of my most recent discoveries and I was blown away by not only the gorgeous setting, but by the incredible wines. Whether you choose to be indoors or out, this modest yet classically styled winery feels like an oasis and features wines from one of Paso’s most sought after wine consultants, Scott Hawley. Together with his wife, Scott is crafting exquisite bottling’s of Grenache, Syrah, and various blends for his first independent label. Chardonnay and Pinot have also recently entered the scene from vineyards further south in Santa Barbara and while they’re bottled under a separate label called “Lagom,” are equally as worthy of the higher-end pricing. Keep in mind, though this is a more premium winery, I still think these wines are absolute STEALS when you compare them to the rest of California. For me, this is a winery to watch very closely. These wines sell out quickly and finding them out in the wild is nearly impossible - so snag them while you can.
Friday Evening: Dinner at Il Cortile
Grab a mini-bottle of Moët and freshen up before dinner which is right next door at Il Cortile. This legendary Italian spot only has a few spots at the bar and reservations book up FAST. This came highly recommended to me by multiple people and despite very high expectations, I was not disappointed. I loved the local Italian variety flight of wine and the Cinghiale Ragu is absolutely not to be missed - I’m still dreaming about it.
Saturday Morning: Coffee at Spearhead
While a light breakfast box is delivered to your room each morning, for coffee you’ll want to head across the street to Spearhead. Their focus is entirely on pulling a proper shot of espresso so you won’t find a ton of coffee alternatives here like Matcha, the milk options are dreamy and endless. My latte with local raw milk is to this day one of the best coffee’s I’ve ever had.
Saturday Late Morning/Afternoon: Tin City
Paso has come a LONG way in the last 10 years and if there’s one thing that sort of surmises the progress, it has to be Tin City.
A collective of industrial tin warehouses lining a series of cul-de-sacs, interspersed with California greenery, bridges, and walking paths, you’ll find everything from under-the-radar and up and coming wineries, to straight up Paso Robles rockstars in here. It’s all super walkable and while you might be tempted to call it a “wine trail,” it’s actually so much more than that. Makers and breweries (cider AND beer) have all set up shop here to offer visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse at their operations and an opportunity to enjoy the gorgeous California sunshine while sipping and eating. In some cases, you’re literally amongst the barrels and forklifts, but many offer a little tasting area respite. Park anywhere, start wherever, be sure to grab some bites, and keep it moving when you want. There’s no one way to do it.
A few of my favorites in Tin City:
Saturday Late Afternoon: Stroll around the square and Negranti Creamery
Head back to downtown and stroll around the downtown square. Cool off with local-favorite Negranti Creamery and pop into one of the many local shops and boutiques that line the streets.
Saturday Evening: The Alchemists’ Garden and The Hatch
There’s so much food to choose from in Paso, so we’re doing a progressive dinner to knock out two places in one night. Both make it easy to pop in for some small bites at the bar and they’re also both super casual which is key for what’s ahead.
Start at The Alchemists’ Garden and order “The Belladonna.” This fiery take on the classic Painkiller cocktail is a MUST and the perfect way to reset your palate after a day of tannin. Popcorn and the crudo are also winners and complimentary to most drinks.
Make your way over about a block and a half to The Hatch. Order one of the many local wines on tap to enjoy with the Hot Skillet Cornbread and Pork Belly and thank me later.
Saturday Late Evening: Bruce Munro: Light at Sensorio
With your cocktail blanket on and some comfy shoes in tow, it’s off to your final stop of the night - Bruce Munro: Light at Sensorio. While this may sound a tad gimmicky, I promise you this incredible “light exhibit” in the vineyards will blow your mind. You’ll need to wait until sunset to see it, but under the night sky it’s astounding. Wine and food is available for purchase so feel free to even just make a full evening of it here. Remember to pack a jacket as the temperature will drop quite a bit.
Sunday Late Morning: Hope Family Wines (Austin Hope)
Grab your coffee and head to your first of three wineries for the day - Hope Family Wines. There are tons of experiences here to choose from ranging from one of the best cheese and wine pairings i’ve ever had to cabanas overlooking the vineyard. And what I love is that they make wines of all different styles and price points, so there’s something for everyone.
Caymus lovers will especially love Austin Hope who actually used to be affiliated back in the day with their Liberty School brand. And while they’re now independent, the brands still remain friendly and often collaborate with each other. The through lines are definitely still there though and lovers of Caymus are sure to fall in love with a few wines from Austin Hope.
Sunday Early Afternoon: Caliza
Head just a few minutes down the road to Caliza - a hidden gem winery that is doing all the right things and making killer Grenache, Syrah, and Rhone Blends. Everything is estate grown and owner/winemaker Carl Bowker is one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. The classic vibe lakes pretense despite the high-quality wines poured in the tasting room. Make an appointment, relax, and enjoy the good people and wine at Caliza.
Sunday Afternoon: Pier 46 Seafood Market
Take a quick detour to the local Pier 46 Seafood Market located in the same parking lot as the Trader Joes. It’s as local as it gets and don’t expect frills, but Paso’s local fish monger has a pretty great menu with quick bites like sandwiches, salads, and poke bowls. Order at the counter and grab a table outside or call ahead and take it to go if you’re in a rush.
Sunday Late Afternoon: Epoch
Everyone raves about Epoch and it’s for good reason. The wines are as beautiful as the views and the thoughtfully designed building. It’s an updated but still classic vibe here that will have you clinging to your glass as long as you can as you take in the gorgeous scenery.
Sunday Evening: Dinner at BL Brasserie
It’s been a long weekend and now it’s time to relax like a European in a quintessential French Brasserie. Formerly known as Bistro Laurent, ask any local and they’ll tell you BL Brasserie place is legendary. Long before Paso was Paso, this place was churning out classic French fare in the downtown square and continues to be a favorite among winemakers and tourists.
Other Worthy Recs:
Still have room for more or want some alternate options? No problem. Here are a few more worthy of this itinerary that I just couldn’t squeeze in.
Restaurants
Wineries