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What’s Up in Downtown Paso Robles With each passing month, a cozy cosmopolitan vibe is growing through the streets and alleys of downtown Paso Robles. This friendly farm community is filled with fine people who stand by and support their neighbors. And now the town’s center is seeing an influx of wineries, restaurants, places to stay, and inviting things to do. Downtown Paso Robles is no longer simply a square you pass when heading to the wine trails east and west of Paso proper; it’s a place to stop, Powell’s Sweet Shoppe 840 11th Street—What was your favorite candy in bygone days? You’ll likely rediscover it when you stop into this captivating ice cream and confectionary store. The shelves are packed with colorful candy wrappers, games, and novelty items. There’s something for everyone, from the Pez candy junkie to the chocolate connoisseur. There are approximately 18 Powell’s Sweet Shoppes in the western United States, but this one seems like a one-of-a-kind original with its town square location. You can even stroll over to the gazebo with your double-dip cone. powellsss.com Studios on the Park 1130 Pine Street—Witness a masterpiece in the making, talk with an artist while she cleans her brushes, or take in a class or a seminar at this unique downtown Paso Robles emporium dedicated to the understanding and appreciation of the visual arts. You can arrange to take an individual or group tour through the studios and watch eight or more artists in action at any given time. Visitors can sign up for a one-session workshop. And, if you live near enough, you can enroll in an ongoing class. studiosonthepark.org Vinoteca Wine Bar 835 12th Street—The full-glass storefront of this cozy wine bar promises little to passersby during daytime hours, but Vinoteca awakens at 4p.m. each day and gradually comes alive with light hors d’oeuvres, local wines and desserts for the after-dinner crowd. Wednesday is winemaker night, and many locals make it a point to attend, taste, and catch up with their neighbors. Evenings with local artists and musicians also highlight the calendar. vinotecawinebar.com Vivant Fine Cheese 840 11th Street—As a perfect complement to the more than a dozen wine tasting rooms on Paso’s downtown streets, this sun-filled shop invites you to taste its cheese. Owner Danika Bowler has carefully gathered a succulent variety of premium, local, and imported handcrafted artisan cheeses for your consideration. Her mother opens the shop daily, filling the air with the scent of her fresh-baked scones and other bakery treats. Besides gourmet cheese, Vivant carries fresh bread, charcuterie, wine and beer pairings, local olive oil, and plenty of tips for Paso Robles visitors. vivantfinecheese.com We Olive 1311 Park Street—If you’ve never truly tasted olive oil, here’s a great place to start. This charming establishment encourages customers to “belly up to the bar” and explore the wide range of olive oils made in Paso Robles and beyond. There’s a knowledgeable crew on hand, anxious to take your nose and taste buds on a tour to identify the fruitiness, bitterness, and pungency of a variety of oils. Their selection stretches clear down the bar, and no one is going to rush you. Regulars come back with empty oil and vinegar containers for refills. Chances are, you will leave with a more discerning palate and a bottle or two of your favorites. weolive.com
Villa Creek 1144 Pine Street—Taking his cue from the padres of the early California missions, Chef Tom Fundaro prepares local, organically or sustainably farmed products in simple rustic preparations. Tuesday–Sunday: dinner. villacreek.com Bistro Laurent 1202 Pine Street—French-born chef and owner Laurent Grangien applies his expertise with local wines and ingredients in this highly acclaimed bistro featuring a la carte fare, as well as four- and five-course tasting menus. Tuesday– Saturday: lunch and dinner. bistrolaurent.com Matthew’s 1215 Spring Street—Chef Matthew Riley’s lifelong passion for cooking is evident in his namesake restaurant, where he transforms locally grown ingredients into culinary works of art. Monday–Sunday: dinner. matthewsattheairport.com Panolivo 1344 Park Street—This popular breakfast and lunch spot has recently opened two nights per week for dinner. Tempting pastries, salads, entrees, and a relaxed atmosphere. Sunday–Saturday: breakfast and lunch, Friday and Saturday: dinner. ebiznetopia.com/panolivos Level Four 1216 Park Street—Paso goes underground at this gathering place and restaurant offering classy cocktails and California cuisine highlighted by organic produce. Tuesday–Sunday: dinner. level4speakeasy.com Buono Tavola 943 Spring Street—Italian dishes cooked with love and as many local ingredients as possible by chef and owner Antonio Varia. Monday–Friday: lunch, Monday–Sunday: dinner. btslo.com Downtown Tasting Rooms: |
check out, and maybe even check into. 
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