“Cheap” Eats Along the 101
“Cheap” Eats Along the 101
By Don Sonderling
What a pleasure it is for a foodie like me to discover “cheap eats” on my travels along California’s Hwy 101 from Ventura County through Santa Barbara and San Louis Obispo Counties to Paso Robles.
And let’s be clear about this: “Cheap” is an expression, and NOT a definition of quality. Used here, “cheap eats” means “excellent value for great food.” Generally, these are small mom-and-pop operations (no chains) where the food over-delivers at a price point generally in the $10 to $15 range. You may drive by some of the best food you’ve ever tasted and not stop — unless, of course, you happen to be in the know. And that’s the beauty of these restaurants!
So, let’s explore some of my favorite cheap eats along the 101. Several of these have been long-time favorites of mine, while others have been new, delicious discoveries. Every road trip needs cheap eats. Enjoy.
Ventura County
Jim & Rob’s Fresh Grill in Ojai is a true find, and you can’t get more local than with the new owners, Ryan and Rachel Connell, who are third-generation Ojai residents. The Connells have been eating at Jim & Rob’s practically every week for nearly 30 years, enjoying the selection, freshness, and great values. So when the opportunity came along to purchase this neighborhood restaurant, it was an easy decision. These days, you’ll find Rachel and the Connell’s four teenage children taking shifts during the week, and Ryan popping in on weekends to ensure everyone is well taken care of (and probably saying hello to his many local friends, too).
A Fajita Platter at Jim & Rob’s
Their motto is, “Where we don’t serve fast food, but healthy food as fast as we can.” You’ll be hard-pressed to find many dishes over $10, but you’ll find plenty under $10 — including tacos, burritos, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more, including Ryan’s personal favorite: the all-natural sweet chili wings! They also offer vegetarian and vegan options. Check the daily specials, and if you are thirsty, order one of their signature margaritas (personal endorsement here).
Enjoy great food in a relaxing atmosphere that won’t break the food budget, even for a family of four.
Jim & Rob’s Fresh Grill is located at 214 W Ojai Ave, Ojai. For hours and more, see jimandrobsojai.com
Santa Barbara County
The Spot in Carpinteria dates back to 1958. Although there have been several ownership changes in the last 66 years, the quality and reputation have only improved year by year, making The Spot one of the most iconic burger joints on the Central Coast. In 1999, Jesse and Ana Bustillo took over ownership of The Spot, and they’ve maintained its vibe — and excellence.
The Spot is a true step back in time to the surf culture of the 1960s, when you’d take a break from the waves to grab a burger from a nearby stand. This is the place to go when you want to sink your teeth into a REAL (not a formula-produced) burger — just the bun, ketchup, the burger, melted cheese, lettuce, and a pickle. Think about it: A burger, fries, and a shake for about $10! And, if you are in the mood for a quesadilla, taco, burrito, or fish and chips, they have those, too.
the spot shrimp tacos
The Spot will take you back to yesteryear or show you what good ol’ California comfort food should be. Enjoy your meal there on the patio, or walk down a couple blocks to the beach. Either way, their food hits the spot!
The Spot is located at 389 Linden Ave, Carpinteria. For more: (805) 684-6311. Cash only.
Santa Barbara’s La Super-Rica Taqueria is, well, super! Just because this restaurant was Julia Child’s favorite restaurant in Santa Barbara isn’t the only reason to go here (although it’s a pretty good recommendation). Go here for an assortment of quality “cheap eats” — tacos, quesadillas, and more at $6 and under. Serving the community since 1980, Isidoro Gonzalez (who still works at the restaurant) has created an inviting, casual restaurant that draws people from near and far. You probably won’t see its sign as you drive up Milpas Street, but
you’ll definitely notice its bright turquoise and white paint job — and, most likely, a line out the door. You will find a varied, extensive menu, frequently offering new items. Recently, Isidoro has been featuring a selection of Oaxacan cuisine. You’ll never get bored, and your taste buds will thank you.
If you’ve never been to La Super-Rica Taqueria, it’s time you did. Taste why locals and those in the know frequent this restaurant, which has been serving Mexican comfort food for more than 45 years.
La Super-Rica Taqueria is located at 622 N Milpas St, Santa Barbara. For more: (805) 963-4940. Cash only.
San Luis Obispo County
The Nautical Bean in the neighborhood of Baywood (about a 10-minute drive south from Morro Bay) is a hidden gem off the beaten path for breakfast or lunch. With a menu selection of sumptuous bagels (“eggels”), croissants, muffins, and a wide variety of coffee and tea drinks, this is a great place to fuel up on freshly prepared foods without breaking the bank. Sit out on the patio and enjoy your coffee and food by the quiet bay in front of you. You’ll find the food excellent, the staff friendly, and the location bucolic and relaxing. You’ll also get a kick out of the kitschy décor.
Enjoy a short detour to this neighborhood, family-owned, friendly coffee shop as you approach Morro Bay, and check out their three other locations around San Luis Obispo. You’ll be glad you did!
For a full list of locations and more, check out nbcentralcoast.com
Papi’s Grill in Pismo Beach is a real find! This unpretentious taqueria sits on the corner of Price Street and Wadsworth. Go inside, order food, and sit on the patio. I’m going out on a limb here: If this is not the best taco you’ve ever had, it’s going to come close. Using the freshest of ingredients and corn tortillas handmade by Papi, the Taco de Camarones is — to use an overworked phrase — to die for. Yeah, you CAN taste the freshness. Served with several jumbo shrimp, fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, black beans, corn, and white sauce, one of these tacos is a meal in itself. At $6.95, this is a deal.
I’m lucky my wife ordered the butter beef taco ($5) to share with me. It features slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth shredded beef with cilantro, onion, and salsa. Then there is the fresh-caught ceviche! A generous portion, enough for several to share, is prepared daily using fresh-caught halibut from Santa Barbara and a homegrown Meyer lemon marinade ($14.50). I’m salivating just thinking back on this. Oh, and did I mention the guacamole? The flavors and freshness go on and on at Papi’s!
The food is delicious, the service impeccable, and the fresh Mexican flavors, made with love by Melissa and Papi (aka Rosendo), are the best. Melissa and Papi are the “secret sauce” at this cheap eats find.
Papi’s Grill is located at 1090 Price St, Pismo Beach. For more: (805) 295-6660 The Red Scooter Deli in Paso Robles has been our regular stop for years. Located across the street from the park in Paso Robles, this is THE sandwich/soup/salad place! Serving Paso fresh and friendly food since 2010, The Red Scooter Deli offers fabulous eats like breakfast burritos and fresh, made-to-order sandwiches. Nothing is pre-made or pre-packaged. Portions here are very generous; my wife and I usually split a sandwich, which is more than satisfying. There is a sandwich board with a list of 15+ sandwich combinations, so there is no problem ordering what you want if you don’t see your perfect combination.
From avocado toast to breakfast burritos to granola bowls, soups, and salads, there is a tasty meal here for everyone. And, if you have any dietary requirements, The Red Scooter Deli can accommodate your needs.
The Red Scooter Deli offers online ordering, and even local delivery. They recently opened a new location at 711 6th Street, so there’s even more goodness to go around!
The Red Scooter Deli is located at 1102 Pine St, Paso Robles. For more: redscooterdeli.com
You have about 200 miles driving up the 101 from the Ventura County line to Paso Robles. On and off that stretch, there is a world of excellent cuisine to discover — small eateries specializing in California cuisine such as burgers, fresh Mex, sandwiches, exotic coffees, small bites, etc. They may not be fancy and may be off the more well-traveled roads, but one thing they all have in common is great food, great service, and great prices! So, when the hunger pangs start on your next trip, discover your own cheap eats along California’s 101.
Don Sonderling is a freelance writer covering California’s unique wine, food, and adventure lifestyle, from Ventura to Napa Valley and beyond. He may be reached at donsonderling@gmail.com.