Last weekend I worked as a guest sommelier at the Central Coast Wine Classic- the illustrious and super-fun event founded by gentleman and wine collector legend, Archie McLaren. As always, the event was low on pretense and high on quality...

On one of our nights off, our group of sommeliers went to eat at a brand new restaurant in Pismo Beach called Lido. Most of us agreed; it was great.Lido is located in the new Dolphin Bay Hotel and Residence on Shell Beach Road.

The restaurant is swank and the night we were there (Friday) the place was full and exuded a happy energy. The bartender had a tall order to fill with ten sommeliers bellying up to his bar- we were tired of wine but thirsty as hell. The Martinis, Negronis, Sidecars and more that I watched him mix with a smile all looked perfect and refreshing. Already I was impressed. But later, when we were seated, and ready to order wine, I became aware that our server, David, was really, really good. Again, we were a loud and big group. The restaurant was full. David took very good care of us.
A lot of libations (even for sommeliers) requires a lot of food. So we ordered, and ordered, and ordered. The menu at Lido makes you want to order a lot. Everything sounds delicious and the menu format enables you to order everything in a small or large size. Therefore, you can get three or four exciting dishes without feeling like you have to commit to one main course. It is not as casual as it sounds. The food at Lido is carefully crafted by expert Chef Evan Treadwell and his team. This is fine dining, but the beach outside makes it feel fun. The menu design really worked for our large group and we agreed that the quality of the food was superior. Overall, we were thrilled, because most years we find ourselves with burgers and Bloody Marys. Lido was a big step up for us. It is a great, new restaurant in the Central Coast and well worth a visit next time you are in the beautiful Pismo Beach area.

Lido Restaurant 2727 Shell Beach Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 #805-556-3982