Explore Fresh Seafood at Pismo Beach
Introduction to Pismo Beach Dining
When I think about dining in Pismo Beach, I can’t help but get excited about the fresh seafood options available. This coastal gem in California boasts a variety of eateries that cater to seafood lovers. Among them, F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House stands out with its unique blend of authentic ranch-style cooking and vibrant seafood dishes. It truly offers a taste of the American West with every bite. The atmosphere is laid-back yet lively, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors.
Fresh Seafood Highlights
At F. McLintocks, the seafood menu is a delightful mix of flavors that reflects the best of what the ocean has to offer. Here are some highlights that I found particularly mouthwatering:
| Seafood Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Oak-Pit Barbecued Fish | Freshly caught fish, smoked to perfection in their signature oak-pit style. |
| Seafood Salad | A refreshing blend of seasonal seafood atop crisp greens and zesty dressing. |
| Grilled Shrimp | Juicy shrimp marinated and grilled, served with a hint of lemon. |
| Clam Chowder | Creamy and hearty, packed with fresh clams and seasoned to perfection. |
The restaurant’s commitment to quality means they process their seafood on-site, ensuring freshness in every dish (OpenTable). It’s no wonder that the seafood and salad options are a hit with diners, providing not just a meal but an experience that embodies the local culture.
If you’re looking for more options to explore in Pismo Beach, check out my reviews on other seafood spots like The Oyster Loft, Cracked Crab, and Splash Café. Each has its unique offerings that make dining in Pismo Beach a delightful adventure.
Dining Experience at F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Stepping into F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, I immediately felt the warm and inviting ambiance. The restaurant captures a rustic steakhouse vibe, with wooden accents and a charming decor that reflects its authentic ranch-style cooking. Perched along Highway 101 in Shell Beach, the establishment offers stunning ocean views that enhance the dining experience. The environment is casual yet lively, making it a great spot for families, friends, and groups looking to enjoy a meal together.
Menu Variety and Specialties
The menu at F. McLintocks is extensive, showcasing a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. While they are particularly renowned for their steak options, they also offer a selection of seafood, salads, and classic sides. Notable highlights include:
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Oak-Pit Barbecued Ribs | Tender ribs cooked over an oak fire, imparting a rich smoky flavor. |
| Rib Eye Steak | Juicy and flavorful, grilled to perfection and served with sides. |
| Salmon | Freshly grilled and seasoned, offering a lighter option on the menu. |
| Onion Rings | A beloved appetizer that many guests rave about. |
The restaurant prides itself on processing their own meat on-site, ensuring high-quality dishes that truly represent the American West. The blend of seafood and steak makes it a versatile dining choice, perfect for any craving.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customer feedback for F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House has been overwhelmingly positive. Many reviewers highlight the friendly and attentive service from the staff, specifically mentioning employees like Brittany, Tawnya, and Noah for their exceptional hospitality (Yelp).
In addition to the service, diners appreciate the generous portion sizes and reasonable prices. It’s not uncommon to see praises for the ribs, ribeye, filet, and salmon dishes, which have become favorites among patrons. The restaurant is considered a staple in the area, and for good reason, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring dining options in Pismo Beach. For more insights, check out other local restaurant reviews like the oyster loft pismo beach reviews and cracked crab pismo beach reviews.
Popular Dishes at F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House
When I visit F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, there are a few dishes that always stand out. These popular picks are not only crowd favorites but also reflect the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Here’s a closer look at some of the most talked-about dishes.
Rib Eye Sandwich
The Rib Eye Sandwich is one of the signature offerings at F. McLintocks. It features a juicy rib eye steak, cooked to perfection, typically served medium rare. Diners rave about the generous portion sizes, making it a satisfying choice for anyone with a hearty appetite. Accompanying the sandwich are delicious fried potatoes, reminiscent of hash browns, and a side of beans. Many reviews highlight how well this dish balances flavor and texture, making it a must-try for steak lovers.
| Dish Name | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Rib Eye Sandwich | Juicy rib eye steak on a fresh roll | $15 – $20 |
Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Next up is the Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon. This dish takes a classic favorite to the next level by wrapping it in crispy bacon. The filet is known for being tender and flavorful, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Reviewers often mention that the combination of the filet’s richness with the smoky flavor of bacon is an absolute delight. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to indulge.
| Dish Name | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon | Tender filet wrapped in crispy bacon | $25 – $30 |
Bone-In Rib Eye
The Bone-In Rib Eye is another standout dish that attracts many diners. With its marbling and rich flavor, this steak is a favorite for those who appreciate a classic cut of meat. The rib eye is often praised for its juicy texture and robust taste. Many customers have noted that it pairs excellently with the sides offered, such as garlic bread and ice cream for dessert.
| Dish Name | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-In Rib Eye | Flavorful rib eye steak with bone | $30 – $40 |
F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House truly excels in offering dishes that satisfy a variety of palates. Whether I’m in the mood for a hearty sandwich or a premium steak, I know I can find something delicious on the menu. For more insights on dining in Pismo Beach, check out other restaurant reviews like those for The Oyster Loft and Cracked Crab.
Customer Experience and Feedback
Positive Aspects Highlighted
During my visits to F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, I found several positive aspects that stood out. The first thing that caught my attention was the warm, cowboy atmosphere, which made the dining experience feel special. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and attentive service provided by the staff, with specific shout-outs to employees like Brittany, Tawnya, and Noah for their exceptional skills and demeanor (Yelp).
The food also received high marks. Many diners praised the perfectly cooked steaks, especially the ribeye and filet mignon, often served with delicious sides like fried potatoes, beans, and garlic bread. I also enjoyed highlights like the onion rings and shrimp scampi, which added to the overall fun dining experience (Tripadvisor).
| Positive Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Warm cowboy vibe |
| Service | Friendly and attentive staff |
| Food Quality | Well-cooked steaks and tasty sides |
Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
Despite the many positives, there were some criticisms I encountered in reviews. A few diners noted that their steaks were overcooked on occasion, which can be disappointing when you’re expecting a perfectly done meal. Additionally, some mentioned that the bathroom conditions needed attention, and the decor felt a bit dated (Yelp).
Another area of concern was the pricing. Some reviewers remarked on recent increases in menu prices, expressing dissatisfaction with the overall value. For example, a customer noted that their Rib-Eye steak was fatty, the shrimp scampi was tasteless, and the baby back ribs were dry, making the total bill of $230 feel unjustified (Tripadvisor).
| Criticisms | Details |
|---|---|
| Food Quality | Occasional overcooked steaks |
| Cleanliness | Bathrooms in poor condition |
| Pricing | Increased prices with perceived low value |
Overall, F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House has a lot to offer, but there are a few areas where they could enhance the experience for their patrons. For more insights about dining in Pismo Beach, check out other restaurant reviews such as The Oyster Loft and Cracked Crab.
Authentic Western Hospitality
Ranch-Style Cooking
At F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, the dining experience is all about authentic ranch-style cooking. The atmosphere is lively, and the service is high-spirited, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal. They pride themselves on cutting and processing their own meat on-site, ensuring that each dish is fresh and flavorful. This hands-on approach to cooking gives the food a home-cooked feel that resonates with visitors looking for a taste of the American West.
The menu features a variety of hearty dishes that reflect the ranch-style theme, including oak-pit barbecued steaks and ribs. Each dish is prepared with care, bringing a unique blend of flavors to the table. The restaurant also offers seafood and salad options, catering to a wide range of tastes. If you’re interested in exploring other dining options, check out the oyster loft pismo beach reviews or cracked crab pismo beach reviews.
Oak-Pit Barbecued Specialties
One of the standout features of F. McLintocks is their legendary oak-pit barbecued specialties. The oak-pit method infuses the meats with a rich, smoky flavor that is hard to resist. The restaurant focuses on quality, using only the best cuts to prepare their barbecued steaks and ribs.
Here’s a quick overview of some popular oak-pit barbecued dishes:
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Oak-Pit Rib Eye | Juicy rib eye cooked to perfection, boasting a smoky flavor from the oak-pit. |
| Barbecued Ribs | Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs slathered in their signature barbecue sauce. |
| Signature Steak | A perfectly seasoned steak cooked over oak for that authentic barbecue taste. |
This commitment to traditional cooking methods and quality ingredients is what makes F. McLintocks a must-try for anyone visiting Pismo Beach. If you’re looking for more options in the area, consider checking out mos smokehouse bbq pismo beach reviews for more barbecue delights.
Dining Recommendations and Tips
Reservations and Wait Times
When visiting F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, I highly recommend making a reservation. Despite being a spacious restaurant, it tends to get quite crowded, especially during peak dining hours. Having a reservation can save you from long wait times and ensure you get a table without hassle. If you haven’t made a reservation, be prepared to wait, as this popular spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
For those on the go, F. McLintocks also offers takeout, which can be ordered by calling (805) 773-1892 (OpenTable). This is a great option if you want to enjoy their delicious offerings from the comfort of your own space.
| Day | Peak Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 6 PM – 8 PM |
| Friday – Sunday | 5 PM – 9 PM |
Must-Try Dishes and Drinks
F. McLintocks is known for its hearty menu, and there are several dishes I can’t recommend highly enough. Here are my must-try picks:
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Prime Rib | Tender and flavorful, this is a crowd favorite. Generous portions make it a great choice for meat lovers. |
| Mahi-Mahi | Cooked to perfection and praised for its freshness, this dish showcases the seafood offerings that Pismo Beach is known for. |
| Onion Rings | A traditional appetizer that kicks off the meal perfectly. Crispy and delicious, they are a must-try before diving into your main course. |
| Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon | Juicy and richly flavored, this dish embodies the restaurant’s commitment to quality. |
In addition to the food, don’t miss out on their extensive drink menu. They offer a full bar with a good selection of wines, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal. The friendly staff is always willing to recommend a drink that complements your dish.
For more insights on dining options in Pismo Beach, check out reviews of other restaurants like The Oyster Loft, Cracked Crab, and Splash Café. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Pismo Beach!
Value and Pricing
Cost Considerations
When I think about dining at F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, the prices can be a bit of a mixed bag. Some recent diners mentioned that during their visits, they found the menu prices had significantly increased. For instance, one meal consisting of Rib-Eye steak, Scampi, baby back ribs, and sirloin steak came to a hefty $230 before tip, and that was without any drinks. Many felt this price tag did not reflect the quality of the food they received (Tripadvisor).
| Dish Ordered | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Rib-Eye Steak | $50 |
| Scampi | $25 |
| Baby Back Ribs | $30 |
| Sirloin Steak | $40 |
| Total (without drinks) | $230 |
Despite the high prices, many reviewers have mentioned enjoying their meals and the overall experience, often highlighting the unique atmosphere and friendly service (Tripadvisor).
Price Changes Over Time
It seems that F. McLintocks has seen some notable price changes over the years. For example, diners reported that prices had increased significantly by late 2009. While some guests were willing to overlook the price hikes due to the enjoyable dining experience, others were less impressed, especially after waiting for about 40 minutes for a table.
| Year | Notable Price Change |
|---|---|
| 2009 | Significant increase reported |
| Recent Years | Prices continue to fluctuate |
In general, while the prices may be on the higher side at F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, many find the combination of good food, friendly service, and the unique dining environment to be worth it. If you’re considering a meal here, it might be a good idea to check out some other Pismo Beach restaurant reviews for a broader perspective on dining options in the area.
Staff Service and Recognition
Exceptional Employees
During my visits to F. McLintocks Saloon & Dining House, I noticed that the staff plays a significant role in creating a welcoming atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise the service, highlighting specific employees like Brittany, Tawnya, and Noah for their outstanding skills and friendly demeanor. It’s reassuring to see that a restaurant values its employees and that they contribute positively to the dining experience. Such recognition is essential for cultivating a lively dining environment.
Customer Appreciation and Feedback
While the service is generally well-received, not all experiences are perfect. Many customers express appreciation for the food, especially the ribs, ribeye, filet, and salmon dishes (Yelp). However, some reviews point out issues with service. For instance, there were complaints about a rude host on multiple occasions, which dampened the overall experience despite enjoying the ambiance and food in the past (Tripadvisor).
In addition, while the food received positive feedback, some diners reported their steaks being overcooked and the decor feeling somewhat dated. There were also mentions of noise levels, undercooked dishes, and even issues with the cleanliness of the bathrooms (Yelp, Tripadvisor).
Despite the mixed feedback, the overall sentiment suggests that many patrons appreciate the dedication of the staff and the quality of the food. For a broader perspective on dining experiences in Pismo Beach, check out our other restaurant reviews like Cracked Crab Pismo Beach reviews or Splash Café Pismo Beach reviews.