Sebastian’s Café

Sebastian’s Café is located in the small coastal town of San Simeon, making it a great stop for lunch if you are checking out the well-known elephant seal rookery or the Hearst Castle. It is located in a historic general store building that dates back to 1852.

Once inside you will find a sandwich counter, a handful of tables, and an adjoining room with a large bar that serves as Hearst Ranch Winery’s tasting room. Guests can grab a glass or bottle of wine to enjoy with their meal, but for me, the true draws are sandwiches and onion rings.

Burgers use Hearst Ranch free-range, grass-fed and grass-finished beef. There are many different variations, including a beautiful green chile & pepperjack cheeseburger with chipotle mayo: Creamy cheese coats tender beef while a mild green pepper drapes the top. For all the abundant ingredients, this burger does not turn into a big mess as you eat it.

The Black Bean Cheeseburger is a good vegetarian option. The patty is topped with pepper jack and a secret sauce along with sliced tomato and lettuce. It may not be the healthiest veggie burger you’ve eaten, but it just might be the most delicious.

If burgers are not what you want, the menu offers salads, sandwiches, and chili.

As a side dish, French fries are just the right thickness to create a crunchy outside while offering a smooth spud interior. Or, consider onion rings: They are coated with crunchy batter that stays crisp and warm to the last one.

Inside dining is close-quarters. On pleasant days there is plenty of outdoor seating that allows you to enjoy Central Coast sunshine and views of resident horses grazing. Dogs are welcome on the outside deck.