Best Steak House on Central Coast - maybe everywhere
by shomike at Citysearch
I have been eating at Jocko's since the 1950's. Had my wedding reception at the current location in 1966. Eat there as often as I can and love the food. The large spencer is always great. Best pop for your money. My wife likes the steak sandwich from the pit [also a spencer] and is always satisfied.
- Pros: GREAT FOOD - FAIR PRICE
- Cons: NEED TO MAKE A RESERVATION
Do yourself a favor: Eat here.
by NNLocke at Citysearch
Upon first walking into this place, it is a bit...off-putting. The brands on the walls and the general cowboy atmosphere tends to be a bit over the top, however the wonderful smells overpower these minor drawbacks.
The seating is on wooden benches and is quite rustic, and the menus seem to be the type you'd expect to find at "Big Earl's Truck Stop" or some such establishment, but again, the wonderful smell from the open cooking area demands that you overlook these trivialities.
The item on the menu which so drew my attention was the Spencer steak, as this is a cut I had been previously unaware of (it is essentially a ribeye). I ordered the smaller portion size, which, as it turned out, was quite filling. Allow me to guide you on this however; Get the larger portion. Take it home.
This steak is possibly the best I've had at a restaurant, although the cooking method does make it difficult to compare to say, Ruth's Chris. The steak appears to be like a roast, almost, about as thick as it is wide, and swimming in its own juices. From the first bite to the last, this is a must for steak lovers.
Having been there several times in the last few years, I have yet to be disappointed. The setting could be better, the sides are forgettable, but the amazing steak more than makes up for it. Do yourself a favor and check it out.
- Pros: Excellent steak
- Cons: "Rustic" setting
Not what a good restaurant should be...
by mpeaslee1 at Citysearch
I live in San Luis Obispo and many of my friends recommended Jocko's for an awesome steak. I work during the evening so the only time I had to try Jocko's was during lunch. That was a big mistake. I ordered the steak sandwich, the first thing you would see on the menu. Well, its awful. It seemed to be pan-fried with no taste whatsoever. Absolutely bland. Even though the service was friendly, that's all I could think about on the drive back to slo. All the hype for nothing. And for 16 bucks, I don't expect much, but I could have just went to Firestone's in slo and had a much tastier tri-tip sandwich for half the price. Even more unfortunate, I work at a local hotel in Pismo and I can't even fake recommending Jocko's to guests anymore. Regardless of how tasty their dinner might be, a good restaurant should serve good food from the time they open til the time they close.
- Pros: Friendly Service
- Cons: Awful Lunch
Donny G and Buzz Eat at Jocko's
by DonnyKravitz at Citysearch
Wow. What can I say but WOW!! This place was fantastic. I happened to be here over the Holidays visiting my good friend Rob Spewack and his lovely wife Carry. In a moment of rare genius Rob got a baby sitter and we were out for a night of adult fun and conversation. Upon arriving we were ushured to the bar where the drinks flowed aplenty!! It was a tad bit busy, and after about an hour we were called for our table. I must say we were pretty intoxicated by then and ready to eat. This place sits you next to others (circa middle school) which was a bit off-putting- I am used to quiet and first class amenities- truth be told. But we ended up sitting next to the funniest couple who reminded us of Buzz and Marcia- two of our dearest friends!! The wine kept flowing and the laughter was raucous! But in this place no one cared or noticed- Wonderful!! So finally the steak arrives and I must say this without equivication-- best I have ever had!! hands down!! The night was even better because our new found friends and me and my wife went back to the hotel and had glorious 4 way intercourse!! Cant't wait to tell all my friends!!
Donny in Oeanside MD
Best steaks... anywhere!
by mikiandwhit at Citysearch
My husband and I were referred to Jocko's back in 2000 by a local. You have to trust the locals! We go up to Pismo about every other month to play on the dunes and we "plan" an EARLY dinner on Saturday every time. When I say early, I mean 4:30pm. There is usually not a wait. This also gives you time to digest your food before going out on the dunes again. I like the relish plate before dinner is served but it's really the Salsa that finishes off the 22 oz. filet mignon. The salsa is not served with chips but rather crackers... the only way to go! We even have friends from Riverside come up just for dinner it's that good! Make sure you stop the next time you are passing through!
- Pros: THE FOOD!
- Cons: THE DISTANCE... but worth it!

