Ember Restaurant

A restaurant's motto is revealing. Take that of the Arroyo Grande eatery, Ember Restaurant: "wood-fired honest food." There's nothing like a meal touched by the heat and smoke of a wood fire. At Ember Restaurant, they take this to a new level with the fusion of Italian cuisine with Central Coast flavors. 

Founded by the passionate Chef/Owner Brian Collins, Ember Restaurant is a culinary haven transcending the ordinary. Inspired by his love for Italy, Collins crafts Italian-inspired California Cuisine with an unwavering spirit of giving and love.

Ember Restaurant is a testament to the essence of Italian cooking, where simplicity reigns supreme. Collins believes in the power of less is more, a philosophy rooted in the belief that the peasants of Italy, with their humble ingredients, can create culinary masterpieces that resonate with passion.

With stellar fare, a laid-back vibe, and bountiful beverages, dining at Ember Restaurant is a must-do in Pismo Beach.  

Vibe

Ember's ambiance is a harmonious blend of warmth, character, and culinary excitement, making it a standout destination in the heart of Arroyo Grande. The restaurant, housed in a repurposed "old pole barn," exudes a welcoming charm that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Ember Restaurant is the ideal destination after a day on the Bob Jones City to Sea Bike Trail.

Step through the doors and immerse yourself in a world where old-world charm meets contemporary flair. The wood-fired oven crackles with the promise of flavorful creations, while the Tuscan grill and spit-roaster add an authentic touch to the culinary spectacle.

The interior design embraces the "funky" with an intentional embrace, creating a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. The recycled and repurposed elements contribute to the restaurant's eco-conscious ethos, aligning with the contemporary sustainability trend. 

The warmth from the wood-fired oven and the glow of the fireplace create a lively atmosphere that adds an extra layer to the dining adventure.

Ember Restaurant: Menu & Drinks

One standout dish is the 50-layer lasagna showcasing slow-cooked pork and beef bolognese. The entree features housemade pasta, tomato Sugo, prosciutto, bechamél, and parmesanits. With intricate layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and velvety béchamel, it's a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. 

Another highlight is the oak-grilled filet mignon with beef demi-glace. The succulent filet mignon, expertly grilled over oak, imparts a smoky depth to the meat. The beef demi-glace adds richness and complexity to every forkful, served with Brasero roasted potato gratin, broccoli calabrese, cauliflower, and bleu cheese butter. 

For pizza enthusiasts, the wood-fired pizzas are a true delight. The crackling wood fire imparts a charred, smoky essence to each slice. From the pepperoni and fire-roasted peppers to pizza bianca, the pies celebrate fresh, quality ingredients that dance harmoniously on your palate. The crust, perfectly crisp on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside, elevates the pizza experience to new heights.

Ember Restaurant offers a thoughtfully curated selection of drinks to complement these delectable dishes. The wine list, predominantly featuring wines from San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties, invites diners on a local wine adventure. Raise a glass and toast your time at any of the nearby landmarks, like the Monarch Butterfly Grove.

The craft beer program at Ember Restaurant showcases the finest local brews, with rotating tap handles ensuring freshness and seasonality. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, beer enthusiasts will find a diverse selection that complements the diverse menu offerings.

The signature cocktails at Ember Restaurant feature housemade syrups, fresh juices, and premium spirits. One notable libation is the Ron Swanson, which features Old Forester 1920, Rittenhouse rye, Averna amaro, simple syrup, Lagavulin rinsed, and candied bacon.

For exceptional Italian cuisine, charming ambiance, and top-notch beverages, add Ember Restaurant to your vacation itinerary.