4 Must-Try Lunch Spots Near Cal Poly – Just a Bus Ride Away

Hey there, hungry Cal Poly students! If you’re getting tired of the same dining food and looking to spice up your lunch routine, hop on a quick bus ride to these fantastic spots in Downtown SLO. You can use your HomeFREE Checking™ debit or Visa Signature^® Rewards credit card at these participating Local Rewards¹ businesses to earn bonus rewards points² redeemable for cash back, gift cards, and more. Trust us, your taste buds and your wallets will thank you!

Here are four must-try lunch spots:

Old SLO BBQ Co.

Calling all BBQ enthusiasts! Take a short bus ride to Old SLO BBQ Co., where they’ve perfected the art of Santa Maria-style cuisine. Founded by a Cal Poly alumni, this spot offers everything from tri-tip, to pork and chicken sandwiches, plus a range of refreshing salads. And don’t forget to treat yourself to one of their irresistible milkshakes for the perfect finish to your BBQ feast.

Firestone Grill

Craving mouth-watering tri-tip or maybe a juicy burger? Look no further than Firestone Grill, conveniently nestled in the heart of Downtown SLO. This local favorite not only serves up their famous tri-tip but also dishes out pulled pork, chicken tenders, and veggie burgers for those looking to mix it up. Grab a seat on their welcoming patio to soak in the sunshine and enjoy a true SLO dining experience!

SLO Provisions

For a lunch that’s both rustic and refined, SLO Provisions is the ultimate destination. Feast on their house-roasted rotisserie meats or savor one of their specialty sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, their rustic-style baked goods are sure to hit the spot. Take your lunch to-go with their picnic style lunches and head to the beach or park for a delightful outdoor meal. Plus, don’t miss their boutique offering exotic salts and coffee beans—it’s a foodie’s paradise!

Milestone Tavern

Can’t decide where to eat with your friends? Milestone Tavern has you covered with a diverse menu that includes salads, tacos, burgers, pizzas and sandwiches. Indulge in their house creation Short Rib Mac N’ Cheese or explore one of their other house creation options. Located on Foothill Blvd, it’s even a pleasant walk from campus—ideal for enjoying SLO’s sunny weather.

Whether you’re in the mood for BBQ, gourmet sandwiches, or a casual meal with friends, these spots near Cal Poly promise a delicious break from your campus routine. Explore these local businesses and earn those rewards using your SESLOC debit or credit card! Don’t forget, there are over 200 participating Local Rewards businesses all across the Central Coast!

1. Local Rewards bonus points are earned on purchases made at participating Local Businesses only. Participating Local Businesses (“merchants”) are subject to change at any time without notice. Participation in Local Rewards does not constitute an endorsement on the part of either the merchant or SESLOC Credit Union. Purchases made at participating merchants processed through third-party services (e.g. DoorDash, Grub Hub, Uber Eats ect.) may not qualify for bonus points under Local Rewards. Local Rewards is part of the SESLOC Rewards program; see seslocrewards.org for complete terms, conditions, restrictions and eligibility that apply. For any questions regarding Local Rewards, contact SESLOC Credit Union.

2. The SESLOC Rewards program (“Program”) is a service provided by SESLOC Credit Union (“Sponsor”) and managed by ampliFI Loyalty Solutions, LLC (“Administrator”). Participation in the Program is exclusive to those who have a current HomeFREE CheckingTM debit card or a SESLOC Visa Signature® Rewards credit card issued by the Sponsor. There is no pre-registration required. By making eligible transactions with a HomeFREE Checking account debit card and the SESLOC Visa Signature Rewards credit card, the cardholder is accepting the terms and conditions of the Program. See seslocrewards.org for Program terms and conditions. You retain the option to utilize these services as long as you are a HomeFREE Checking or SESLOC Visa Signature Rewards cardholder. Subject to terms and conditions. Sponsor and Administrator reserves the right to modify, expand, discontinue, or retire any part of the program at any time.