Fat Cats Cafe

Fat Cats Cafe is the diner at the foot of Harford Pier at Port San Luis. It has been feeding fishermen, kayakers and early risers for more than 25 years, and it's open every day from breakfast through dinner. There's a cozy dining room inside and a patio out front, both a few steps from the water.

The name comes from a big black and yellow cat that hung around while the cafe was being built. Cats are still the theme, and there's a wall of customers' own cat photos you can add to.

What to order at Fat Cats

Breakfast is the big draw. Reviewers keep coming back to the pancakes (the coconut granola ones in particular), the cinnamon rolls and the portions, which are generous for the price. Later in the day the menu turns to diner classics and seafood, including fish and chips, clam chowder and fish tacos. Save room for dessert if you like cheesecake.

Takeout is easy. Call the cafe to order, then carry it out onto the pier.

Getting to Fat Cats Cafe

Drive west on Avila Beach Drive past downtown Avila Beach to the end of the road at Port San Luis. The cafe is on the right, at the start of Harford Pier. Parking around the pier is paid, so check the parking guide before you go.

Before or after breakfast

Fat Cats is a natural start to a morning at the harbor. Walk out Harford Pier to watch the boats, fish from the pier with no license needed (see Fishing), or reserve a guided hike to the Point San Luis Lighthouse.

For seafood out over the water, walk to the end of the pier to Mersea's.