On the drive up to Big Sur, I knew breaking the trip somewhere around San Luis Obispo would make the journey feel less of a slog and more that the journey was a part of the destination itself. We stopped at Rancho Nipomo BBQ & Deli, a spot that blends slow-smoked meats with bold flavors.
And best of all, it was dog friendly.
I ordered the Baby BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich (a petite version of the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich – tender pulled smoke pork and our 16 spices BBQ sauce, piled high on a toasted, baked fresh locally Telera bun topped with fresh coleslaw) along with a side of Onion Rings.
The smokiness came through clearly and was the highlight of the sandwich. The BBQ sauce skewed a touch sweeter than I remembered, the last time I was there. Also, the bread absorbed most of the sauce, leaving the sandwich a little dry. It definitely benefited from an extra side of BBQ sauce, which made it better. The onion rings, though, were exactly what I wanted: golden, crispy, and made even better alongside the ranch dipping sauce.
As a way to break up the drive up to Big Sur, Rancho Nipomo was a perfect stop for lunch.
Rancho Nipomo BBQ & Deli
108 Cuyama LaneNipomo, California 93444
