French-influenced wine is abundant in Paso Robles Wine Country.

From wine to cuisine, local wineries and restaurants offer French delights

—With rolling hills and sunny skies, Paso Robles could be mistaken as the French countryside, especially with the fantastic French-owned and inspired wineries and restaurants located around town. Take a look below for authentic French wine and cuisine for your next local adventure.

Olive oil

Sunshine Olive Oil

When it comes to enjoying a unique tasting experience of fabulous olive oils, the ambiance of the Sunshine Olive Oil tasting room in downtown Paso Robles has, “a little French Je ne sais quoi” mixed with an undeniable Western flair. Owner Catherine Miller grew up in the south of France, where her childhood was filled with olive orchards and lavender fields.

What started as 10 acres of olive trees in Templeton grew to garner medals in Paso Robles, New York, Japan, and Greece for Sunshine’s olive oils. Stop in the tasting room to sample exquisite olive oils and browse beautiful products for home and garden. Goods include tea towels and tablecloths from France and Denmark, olive wood products, jams, soaps, gift baskets, and more.

Located at 1244 Pine St. Suite 106A, Paso Robles. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information visit sunshineoliveoil.com, or call (805) 221-5344.

Wineries

L’Aventure Winery

For over 25 years, L’Aventure Winery has offered quality wines inspired by French viticulture. Owner Stephan Asseo worked in Bordeaux, later moving to Paso Robles with his family to expand their passion for viticulture. Make sure to book one of the flight experiences, which include champagne, a visit through the caves, and popular vintages.

Located at 2815 Live Oak Road. Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit aventurewine.com, or call (805) 227-1588.

Paris Valley Road Estate Winery

Inspired by the beauty of the Bordeaux region, Paris Valley Road Estate Winery promises a luxurious wine tasting and food experience. A country-inspired lunch and delectable brunch are offered on select days. Their Old World-inspired Paso Robles collection will have a wine for every palate, from the 2021 sauvignon blanc to the 2019 merlot.

Located at 5625 E CA-46. Open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit parisvalleyroad.com, or call (805) 727-9463.

Clos Solène

Clos Solène invites guests to experience the passion that the owners Guillaume and Solène Fabre have put into their boutique winery. Look out over the 17-acre vineyard and indulge in a wine-pairing experience or estate tour. Some stand-out wines include the 2021 Fleur de Solène, the 2021 Hommage à nos Pairs Reserve, and the 2022 Sweet Clémentine.

Located at 2040 Niderer Road. Open Saturday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information, visit clossolene.com, or call (805) 239 – 7769.

Restaurants

Les Petites Canailles

Les Petites Canailles chef and co-owner Julien Asseo. Photography by Jay Evan Photography

Les Petites Canailles, which translates to The Little Rascals, brings the community together with soulful French cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in downtown Paso Robles. Owners Julien and Courtney were inspired to bring their love of cooking locally and named the restaurant for their three children. Some delectable dishes include steak au poivre, criée du jour, and salade lyonnaise. Don’t leave before trying a classic French dessert, such as the mousse au chocolat or the cheese service.

Located at 1215 Spring Street. Open Thursday through Monday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, visit lpcrestaurant.com, or call (805) 296-3754.

BL Brasserie

With classic French fare in an upscale setting, BL Brasserie is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner. From oysters and mussels as a tasty appetizer to steak frites and mushroom ravioli as an entrée, there is the perfect dish for every guest. Crème brulée or apple beignets are the perfect way to finish off the night.

Located at 1202 Pine Street. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information visit bistrolaurent.com, or call (805) 226-8191.

—Sadie Mae Mace