Business Details
29 Years
experience
Authentic Italian Dining Experience in Morro Bay
Since 1997, Distasio's On The Bay has been a cornerstone of the Central Coast culinary scene, offering an authentic Italian dining experience rooted in family tradition. Our Morro Bay location combines the warmth of a family-owned establishment with the charm of a historic restaurant legacy, serving classic dishes like handmade pasta, premium steaks, and fresh seafood alongside innovative gluten-free options. We prioritize creating a welcoming environment where every guest feels like part of our extended family, reflected in our cozy dining room with a 360-degree glass fireplace and our dog-friendly patio.With roots tracing back to 1962 in the Italian restaurant industry and 10 locations across California, our expertise in crafting memorable meals remains unmatched. Our commitment to quality ingredients, personalized service, and community connection has made us a local favorite and a destination for visitors seeking genuine Italian hospitality.
Services
Italian Cuisine
Gluten-Free Options
To-Go Orders
Patio Dining
Daily Specials
Kids Menu
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1997 with a legacy in Italian cuisine dating to 1962
- Extensive gluten-free menu options available for all dietary needs
- Award-winning ribeye steak recognized by local food critics
- Combines cozy indoor dining with a dog-friendly outdoor patio
- Daily specials showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients
What people say
Delightful, delicious
Best Italian meals
Amazing ribeye
Welcoming atmosphere
Memorable dining
Services
Italian Cuisine
Our classic Italian menu features handmade pasta, slow-cooked sauces, and traditional dishes like Braciole and Linguini Vongole. Every meal uses premium ingredients prepared with time-honored techniques passed through generations of Italian chefs. Perfect for those seeking authentic flavors in a family-style setting.
Gluten-Free Options
We offer a comprehensive gluten-free menu including pasta, pizza, and desserts without compromising flavor or authenticity. Separate preparation areas ensure no cross-contamination while maintaining the same high standards as our traditional Italian dishes. Ideal for guests with dietary restrictions seeking quality meals.
To-Go Orders
Order classic Italian dishes for pickup via phone or DoorDash delivery. Our to-go service maintains meal quality with specialized packaging that preserves texture and temperature. Available daily for customers wanting restaurant-quality meals at home or on the go.
Patio Dining
Enjoy meals on our airy, dog-friendly patio surrounded by Morro Bay's coastal breeze. The space combines comfort with casual elegance, featuring weather-appropriate seating and ambient lighting for daytime or evening dining experiences in a relaxed atmosphere.
Daily Specials
Each day features unique dishes highlighting seasonal ingredients and chef innovations while maintaining Italian culinary traditions. These limited-time offerings provide variety while showcasing our kitchen's creativity and commitment to fresh, locally-sourced produce and proteins.
People
Ken Distasio
Owner
Founder of Distasio's On The Bay Restaurant Group with over 50 years in the Italian restaurant industry. Established the Morro Bay location in 1997, creating a family-centric dining concept that combines traditional recipes with modern hospitality standards.
Mark Distasio
Co-Owner
Son of founder Ken Distasio, actively involved in daily operations since the restaurant's inception. Brings contemporary management practices to the family business while maintaining the original vision of authentic Italian cuisine and personalized guest service.
Questions
Does Distasio's On The Bay offer gluten-free options?
Yes, we provide a comprehensive gluten-free menu including pasta, pizza, and desserts with dedicated preparation areas to prevent cross-contamination.
Can I order takeout from Distasio's On The Bay?
Yes, we offer phone-in to-go orders and DoorDash delivery for our full menu, including curbside pickup options at our Morro Bay location.
Is patio dining available year-round?
Our dog-friendly patio operates seasonally based on weather conditions, featuring comfortable seating arrangements for both warm summer evenings and mild winter days.
What makes Distasio's On The Bay ribeye steak special?
Our 14oz ribeye is aged to perfection and grilled to order, featuring a signature seasoning blend that enhances natural beef flavors, making it a local favorite.
Are reservations recommended?
While not required, we recommend reservations for weekend evenings and holidays to ensure seating in our popular dining room or patio areas.
