Forks Up, SLO — It’s Time to Taste the Town

January’s not just about resolutions anymore.
It’s about reservations.

Because SLO Restaurant Month is officially back.
And if you know, you know.

This isn't just another dining promotion. This is a full-on, city-wide celebration of food, flavor, and the people who bring both to the table. Brought to life by the City of San Luis Obispo, and proudly partnered with Up+Adam, this month is a reminder that the quietest month of the year can actually be the most delicious.

More than 60 local restaurants, cafes, wineries, and breweries are offering up something special all month long. Prix fixe menus. Curated pairings. Creative twists. Exclusive dishes that might only exist for a few short weeks. This is your chance to taste the bold, the beautiful, and the unexpected across SLO.

And I’m not just talking about the food. I’m talking about the people behind it.

On Up+Adam, I’ve had the chance to sit across from some of these folks, face to face, mic to mic. The stories behind these spots are just as rich as the dishes they serve. We’re talking about real people with real dreams, putting their heart on a plate and hoping you take a bite.

Like Old SLO BBQ, right in the heart of downtown. Matt Pearce joined me to talk about building a brand around simplicity and soul. His catering game is just as strong as his tri-tip, and his family’s Granny Cake is one of those sleeper hits that deserves its own fan club.

Then there’s My Friend Mike’s Pizza, where Mike Radakovich turned a personal pivot into a pizza movement. On the show, he shared how he walked away from a long-time tech gig and slowly built a following out of flour and fire. No gimmicks. Just incredible sourdough, seasonal toppings, and flavor combinations that make you rethink what pizza can be.

And Kiko’s Peruvian. That episode was pure heart. Kiko talked about how he stood in front of an empty building years ago and said out loud, “This is going to be our place someday.” Now it’s one of the most soulful dining experiences in the city. His food is rooted in heritage, elevated with elegance, and always served with a side of human connection. You don’t just eat at Kiko’s. You feel something.

These are just a few of the voices featured on Up+Adam during SLO Restaurant Month, and each one is a reminder of why this town’s food scene hits different. These aren’t just restaurants. These are stories. These are people. And this is the moment to show up for all of them.

So let’s make January the month we say yes.
Yes to trying something new.
Yes to eating well.
Yes to showing up for the people who feed this city.

Catch more episodes of Up+Adam all month long wherever you get your podcasts. And to see the full list of participating restaurants, specials, and events, head to:
VisitSLO.com/RestaurantMonth

Let’s eat.