Since I’ve moved from the Chicago suburbs to Paso Robles, California, many of my out-of-town friends have asked me for recommendations for hotels in the area. Specifically, they’re looking for a charming hotel at a reasonable price and a terrific location after an invigorating day of wine tasting, outdoor activities and more. They always mention that the ability to walk to shopping, restaurants and tasting rooms in town is another priority. After a recent media trip to the newly renovated Paso Robles Inn and the elegant The Piccolo Hotel, these two spots (for visitors and locals alike) are at the top of my suggestion list.
Paso Robles Inn, a Living Landmark Poised for the Future
Originally part of a 25,000 Spanish land grant, El Paso de Robles (“Pass of the Oaks”) was a rest stop for travelers on the Camino Real Trail and its mineral hot springs were a welcome respite from travel. Once local railroad service began in 1886, more visitors arrived and Paso Robles was incorporated as a city in 1889.
El Paso de Robles Hotel dates back to the city’s inception and was a presence on its main square. It was lauded as a Victorian spa with healing waters, parlors and saloons with US Presidents and Hollywood notables, as well as outlaws including Jesse James who tried to escape from the law by hiding out in the hotel’s underground tunnels as frequent visitors. Unfortunately, in December 1940, a fire destroyed the entire building except for the Grand Ballroom, updated and still in use today.
Photo Credit: Paso Robles Inn
The renovated Paso Robles Inn is designed to reflect the vibrant culture of today’s Paso Robles. What I found in my two-night stay is an elegant retreat with beautiful, manicured gardens, gathering areas for guests, lush greenery, a relaxing outside pool, restaurants, and a bustling lounge for libations, wine and small bites. The 1889 House at the Paso Robles Inn is the only building that remains from the original El Paso de Robles Hotel. Inside, 12 extraordinary guest rooms are located above the Grand Ballroom, a stunning venue for a wedding or other special events. During the tour, I noted captivating fireplaces, spacious bathrooms with luxurious showers and bubble-ready soaking tubs, a premium mini bar and décor that inspires.
All guest rooms within the Inn and 1889 House are well appointed with a plethora of amenities. Architectural touches offer a nod to the hotel’s history with Victorian, Mission-style and ranch-inspired elements. The new Born In program focuses on locally sourced ingredients, local artists and craftsmen with the intent to connect to and support the community. This is truly a hotel that understands its past and looks forward to the future. Guests are able to do the same.
Dinner in the garden with stars and twinkling lights overhead was magnificent on our first night thanks to talented Executive Chef Joe Montgomery and the culinary team at the Inn’s The Steakhouse. Paso Robles wines were poured and each course was masterfully prepared with local ingredients.
Our first course was truffle mighty cap mac-n-cheese croquette with harissa aioli paired with Denner Vineyards 2022 Theresa, a bright white Rhone blend of Roussanne, Vermentino, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Picpoul Blanc, and Clairette Blanche. Next, heirloom tomato panzanella salad with herb vinaigrette was complemented with Jack Creek Destination West Pinot Noir. Following were taste sensations of local seared halibut, risotto aquacate, roasted corn salsa macha with mezcal glace and Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon, a flavorful, fruit forward wine that offered depth and breadth. As if that wasn’t enough, wagyu tenderloin, pommes anna, heirloom carrots with sauce choron were brilliant with Linne Colado Overthinker, a lush blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Finally, olive oil cake with champagne macerated strawberries and vanilla bean cream met a new match with Lone Madrone Riesling, a dry and tart iteration of this noble grape.
This was a perfect evening all around with new friends, superior food and memorable Paso Robles wine.
Experience Casual Elegance at The Piccolo Hotel
Around the corner from Paso Robles Inn is its sister property, The Piccolo Hotel. After opening the doors on 12th Street, guests find the sunny Piper Lounge, where they can enjoy happy hour every night from 4-5pm. A glance across the hall from the Piper Lounge reveals a cozy space for games, reading or conversation with friends. Keep walking though, because across from the reservation desk and concierge, we can grab a split of Moet & Chandon champagne from the vending machine for an in-the-room indulgence! Welcome to the Piccolo Hotel, a boutique hotel with 24 guest rooms.
Our group had a peek at one of the Hotel’s Luxury King rooms with a Juliet balcony offering views of the downtown square; other Luxury King rooms (and other style rooms in the portfolio) may have views of the serene courtyard, too. Exposed brick walls, locally made furniture, art and other décor, a striking custom chandelier, a handy clothes steamer, a wine refrigerator and bathroom essentials in the spacious area are welcome features. The Born In program is also a focus at The Piccolo and the team collaborates with top local artisans to offer all guests Paso Robles flair.
Photo Credit: The Piccolo Hotel
Outside courtyard space for gatherings is naturally chic with rattan seating, umbrellas, firepits and calming colors. Ahhhh! Electric bikes are available to rent, and wellness classes are offered on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Guests of both Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo Hotel are able to take advantage of these amenities.
During the last evening of the media trip, the group met for final sips and bites at Tetto Rooftop Bar, located on the top floor of The Piccolo and the only rooftop bar in town. Paso Robles wines, craft cocktails, and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients were a fitting finale to our experiences. Each of us had a glass of wine (my choice was Adelaida 2022 Anna’s White Rhone Blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Picpoul Blanc) with our shared cheese and charcuterie board of cured Italian meats, signature cheeses and antipasto items. Live music and happy hour specials are found on selected nights, but Tetto doesn’t take reservations so plan your visit – the crowd is usually bustling, especially late at night
Photo Credit: The Piccolo Hotel
With Paso Robles positioned to be the next great wine region in California, savvy visitors are experiencing what locals already know – Paso’s award-winning wines are magnificent, people are welcoming and unpretentious, and the kick-back vibe is authentic. It’s your turn to experience a glimpse of local history and style at Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo Hotel. I’ll see you there!
Cheers ~ Cindy
For more Grape Experiences, your free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” and a coupon code towards your purchase of my online course “Discover the Essentials of Wine (and choose it like a pro!)” click here.
