These 8 Roadside Restaurants In Southern California Are Unexpectedly Delicious
There’s nothing more all-American than dining at a classic roadside restaurant where they serve up delicious home-cooked meals and fresh-baked pies, piping hot from the oven. And you don’t have to take a cross-country road trip just to experience a slice of Americana at one of these roadside gems. If you’re craving a good old-fashioned cafe, restaurant, or diner, you can take a short drive and find a few of these tasty roadside restaurants in Southern California.
Take a leisurely drive down Pacific Coast Highway and pop into family diner Hot 'n Tot in Lomita for some home-style cooking. The chicken-fried steak is always a hit. Or try the blueberry pancakes if you'll be there for breakfast. This place has been a classic in the area since 1946. For more information on Hot 'n Tot and to see a menu, head to the website.
This charming roadside restaurant was built in 1954 and was later remodeled and restored to its original condition in 1987. Make sure to try the meatloaf for your main course. And make room for dessert as they have old-fashioned malts, ice cream, and floats. Enjoy your meal while listening to 50s music and looking at all the movie memorabilia that adorns the walls. For more information on Peggy Sue's 50's Diner and to view the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, head to the website.
Opened in 1947, The Apple Pan has been delighting folks for generations with some of the best burgers in the country, served with specialty sauces and relishes. This classic West L.A. establishment should be on your list of must-visit restaurants in Southern California. For more information on The Apple Pan and to learn more about the history, head to the website.
Not only is the food delicious at Lookout Roadhouse, but the view is quite a feast and it won't cost you a dime. A few of the popular menu items at this roadside spot along Highway 74 in Lake Elsinore include pulled pork, smoked ribs, and pretty much anything off the breakfast menu will be a hit. To learn more about Lookout Roadhouse and to view the menu, head to the website.
Take a drive along Hwy 138 and you'll find this roadside cafe at the Yucca Inn, which has been in business since 1934. The menu is simple and delicious. The skillet dishes are always a great bet. To view the menu for Rick's Roadside Cafe, head to the website.
This historic cafe, built in 1928, is the oldest restaurant in Oceanside. You can enjoy traditional breakfast fare all day at this charming highway gem that's known for great food, friendly service, 1950s decor, and decorative murals. For more information on 101 Cafe, visit the website.
If you find yourself heading to Palm Springs, this modern highway diner located at the hip Ace Hotel offers up gourmet menu options like lamb kebabs and whole wheat tagliatelle. For more information on King's Highway Diner and to see the menu, visit the website.
You can find the Outpost Cafe right off I-15 in the beautiful high desert. Don't be surprised that this is also a popular truck stop, but it will be the most charming truck stop you've ever encountered. For the ultimate comfort dish, order the hot open-faced turkey sandwich. It's slathered in gravy and comes with cranberry sauce on the side. Dee-lish! For more information on one of the most mouthwatering restaurants in Southern California, the Outpost Cafe, visit the website.
Have you stopped in to try any of these roadside restaurants in Southern California before? If you have a favorite please let us know. If you’d like to add a few more places to your dining bucket list, you should check out this list of our favorite Mom and Pop restaurants in Southern California.
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Roadside Restaurants In Southern California
April 23, 2021
Melissa M
What are some must-visit restaurants in Southern California?
With such an incredible food scene, Southern California seems to have countless restaurants you have to visit. One place that’s filled with amazing food and an ambiance that just can’t be beaten is the Cliff’s Edge Restaurant in Los Angeles. This enchanting treehouse restaurant is like something out of a storybook and everyone should visit at least once. For another fantastic meal out, head to the Hobbit Restaurant in Orange where you will enjoy a multi-course meal, exquisite wine, and an atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else. Learn more about this incredible restaurant in our previous post.
What food is Southern California known for?
Southern California is known for its farm-fresh produce and its many restaurants that use the freshest vegetables and locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Just about everywhere you go for a meal in SoCal, you will be treated to food that’s flavorful and tastes fresh.
Are there any hidden gems in Southern California?
Hidden gems are usually underrated spots that are always worth finding. Southern California is home to many such places including the Lake Hodges Suspension Bridge, At 990 feet, this pedestrian bridge at San Dieguito River Park in Escondido is one you can’t miss! If you love chasing waterfalls, head to Lake Elsinore and take a short trail that leads to the picturesque Ortega Falls. It’s an absolute beauty that will probably become your favorite SoCal waterfall. You can find more hidden gems in our article about underrated places in Southern California.
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