Taste of California: Unforgettable Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives Journeys

Ah, California. We went to LA at the start of 2020 for a cruise out of Long Beach and fell in love! Even though we are East Coast girls at heart, the West Coast beaches cannot be beat. I can’t wait to get back here. And it seems Guy Fieri is a fan too…so many restaurants to check out!

California is a state of endless possibilities, with its stunning coastline, vibrant cities, and diverse culinary scene. Here are some Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives spots we’re excited to explore:

Alameda

• Scorlari’s Good Eats: (Season 28, Episode 14) Known for its gourmet burgers and creative comfort food.

Anaheim

• Mama Cozza’s: (Season 10, Episode 2) A beloved spot for hearty Italian dishes.

Baker

• Mad Greek Cafe: (Season 1, Episode 1) Famous for its Greek cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

Bakersfield

• 24th Street Cafe: (Season 22, Episode 8) A local favorite for classic American breakfast and lunch.
• Athena’s Greek Cafe & Bakery: (Season 22, Episode 9) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• KC Steakhouse: (Season 22, Episode 6) Known for its steaks and old-school charm.
• Mama Roomba: (Season 22, Episode 6) Offering Caribbean-inspired dishes with bold flavors.
• Moo Creamery: (Season 22, Episode 8) Renowned for its creative ice cream and burgers.
• Muertos Kitchen & Lounge: (Season 22, Episode 7) A lively spot with a mix of Mexican and American dishes.
• Pyrenees Cafe: (Season 22, Episode 9) A historic Basque restaurant with a unique dining experience.
• Salty’s BBQ & Catering: (Season 22, Episode 5 & Season 27, Episode 4) Famous for its mouth-watering barbecue.

Berkeley

• 900 Grayson Restaurant: (Season 8, Episode 4) Known for its upscale comfort food and breakfast dishes.
• Bette’s Oceanview Diner: (Season 8, Episode 7) A classic diner with a twist, offering delicious breakfasts.
• Meal Ticket: (Season 10, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Rick & Ann’s Restaurant: (Season 8, Episode 4) Famous for its homey atmosphere and great breakfasts.

Burbank

• Chili John’s: (Season 17, Episode 2) Serving up hearty chili in a variety of styles.

Carlsbad

• Spirito’s Italian Diner: (Season 17, Episode 12) A go-to spot for classic Italian-American fare.

Carmel

• From Scratch Restaurant: (Season 21, Episode 3) Known for its fresh, locally-sourced dishes.
• Little Napoli: (Season 20, Episode 4) A charming spot for Italian cuisine.

Cathedral City

• Zobo & Meester’s: (Season 26, Episode 15) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Chico

• Grana: (Season 29, Episode 18) Known for its wood-fired pizzas and farm-to-table dishes.
• Momona: (Season 29, Episode 20) A spot for Asian-inspired street food.
• Sin of Cortez: (Season 29, Episode 19) A popular breakfast and brunch spot.
• The Banshee: (Season 29, Episode 18) Offering a mix of pub food and craft beers.
• The Rawbar: Known for its sushi and seafood.
• Upper Crust Bakery & Cafe: (Season 29, Episode 18) A cozy spot for baked goods and light meals.

Compton

• Bludso’s BBQ: (Season 17, Episode 6) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Culver City

• Tubs Fine Chili: (Season 23, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Eagle Rock

• The Oinkster: (Season 8, Episode 3 & Season 21, Episode 18) Known for its slow-cooked fast food, including delicious burgers and sandwiches.

Emeryville

• Rudy’s Can’t Fail Cafe: (Season 8, Episode 4) A diner with a retro vibe and a menu full of comfort food.

Eureka

• Bless My Soul: (Season 19, Episode 4 & Season 23, Episode 17) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Brick & Fire: (Season 19, Episode 3 & Season 23, Episode 17) Known for its wood-fired pizzas and cozy atmosphere.
• Café Nooner: (Season 19, Episode 5 & Season 23, Episode 17) A spot for fresh, local cuisine.
• Paul’s Live From New York: (Season 19, Episode 2 & Season 23, Episode 17) Serving up New York-style pizza.

Ferndale

• Ferndale Meat Co.: (Season 19, Episode 1) butcher shop and eatery with fresh, local meats.
• Humboldt Sweets: (Season 19, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Ivanhoe: (Season 19, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Pretzel Cart: (Season 19, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Forestville

• The Russian River Pub: (Season 1, Episode 12) A local favorite for its hearty pub food.

Fortuna

• Clendenen’s Cider Works: (Season 19, Episode 1) Famous for its fresh apple cider and apple-related products.

Fountain Valley

• Paul’s Coffee Shop: (Season 22, Episode 15) A classic American diner with hearty breakfasts and lunches.

Garden Grove

• Sabroso Mexican Grill: (Season 20, Episode 1) Offering fresh and flavorful Mexican dishes.

Gardena

• Jay Bee’s Bar-B-Que: (Season 2, Episode 6) Famous for its Southern-style barbecue.

Geyserville

• Catelli’s: (Season 12, Episode 1) A spot for Italian cuisine with a modern twist.

Glendale

• Mambos Cafe: (Season 7, Episode 11) Known for its Cuban dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

Healdsburg

• Jimtown Store: (Season 11, Episode 13) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Roof 106: Known for its modern American dishes and rooftop dining.

Indio

• Pablo’s Tacos & Beer: A fun spot for tacos and craft beers.

Irvine

• Chomp Chomp Nation: (Season 16, Episode 13) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Kenwood

• Cafe Citti: (Season 9, Episode 4) Known for its casual Italian fare.

La Quinta

• Chula Artisan Eatery: A farm-to-table restaurant with fresh, creative dishes.

Leucadia

• Haggo’s Organic Taco: (Season 17, Episode 9) Famous for its organic and sustainable tacos.

Loleta

• Loleta Cheese Shop: (Season 19, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Long Beach

• At Last Cafe: (Season 9, Episode 5 & Season 23, Episode 18) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Factory Gastrobar: (Season 20, Episode 4) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Schooner or Later: (Season 2, Episode 11 & Season 21, Episode 15) A favorite for brunch with a waterfront view.
• Tavern on 2: (Season 20, Episode 5 & Season 23, Episode 17) Offering gourmet burgers and craft beers.
• The Starling Diner: (Season 20, Episode 3 & Season 24, Episode 6) Known for its delicious breakfasts and cozy atmosphere.

Los Angeles

• Azla Ethiopian Vegan: (Season 25, Episode 7) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Baby Blues BBQ: Famous for its Southern-style barbecue.
• Beer Belly: (Season 16, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Belly & Snout: (Season 25, Episode 2) Known for its Filipino-inspired dishes.
• Biergarten: (Season 22, Episode 11) A lively spot combining Korean and German flavors.
• Black Market Liquor Bar: Offering innovative small plates and craft cocktails.
• Bludso’s Bar & Que: Famous for its Texas-style barbecue.
• Cha Cha Chili: (Season 22, Episode 13) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Chichen Itza Restaurant: (Season 22, Episode 12) Known for its authentic Yucatecan dishes.
• Daybird: Specializing in delicious fried chicken sandwiches.
• Delancey Pizzeria & Bar: (Season 25, Episode 4) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Don Chow Tacos: (Season 9, Episode 8 & Season 22, Episode 14) A food truck offering Chinese-Mexican fusion tacos.
• Eastside Market Italian Deli: (Season 17, Episode 10) A classic deli with hearty Italian sandwiches.
• ediBOL: (Season 27, Episode 2) Offering creative bowls with global flavors.
• Fat Sal’s Deli: (Season 19, Episode 12) Known for its over-the-top sandwiches.
• Gloria’s Café: (Season 9, Episode 3) Offering Salvadoran and Mexican cuisine.
• Harold & Belle’s: (Season 25, Episode 3) Famous for its Creole dishes.
• Horse Thief BBQ: (Season 27, Episode 3) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Jitlada Restaurant: (Season 27, Episode 9) Known for its spicy and flavorful Southern Thai cuisine.
• La Pupusa Urban Eatery: Offering fresh and delicious pupusas.
• La Tostaderia: (Season 27, Episode 5) A seafood spot with Mexican-inspired dishes.
• Little Jewel of New Orleans: (Season 22, Episode 13) Bringing New Orleans flavors to LA.
• Marouch Restaurant: Known for its Lebanese and Armenian cuisine.
• Mom’s Tamales: (Season 7, Episode 6) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Nic’s On Beverly: Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Nickel Diner: (Season 7, Episode 9) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Nighthawk Breakfast Bar: (Season 27, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Polka Restaurant & Catering: (Season 6, Episode 13) A cozy spot for Polish cuisine.
• Rutt’s Hawaiian Cafe: (Season 20, Episode 2) Known for its Hawaiian comfort food.
• South End: Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Tacos Y Birria La Unica: Famous for its birria tacos.
• The Bun Shop: (Season 25, Episode 8) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• The Golden State: (Season 16, Episode 10) A spot for gourmet burgers and craft beers.
• The Original Barone’s Famous Italian: (Season 25, Episode 5) Known for its classic Italian-American dishes.
• The Park’s Finest BBQ: (Season 17, Episode 10) A fusion of Filipino and American barbecue.

Manhattan Beach

• North End Caffe: (Season 9, Episode 1 & Season 21, Episode 18) A local favorite for its breakfasts and casual fare.

Modesto

• Bauer’s 66 ½: (Season 24, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Commonwealth: (Season 24, Episode 13) Known for its gastropub fare and craft beers.
• Food Fix Truck: (Season 24, Episode 10) Offering gourmet street food with a twist.

Monterey

• Cannery Row Brewing Company: (Season 20, Episode 3) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Loulou’s Griddle In The Middle: (Season 19, Episode 12) Known for its hearty breakfasts and seafood dishes.
• Monterey Fish House: (Season 20, Episode 1) A favorite for fresh seafood.
• Rosine’s Restaurant: Famous for its comfort food and giant desserts.
• Wild Plum Cafe & Bistro: (Season 20, Episode 5) Offering organic and locally-sourced dishes.

Napa

• Eight Noodle Shop: (Season 29, Episode 6) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Oakland

• Aunt Mary’s Café: (Season 11, Episode 7) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Clove and Hoof: (Season 24, Episode 10) Known for its butcher shop and delicious sandwiches.
• Cosecha Cafe: (Season 24, Episode 9) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Souley Vegan: (Season 24, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Southern Cafe: (Season 28, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• W.E.P.A.! at Brix 581: (Season 28, Episode 12) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Orange County

• Chomp Chomp Nation: (Season 27, Episode 4) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Tamarindo Truck: (Season 19, Episode 11 & Season 22, Episode 14) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Oxnard

• The Kitchen: (Season 13, Episode 8) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Pacifica

• Gorilla BBQ: (Season 5, Episode 10)Famous for its hearty barbecue dishes.

Palm Desert

• Gastro Grind Burgers: Known for its gourmet burgers.
• Grill-a-Burger: (Season 26, Episode 13) A go-to spot for delicious burgers.
• The Real Italian Deli: Offering fresh and authentic Italian deli fare.
• Wilma & Frieda: (Season 26, Episode 16) A favorite for its creative comfort food.

Palm Springs

• El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana: Known for its traditional Mexican cuisine.
• Frankinbun: (Season 26, Episode 14) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Gabino’s Creperie: Offering delicious crepes with various fillings.
• Sherman’s Deli & Bakery: (Season 26, Episode 12) A classic deli known for its generous portions and baked goods.

Palo Alto

• Calafia Cafe: (Season 28, Episode 12) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Pescadero

• Duarte’s Tavern: (Season 2, Episode 4) A historic tavern known for its comfort food and pies.

Ramona

• Ramona Cafe: (Season 2, Episode 1 & Season 24, Episode 6) Famous for its hearty breakfasts and homestyle dishes.

Reseda

• Fab Hot Dogs: (Season 7, Episode 2) A local favorite for its creative hot dog options.

Sacramento

• Café Rolle: (Season 6, Episode 3) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Dad’s Kitchen: (Season 11, Episode 8) A spot for gourmet comfort food and craft beers.
• Gatsby’s Diner: (Season 11, Episode 5) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Jamie’s Bar & Grill: (Season 6, Episode 1) A favorite for its casual fare and friendly vibe.
• Squeeze Inn: (Season 1, Episode 7) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• The Golden Bear: (Season 11, Episode 1) A trendy spot with a diverse menu and craft cocktails.

San Anselmo

• Bubba’s Diner: (Season 6, Episode 5) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

San Carlos

• Pazzo: (Season 28, Episode 13) Known for its Italian dishes and cozy atmosphere.
• The Refuge: (Season 18, Episode 2) A spot for gourmet sandwiches and craft beers.

San Diego

• Alforon: Offering fresh, authentic Lebanese cuisine.
• Bluewater Seafood Market & Grill: (Season 6, Episode 2) A favorite for its fresh seafood.
• Chuy’s Taco Shop: Known for its flavorful tacos and Mexican dishes.
• Crest Café: (Season 18, Episode 1) A local spot for hearty breakfasts and comfort food.
• El Indio: (Season 2, Episode 9) Famous for its fresh, handmade Mexican dishes.
• Grand Ole BBQ: A must-visit for Texas-style barbecue.
• Hob Nob Hill: (Season 5, Episode 8) A classic diner known for its homestyle meals.
• Hodad’s: (Season 2, Episode 3 & Season 17, Episode 11) Famous for its giant burgers.
• Jo’s Diner: A cozy spot with a menu full of comfort food.
• Kindred: A trendy spot for vegan dishes and creative cocktails.
• NOLA on 5th: Bringing New Orleans flavors to San Diego.
• Nutmeg Bakery & Cafe: Known for its fresh, organic dishes and baked goods.
• OB Noodle House: (Season 17, Episode 11) Offering delicious Asian-inspired dishes and craft beers.
• Pizzeria Luigi: (Season 5, Episode 2 & Season 17, Episode 11) A go-to spot for New York-style pizza.
• Shawarma Guys: Famous for its flavorful shawarma and Mediterranean dishes.
• Sovereign Thai: Known for its authentic Thai cuisine.
• Studio Diner: (Season 2, Episode 10) A 24-hour diner with a Hollywood theme and diverse menu.
• Tahini: Offering fresh, flavorful Middle Eastern dishes.
• Tiger! Tiger!: A trendy spot for craft beers and creative pub food.
• Tioli’s Crazee Burger: (Season 4, Episode 11) Known for its unique burger creations.
• Tuetano Taqueria: Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

San Francisco

• Broken Record: (Season 12, Episode 5) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• CatHead’s BBQ: (Season 24, Episode 16) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Dottie’s True Blue Café: (Season 6, Episode 12) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• El Nuevo Frutilandia: (Season 24, Episode 8) Offering delicious Puerto Rican and Cuban dishes.
• Grand Harbor: (Season 28, Episode 15) Known for its fresh seafood and Chinese cuisine.
• Grubstake Diner: (Season 2, Episode 8) A classic diner with a Portuguese twist.
• HRD Coffee Shop: (Season 12, Episode 3) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Joe’s Cable Car Restaurant: (Season 2, Episode 12) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Koja Kitchen Food Truck: (Season 18, Episode 3) Known for its Korean-Japanese fusion dishes.
• Miller’s East Coast Deli: (Season 18, Episode 3 & Season 23, Episode 18) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Nopalito: (Season 17, Episode 12) Offering fresh, organic Mexican cuisine.
• Pica Pica: (Season 17, Episode 13) A favorite for its Venezuelan arepas.
• Pier 23 Café: (Season 8, Episode 10) Known for its fresh seafood and waterfront dining.
• Q Restaurant: (Season 8, Episode 2) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Radio Africa & Kitchen: (Season 25, Episode 2) A trendy spot for African-inspired dishes.
• Rocco’s Café: (Season 6, Episode 10) A cozy spot for Italian-American comfort food.
• Senor Sisig Food Truck: (Season 18, Episode 4) Famous for its Filipino-Mexican fusion dishes.
• Show Dogs: (Season 18, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Tee Off Bar & Grill: (Season 8, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• The Front Porch: (Season 18, Episode 3) Known for its Southern comfort food.
• Tommy’s Joynt: (Season 5, Episode 5 & Season 21, Episode 17) A historic spot for hearty comfort food and craft beers.

San Jose

• Falafel’s Drive-In: (Season 2, Episode 1) Burgers & homemade falafel dishes offered in an unpretentious, iconic locale with a covered terrace.
• Los Tapatios: (Season 2, Episode 8) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Naglee Park Garage: (Season 8, Episode 8) Hearty seasonal dishes are ordered at the counter at this casual eatery with regular special events.

San Pedro

• Gaffey Street Diner: (Season 1, Episode 4) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

San Rafael

• Sol Food Puerto Rican Cuisine: (Season 6, Episode 7) Bringing the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico to San Rafael.

Santa Barbara

• Bettina: Known for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh ingredients.
• Bossie’s Kitchen: A spot for creative, locally-sourced dishes.
• Lito’s Mexican Restaurant: (Season 13, Episode 5) Offering fresh and flavorful Mexican cuisine.
• Mac’s Fish & Chip Shop: (Season 13, Episode 7) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Norton’s Pastrami & Deli: (Season 13, Episode 10) Known for its generous sandwiches.
• Savoy Café & Deli: (Season 13, Episode 13) A favorite for its fresh, healthy dishes.
• Secret Bao: Offering delicious Asian-inspired dishes.
• Shalhoob’s Funk Zone Patio: A trendy spot for barbecue and craft beers.
• The Blue Owl: Known for its creative comfort food and cozy atmosphere.

Santa Cruz

• Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant: (Season 8, Episode 9) A waterfront spot known for its fresh seafood.
• Santa Cruz Diner: (Season 7, Episode 12 & Season 21, Episode 18) A classic diner with a diverse menu.

Santa Monica

• Batterfish: (Season 27, Episode 3) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Patrick’s Roadhouse: (Season 1, Episode 3) A quirky spot with hearty American dishes.

Santa Rosa

• Hank’s Creekside Restaurant: (Season 1, Episode 8) A local favorite for its hearty breakfasts.
• Johnny Garlic’s: (Season 14, Episode 6) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• La Texanita: (Season 7, Episode 4) Offering fresh and flavorful Mexican dishes.
• Simply Vietnam Express: (Season 29, Episode 5) A spot for quick and delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
• Taqueria Molcajetes: (Season 29, Episode 8) Famous for its authentic Mexican fare.
• W.O.W. – Worth Our Weight: (Season 11, Episode 3 & Season 21, Episode 15) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Willie Bird’s Restaurant: (Season 2, Episode 7) Known for its turkey dishes and homestyle cooking.
• Zoftig Eatery: (Season 29, Episode 4) Offering fresh, healthy dishes with bold flavors.

Santa Ynez

• The Chef’s Touch BBQ Rig: A spot for delicious barbecue with a gourmet twist.

Sebastopol

• Zazu Kitchen + Farm: (Season 29, Episode 7) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Sherman Oaks

• Brats Brothers: (Season 10, Episode 9) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Sonoma

• Cochon Volant BBQ: (Season 29, Episode 5) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Schellville Grille: (Season 9, Episode 6 & Season 22, Episode 15) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
• Sunflower Café: (Season 11, Episode 11) A favorite for its fresh, seasonal dishes.

St Helena

• Taylor’s Automatic Refresher: (Season 1, Episode 9) Now Gott’s Roadside – A classic spot for burgers and shakes.

Stockton

• Gian’s Deli: (Season 24, Episode 16) Known for its fresh deli sandwiches.
• Green Papaya Food Truck: (Season 24, Episode 8) Offering fresh and flavorful Thai dishes.
• Midtown Creperie: (Season 24, Episode 9) A cozy spot for sweet and savory crepes.
• Smitty’s Wings & Things: (Season 24, Episode 13) Famous for its wings and casual fare.

Taft

• Asian Experience: (Season 22, Episode 9) A spot for fresh and flavorful Asian cuisine.

Temecula

• HoBo’s BBQ: (Season 26, Episode 13) Known for its delicious barbecue dishes.

Truckee

• Burger Me!: (Season 9, Episode 11) Famous for its gourmet burgers.
• Jax At The Trax: (Season 9, Episode 7) A classic diner offering hearty, homestyle dishes.

Venice

• Baby Blues BBQ: (Season 1, Episode 5) Unpretentious, down-home barbecue spot known for its pulled pork & baby back ribs.

Ventura

• Pete’s Breakfast House: (Season 14, Episode 4) A local favorite for its hearty breakfasts.

Victorville

• Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Café: (Season 2, Episode 2) Known for its generous portions and homestyle cooking.

Walnut Grove

• Giusti’s: (Season 5, Episode 13) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Winters

• Putah Creek Café: (Season 11, Episode 12) Known for its fresh, seasonal dishes and cozy atmosphere.

This list covers a wide range of culinary experiences across California, from hearty comfort food and gourmet burgers to fresh seafood and authentic ethnic cuisine. Whether you’re exploring big cities or small towns, there’s something delicious waiting for you in every corner of the state. Enjoy your culinary adventure!