California is a state that’s known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and delicious food. From fresh seafood to mouth-watering Mexican cuisine, California has it all. But if you’re looking for a true taste of the Golden State, you can’t go wrong with a visit to one of its many diners, drive-ins, and dives.
Patrick’s Roadhouse
This former railway station turned restaurant is located on Pacific Coast Highway between Santa Monica and Malibu, and it’s the real deal. The dedicated clientele comes back again and again for homemade favorites like a traditional Austrian farmer’s breakfast, bauernsfruhstuck, or the unusual dijon plum burger. It’s a local favorite and a throwback from the early days of Guy’s show.
La Tostaderia
If you’re a seafood lover, then you simply cannot miss out on trying the La Patrona Shrimp Burger at La Tostaderia.
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The La Patrona Shrimp Burger is a juicy and succulent burger that’s packed with flavor. It’s made with fresh shrimp that’s been cooked to perfection, and a variety of herbs and spices that make it simply irresistible. The burger is topped with a house-made mango salsa, fresh tomato and onion, and potato chips, for crunch.
Dad’s Kitchen
If you’re a burger lover, then you need to make your way to Dad’s Kitchen and try their Bacon and Blue Cheese Stuffed Burger. This burger is a showstopper that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
The burger is prepared with chopped bacon, blue cheese, and an Aleppo chili spread that’s mixed with roasted garlic and other spices. Guy Fieri called this burger one of the juiciest he’s ever had and described it as a “grand slam- something so simple, done so right.”
OB Noodle House
If you’re looking to add some heat to your taste buds, then look no further than the Screaming Red Spicy Garlic Wings at OB Noodle House. These wings get their bright red color from a long bath in a super-spicy marinade that includes habanero and Thai chiles.
Guy said these wings weren’t all spice- they also had depth of flavor, and tender, juicy meat.
Pyrenees Cafe
This Bakersfield joint has been a lot of things since 1901, but today’s locals know it well as the Pyrenees Cafe. This diner serves traditional Basque food, including a knock-out garlic fried chicken.
The chicken is marinated in garlic, dredged in buttermilk and flour, then fried in hot oil on the stovetop (no deep fryers in the Pyrenees mountains, and this chicken is made the old-fashioned way!). It’s served with a garlic sauce. This Basque meal is rooted in humble beginnings, but Guy was totally impressed.
Hobo’s Barbecue
Right in the middle of Temecula’s wine country, you’ll find HoBo’s BBQ, a killer spot for anyone craving some top-notch barbecue. Just a couple of hours east of LA, this place is famous for its Lumberjack Sandwich, packed with tender brisket and house-made potato salad, all on a crispy bun. Don’t even get me started on their Barbecue Lasagna—it’s a wild mix of pulled pork, chicken, and spicy sausage that’s totally worth a try. Founded by Al, who was inspired by his late wife Holly’s love for barbecue, HoBo’s BBQ is the go-to spot for a hearty and super tasty meal.