Favorite Restaurants to Visit on a Day Trip out of the City
Lake Arrowhead
Lakefront Taproom - New American
The Lakefront Tap Room offers a full-service restaurant and bar with (the best) lake views. Enjoy their hand-crafted menu, seasonal cocktails, 44 rotating taps, and rare bottles and cans. Relax on the patio, savor happy hour specials, and catch live music in a place that feels like home!
Belgian Waffle Works - New American
This charming restaurant boasts a breathtaking lake view that makes every meal feel special. Enjoy incredible waffles and postcard-perfect scenery, whether you dine indoors or on the outdoor patio. It's a perfect start to your day, with a peaceful walk available before or after your meal.
Big Bear
Captain’s Anchorage - Steakhouse
The Captain's Anchorage Restaurant, a Big Bear Lake tradition since 1947, offers a nostalgic ambiance with great food. Formerly known as Sportsman’s Tavern, it’s entertained Hollywood celebrities and hosts a friendly ghost named George. Listen for stories from staff and guests about George, who’s been a part of the restaurant's history since his days as the accountant.
Grizzly Manor Cafe - Diner
This small mountain diner is the go-to breakfast spot in town, and the lines outside prove it. The food is excellent and worth the wait, even if it’s hefty enough to send you back to bed. Portions are huge—thick plate-sized pancakes, hash browns topped with a three-egg blanket, or the aptly named "blob" (biscuits and gravy). Share your meal with a friend, or you might not make it up the trail afterward!
Laguna Beach
AhbA - Mediterranean
AhbA is a haven for fresh food, unique drinks, and vintage furniture lovers. Known for serving the best burger in town (as locals say!), it's also home to Helen's, South Laguna's beloved speakeasy. Offering a taste of a European summer right on PCH, AhbA provides a dining experience that's both relaxed and stylish, making it a must-visit spot in the area.
Nick’s Laguna Beach - American
Nick’s is the gem of Laguna Beach, not for fancy tasting menus, but for its crowd-pleasing charm. This casual spot is a local favorite, even if it means long waits and hard-to-get reservations (plan ahead!). Known for its unbeatable prime rib sandwich, Nick’s is perfect for a post-beach lunch, drinks and snacks at the bar, or a dinner date. And don’t forget to order the asparagus fries—they’re a must-try.
Joshua Tree
The Copper Room - American
The Copper Room, a historic restaurant at the Yucca Valley Airport, dates back to the 1950s when stars like Frank Sinatra and Gene Autry were regulars. Recently restored, it now features multiple dining rooms and a wrap-around bar ideal for martinis and tasty bites like garlic shrimp toast. It’s the perfect spot to escape reality for a few hours. Come here on your first night in the desert, and you'll find yourself returning every evening.
Kitchen in the Desert - Caribbean
The High Desert is known for its amazing restaurant patios, and the standout is Kitchen In The Desert in Twentynine Palms. Located on a quiet residential street, this massive outdoor space features fire pits, a stage for live music, and countless string lights. The real highlight, though, is the food—a unique blend of American and Trinidadian cuisine, with dishes like Caribbean gumbo, pepper shrimp, and doubles. For a top-notch meal in Joshua Tree, this is the spot to choose.
Santa Barbara
Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch - Contemporary American
The Stonehouse, set in a charming 19th-century citrus packing house, offers a unique dining experience. Relax in the lounge with full bar service or enjoy the separate dining room, featuring a fireplace and stunning views. The Stonehouse also boasts Central California’s only Grand Award-winning wine program. For a unique twist, visit the restaurant's speakeasy for before or after dinner drinks.
OKU - Asian
This two-story restaurant is nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront and Funk Zone Districts. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner, you can bask in the sun at their waterfront rooftop bar, sipping on a refreshing cocktail while taking in stunning ocean views. As night falls, relax by the fireplace with a great glass of wine after indulging in a delicious meal.
La Jolla
Cove House - American
Cove House is one of those casual spots that feels straight out of a beach vacation movie. Swing by for brunch and ask for an outdoor picnic table under the yellow-and-white striped umbrellas. The move is to go for something like their BLT upgraded with baja stone crab and creamy avocado spread, which goes down nice alongside a vodka-spiked strawberry lemonade. After the meal, it’s just a short walk over to Scripps Park.
Brockton Villa - Seafood + New Americans
Brockton Villa Restaurant is housed in one of La Jolla’s original beach cottages. This seaside location offers a spectacular view of the World-Famous La Jolla Cove. We serve breakfast and lunch with seasonal menu changes by Chef Mareyja Sisbarro. They can accommodate any size group from intimate gatherings, just be sure to arrive early and prepare for a hard time finding parking.
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