Donuts, burgers, tacos, ice cream, cookies, chocolate and more! There are so many iconic California foods offered up and down the state, so if you’re planning a trip to California, I’m sharing all the California foods every visitor should try. Plan your meals accordingly! Here are all the most beloved dishes in The Golden State that you simply cannot miss!
What to Eat When Traveling in California
California is known for its diversity, not just in culture, but also in food. Whether you’re a fan of fresh, farm-to-table meals, or street food staples that are as iconic as the state itself, California offers something for every palate. If you’re planning a trip to the Golden State, be sure to indulge in these mouthwatering foods that will make your California adventure even more unforgettable.
Let’s start with dessert first!
The Madonna Inn’s Pink Champagne Cake in San Luis Obispo, CA
If you’re traveling through central California, The Madonna Inn’s Pink Champagne Cake is a must! It’s three layers of white, fluffy cake divided with Bavarian cream which is flavored with just a hint of almond. The cake is then topped with whipped cream and hot pink white chocolate shavings and curls. Grab a famous slice of pink heaven!
Read More: Checking In: Madonna Inn Review
Read More: 15 Things to Do in San Luis Obispo
Brown Butter Cookie Co.’s Brown Butter Cookies in Cayucos, CA
The sweet and salty deliciousness of the brown butter cookies from the Brown Butter Cookie Co. in Cayucos, California is addicting! Stop inside the shop for a sample, but be sure to purchase an additional bag at check out. Trust me! You’ll thank me later when you’re craving more and you’ve already finished the first bag while still in your car.
The original Brown Butter cookie is a favorite flavor, but be sure to try some of the other flavors including cocoa, espresso, and cinnamon!
The Brown Butter Cookie Co. has additional locations in Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo.
Julian Pie Company’s Apple Pie in Julian, CA
If you love apple pie, the Julian Pie Company in Julian, California is the place to go for a taste just like Grandma used to make. Stop in and get this signature apple pie topped off with a traditional flaky pastry crust. It’s as American as apple pie gets, though while you’re there, it can’t hurt to grab other pie flavors and treats to enjoy too!
Boccali’s Strawberry Shortcake in Ojai, CA
This is not your ordinary strawberry shortcake! At Boccali’s in Ojai, California, you get more of a sweet, moist crumble on the cake. Served in a bowl with loads of whipped cream and fresh-picked strawberries with a delicious glaze, it’s the perfect combination. It’s a hefty serving too, one is big enough to share!
Read More: 22 Amazing Things to Do in Ojai, California
McConnell’s Ice Cream in Santa Barbara, CA
Screaming for ice cream? Beat the Californian sun with a nice cool scoop of McConnell’s Ice Cream. The now nationally famous ice cream company started in Santa Barbara, so I recommend trying it at the source!
Popular flavorings include banana and salted caramel, mocha fudge and smoked almonds, Eureka lemon and marionberries, and sea salt cream and cookies. Dairy-free is also available.
Fortune Cookies from the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco, CA
The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory has been a legend in San Francisco, California since 1962. They make all the fortune cookies at the Fortune Cookie Co. by hand and from scratch right there at the store. The wonderful aroma will lure you in, and the chance to taste unique flavors and toppings like chocolate, strawberry, or green tea awaits! Plus, they offer a factory tour!
Date Shake from Shields Date Garden in Indio, CA
Nestled in the heart of California’s Coachella Valley, Shields Date Garden in Indio has been serving up a legendary treat for years: the Date Shake. The farm’s date palm trees produce some of the finest dates in the world, and this shake is the perfect way to enjoy their natural sweetness.
A date shake combines creamy vanilla ice cream with rich, succulent dates to create a refreshing, creamy beverage that’s both a dessert and a drink. It’s thick, smooth, and packed with flavor—ideal for cooling down on a hot desert day. The farm offers visitors the chance to browse their date shop, where you can take home a variety of date-based products, but nothing quite compares to the original date shake. Trust me, this drink will leave you wanting more!
Tip: Shields Date Farm isn’t just about date shakes. Be sure to try their Date Cookies and Date Nut Bread to truly experience the full range of what dates can offer.
Runner Up: The date shake at Hadley’s Fruit Orchards in Cabazon. It’s not as good. Not as kitschy. But if you want to try a date shake and you’re nearby, it gets the job done.
Fresh Strawberry Milkshake from the Mad Greek Cafe in Baker, California
Speaking of milkshakes, the fresh Strawberry Milkshake at the Mad Greek Cafe in Baker, California on the way to Las Vegas from Los Angeles is absolutely incredible. I stopped on the way back from Vegas on my most recent trip and I was shocked! I can’t believe I missed out on this deliciousness so many times over the years when I just drove right past!
Read More:
Driving LA to Vegas? Check out my What to See and Do Between Los Angeles and Las Vegas blog post! (Coming Soon!)
Next on the food list? Donuts! If you can’t make it to one of these donut locations, don’t fret, because in Los Angeles some of the most delectable donuts are served in pink boxes out of donut shops in strip malls on every corner.
California Donuts in Los Angeles, CA
California Donuts in Los Angeles, California is a family-owned shop that has been making delicious and fluffy donuts since 1982. You’ll find mouth-watering classic donuts that taste like heaven alongside some truly unique options like the panda donuts which have Oreo cookie accents for the ears and facial features. It almost looks too cute to eat…almost! They’re open 24 hours a day, so if you’re craving a panda donut at midnight, you know where to go!
The Fresh Strawberry Donut from The Donut Man in Glendora, CA
Another great place for donuts is in Glendora, California at The Donut Man. Famed for the fresh strawberry donut which has been on The Food Network and The Cooking Channel, it was named the “Most Iconic Dish” in Los Angeles. Plus, those berries make it healthy, right? Right!
A secondary location recently opened at Grand Central Market in Downtown Los Angeles.
Randy’s Donuts in Los Angeles, CA
You can’t miss Randy’s Donuts in Los Angeles, California, and that’s partially due to that huge and iconic donut sign out front. So, drive on in and get classic, deluxe, fancy, and premium donut styles to satisfy every donut craving you’ve got!
Read More: Best Donuts in Los Angeles!
Next? Burgers! Did you know the cheeseburger was invented in Pasadena, California? You can eat some of the best burgers (with or without cheese) in the Golden State! In fact, one of California’s best burgers can be found up and down the state at any In-N-Out!
In-N-Out at Various Locations in California
No, it’s not a typical fast-food joint. In-N-Out is California’s favorite fast food because the food is fresh. The patties don’t have fillers, additives, or preservatives, and all the veggies and cheeses are fresh too. You can have your order customized (animal style, anyone?) and it blows the competition away. There are locations all over the state, though the replica of the original burger stand can be found in Baldwin Park, California.
Jalama Burger at the Jalama Beach Store in Jalama, CA
It is an absolute trek to get to the Jalama Beach Store for the Jalama Burger, but I can assure you, it is worth every effort you make. This place has been a staple at the Jalama Beach County Park for over 40 years. What makes it so good is the secret sauce, a highly-guarded recipe that no one outside the family is permitted to see. The juicy meat combined with this secret sauce is the reason you would drive for hours out of your way just to get a bite!
Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank, CA
When you’re in Burbank, California, make sure you stop in Bob’s Big Boy. You may even recognize it from many different movie scenes. Known as the home of the original double decker burger and incredible onion rings, you’ll find all those comforting foods on the menu. You can try to get seated at The Beatles Booth, which is the last booth on the right from when you walk in, though you may have to wait hours to get it. With all the delightful food smells, you may just want to sit wherever is available so you can get that food in your belly.
Don’t miss Bob’s Famous Hot Fudge Cake for dessert! It’s Vanilla ice cream between two layers of luscious Devil’s food cake, smothered with creamy hot fudge and covered with a whipped topping and a cherry!
Tacos are definitely on this list!
Tito’s Tacos in Los Angeles, CA
Tito’s Tacos in Los Angeles, California has been making everyone happy with award-winning tacos since 1959. While they might not be the best gourmet tacos you’ll ever have, these are some of the best no-frills, crunchy tacos you’ll ever have, prepared fresh daily from the original recipes that started this legendary establishment.
Unfortunately, rumors are that Tito’s may have recently changed owners or maybe they had to change food distributors due to Covid, but the reviews on Yelp are … not as good, so this one may no longer be on the “must-try” list. The prices have also increased substantially.
La Super-Rica Taqueria in Santa Barbara, CA
Julia Child famously declared La Super-Rica Taqueria in Santa Barbara, California as one of her favorite places to dine (although it’s a bit disputed and the rumor is she picked La Super-Rica because she couldn’t choose between her chef friends’ restaurants in town). Ever since it has become the kind of place with a line out the door. The nostalgic vibe is charming, but the food will keep you firmly in place until you get your order of what is nothing short of spectacular Mexican food.
Cayuco’s Gas Mini Mart Tacos in Cayucos, CA
Yes, it’s a gas station. But if you ask the locals that live near here in Cayucos, California, they will tell you that hands-down, Cayuco’s Gas Mini Mart‘s tacos are some of the best around. Now that the secret is out though, it’s going to get more popular so stop in and try the authentic street tacos.
Read More: 14 Awesome Things to Do in Cayucos, CA
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill for Fish Tacos in San Diego, CA
When you’re in San Diego, California, Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is the place to go for the best fish tacos. They buy local fish directly from the fishermen or catch the fish themselves. You’re guaranteed to have the freshest fish taco experience when you eat here!
Ok, so now all the other foods that don’t fit into a nice, neat, little category:
Cinnamon Rolls from Old West Cinnamon Rolls in Pismo Beach, CA
If you’re in the charming coastal town of Pismo Beach, make sure to stop by Old West Cinnamon Rolls for one of their freshly baked, legendary cinnamon rolls. These oversized, soft, gooey rolls are a beloved local favorite and have been attracting visitors from all over the world for decades.
What makes these cinnamon rolls stand out is their homemade, melt-in-your-mouth texture and perfectly balanced sweetness. Whether you go for the classic or opt for one of their specialty options (like the cinnamon roll topped with walnuts or pecans), every bite is a warm, comforting experience.
They’re the perfect breakfast treat or snack while exploring the beautiful central coast of California.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting with a group, grab a few rolls to share! The portions are huge and worth every calorie.
Read More: 36 Fun Things to Do in Pismo Beach, California!
(Coming Soon!)
Irish Coffee at the Buena Vista in San Francisco, CA
The Irish coffee at The Buena Vista in San Francisco, California is so popular, the bartender makes at least one dozen at a time! It was introduced here by Stanton Delaplane in 1952 and has been a staple item on the menu since. It’s made with Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey, Peerless organic coffee, C&H sugar, and heavy cream for what will be the best Irish coffee you’ve ever had.
Clam Chowder at Splash Cafe in Pismo Beach, CA
One of the most popular things to do in Pismo Beach is to enjoy a bowl of delicious, award-winning clam chowder at the Splash Café! Located right by the water, the Splash Café is one of the most popular places to eat in Pismo Beach as evidenced by the line that typically wraps around the building – don’t worry, it moves fast! In addition to serving up some of the best clam chowder in town, they also offer a variety of other seafood dishes and amazing burgers and fries that are sure to please your taste buds.
Read More: 36 Fun Things to Do in Pismo Beach, CA
(Coming Soon!)
Split Pea Soup at Pea Soup Andersen’s in Buellton, CA
As the name suggests, you have to go to Pea Soup Anderson’s for the split pea soup! Anderson’s has been serving delicious split pea soup to travelers since 1924! They claim to serve over 2 million bowls a year! Order the Traveler’s Special which is all-you-can-eat Andersen’s World Famous Split Pea Soup served with Onion Cheese and Pumpernickel breads and a beverage of choice.
Update: This location is (allegedly temporarily) CLOSED. You can read more about it here. The other location in Santa Nella, California is still open and serving soup.
Godmother Sandwich at Bay Cities in Santa Monica, CA
At Bay Cities in Santa Monica, California, the Godmother Sandwich isn’t just any sandwich. It lords over them all with a fresh-baked crusty bread stuffed with Genoa salami, mortadella capicola, ham, prosciutto, and provolone. Get it with “The Works” which includes mustard, mayo, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, homemade Italian dressing, and pickled peppers (either hot or mild).
Philippe’s French Dip in Los Angeles, CA
When you’re in Los Angeles, California, get a French Dip from Philippe the Original. This specialty of the house, which has been here since 1908, features roast beef, leg of lamb, pastrami, ham, or roast pork on a freshly-baked French roll dipped in the au jus from the roasts and topped with cheese if you’d like. The french dip at nearby Cole’s comes close as a runner-up, and both restaurants have argued for ages over who made the original French Dip sandwich.
Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles in Los Angeles, CA
If it’s chicken and waffles you want while you’re in Los Angeles, California, don’t miss Roscoe’s House of Chicken N Waffles. With a bunch of locations in the area, the menu boasts crispy fried chicken offerings and fluffy, delicious waffles. Enjoy them combined together or keep sweet and savory separate if you prefer!
Pink’s Hot Dogs in Los Angeles, CA
Since 1939, Pink’s Hot Dogs in Los Angeles, California has been a family-owned place for hot dogs. While Cupid’s Hot Dogs is a close runner-up in The Valley, Pink’s has been voted #1 again and again. The creative hot dog offerings are absolutely amazing and you’re going to love it!
Hot Dog on a Stick in Santa Monica, CA
Grab a couple of corn dogs and some fresh “hand-stomped” lemonade from the original Hot Dog on a Stick stand on Muscle Beach by the pier in Santa Monica! The stand opened in 1946, but today, the “Hotdoggers” still wear their iconic, eye-catching uniforms and the corn dogs are just as delicious!
Hog Island Oyster Co. Oysters in San Francisco, CA
These oysters are incredible, and Hog Island Oyster Co. is one of just 2 west coast oyster farms raising these east coast oysters. They are harvested seasonally and have delicate meat with a crisp mineral quality to them. You can try them in a few locations, Hog Island Oyster Co. Oysters in San Francisco at the Ferry Building or at the source at The Hog Shack and The Boat Oyster Bar in Marshall, CA but don’t miss out if you love oysters!
El Faro Taqueria’s Mission Burrito in San Francisco
The original Mission Burrito can be found at El Faro Taqueria in San Francisco, California. The first of its kind, this burrito was originally made in 1961 to feed hungry firefighters with meat, beans, rice, sour cream, guac, and salsa on layered tortillas rolled together into that iconic burrito shape and wrapped in foil. Now you don’t need to be a firefighter, just hungry, to grab one of these!
Boudin Sourdough Bread in San Francisco, CA
Head to Pier 39 in San Francisco, California to get some San Francisco Sourdough bread at Boudin Bakery. Freshly baked and utterly divine, you won’t be able to walk past it without the aroma of fresh bread luring you inside. Try it as a bread bowl housing delicious clam chowder, order a crispy grilled cheese sandwich, or just take a loaf home with you to enjoy with some decadent butter!
Garlic Ice Cream at the Garlic City Café in Gilroy, CA
In Gilroy, California, make sure you visit Garlic World. As the name suggests, the shop is garlic-centric. You really can’t go wrong with anything you pick up, but be sure you save room for the garlic ice cream. Marianne’s Ice Cream is made in nearby Santa Cruz and when combined with Gilroy’s garlic, it is *chef’s kiss!*
Yes, really. Trust me on this one! And try both flavors – chocolate and vanilla. I preferred the chocolate.
Fried Artichokes from the Giant Artichoke Restaurant in Castroville, CA
If you’re driving through Castroville, California, be sure to stop at the Giant Artichoke Restaurant. You’ll definitely want to get some fun photos in front of the giant artichoke. But pop inside and get an order of the fried artichokes.
But my pro tip is to stop by Pezzini Farms. They have a farm stand offering fresh fruits and vegetables as well as canned food items and locally-made gifts. I highly recommend their artichoke salsa! They also often have the food truck, The Choke Coach, parked outside serving fried artichokes which are even better than the ones from the Giant Artichoke Restaurant. Plus, the Pezzini Farms stand sells the most delicious artichoke cupcakes.
Mai Tai from Trader Vic’s in Emeryville, CA
Trader Vic’s is one of the most famous tiki bars in the world. You’ll find it in Emeryville, California. While it’s not the only tiki bar throughout California, it’s definitely one you’ll want to stop at for the most treasured Mai Tai of all.
Hangtown Fry at Tadich Grill in Placerville, CA
At the Tadich Grill in Placerville, California, the Hangtown Fry is something said to have been served back in the days of the Gold Rush. It’s an omelet with diced bacon, fried whole oysters, green onions, and melted cheese. Tabasco sauce is totally recommended on the side of this amazing dish!
Kogi Korean BBQ – food truck for Korean BBQ Tacos
The fusion food you get from the Kogi Korean BBQ food trucks will make you chase them around town. You’ll need to check the schedule to find the trucks but once you do, make sure you order the world-famous short rib taco!
Tri-tip BBQ from Jocko’s in Nipomo, CA
Head to Jocko’s in Nipomo, California and you’ll be amazed with the meats. Especially the tri-tip BBQ. It’s been a staple of the landscape since 1925 and uses red oak coals to fire up those succulent meats. Cold Creek Tavern in Santa Barbara is a close runner-up.
Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs – All Over Los Angeles, CA
Bacon-wrapped hot dogs—often known as “Danger Dogs”—have become a street food sensation all over California, but especially in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and other beach cities. These hot dogs are a simple yet brilliant creation: a juicy hot dog wrapped in crispy bacon, grilled to perfection, and topped with everything from onions, peppers, salsa, guacamole, and cheese to a squeeze of tangy mustard and ketchup.
The beauty of a bacon-wrapped hot dog lies in its balance of flavors: the savory bacon, smoky grilled dog, and spicy toppings make it the ultimate street food. It’s a quick and delicious snack for those on the go or a late-night indulgence after a long day of exploring or a late-night concert.
Whether you’re strolling down Venice Beach or exploring the busy streets of LA, you’re bound to find a cart or food stand selling these irresistible bacon-wrapped beauties. They’re affordable, satisfying, and packed with all the flavors you crave.
California Fruit from Fruit Stands and Farmer’s Markets
And last, but certainly not least, try California’s fruits including California oranges and avocados! California is a HUGE agricultural state and we produce some of the best fruit in the world!
If you’re in Ojai, California, stop by a fruit stand for some Pixie Tangerines, Navel Oranges, or Bacon Avocados. Oxnard has amazing strawberries! Castroville is known for its artichokes. Oak Glen or Julian have their apples.
If you’re visiting a small town and there’s a farmer’s market, try to stop by to taste some fruit and other local foods!
California’s food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the state itself. Whether you’re sipping on a date shake in the desert, indulging in a gooey cinnamon roll by the coast, or grabbing a bacon-wrapped hot dog from a food cart, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds. Make sure to add these iconic treats to your culinary bucket list the next time you visit the Golden State—you won’t regret it!
Are you planning a trip to California? Let me know in a comment below which foods have you drooling and planning to try!
Copyright
All images and content are copyright-protected. Please do not use any images without prior permission. If you would like to share this story, please only use one image and link directly back to this post using my post title. Thank you!
Land Acknowledgement
Salty Canary wants to acknowledge that we live, operate, gather, and benefit every day on the traditional stolen lands of several Indigenous peoples and nations including the Tongva (Gabrieleno), Kizh (Gabrieleno), Chumash, Popeloutchom (Amah Mutsun), Ohlone, Awaswas, and Fernandeño Tataviam peoples who have stewarded the lands and waterways throughout their many generations in what is now the state of California.
I wanted to personally acknowledge these Indigenous people and nations and both their commitment and current contributions to the land with a donation to the American Indian College Fund because acknowledgment without action does not begin to address the systemic issues facing Indigenous people. If you feel as though you benefit from the land you’re living on or traveling to and you have the means, I kindly ask that you donate at least $1 to a Native-led organization such as the Native American Rights Fund or the American Indian College Fund.