Prestigious Food Publication Names California's Best Classic Restaurants

In the Central Coast region, Jocko's in Nipomo remains a barbecue favorite, famous for its tri-tip steaks and hearty sides.Photo byTadeja PavšičonUnsplash

In a recent expansive survey, Food & Wine has spotlighted nearly 250 classic restaurants across the United States, showcasing each state's unique culinary heritage.

In California, the renowned Chez Panisse in Berkeley, founded by food activist Alice Waters in 1971, is hailed as a pivotal force in the movement toward local and seasonal dining. Its impact reshaped the American food landscape, emphasizing the importance of sourcing ingredients close to home.

San Francisco's Tadich Grill, believed to be the third oldest continuously operating restaurant in the country, offers a taste of history with its classic gin martinis and fragrant cioppino. A visit to the century-old Swan Oyster Depot further highlights the city’s seafood tradition, where securing a spot at the marble counter is a coveted experience.

In the Central Coast region, Jocko's in Nipomo remains a barbecue favorite, famous for its tri-tip steaks and hearty sides. Meanwhile, La Super Rica in Santa Barbara, a casual establishment since 1980, serves up a beloved Cal-Mex specialty that combines roasted chile pasilla and al pastor pork, wrapped in fresh house-made tortillas.

As the survey continues to explore iconic dining spots, Los Angeles shines with the historic Musso & Frank Grill, a cherished Hollywood institution for a century. The city is also home to Langer's Deli, which has been delighting patrons with some of the best pastrami in the nation since 1947.