California’s food scene in 2025 is bursting with amazing sites that will turn dining out into an adventure to remember. From sophisticated San Francisco kitchens with Michelin stars to trendy San Diego coastal cafés, this book ranks the top ten best restaurants in California. These places provide cuisine mixing fresh local veggies, fish, and tastes from all around, including Mexican, Japanese, and Italian.
You will find anything from simple meals that nonetheless wow to grand, creative feasts. Every restaurant has a different environment with carefully crafted meals usually using locally grown or caught ingredients and service. These venues define your taste in cuisine that of a culinary nerd looking for the next great thing or just a delicious dinner. They are perfect for planning a fantastic dining location or a leisureful culinary tour across the state. Looking over this list will help you to see where you might investigate California’s best meals in 2025 and get a taste of what makes the culinary scene in the state so appealing.
The Top Ten Best Restaurants In California (2025)
10. Guy’s For Lunch – Roseville, CA
Tucked in Roseville, Guy’s For Lunch is a family-run sandwich shop that feels like a warm hug. Since opening in 2015, owners Guy and Kathy Manwaring have built a loyal following with their hearty sandwiches, soups, and salads. The pulled pork sandwich, piled high with tender meat and tangy sauce, is a crowd favorite, while the spicy chicken salad adds a zesty kick. Their chili, served with a side of cornbread, is perfect for cooler days.
The cozy, mom-and-pop vibe, with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere, makes it a go-to for locals and visitors. Fresh ingredients and generous portions keep diners coming back, earning it a spot on Yelp’s 2025 list at #21 nationally. Whether grabbing a quick lunch or lingering over a meal, this spot delivers comfort food done right, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Roseville’s dining scene. Its consistent quality and charm make it a standout for those seeking affordable, delicious eats in California.
9. West Coast Cheesesteaks – Glendora, CA
West Coast Cheesesteaks in Glendora brings a slice of Philly to California with its authentic cheesesteaks, landing at #18 on Yelp’s 2025 national list. Located at 1832-B East Route 66, this eatery uses Certified Angus Beef and freshly baked bread daily, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The classic cheesesteak, loaded with thinly sliced steak and melted cheese, is a hit, while the Poblano cheesesteak adds a spicy twist with roasted peppers.
The owner, a Philly native, keeps the vibe true to its roots, with a clean, friendly space perfect for takeout or a quick dine-in. Customers rave about the generous portions and the staff’s warm hospitality, making it a favorite for lunch or dinner. Vegetarian options and sides like crispy fries round out the menu, catering to all tastes. For those searching for a hearty, authentic meal in Glendora, this spot delivers a taste of East Coast comfort with a California flair, drawing in cheesesteak fans from across the region.
8. Berry Brand – Tustin, CA
Berry Brand in Tustin is a haven for health-conscious diners, specializing in acai and pitaya bowls that burst with color and flavor. Ranked #15 on Yelp’s 2025 list, this spot at 12932 Newport Ave and 2493 Park Ave offers customizable bowls with organic, vegan-friendly ingredients. The signature Acai bowl, topped with hemp granola and fresh fruit, is a refreshing treat, while the Pitaya bowl with coconut dream adds a tropical vibe. Diners love the unlimited topping bar, letting them pile on nuts, seeds, and drizzles to their heart’s content.
The bright, airy space feels modern and inviting, perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack. Known for its fast service and catering options, Berry Brand appeals to those seeking healthy dining in Orange County. Reviews praise the fresh ingredients and vibrant presentation, making it a top pick for smoothie bowl lovers. Its focus on sustainability and quality ensures it stands out in Tustin’s food scene, drawing crowds looking for nutritious, Instagram-worthy meals.
7. Beyer Deli – San Diego, CA
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Beyer Deli in San Diego’s Otay Mesa is a family-owned gem that’s been serving up stacked sandwiches since 2001. Ranked #14 on Yelp’s 2025 national list, this cash-only deli is famous for its New Yorker, a towering pastrami sandwich, and a juicy Philly cheesesteak. Vegan options like the plant-based club ensure everyone leaves happy. The cozy space, with outdoor seating and a friendly vibe, feels like a neighborhood hangout.
Customers love the affordable prices and generous portions, with fresh bread and quality meats stealing the show. The staff’s warmth adds to the charm, making every visit feel like catching up with old friends. Located in a bustling part of San Diego, it’s a go-to for workers grabbing lunch or families seeking a hearty meal. Its consistent quality and loyal fanbase make it a standout in the city’s dining scene, perfect for those craving classic deli flavors with a California twist. For sandwich lovers, Beyer Deli is a must-stop on any San Diego food tour.
6. Sierra Subs and Salads – Three Rivers, CA
Nestled along the Kaweah River near Sequoia National Park, Sierra Subs and Salads is a family-owned eatery that’s a haven for hikers and locals alike. Ranked #12 on Yelp’s 2025 list, this spot serves up fresh subs and salads with a side of scenic beauty. The Muffuletta sandwich, layered with meats, cheese, and olive spread, is a fan favorite, while the Vegetarian Stinger packs a punch with fresh veggies and zesty dressing.
Outdoor seating lets diners soak in river views, creating a relaxed, nature-filled vibe. Run by Allison and Dane Millner, the restaurant prides itself on quality ingredients and friendly service, earning rave reviews for its welcoming atmosphere. Its location makes it a perfect pit stop for park visitors, with takeout options for those hitting the trails. Previously featured on Yelp’s 2018 list, this spot continues to shine for its hearty, affordable meals and small-town charm, making it a top choice for those exploring California’s natural and culinary wonders.
5. Shlap Muan Wings – Long Beach, CA
Shlap Muan Wings in Long Beach is a game-changer for wing lovers, blending Cambodian flavors with classic comfort food. Ranked #11 on Yelp’s 2025 national list, this eatery, owned by Hawk and Sophia Tea, serves crispy wings tossed in bold sauces like Dirty Elvis, a soy-caramel-chile mix, and spicy orange-habanero. Beyond wings, the menu features Cambodian dishes like kuy teav, a fragrant noodle soup, showcasing the owners’ heritage. The casual, takeout-friendly space buzzes with energy, drawing foodies eager for something new.
Reviews highlight the perfect crunch of the wings and the unique flavor combos, making it a standout in Long Beach’s dining scene. Its cultural fusion and affordable prices appeal to those seeking global cuisines in California. Whether grabbing a quick meal or catering for a group, this spot delivers big on taste and creativity, earning its place as a must-visit for anyone craving innovative comfort food in a laid-back setting.
4. The Good Salad – Santa Clara, CA
The Good Salad in Santa Clara redefines healthy eating with its fresh, customizable salads, earning a #8 spot on Yelp’s 2025 national list. With additional locations in Los Altos and Palo Alto, this eatery serves up signature bowls like the Blazing Bird, loaded with spicy chicken and veggies, and the Cali Ceezer, a twist on the classic Caesar. Diners can build their own salads, choosing from house-made dressings and premium proteins, ensuring every bite is tailored to taste. The modern, clean space feels bright and welcoming, ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.
Known for its fast service and catering options, it’s a favorite among tech workers and families in the Bay Area. Reviews praise the vibrant ingredients and generous portions, making it a go-to for those seeking nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor. Its focus on quality and convenience positions it as a leader in Santa Clara’s dining scene, perfect for health-conscious foodies exploring California’s top restaurants.
3. Wally’s Cafe – Rocklin, CA
Wally’s Cafe in Rocklin is a Lebanese-Mediterranean gem that feels like a home-cooked meal with a side of hospitality. Ranked #6 on Yelp’s 2025 national list, this family-owned spot serves up dishes like juicy Chicken Shawarma, crispy Falafel, and tender lamb kabobs. The complimentary lentil soup and baklava dessert add a warm touch, while the veggie platter and creamy hummus keep vegetarians smiling. The cozy, inviting space, run by Walid Matar and his son Roni, buzzes with a family-like vibe, making every diner feel welcome.
Reviews rave about the fresh ingredients and bold flavors, with the homemade baklava ice cream earning special praise. Previously featured on Yelp’s top lists, this Rocklin favorite draws crowds from Sacramento and beyond for its authentic cuisine and heartfelt service. Its affordable prices and diverse menu make it a standout for those seeking Mediterranean flavors in California, perfect for a casual lunch or a group dinner filled with shared plates.
2. Phonomenal – National City, CA
Phonomenal in National City is a family-owned treasure that puts a Cambodian spin on Vietnamese Pho, landing at #4 on Yelp’s 2025 national list. The star is the Beef Bone Spare Ribs Pho, featuring tender ribs and meatballs in a slightly sweet, 40-year-old family recipe broth. Spring rolls round out the simple menu, served in a warm, inviting space that feels like a hidden gem. The attentive service and limited daily batches mean it often sells out, so arriving early is key.
Located near San Diego, it draws foodies seeking unique noodle soups and authentic Southeast Asian flavors. Reviews highlight the rich, comforting broth and the staff’s genuine care, making every visit memorable. Its affordability and cultural depth make it a standout in California’s dining scene, appealing to those craving a soul-warming meal. For Pho lovers or anyone exploring National City’s food spots, Phonomenal is a must-try that delivers big on taste and heart.
1. Holbox – Los Angeles, CA
Holbox, nestled in Los Angeles’ Mercado La Paloma, is the crown jewel of California’s 2025 dining scene, claiming #1 on Yelp’s national list. This Michelin-starred Mexican seafood counter, led by chef Gilberto Cetina, serves up vibrant dishes like aguachiles, ceviches, and grilled lobster, all on house-made heirloom corn tortillas. The Taco de Pulpo en su Tinta, featuring Yucatán octopus, and Sea Urchin and Scallop Ceviche are showstoppers, showcasing fresh, local seafood.
The casual, order-at-the-counter setup buzzes with energy, drawing long lines of diners eager for bold coastal flavors. With over 1,000 five-star reviews, it’s praised for its electrifying dishes and warm service, earning accolades like the LA Times’ 2023 Restaurant of the Year and a 2025 James Beard nomination. Its focus on sustainability, using fish parts for spreads, adds depth to its appeal. Perfect for foodies seeking Los Angeles dining at its finest, Holbox delivers an unforgettable taste of Mexico’s coast in a lively, accessible setting.
