The 8 Best Little Food Towns In Southern California You Need To Explore Before They Get Too Popular

When most people think of Southern California’s foodie culture, it’s often the big cities that come to mind. But anyone who knows and loves SoCal is well aware that some of the best food can be found in the smaller towns across this section of the state. Here’s a look at where you can find some tasty eats that are worth the drive. But you’ll want to hurry up and check out these towns for yourself before they get even more popular than they already are.

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The small town of Skyforest has recently grown more popular since the opening of Skypark Santa's Village, but this little slice of paradise in SoCal is still a big secret when it comes to food lovers. Sink your teeth into the best pizza on the planet at Lou Eddie's Pizza or order up all of your favorite Mexican dishes at Rosalva's Skyforest for a feast to remember.

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Perfect for a long weekend away, the town of Julian checks every box when it comes to beautiful small towns in SoCal that have amazing restaurants to explore. Start your day with dessert first and have a slice of apple pie at Julian Pie Company. Carry on down Main Street and check out Julian's Cafe for a great plate of comfort food for lunch or Romano's Restaurant for a hearty serving of Italian food.

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Whether you're seeking out scrumptious Mexican food at Rose Canyon Cantina or a hearty steak from Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse you'll find that Trabuco Canyon, located in Southern Orange County, has some tasty destinations that will leave you feeling full and happy.

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Many people flock to Sierra Madre during the spring season when the wisteria is in full bloom, but we think you should also make a point to head here to check out the food scene. You'll want to try the heavenly Prime Rib at Nano Cafe or the mouthwatering French food at Monsieur Crêpe for a meal to remember. Plenty of other restaurants throughout this small town will make you want to return again and again.

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Head to Wrightwood for a day of exploring outside in nature then take some time to check out the food scene. From mouthwatering sandwich shops to down-home bakeries and plenty of Mom and Pop eateries that will satisfy all of your comfort food cravings, this one small town in SoCal truly has it all.

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The town of Crestline is a popular setting for those who love to explore the outdoors, but it's also home to some pretty yummy restaurants that serve up some incredible comfort food. From the authentic Mexican food at La Casita Crestline to the mouthwatering pizzas at Road House Pizza, this heavenly outdoorsy town is a great spot to grab a bite to eat.

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Idyllwild may be known as an artist's paradise, but it also has a lot in store for those who appreciate food. Take a stroll along the main street of Idyllwild and you'll never go hungry again. Start with a hearty breakfast at Red Kettle or head to Tommy's Kitchen for lunch. As dinner hour approaches, go ahead and splurge on an elegant meal at Gastrognome.

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Please note, Law's Oak Glen Coffee Shop has permanently closed.

Picture perfect for a day trip, the small town of Oak Glen is always a favorite on our list. Stop in for some old-time eats at one of the local gems inside Oak Tree Village or head over to Law's Oak Glen Coffee Shop for some all-American eats. As dinner hour approaches, you can choose from a variety of cuisine including a hearty steak at Oak Glen Steakhouse and Saloon.

Are there any other towns you would add to this list? If there’s a spot that comes to mind, please share in the comments as we’d love to know.

Looking for more foodie adventures in Southern California? Then make sure to check out this Taco Trail in Southern California that will drive your taste buds wild.