Think you’ve experienced it all? We bet there are some worthwhile hidden restaurants in Northern California you’ve yet to visit. These hidden gems are a bit out-of-the-way for most people living in bigger cities, but we promise, they are well worth the drive.
1. Five Marys Burgerhouse– Fort Jones
Five Marys Burgerhouse, 11825 Main St, Fort Jones, CA 96032, USA
Locals love this country burger restaurant, but you might never know about it unless you happen to drive on the small State Route 3 through Siskiyou County. It is called Five Marys after the owner’s five daughters all named Mary. The family who owns this restaurant also owns and operates a nearby ranch. Next to the restaurant, you can buy various cuts of quality meats from their ranch, or have them shipped to you.
Five Marys Burgerhouse, 11825 Main St, Fort Jones, CA 96032, USA
Five Marys Burgerhouse has the most mouthwatering burger creations. Try the Cowboy Blues Burger with Bleu and Cheddar cheeses, bacon, onion straws, BBQ sauce, and mayo. They also have soups, salads, steaks, entrees, and a good kids' menu.
The old buildings in the town of Fort Jones are so well preserved, the town itself is a California Historical Landmark. Consider taking a trip to this lesser-known part of Northern California. You’ll also want to visit
the distillery in the town of Etna just 15 minutes south of Fort Jones.
2. Woody’s– Cedarville
Woody's, 415 Main St, Cedarville, CA 96104, USA
Woody’s– Cedarville
Woody’s is a favorite restaurant and saloon in the small town of Cedarville. They serve top-notch barbecue and flame-grilled burgers. Play a game of pool and enjoy one of the many beers they offer.
Woody's, 415 Main St, Cedarville, CA 96104, USA
Northeastern California almost feels like another state. This serene area is home to small towns and expansive views of high desert, mountains, and lakes. About an hour from Modoc National Forest, Cedarville is not likely a town you’ll randomly drive through. Plan a weekend to Cedarville to try Woody’s at stay at the
Surprise Valley Hot Springs .
3. Trailhead Pizza– Coffee Creek
Let’s be honest, when you’re in a rural area and options are limited, you don’t expect to find the best food. Which makes this hidden pizza place in the area of Coffee Creek such a pleasant surprise. Trailhead Pizza has a variety of pizzas, all made in a wood-fired oven.
This is such a special treat but especially after a long hike on one of the area’s beautiful, green trails. Coffee Creek is a census-designated place in Trinity County where you’ll find a fire station, a campground, a market, and not much else. Enjoy a crispy, cheesy pizza and a cold beer while sitting on their back patio, nestled below towering trees. This place is really such a gem!
4. The Divide Restaurant– Georgetown
The Divide Restaurant, 6037 Front St, Georgetown, CA 95634, USA
You know those places where it’s difficult to order because everything sounds good? The Divide Restaurant is one of those places. And when the meals arrive, they don’t disappoint.
The Divide Restaurant, 6037 Front St, Georgetown, CA 95634, USA
From the appetizers to entrees to the desserts, this restaurant makes some flavorful food!
Located in the quiet Gold Rush town of Georgetown, this hidden gem won’t stay hidden for long!
5. The Old Mill Grill– Bieber
The Old Mill Grill, 499 Lassen State Hwy #201, Bieber, CA 96009, USA
This roadside restaurant serves generous portions at fair prices. They frequently have dinner specials and steak on Saturdays.
The Old Mill Grill, 499 Lassen State Hwy #201, Bieber, CA 96009, USA
If you’re a passerby, you can’t go wrong with their burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
The Old Mill Grill changes their menu often to make use of local and seasonal food.
6. The Company Kitchen– Philo
The Company Kitchen, 8651 CA-128, Philo, CA 95466, USA
The Company Kitchen is located in the downtown area of Philo. They serve all types of Mexican food, plus burgers and French fries.
Try a plate of street tacos, or share some nachos. For larger appetites, try entrees such as Baja-style carnitas served with rice and beans, or the jalapeno burger with garlic aioli.
The Company Kitchen, 8651 CA-128, Philo, CA 95466, USA
Mix things up on your trip to wine country with one of the many beers they have on draft or bottled.
Located in Anderson Valley, the census-designated area of Philo is pretty tiny. There are numerous country wineries in the area, including some well-known vintners such as Roederer and Navarro.
7. Farmhaus– Granite Bay
Farmhaus, 8230 Auburn Folsom Rd, Granite Bay, CA 95746, USA
This restaurant serves creative bistro food, with fresh ingredients. The menu changes, but they’re known for dishes such as rack of lamb and a variety of fresh salads.
Farmhaus, 8230 Auburn Folsom Rd, Granite Bay, CA 95746, USA
Farmhaus offers an extensive wine list, plus cheese boards and small plates. It is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday through Saturday, plus Saturday brunch. Reservations are recommended.
When the weekend rolls around, it’s easy to forget just how many regions there are to explore in Northern California. Sure, we have wine country, lake county, the Central Valley, and the Lake Tahoe area, but there is so much more than most people realize. The hidden gems in California are almost endless– from less visited state parks to all sorts of natural wonders and even restaurants.
What do you think of these hidden gem restaurants? Are there any lesser-known places in your area you want to boast about here? Tell us in the comments.
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