There are several telltale ways you can figure out if a restaurant is good without having to check reviews. First, if there is a crowd, and second, if that restaurant has been open for a long time. Restaurants can be a tough business– even some fantastic ones don’t make it. So if a restaurant has been around for a long time, you know they are doing multiple things right. We’ve covered the oldest restaurants in Northern California, but there are plenty of other restaurants that have been around for some time. These restaurants have been around for at least two decades, often more. Locals love these gems, and you just might, too! These old restaurants in Northern California are worth a visit!

1. Rudy’s Hideaway– Rancho Cordova
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This lobster house and bistro serves all of your surf-n-turf favorites.
A longtime hidden gem, Rudy’s Hideaway is absolutely loved by locals. Opened in 1972, Rudy’s has a comfortable and old-school elegance that makes dining there feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Rudy's Hideaway Lobsterhouse, 12303 Folsom Blvd, Rancho Cordova, CA 95742, USA
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They also have a small patio that’s open when the weather is pleasant. Rudy’s Hideaway is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday through Friday, and dinner only Saturday through Monday.
2. Hop Sing Palace– Folsom
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Located in the charming area of historic Folsom, Hop Sing Palace is Folsom’s go-to place for Chinese food with ambiance.
Hop Sing Palace, 805 Sutter St, Folsom, CA 95630, USA
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Opened in 1957, the restaurant is located inside a historic building on Sutter Street. Hop Sing Palace is the oldest restaurant in Folsom. Due to its great food and service, as well as its location, this is a great restaurant to visit for a special occasion meal. They are open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
3. Pancake Circus– Sacramento
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This circus-themed diner serves a wide variety of traditional breakfast food, plus burgers and sandwiches.
Opened in 1961, this diner is a weekend hot spot for families with kiddos.
Pancake Circus, 2101 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95818, USA
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Seniors also love Pancake Circus for their friendly service and great senior specials. Pancake Circus is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
4. 5th Street Steakhouse– Chico
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Located in downtown Chico, this fine dining restaurant serves USDA prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood. They also have a full bar (with excellent cocktails!), and a large wine list.
5th Street Steakhouse, 345 W 5th St, Chico, CA 95928, USA
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Opened in August 2000, 5th Street Steakhouse has continued to provide Chico locals and visitors with high-quality food and service. 5th Street Steakhouse is open every day for dinner.
5. Dude’s Drive Inn– Redding
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This old-fashioned drive-in restaurant has been around since 1965.

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Dude’s Drive Inn serves American classics, like burgers, hot dogs, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Dude's Drive Inn, 1644 Hartnell Ave, Redding, CA 96002, USA
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For dessert, try a fruit-flavored slushy, a shake, freeze, float or ice cream cone. You must try this place the next time you’re passing by Redding, or if you’re in the area. Dude’s Drive Inn is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
6. Fisherman’s Restaurant– Crescent City
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Fisherman’s Restaurant has been serving some of your favorite meals to Crescent City since 1997.
With friendly service, good food, and generous portions, this spot is a favorite with locals.
Fisherman's Restaurant, 700 US-101, Crescent City, CA 95531, USA
Google Images/Fisherman's Restaurant
Their famous fish and chips meal is served all day. Another popular menu item is their eggs Benedict. Make sure to save room for dessert– they always have several homemade pies. Fisherman’s Restaurant is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
7. Eureka Stars Hamburgers– Eureka
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This humble burger joint was opened nearly 30 years ago.
They serve all sorts of burgers, salads, sandwiches, as well as fish and chips. To satisfy a sweet tooth, try one of their shakes or malts.
Eureka Stars Hamburgers, 2009 Harrison Ave, Eureka, CA 95501, USA
Google Images/Eureka Stars Hamburgers
The owners of Eureka Stars Hamburgers say, “We are not a fast food place. We serve fresh food fast.” They are open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
8. Teske’s Germania– San Jose
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Opened in 1980, this restaurant serves authentic German food.
Come here for schnitzel, spaetzle, goulash, and much more! In addition to the excellent food, the restaurant hosts a live jazz band every Friday night during the summer months. They also host a super-fun Oktoberfest!
Teske's Germania, 255 N First St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA
Google Images/Teske's Germania
Teske’s Germania is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Sunday and Monday.
9. Nepenthe– Big Sur
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This coastal restaurant overlooking the ocean draws in people from miles away.
Opened in 1949, Nepenthe serves up great food and drinks, but nothing beats the incredible views. Located off of CA-1 and 800 feet above the shoreline, Nepenthe is a place you won’t ever forget.
Nepenthe, 48510 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA
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Tables are given on a first-come, first-served basis, and they do not take reservations. Spend your wait enjoying the views with a drink in hand, and visit the shop on the same property. They are open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nepenthe is truly a destination restaurant.

 

What restaurants in your neck of the woods have been around for at least a couple of decades?

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