Northern California is full of great eats and some of them can be found in the most unexpected places. Take for instance this truck stop found along Interstate 5. It may look like just a place to stop and gas up but it’s actually one of the best little diners that Northern California has to offer. Let’s put it this way: this truck stop gives the term “road food” an entirely new definition. For a fantastic meal in a charming small town, stop by this truck stop diner. You’ll be delightfully surprised!
Lakehead is a teeny-tiny town of just 461 people in Shasta County. It may not seem like there's a lot to see in this humble community, but you'd be surprised to know that it's home to one of the state's finest truck stop diners.
Located right along Interstate 5, Pollard Flat USA is a beloved hidden gem. This truck stop is the type that locals frequent and truckers look forward to stopping at. It's not just a place to gas up or grab a quick bite. It's a little slice of comfort.
Upon walking through the diner's doors, you'll be welcomed by the sight of a rustic dining room that's covered in quirky antiques. It's the type of place that is instantly charming. This place may be small, but it's full of character.
Pollard Flats was originally founded in 1922 by a man named Jesse Getchell. Getchell purchased a small parcel of land and built a gas pump and restroom for travelers who were driving on what was then known as California Highway 99.
Over the years, Pollard Flat has seen only a few changes. There is now a convenience store and diner, but other than that, this truck stop has stayed roughly the same. For decades, this quaint eatery has been dishing up home-cooked favorites that are bound to call back memories of Grandma's cooking.
On a typical day at the truck stop, you'll see the dining room filled with customers enjoying signature items like their split pea soup. Their breakfast dishes are also a hit, and you can never go wrong with a plate of eggs and hashbrowns.
From the license plates lining the walls to the water served out of Mason jars, it seems like you see a new restaurant popping up every day that tries to replicate this simple down-home style. However, there's one big difference when it comes to them and Pollard Flat. Pollard Flat is the real thing.
