There are some places in Northern California that you find yourself driving by, and you simply can’t help but stop at them. This weird restaurant is definitely one of them. From the road, this little eatery definitely seems like a strange place to eat. Shaped like a giant orange, it’s certainly hard to miss. However, it turns out this place is also an awesome place to dine. Boasting delicious Mexican-inspired eats (along with some classic American cuisine), you may just find yourself going out of your way to eat here again and again!
Hiding in plain sight in the town of Shasta Lake is Joe's Giant Orange Cafe. Boasting a giant orange right out front, this place is definitely hard to miss! Not only does this place look fantastically quirky on the outside, but it's also an amazing dining experience you won't be forgetting anytime soon.
Believe it or not, there's actually a fascinating history behind Joe's gigantic orange. California's highways were full of them dating all the way back to the 1930s. Operating as juice stands, they were popular stops for travelers driving along the freeways in cars that lacked air conditioning.
There are still a handful of these giant oranges left. The one at Joe's was built in 1946 and originally resided in Redding along Highway 99. Today, it makes for an iconic fixture at one of Shasta Lake's most beloved eateries.
Joe's Giant Orange Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The interior is charming and quaint, but it's the food that makes a visit to Joe's so memorable.
The menu contains a variety of types of dishes, ranging from classic breakfast food to tasty Mexican dishes—and even a blend of both. Dishes like the Portuguese Scramble, Carne Asada and Eggs, and Chile Verde are a great way to start your day with some robust flavors.
However, you can't go wrong with Joe's most iconic dish: Broasted Chicken. This hearty meal comes with four golden pieces of broasted chickens served with Texas garlic bread and your choice of side.
You'll also find a large selection of sandwiches, salads, and burgers listed on the menu as well. Dishes like the Philly Steak, French Dip, and Steak Fajita Sandwich are bound to hit the spot after a long day on the road!
Joe's Giant Orange Cafe is definitely a pleasant surprise when you find yourself in Shasta Lake, so be sure not to pass by this hidden gem without stopping for some seriously delicious grub. It's easy to spot—just keep an eye out for the giant orange!
Joe's Giant Orange Restaurant is open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Address: 3104 Cascade Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019
Have you dined at this weird restaurant in Shasta Lake? It’s definitely a memorable place to eat, that’s for sure! For more unforgettable dining experiences, check out this list of 9 Unique Restaurants In Northern California.
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