This Tiny Restaurant In Southern California Always Has A Line Out The Door, And There's A Reason Why
By Natasha Kayes|Published January 12, 2023
×
Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
We all love it when we find a true hidden gem, like a “hole-in-the-wall” restaurant that no one seems to know about but that serves unbelievable food. We excitedly tell our friends and family we found a place they have to try, and we can’t believe more people don’t go there. Of course, that kind of word of mouth is a two-edged sword. If enough people “discover” and share a place, it almost guarantees the restaurant’s success, but the downside is our no-longer-hidden gem now has a line out the door. One thing is for sure though – when people line up to eat the food, you know it has to be good. This tiny French restaurant in Southern California is absolutely worth the wait.
Petit Trois is a little French restaurant by Chef Ludo Lefebvre. Its humble exterior and location in a small strip mall barely hint at the amazingness that awaits you inside.
Once through the door, you are welcomed by simple European charm. The entire restaurant consists of these two rows of counter seating, as well as a few small tables outside. Limited seating is just one reason why there is nearly always a wait to get a seat.
Naturally, one of the most-loved and reviewed menu items is the French Onion Soup, made with veal broth and two kinds of delicious cheese melted over the top.
Try a classic French sandwich like the Croque Monsieur or Croque Madame with parisian ham and Gruyere. Or try the cheeky Big Mec, a double cheeseburger with special sauce. And no sandwich would be complete without Frites (French fries.)
European flair extends the restaurant's beverage offerings, from Pellegrino to cappuccino, as well as a host of signature cocktails like the Courant Violet and Fleur de Mal.
Even after creating some additional patio seating, the lines still form, and reservations are still a good idea. This little restaurant's popularity is pretty obvious when you see people dining outside even in the rain.
Locals cannot seem to get enough of this amazing little eatery, and they are happy to stand in line and wait their turn. Have you ever been to Petit Trois? What was your favorite dish? We would love to hear about your favorite little restaurants that always seem to have people lined up to get in. Check out this list of other tiny Southern California Restaurants with fantastic food.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.