We all have our favorite restaurants in Southern California that we know and love. But we can also admit it's pretty easy to get into a rut and go to the same place each and every time.
If you have a case of restaurant boredom and you're looking for some new spots to add to your list, you're going to love these hidden gems that are off the beaten path AND serve amazing food. Try something new for a change and go ahead and shake things up. You just might find your new favorite restaurant in the process.
This beautiful hidden garden restaurant in Riverside that has been around for nearly 50 years is a true SoCal gem, but first you have to find it! Located in an old house with a magical garden setting out back, you'll be treated to a charming escape. Simple lunch fare is what you'll find on the menu with lots of tasty sandwiches. Open weekdays only, so plan your lunch date accordingly.
You'd never guess the most amazing food was hiding inside this unassuming hole-in-the-wall in the Harvard Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles. Step inside to a packed restaurant and you'll see this spot isn't exactly hidden as clearly people know about it; but it sure is a great insider's secret. The charming chef/owner pictured here creates the most flavorful and beautiful Ethiopian cuisine that will delight your palate.
3. 26th Kitchen and Carry -- San Diego/Golden Hill
Of all the spots on this list, this one may be the most unexpected of all. Tucked inside a grungy looking market in the Golden Hill neighborhood of San Diego, you'll find the most delicious artisan sandwich shop you can imagine. You could pass by this place a thousand times and never know what an amazing find was hiding inside. The menu changes daily as they whip up seasonal specialties and serve house smoked meats cooked onsite. It's a splendid spot that will not disappoint.
Finding this place is part of the magic of this enchanting restaurant. You won't find any signage to direct you to The Little Door, but you will find two tall wooden doors upon arrival which will be your clue that you have arrived. Once you head inside you will be treated to a candlelit outdoor oasis that is pure heaven. The ambiance isn't the only thing to delight you here; the elegant menu filled with creative Mediterranean cuisine is equally delicious.
If you blink you might miss this tasty taco shop in Silver Lake in Los Angeles. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but don't let that fool you. The food is unbelievably flavorful and the portions are huge. If you're in the market for a killer breakfast burrito, rumor has it that this spot offers the best in the city.
Since 1946 this lovely Solana Beach restaurant has been adding a touch of charm to the area. Run by the Gonzales family for several generations, this is a true family-owned restaurant with recipes that have been in the family for years. This is an easy spot to miss if you don't know about it, so make sure to look for Tony's Jacal the next time you're in Solana Beach.
Along a deserted stretch of Vine Street in Hollywood, Los Balcones is an unexpected surprise. A Peruvian restaurant bursting with personality and flavor is what you'll find inside. Mouthwatering dishes with fresh and seasonal ingredients and an explosion of spices will make this meal unforgettable. The interior is vibrant and inviting and equally as memorable as the food.
Gourmet Mac 'n Cheese and fresh pressed homemade lemonade are two of the specialties you must order at Patty Mac. Although this spot isn't exactly hidden, it's a half block from the ferry in Newport Beach and it can be easy for locals to miss unless they're out playing tourist for a day.
advertisement
So what do you think? These spots look pretty delicious, huh? I can't wait for you to try all of them and report back as I know you will love each and every one of them. Any other tasty but hard to find restaurants you think should be added to the list?
One thing I love about Southern California (yes, I know I’m biased) is how many unique destinations exist right here in the state - that are easy to drive or even take the train to. You don’t have to go very far to enjoy a refreshing break from the norm. I was recently invited to enjoy a little staycation at The Pearl hotel and its brand new restaurant, Ponyboy, in San Diego. I already love this cool coastal city, but this place was an incredibly pleasant surprise and the perfect quick getaway.
advertisement
Per journalistic integrity, we disclose that the writer of this piece was invited on this trip by Modern Currency PR, with expenses covered. However, all opinions and thoughts expressed in this piece are their own.
Let’s start with The Pearl itself. I can honestly say that if you’re trying to figure out where to stay in San Diego, this small 23-room hotel is a great choice. The retro style takes you back to the 1960s and offers a chic, Palm Springs kind of vibe. We arrived to a warm and friendly reception and were assigned a corner room upstairs.
I had looked at the website, of course, and read reviews, many of which said the rooms were small but very comfortable. Even so, I was surprised - in a good way. The rooms are not huge but are far from cramped. I think Goldilocks would call them just right.
I absolutely loved the balance between simplicity and luxury, vintage and modern, starting with the wood floors (with bedside rugs so your first morning steps are warm), furnishings, and accents - and, by far, one of the best hotel beds I've slept in. I was very impressed by the thoughtful touches, inviting decor, and careful attention to detail. I felt instantly comfortable and relaxed: just how a hotel room should make you feel (in my humble opinion).
Everything felt purposeful - quality toiletries in pretty, eco-friendly glass bottles, steamers instead of irons and ironing boards, cotton robes, hand-made pottery-style drinking tumblers, and a live plant on the desk. Oh, and I don’t know about you, but I never use the drawers in those bedside tables, and often there aren't plugs on both sides of the bed. So, I found it very cool that The Pearl turned them into flip-down docking stations, each with outlets and USB ports - so clever and convenient!
After checking in, with a bit of time before dinner, we set off to walk around the neighborhood. Point Loma is a vibrant waterfront community with boutique hotels, local businesses, independent cafes and restaurants, and more. We ended up strolling along the waterfront where there is a boat-filled marina, fishing shops, and a great local brewery.
Courtesy of Kimberly Motos/PonyBoy
Back at the hotel, we dined at the best new restaurant in San Diego, Ponyboy, named after the young protagonist in the famous book The Outsiders. Ponyboy is a small-but-elegant cocktail bar and poolside restaurant that is far more than it appears.
If there were only one thing I could say to get you to try it, it would be that the Jidori Kiev Chicken will make it hard to stop when you’re full. Golden and crispy on the outside, paired with the creamiest, most delicious Robuchon potatoes, and rich truffle butter (they literally had me at “truffle butter” before I even tasted it). Absolutely game-changing.
I actually started with the Waldorf Salad. It’s not usually my go-to, to be honest, but dining outdoors by the pool on a perfectly warm afternoon, it just sounded good - and it was yummy, not to mention almost too pretty to eat. In fact, the presentation of everything was just stunning.
advertisement
The fun specialty cocktail menu is full of innovative takes on familiar classics, several of which were very appealing, but in the end, I opted for the Summer Vodka Collins. No regrets whatsoever. I also heard that the Pink Squirrel and Banana Daiquiri were really good.
After a blissful night’s sleep, we enjoyed breakfast at the poolside bar (included with everyone’s stay.) I would call it a healthy *continental plus* spread with bagels and cream cheese, yogurt, granola, berries, fruit, and a few other goodies, along with fresh coffee, loose-leaf teas, and various juices. I decided to order an oat milk cappuccino (yep, they have espresso drinks, too!) and it was lovely.
After checking out, we left our bags at the front desk and did a bit more exploring before heading home. There is a lot to see in this part of San Diego, which sits on a high peninsula and is home to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, Cabrillo National Monument, renowned tide pools, and incredible views of Coronado Island. It is also close to SeaWorld, Old Town, and more.
Ready to plan a perfect little coastal getaway? Check out the Ponyboy website for more information, menus, and more; then make your reservation at The Pearl. Have you had the chance to stay here or dine at Ponyboy? If so, we would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Northern California has so many wonderful things to offer, including pristine beaches and a rugged coastline, beautiful lakes, wine country, spectacular National Parks, charming small towns, and bustling cities. Whatever you have in mind for your next getaway, we have found the best resorts and best hotels in Northern California. From unique and intimate boutique stays to incredible pools to world-class luxury accommodations, these highly-rated properties will take your vacation to a whole new level.
advertisement
Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Northern California
Looking for something a little out of the ordinary, a place to stay that doesn’t feel like any place you have been before? We have just what you need. Among the nicest hotels in Northern California are these properties, highly rated not only for the level of comfort and service they provide but for the details that set them apart from the crowd and provide a truly unique experience.
The Rose Hotel offers a unique combination of luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and the charm of a country bed and breakfast. The elegant rooms and suites are individually decorated and feature custom robes and slippers, jetted tubs, organic bath products, scented candles, and a fresh rose on a wall sconce. The lobby exudes hospitality with a crackling fireplace, fresh flowers, and coffee, tea, and refreshments available around the clock. The hotel’s downtown location means upscale shops, cafes, salons, and more are within walking distance. The Rose Hotel also offers special packages to make your stay even more unforgettable.
Address: 3287 Mount Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, CA 94549
Price: $249/Night
Amenities: Pool, Sauna, Spa Service, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Fitness Center
Ratings: 9.2/10 Wonderful
advertisement
Located near the center of the San Francisco Bay Area, the incredible Lafayette Park Hotel and Spa is a romantic escape that is anything but cookie-cutter. In fact, it feels more like a chateau in the French countryside than a California hotel. Guests are immersed in European charm and luxury with beautiful courtyards, rolling green hills, and grand oak trees. Unwind by the pristine pool, take a relaxing walk, or schedule a deep-tissue massage and feel any tension melt away. One of the best restaurants in the area, The Park Bistro and Bar, offers European-inspired farm-to-table cuisine, an outdoor terrace, Wine and Beer Maker Dinners, and room service. Lafayette Park is one of the best-rated hotels in Northern California, and it offers endless options to create your ideal vacation.
It may be hard to find a more unique stay than Seven Gables Inn on Monterey Bay. The historic inn was originally built in 1886 and encompasses seven Victorian-style houses on the waterfront in Monterey. The rooms are light, airy, and elegantly appointed, with some rooms offering fireplaces, sofas, and spectacular ocean views. This property is ideally located for enjoying all that Monterey has to offer, including the famous Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, the beautiful 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea. Up for a little more adventure? Within an hour’s drive along the coast, you can explore Big Sur and the coastal redwoods of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Best Hotel Pools in Northern California
There are many beautiful hotels in Northern California, but for some travelers, the perfect vacation means a truly amazing or unique pool. These hotels are each remarkable for several reasons but are especially notable for their epic pools.
Amenities: Outdoor Pools, Hot Tubs, Poolside Bar, Spa, 24-hour Fitness Center, Wine Tasting, Restaurants
Ratings: 9.0/10 Wonderful
Who says you can’t have it all? Carneros Resort and Spa is a luxurious retreat in Sonoma County with not one, but two outdoor pools with hot tubs - one for the whole family and one for adults only. Swim, float, or soak with expansive views of Napa Valley’s vineyard-covered rolling hills, or reserve a poolside cabana for the day. Between sessions at the pool, enjoy the tranquility of your own private cottage or residence. Cottages and homes feature premium bedding, private porches, gardens, sun decks, and fire pits, as well as in-room wine dispensers. The on-site spa at Carneros Resort offers massages, body treatments, hydrotherapy, and a steam room. This is one of the most relaxing luxury resorts in Northern California.
Amenities: Pool, Yoga Classes, Wifi, Bicycles, Spa
Ratings: 4.5/5 Excellent
Calistoga and, in fact, this resort have long been sought out for the healing qualities of natural thermal waters. The main Olympic-sized mineral pool at Indian Springs Calistoga was built in 1913. A poolside fireplace and lounge, umbrellas, floats, and pool noodles are available for guests of any age to enjoy. The adults-only pool is smaller and more intimate, a quiet retreat with beautiful landscaping and night lighting. The pools are open until midnight so guests can enjoy a long soak under the stars. The pools are kept at a temperature ranging from 92 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the season, and are fed by natural underground springs that surface through four thermal geysers on the property. In addition to the swimming pools, guests can lounge around the tropical Buddha Pond.Of course, Indian Springs Calistoga has far more to offer than incredible mineral pools. Accommodations, which include bungalows, historic cottages, houses, and The Lodge with its adult-only rooms are situated throughout the 17-acre property and each offers a unique vibe and view. The full-service spa offers facial and body treatments as well as mud rooms, infrared saunas, and a Himalayan Salt Room, all of which add to the healing benefits of the pools.
Best Luxury Hotels in Northern California
If what you are looking for is not simply one of the best hotels in Northern California, but an unmatched level of luxury, these hotels provide an atmosphere, experience, and service unparalleled by other properties.
Address: 180 Rutherford Hill Rd, Rutherford, CA 94573
Price: $1,575/Night
Amenities: Pool, Poolside Bar, Restaurants, Spa, 24-Hour Health Club
Ratings: 9.6/10 Exceptional
advertisement
Inspired by the South of France, Auberge du Soleil envelopes guests in luxury, tucked within a large olive grove in Napa Valley, reminiscent of the Mediterranean landscape of Tuscany. Everything about this resort is designed for relaxation in an atmosphere of elevated sophistication and elegance. Exceptionally comfortable rooms offer amenities like indoor or outdoor deep soaking tubs, fireplaces, private garden areas, outdoor showers, stunning views, turndown service, and Champagne service. Two heated pools are surrounded by lush greenery, comfortable lounges and cabanas, and a wooden boardwalk-style pool deck. The high-end spa offers facials, body treatments, Thai massages, and hydrotherapy together with stunning views. The luxury of Auberge du Soleil is an unforgettable experience.
Address: 9215 48688 Victoria Ln, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Price: $695/Night
Amenities: Seasonal Pool, Communal Living Room, Spa, Restaurant/Bar, Wifi
Ratings: 10/10 Exceptional
advertisement
Chateau du Sureau is a 5-star luxury hotel that provides outstanding service and a romantic, fairytale-like ambiance. Four-poster beds with down comforters, fireplaces, high ceilings, jacuzzi tubs, and luxurious furnishings in individually decorated and furnished rooms whisk guests away to another world. Erna’s Elderberry House, with its intimate dining room and candelabra-style chandeliers, serves classic French cuisine for brunch and dinner. Indulge your senses in the spa with aromatherapy, hot stone massages, and body treatments. Stay close and relax in the onsite pool and gardens, or step out to enjoy a day at nearby Yosemite National Park, Fresno Flats Historical Park, or Bass Lake Recreation Area. This hotel is pet-friendly so even your fur-babies can enjoy a vacation at one of the best luxury hotels in Northern California.
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California
While larger chain hotels can certainly provide consistency and a wonderful vacation experience, perhaps you prefer a smaller, one-of-a-kind hotel. If so, these hotels definitely belong on the list of the top hotels in Northern California, as they offer exceptional service and excellence in a more intimate, unique setting.
Eden Vale Inn is a luxurious seven-room bed and breakfast retreat with amazing amenities including private outdoor soaking tubs, in-room fireplaces, and special packages such as champagne and spa tub essentials to accompany your private tub. Each day starts with a complimentary, seasonal breakfast that celebrates locally-sourced ingredients. At Eden Vale Inn, priority is given to elegant details and guest accommodation, including catering to individual dietary and scheduling needs. Eden Vale is also the perfect venue for an intimate wedding with a gorgeous pavilion and an experienced on-site staff that can make your day everything you want it to be.
The Inn Above Tide in the charming fairytale-like town of Sausalito is an intimate waterfront retreat with stunning views of San Francisco. Every luxurious room or suite at The Inn Above Tide has a furnished deck with panoramic views of the bay, including the city skyline, Alcatraz, and Marin. In-room fireplaces, complimentary breakfast served in the Drawing Room or delivered to guests’ rooms, and a nightly wine and cheese reception add to the quiet luxury of the inn. The shops, restaurants, and galleries of the Sausalito village are practically next door, and the scenic wine country areas of Napa and Sonoma are just a short drive away.
Best Beach Resorts in Northern California
Northern California is known for its dramatic coastline and stunning, rugged beaches. Each of these extraordinary resort properties provides an unforgettable beach vacation and allows you to enjoy the California coast like never before.
The Inn at Spanish Bay is all about relaxation, surrounded by a Scottish-style golf course, pine forests, and the beautiful California coastline. Every room at the resort features stylish furnishings and a private fireplace, and most have private balconies or patios with a view of the Inn’s pristine surroundings. Explore a variety of award-winning dining options from Hawaiian-fusion to Italian cuisine, or visit the upscale yet cozy Stave Wine Cellar to enjoy local wines, craft beers, small bites, and charcuterie. Become a member of The Spanish Bay Club and gain access to even more amenities, such as the tennis pavilion, fitness center, 25-yard heated pool, whirlpool spa, and private events. Play a round of golf, take a walk at Pebble Beach, shop at the onsite retail arcade, or sit by one of the fire pits and listen as the Inn’s famous bagpiper play as the sun goes down.
Address: 1 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Price: $869/Night
Amenities: Spa, Golf, Tennis, Fire Pits, Fitness Center, Restaurants, Business Center
Ratings: 9.0/10 Superb
advertisement
Situated on a scenic bluff along the Pacific coast, roughly centered between San Jose and San Francisco, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is one of the most stunning beachfront resorts in Northern California. This 5-star luxury resort marries a grand presence with outstanding service and meticulous attention to detail. Everything from the championship golf courses to the Ocean Lawn fire pits to The Conservatory and Navio restaurants - even the 24-hour fitness center - overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Local wines are served at the Club lounge. Rejuvenating spa treatments that follow the changing seasons are designed to relax and nurture. Guest rooms and suites feature luxury bedding, deep soaking tubs, and views ranging from the ocean to the mountains to the golf course. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is truly "Luxury without limits." Needless to say, it's among the best resorts in Northern California.
Address: 4104 Lakeshore Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Price: $349
Amenities: Pool, Hot Tub, Spa Services, On-Site Dining, Beach Towels, Wifi
Ratings: 9.0/10 Superb
Not every one of California’s beaches is on the ocean. The Landing Resort and Spa is a spectacular beachfront vacation of a different kind, situated on the southern shore of the sparkling blue Lake Tahoe. The resort offers a different, but equally wonderful, experience with each season. The resort specializes in a secluded, laid-back atmosphere with an attentive, friendly staff and fabulous amenities. Lakefront rooms and suites are diverse, featuring chic and lavish furnishings, and appointed with luxurious amenities such as stone fireplaces, heated toilet seats, pillow-top beds, and plush terry robes. Jimmy’s Restaurant serves wood-fired dishes freshly prepared with locally sourced ingredients and offers cozy private dining spaces, a spacious patio, and an onyx bar in Jimmy’s Lounge. It is a short walk to the renowned Heavenly Village where guests find a massive array of activities.
A stay at any of these highly-rated properties is unforgettable. Have you ever stayed in one of the best hotels in Northern California? Do you have a favorite luxury hotel in the state? We would love to hear about your experiences in the comments. Need a little more inspiration? Check out these 12 magnificent escapes in Northern California.
