Southern California is known for its epic restaurant scene and these eight eateries in SoCal's smallest towns are no exception. From gourmet Italian fare to a casual pizza pie and everything in between, these eight restaurants in small-town SoCal are worth the drive.

1. Nano Cafe

Located in the charming small town of Sierra Madre, you'll find a divine restaurant with quite a following. From fresh seafood to inventive pasta dishes and everything in between, Nano Cafe is a local gem tucked inside one of SoCal's most delightful towns. Address: 322 W Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre, CA 91024.

2. Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse

Sometimes you just need a mouthwatering steak in a classic setting with a small-town vibe. And that's exactly what you'll find at Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse. Thick-cut steaks along with all of your favorite sides are always a hit at this rustic restaurant in the town of Trabuco Canyon. Address: 20782 Trabuco Oaks Dr, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679.

3. El Mexicano

Most people head to the small town of Forest Falls to catch a glimpse of the Big Falls waterfall. But for those who let their appetite lead the way, they know the main event in Forest Falls is getting a bite to eat at El Mexicano. Traditional Mexican fare in a rustic setting makes this one small town restaurant a great spot for a memorable meal. Address: 40977 Valley of the Falls Dr, Forest Falls, CA 92339.

4. Belgian Waffle Works

The small town of Lake Arrowhead is packed with delicious restaurants, but this one waffle house has us looking forward to our favorite meal of the day -- breakfast! Belgian Waffle Works delivers perfect waffles and all of your favorite breakfast dishes every time. Waffles that are delicious plain or loaded with your favorite toppings, this breakfast spot consistently serves up an amazing meal. Address: 28200 CA-189 Suite E-150, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352.

5. Romano's Restaurant

Located in the town of Julian, Romano's Restaurant is the kind of place you'll return to again and again for the ambiance and the food. From pasta dishes piled high on the plate to hearty suppers with fish, chicken or beef, this old-school Italian restaurant in SoCal is worth the drive. Address: 2718 B St, Julian, CA 92036.

6. Cafe Aroma

A trip to the town of Idyllwild isn't complete until you make a stop at Cafe Aroma for a plate of heavenly food made with local ingredients. Set inside a cozy rustic setting that feels just like a log cabin, this charming eatery serves everything from pasta to steak and even lamb shank. Address: 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA.

7. LouEddie's Pizza

Towns don't get much smaller than Skyforest, CA. And although the great outdoors is what often brings people here in the first place, just one taste of the pizza pies at this local pizzeria and you'll be drooling from the moment you arrive to LouEddie's. Address: 28561 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385.

8. Hawk's Head

A divine meal in a colonial setting is what you can expect when you dine at Hawk's Head Public House. From servers dressed in colonial uniforms to classic meals such as chicken pot pie served piping hot from the oven, this unique and memorable restaurant will bring a smile to your face. Address: 12261 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399.

What do you think of these restaurants in SoCal? Any favorites on this list? If you'd like more dining adventures in Southern California, make sure you check out these 10 restaurants in SoCal that should be on everyone's dining bucket list.