SPECIAL CAFES
An RVer's Guide to Special Eateries on the Road
Our readers' recommendations...
Like most RVers, we enjoy an occasional meal out -- in our case, it's usually breakfast, and often after logging a few miles to sharpen up the taste buds. At this hour we're hardly in the market for formal place settings and fine china. But we're always on the lookout for what our good friend from Vermont calls "character places". Usually this is some combination of great food, interesting decor, reasonable prices, and a friendly atmosphere. And in most cases, it means a place we can easily park the RV somewhere near. We've had lots of readers tell us about special eateries they recommend, and we invite you to tell us about your favorite spot so we can add it here too!
Scroll down this page, or "jump" to geographical groupings:
Out West (AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, HI, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY )
Alaska:
Taku Wilderness Lodge. (Juneau) The absolute BEST dining experience in the world is at the Taku Wilderness Lodge. You have to fly to it. You take a floatplane from the docks right in front of the cruise ship terminal. Your trip starts out by "flightseeing" the glaciers on the way to the Taku River. You land on the river and tie up right at the lodge. You have a half hour to 45 minutes to explore the grounds of the old hunting lodge and are then treated to a multi-course meal centered around fresh salmon, barbecued over an alderwood fire. It is accompanied by fresh baked rolls and bread, the best baked beans I've ever tasted, cole slaw and much, much more. The lemonade and raspberry ice tea is cooled with ice cubes taken daily from the Taku Glacier. The dinner is to die for! You will NEVER experience such a treat in your life...ever! If you happen to be in the last group of diners, you could even meet "Old Scarface", a grizzly that comes in almost every day after the salmon has cooked and the grill has cooled down. He is then allowed to eat any scraps on or around the barbecue grill. If you ever get to Juneau, don't miss this. From: Jerry Barber
Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant (Anchorage) Great atmosphere and great food. From Jerry Barber Jerry Barber
Bear Tooth Grill (27th & Spenard, Anchorage). Located on the west side of the building which houses the Bear Tooth Theater/Pub. This is a not to be missed place to eat when visiting here. It opens at 4 p.m. and stays open 'til 11. Its the former home of the Alaska Renaissance Book Store, (1988-1993), and book ghosts are said to still haunt the premises, perhaps because the food is to die for. The entree not to miss is the Cajun halibut sandwich, served with sauteed veggies, garlic fries or salad. For dessert, try the creme brulee. Enough said, time to go eat. From: Mary Alta
Wayne's Original Texas BBQ, (Anchorage 34th and C St., just south of downtown). The best BBQ in town. Ribs, Brisket (regular and extra lean), Prime Rib, Pork Loin, Turkey, Chicken, Sausages. Sides include spicy red potatoes, baked beans, spicy pinto beans, corn on the cob, breads, cornbread. Dessert bar with peach, cherry, blueberry, and pecan cobblers, and Alaska Supreme Ice Cream. Order at the counter, ala carte, and meats are served wrapped in butcher paper. Plates available at the counter by asking. BBQ sauces on the tables. Live Bluegrass and country music at various times. From: Richard Wise
The Club Paris, (Anchorage) offers some of the finest prime rib and steaks found anywhere. Prices are typically Alaskan, (not cheap), but the ambiance, service and food make it all worthwhile. The restaurant is located on 5th Avenue, opposite J.C. Penny's.
Arizona:
MacAlpine's (7th Street Phoenix )(602) Just north of downtown Phoenix is an amazing lunch restaurant and soda fountain called MacAlpine's.My husband had the best sandwich he said he has ever eaten called a Malibu chicken. I had an egg salad sandwich which was to die for. It was so good, we ordered containers of their chicken salad and potato salad to go. The cherry coke tasted like what I drank as a kid. They also offer phosphates, ice cream soda, egg creams and malts.This cute little place was such a refreshing change from all the chain restaurants we have stopped at along the way. I guess it has been there for over 75 years and Wayne Newton and Barry Goldwater were among their list of regulars. Best of all... there was room behind the building to park our RV. Definitely worth the trip. From: Mona Rader
Triple T Truck Stop (Tucson) They have a big menu and the portions are big Great chicken fried steak and deep dish apple pie Restaurant is clean Decent parking ..gift shop etc On the southeast side of town exit 268 off I 10
100 Estrella (Ajo) Fabulous small town find, and favorite to all the locals. Featuring gourmet specialty burgers, but a good assortment of salads, sandwiches and steaks. Microbrews that you'd have to drive 100 miles or more to find elsewhere. (02/12)
Marcellas (Ajo) Worth the stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Very good Mexican food, fresh, well prepated and reasonable. The meal will fill you up on your way to Puerto Penascso. From Lawson
My Place (1081 E. Fry Blvd., Sierra Vista) The food was great, the prices were greater, (meaning low), but I think more important than those was the hospitality. They were known even in neighboring towns, when we mentioned the name, n automatic smile that came across their faces. Open M-S 5am to 10pm Sunday 5am to 5pm We will return. From thomas42
Black Bart's (Flagstaff, Exit 198 off I-40). RV park and antique store on site. Good steaks. Open at 5 PM. Very busy especially on Saturdays. Waitresses and waiters are music majors at the university there and perform when not serving. Usually very good entertainment. From: Leo and Lin
The Desert Rose Cafe (Willcox) It's just off I-10 at the west end of town, has a huge parking lot, and great food at great prices. They are open for breakfast lunch and dinner. The owner is a certified executive chef, and they have created a good balance between fine dining and good small town cafe food. From: Michael
Wisdom's Cafe (Tumacacori), On the frontage road, off I-19, less than a half mile from the Historic Park, you will recognize this place by the two large (6') white chickens in front, and the cars outside. Famous with locals and anyone who has ever eaten there, this restaurant features dessert first on the menu. They have a fruit (cherry, blueberry, apple or peach) burrito which you can (and should) have with vanilla ice cream. Scrumptious. As is everything on the menu. Friendly folk and ambience, ambience, ambience... gaily painted walls (each a different color) and murals done by various "aunts and uncles" of the family. It has been in the same family since 1944. A don't miss spot.
Luis and Bertha's (Florence) This little cafe is also known as L&B's, and LBs. We had breakfast there and found the food delicious. Mainly Mexican, with fresh tortillas, (not the cardboard variety), chorizo and salsa that is just right, not too chunky and not too hot, just spicy enough. It can be very crowded, but even so, the wait is not long. The exterior of the building is a bit run down -- go in anyway! RV parking along the street in front of the cafe.
BeDillons (Casa Grande) . A must spot for lunch or dinner if you are in this area, this small restaurant has great food, wonderful atmosphere in an authentic old turn-of-the-century home. It's no surprise this spot if a favorite among the locals. Their Southwestern fare is not to be missed.
Yolanda's Chuckwagon, (Florence) 5 miles south of town. Excellent prime rib and a wonderful salad bar set up in a old chuck wagon. Reasonably priced. We have visited here twice and have not been disappointed.
La Prilla Suiza (Tucson), If you like good Mexican food, this Mexican company with 4 locations in the US, has excellent meals. Of the two in Tucson, The one I liked the best was located on Speedway. The other location in Tucson is on Oracle Rd. If you have not already found them, they are worth a visit. From: Dick Maas
California:
Vince's Italian Restaurant (west Sacramento) Just off busiess I-80. As a 30 year long haul trucker and an r.v.er, every chance I get I stop in. There's parking on adjacent street, or in shopping plaza. not fancy, just a good traditional family owned Italian full menu dinner house. This is my favorite for a traditional spaghetti dinner. They make all their own salad dressings, and you can't beat the blue cheese. From: Mark Spangenberg 12/07
Peggy Sue's 50s Diner (Yermo) East of Barstow about 8 miles on Ghost Town Road, this diner serves a great breakfast. (They also serve lunch, and are a pizza take-out spot.) The waitresses dress in 50s clothes, and the walls are covered with Marilyn, Elvis, John Wayne and Roy Rogers. Be sure to look in all the rooms, the lunch/pizza areas also feature scenes from the Wizard of OZ, and the Three Stooges movies. There's a small dance floor with tiles depicting a large 78 record. Outside, you can eat overlooking a pool. Lots of parking -- the truckers stop here. From: RVersonline, 11-2007
The Red Ocotillo (Borrego Springs). Don't let the Quonset Hut fool you -- this place serves a great breakfast. We feasted on potato-free breakfast burritos; just egg, sausage and peppers. the rosemary-garlic potatoes are on the side. You can also order skillet omelettes and a large array of side dishes. Best yet, there is free WiFi, and a pet friendly patio. Open for breakfast all day & lunch Just east of Christmas Circle, in the heart of town. From: RVersonline, 3/2006
The Bayside Cafe (Morro Bay) It's in the old marina, right across the street from the Morro Bay State Campground - so it doesn't matter what kind of rig you have, you just walk there. Open 3 meals a day, if the weather is good, you'll want to sit on the patio and enjoy delicious burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, fish & chips, etc. They have a good list of California wines by the glass and a fine selection of microbrews. Try the tres leches cake for dessert, and plan on taking a walk or a nap afterwards - you'll need it! On weekends, be early or be prepared to wait. From: Judy Bass, 8/2005
Jack's Bar & Grill (Redding) - They have the best steaks in town. It is usually a 1-2 hour wait, unless you get there at 4pm when they 1st open, they start serving at 4:30pm. They make home made french fries or you can order a baked potato will all the fixins. The salad is served in a big bowl and you can have as much as you like, they put french green beans in the salad, it's good. They prawn and scallops are great also. They have a bar where you can elbow up and order your drinks while you are waiting. To get to Jack's heading S. on I-5, take the 1st central Redding, CA exit, this turns into Hwy 44/Hwy 299 W and at the light it turns into Shasta St, at the 4th stop light you will make a left on California St, 4 lights down, Jack's will be on your left. It's one of the oldest buildings in Redding, and there has to be hundreds of coats of paint on the walls and ceiling, but the wait and the food are worth it. From: Cathy Loucks, 8/2005
Woolgrowers (Los Banos) A French Basque Restaurant. No Menu, just a choice of meat. A place for farmers and locals. Food served family style. Don't go unelss you are hungry. Don't let the looks of the old hotel keep you away, this is a don't miss when you're in the central valley.
Jocko's (Nipomo) Whenever we travel the 101 north of Santa Barbara, we always plan a stop at Jocko's at Nipomo, north of Santa Maria. Have great steaks, either for breakfast or dinner. From: Dan and Tina Zoll
Crepe Place, (1134 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz) Variety of outstanding dinner crepes, great home-baked bread, very informal, almost pleasantly funky. Bar in the front, indoor and outdoor dining in the rear (entirely smoke-free as are all eateries in California). Parking on and off of Soquel and adjacent side-streets. From: Jim Warren
Nessie Burgers (Junction of highway 15 and state road 76 in Bonsall, about 20 miles north of Escondido) (Nessie referrs to the Loch Ness monster). It is really no more than a trailer set up in the corner of a Park and Ride next to the road with a small covered eating area in front. This place has the best roadside burgers and fries! They also have a giant hot dog sandwich that my son loves along with a chicken sandwich and a few other menu items. The place is always jam packed and there can be a bit of a wait for your order (10 to 20 minutes during really crowded times). Truckers love the place as there is a very large empty lot on the other side of 76 for them to maneuver and park. The only down side to this is that 76 is pretty busy and can be difficult to cross. There is a smaller lot behind the Park and Ride that would also work for all but the largest rigs (the park and ride itself is too small and congested for RV use). From: Dirk Thayer
Price St. Cafe ( Pismo Beach, on the corner of Price St. & Wadsworth Ave.) has excellent food for breakfast & lunch and the service is always great! They specialize in homestyle cooking. From: Dan McClean
The Apple Farm (San Luis Obispo) is just off Hwy 101. Park down the street and walk a block or two, but you will be glad you did. My gal and I stop there EVERY time we go thru SLO. I usually call ahead on the cell phone for reservations when we're about 30-35 miles out. From: Roger King
Sierra Nevada Brewery (Chico) On our last trip, we were encouraged to try this spot for dinner. This is really an interstinge place to eat, and their brew is outstanding. Exceptional atmosphere, very nice menu, great service, and moderately priced. From:Doug Martin
Domingo's (Boron) is located between Mojave and Barstow on Highway 58. Best Mexican food and service anywhere. Champagne Brunch on Sunday. Reasonably priced. Lots of RV parking. Domingo is the mayor of Boron and likes visiting with customers. From: pcmc2
The Samoa Cookhouse, (north and west of Eureka), serves reasonable, family style meals in an interesting old lumber mill cookhouse. Adequate RV parking and easy access.
The Tides (Bodega Bay) This is another place more suited for the towing or towed vehicle, while the rig stays parked at Doran Beach Regional Park on the spit. Good food, but what's special here is watching the sea lions and myriad waterfowl just a few feet beyond the plate glass windows lining the dining area.
Hays Street Cafe (Bridgeport) For those traveling highway 395 from Reno to Bishop. Located at the south end of town at Hays Street. Nice, Clean, Moderately priced. Enjoy
Idyllwild Cafe (Idyllwild) A charming cafe where the locals have their own coffee mugs inscribed with their names. The pumpkin pancakes are "to die for". More regular breakfasts are also featured. Idyllwild is not a place to take an RV, but if you are exploring, try it!
Waterloo Restaurant (Waterloo ) is 8 miles east of Stockton on Highway 88. Ithas some of the best ribs and to die for Pesto Pasta in the central valley. Their rib sauce is an sweet sauce with an Italian flair. The H20 special is enough for two meals for many folks.Reasonable prices, however, diners need to have cash. Plenty of RV parking at the restaurant or their banquet room right next door.
LaGrange Cafe (Weaverville) When traveling on State Highway 299 between Redding and Eureka, my wife and I always stop at this small cafe that features a wide range of entrees. Every item on the menu is outstanding. They feature Buffalo Stew, which recently won honors at Chef's Magazine's buffalo cookoff. Easy access for RVers. Owners are usually there and enjoy visiting with travelers.
The Piemont Restaurant , (Mt.Shasta City). I first visited here in the early 1950's. The same family that ran the restaurant then runs it now. It originally provided board and room for bachelor loggers and served meals to the public in a small dining room. The loggers are long since gone and the restaurant has been enlarged. The Piemont serves Italian meals, try their chicken and ravioli or roast beef and ravioli dinner and you will know that you have found the place.
The Country Kitchen (Ramona) Highways 67 and 78 go right through the center of town. It's a mountain community northeast of San Diego. The food is family style, served on a platter. The breakfast specials are the greatest, more than you can eat and the prices are low.
Omelette Parlor (Santa Monica) -- located two blocks north of the Venice boardwalk where Santa Monica and Venice (the cities) meet, is a local beach hot spot for a full-coursed, but inexpensive breakfast. It is a tiny cafe with both outdoor and indoor seating. You can get many specialty omelettes (courtesy of image-conscious LA) or a plain old fatbuster ham and cheese omelette. Also, try the Belgian waffles they are great.
The Kettle (Manhattan Beach) has a much larger menu than the Omelette Parlor and can serve breakfast, brunch and lunch. Go to Manhattan Beach, stroll on the boardwalk and watch the early morning surfers then stop by the Kettle and get something to eat.
Uncle Bill's Pancake House (Manhattan Beach) While you enjoyed the Kettle in M.B., you missed some of the real "local flavor" at this restaurant. Located just north of the Kettle, and much more of the "homestyle", as opposed to the somewhat "chain store" feeling. Homemade soups everyday make this a "once a weeker", at least, for this Manhattan Beach local.
Malibu Seafood (Pacific Coast Highway (CA 1) near Malibu. It is a fresh seafood market that also prepares "takeout" meals. They only have outside patio dining (with a nice ocean view) but the prices are reasonable. While there isn't convenient parking for "big rigs," Malibu Beach RV Park is right next door. When you are staying at the RV park ask the park staff and they will give you a flyer good for a ten per cent discount at Malibu Seafood. A personal favorite is their clam chowder served in a sourdough bowl.
Heuslein House (Descanso) Formerly called "Descanso Junction", this local favorite eatery is located approximately 1 mile west of Interstate 8 on Highway 79 near the town of Descanso. If you go hear on a weekend, you'll notice it's filled with locals -- most of whom know each other. The local sheriff's deputy will likely be there as well. We liked the green chile and cheese omelette -- but everything coming from the kitchen looked wonderful.
Stagecoach Restaurant (Elk Grove, 8713 Elk Grove Boulevard, off I-80) has good, home style food at reasonable prices. We go there anytime we're in the area.
Rock Creek Shopping Center (Highway 49 and Bell Road, Rock Creek) The absolute best pizza I've ever had is at a little "hole-in-the-wall" just a few miles off Interstate 80, on the Bell Road exit. They even have senior citizen discounts!
Colorado:
The Rico Cafe (Rico southwestern Colorado). Saturday night is their "all the BBQ ribs you can eat" night. I enjoy BBQ beef, but I'm not a big ribs person, but this place and the ribs came so highly recommended, our camping group decided to try it. After visiting the Rico Cafe twice, I can honestly say that THESE ARE THE BEST RIBS I"VE EVER HAD!! And I have lived in Texas, where barbequing is almost a religion. The full racks are huge, meaty, and it is literally falling off the bone. My wife was amazed when I finished one entire rack, and ordered another. I finished both. I am usually a very picky eater, and don't eat much. It is literally worth driving a hundred miles to eat at this place. From: Robert J. Gross
Beau Jo's (Idaho Springs). Creative pizza done the way you like it. Select from 5 thicknesses of crust, 4 crust types(sesame wheat, whole wheat, white or butter white) and 25 toppings. Pizzas come with honey for dipping the leftover crust. Be sure to check out the napkin art drawn by patrons from all over the world and hung on the walls. Also check out the pictures and artifacts from the Colorado mining days. There is a large municipal parking lot behind the restaurant but I would recommend parking big rigs on the east end of town near the ARGO tunnel and walking .
The Drovers Restaurant (Brush) at the stockyards/ salebarn. It has great food at 1950's prices. If you go on sale day you can sit in the bleachers and watch the cattle auction. Plenty of room to park a big rig with dinghy in tow. It is located just off I-76. Not for atmosphere just good food.
Wild Rose Restaurant (Mancos) One of our very top picks, this one's in a very authentic old building, in an authentic old section, of an authentic old Colorado town. The decor is wonderful, and the food and service tops. We tried this one for breakfast, but a meal here at any time of day promises to be a great experience. You'll most likely be in this area when you visit Mesa Verde National Park
Riverwood Inn (Delta) some real good eats you can stop in and have great biscuits and gravy before heading on to the worlds largest flat top mountain -- Grand Mesa. they're easy on the wallet and just nice folks.Tthey serve a great prime rib or salad and it's seat yourself friendly. From: Mike and Susan McCormick
Idaho:
Stoney's Desert Inn Cafe (Mountain Home), Off hwy 84 on the south side about a mile down the road past Daves custom mufler and auto repair shop & Uhaul (excellent repair shop BTW) is a wonderful little cafe and bar good food and service, atmosphere is classic and rustic but clean.
From: W. Cover 12/2005
Summerhill Cafe (Riggins) It would be easy to miss this small cafe as you drive through riggins, but what a mistake that would be. Excellent food, and friendly service. Parking seems tough, but there's really lots of room right on the street -- they have unusually large on street parking and several lots nearby. From: Rversonline
Spuds Rotisserie & Grill (Sandpoint) is a great little restaurant overlooking a marina and out onto Lake Pend Oreille. They feature salads and classic sandwiches such as Turkey Basil or Chicken Caesar, Southwest sandwiches, Chipotle and Veggie Santa Fe and a long list of others. It's called Spuds because there's a whole list of baked potato specialities including chicken chili verde potato, or "Drag it through the garden" potato (with all sorts of veggies). It's quite popular, and when we were behind a party of 8 all ordering something different, I was afraid we were in for a long wait. But the service is extremely fast, and we were served almost immediately. From: Rversonline
Pickles Cafe (Arco). This is a nice little cafe with good food and good service. It is located on the East end on the main highway that goes through town. We were told that it has been in the same location for a great number of years. The prices are very reasonable and the selection of foods is good. Real nice folks and the parking is good for your rig. From: Laura and Wil Young (aka: Ma & Pa Bear)
Effie's (Lewiston), Effie's is on the main street in Lewiston and serves a hamburger the size of a dinner plate on a dinner plate size bun. Needless to say, we split one. From: Frank and Darlene Phillips
Calamity Jane's (Idaho City) Except in the very peak of the tourist season, you'll meet half the residents of this partially reconstructed "ghost town" here. Get the "sobbin' potatoes" -- cooked with onions, cheese and spices, they are wonderful!
Sarges (Coeur d'Alene) You should try eating at Sarges, It is up Government past where the old Foretravel dealership was located. You will find it a great meal. From: Bob Gummersall
Montana:
Jaxs (Eureka) Great hamburger on a homemade bun and homemade fries. And an old fashioned milk shake served in a metal container--- GREAT! from : Frank and Darlene.
"Calf-A", (Dell), about 30 miles south of Dillon, Montana on I-15. The cafe is located in an old country schoolhouse, and has been mentioned in National Geographic Magazine. Artifacts from the original school are on display, and the blackboards are now used to advertise daily specials and menu items. This is a family owned and operated business, very homey and friendly, and the food is outstanding. We have stopped here many times and never been disappointed. No one passing by should miss this one. From: LME from Canada
Stevi Drive-thru and the Stevi Cafe (Stevenville) Both reflect the local name -- Stevi. The drive thru serves real ice cream and yummy burgers, and the Cafe serves great diner food all day long. They are on the main drag (there is only one), across from the CENEX store. We make a special detour to get here just for the sticky buns -- they come out on dinner plates. The also have a breakfast for BIG eaters; it comes out on two dinner plates. Good food and not at all expensive, like $5 for breakfast. Take a trip down some of the side streets. Visit St. Mary's Mission while you're there, it's the first white settlement in Montana with lots of Native American history as well.
New Mexico:
The Ranch Kitchen (Gallup) Our favorite restaurant as we travel along I40. It is on Historic Route 66, one mile east of exit 16 (I-40). For over 10 years we have made it a point to stay in Gallup so that we can have both dinner and breakfast at the Ranch Kitchen. They have a full menu, but we prefer the great Mexican food. They have a tradition where each table is asked what state they are from and then the wait person places that flag on the table. Its really fun to look around and see all of the different states. There is a campground close to the restaurant and Gallup has a great horse friendly campground as well. In the last 3 or 4 years that we have gotten to know the owners, John and Desta Marbury. The are great folks and are doing a neat GMC Buffalo bus conversion. From: Jim Shepherd
The Owl Bar and Cafe (Socorro) Eight miles south of town, take exit 139 east off of IH-25. You're on US 380, heading for "Billy the Kid" country. Just a bit under a mile from the freeway, at the intersection of US 380 and NM 1, is the Owl Bar and Cafe. It sits on the site of a former house used as a hotel during the depression. One night, the house burned down and the owner and his family headed to Texas. The new owners of the site eventually moved away the debris, to discover the heavy, wooden bar had survived, and around this bar, the Owl Bar and Cafe is built. This is the holiest of sites for lovers of green chili cheeseburgers (and a cold beer doesn't hurt, either!). If you want to make up for this "sinful" meal, head south along NM 1 to the magnificent Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge and walk along the ponds sheltering tens of thousands of Sandhill Cranes, dozens of bald eagles, and more geese than you thought could rest on one bit of water, anywhere. Oh, the son of the former hotel owner returned to ask the Owl Bar owners if they'd sell him his father's bar. They thanked Mr. Hilton, but said, "no." After all, those green chili cheeseburgers just wouldn't be the same without a cold brew. From: Ray Poole
El Patio (Las Cruces/Mesilla) Not a place to take the RV, but if it's Mexican food you're looking for, here it is. If you enter through its bar, you'll probably be tempted to eat elsewhere. Just keep going -- the restaurant is in the back. And you'll find it nicely decorated, offering great food at reasonable prices.
Old Mesilla Pastry Cafe (Las Cruces/Mesilla) This is where the locals come for fresh breads and pastries -- and delicious breakfasts and lunches. They offer such Mexican items as chorizo and eggs or breakfast enchiladas, or the more traditional American fare. Tile floors, wooden tables and chairs and paintings on the walls give this small cafe a wonderful "south of the border" feel. Bet you cannot leave without a fresh loaf of bread or just made pastry. Plenty of parking just across the street.
La Cochina (Truth or Consequences) This place, located on the main drag in Truth or Consequences New Mexico is hard to beat. They have moved to a new location north of town at the top of the hill on the right side.(Thanks for the update, from Don Peterson, 10/05) Still same great food, good prices & ample parking. Excellent Mexican Food at extremely reasonable prices, plenty of room in the parking lot for RV's. I especially recommend their open face Sirloin Steak sandwich (10 oz. steak, fries, lettuce, tomato, onion, etc.) for about $7.50. The "hot" salsa is blistering hot, and their Mexican dishes are the real deal, nothing phoney about this place! This restaurant and the nearby Marshalls Mineral Baths will draw us back from Maryland real soon!
Tina's, (Socorro) A lot of Snowbirds and 18 Wheelers have found Tina's on the East Side of the main drag through Socorro. You will find authentic Mexican food from the menu of Tina and George Lujan. George thinks he is a good golfer at nearby NM Tech GC but his best talent is the Burritos he turns out. The Green Chili comes from the local fields so be prepared. There is plenty of parking and turn around for the big rigs.
A Diner (Vaughn) As my wife and I were traveling to Alamagordo NM we were on Route 54 south in Vaughn. There is a little diner on the right side of the road that serves the best hamburger that you will ever get and the price is really reasonable.
Nevada:
The JT Restaurant and The Overland Hotel (east edge of Gardnerville) two authentic Basque Restaurants: Both have super communal dining. From: David Eidell
PJ's (Reno) has the best country gravy we have ever had! and the rest of the menu rates right up there.
Heidi's Family Restaurant (Reno) -- Heidi's Family Restaurant has the best omelettes I've ever had. The service is great, too. According to the sign out front they've been chosen "Best Breakfast in Reno" 4 years in a row. If I'm there on a weekend I order the chicken fried steak weekend special, because their country gravy is really the best. From: Don G Thayer
B'sgetti's (Carson City) -- B'sgetti's is a great Italian restaurant (and I know, my wife and her family are Italian). They have good variety, a reasonable wine list, and inexpensive kids meals if you're travelling with family. From: Don G Thayer
City Cafe Bakery (Carson City) -- City Cafe Bakery is the real thing. They bake all their own breads, muffins, pastries, etc.. It's like one of those San Francisco sourdough bakery/cafes, only without the S.F. prices. Their sandwiches made on the fresh, thick sliced bread are huge and good, too. We always stock up on their coffee cakes and assiago cheese bread on our RV trips. From: Don G Thayer
Oregon:
Nana's Irish Pub, (Newport). We found it to have the best Corned Beef and Cabbage and Shepherd's Pie this side of Dublin. Ron & Jan Byers, Loveland, CO (12/09)
The Truck Stop (Hines) A classic grill. Not much to look at outside but very clean and decorated cute inside. The food was delicious and they had huge portions. My breakfast of chicken fried steak & eggs w/a pancake on the side came on 3 platters! I think it cost around $6.95. We'll definitely stop there again :) From: Gary and Cathy Lowman 3/05
The Apple Peddler (Sutherlin, just off I-5) Part of a 9 restaurant chain, this has been consistently good, is just off the freeway, and has a huge open paved parking area adjacent to the motel next door. I time my meals to stop here when we travel down I-5. Very popular with locals. From: Will 10/05
The Ship's Inn (Astoria) They have a good variety of English style foods and some very tasty desserts as well. (not to mention, Guiness on tap) From: Misty 8/05
The Lighthouse Deli and Fish Company (Highway 101, Newport). Not much to look at from the outside, but the parking lot was full, so we figured it was worth checking out and it was! They have a wide variety of seafood with their smoked salmon and Dungeness crab being especialy mouth-watering. Their clam chowder was also wonderful Parking for RVs is not the best, but if you're camping nearby or are headed to see the fabulous aquarium, it is definitely worth stopping by for great service and wonderful food. Plus, the atmosphere just oozes "seafood market". From: Christo802
Kom-Yun Asian Restaurant, (Coos Bay) Outstanding asian meals as well as excellent western food; outstanding service; very nicely appointed and spacious restaurant but road-weary informal attire is completely acceptable. RV parking in their lot as well as across the street. Just blocks north of Porter's RV's, a multi-generation, family-run dealership. From: Jim Warren
Pancake Mill, (North Bend, Tremont Street, across from Coos Bay) Huge variety of pancakes as well as other offerings for all three meals; very large servings; very pleasant atmosphere; excellent
service; informal, family-friendly. Has specific parking-area for RV's. From: Jim Warren
Sunrise Cafe (Pleasant Hill) 4 miles east of Eugene on Highway 58, located between Rays Food Market and a feed store, this is a wonderful place for breakfast (all day) or lunch. Plenty of parking, plenty of food. Like everything in Eugene, the Oregon Ducks football team logos are everywhere, including a Goducks omelette. Try the quesedillas, skillets or Jack's Hippie Cereal, if you're feeling virtuous. It's a popular place, well worth the wait if necessary.
Red's Barbeque (Klamath Falls) This is a new spot for great barbequed ribs, chicken, beef, pork, etc. Basic barbeque restaurant with various barbeque sauces at each table. Moderate prices. Across from Wal-Mart. from Doug Martin
Beckie's Cafe (Union Creek) While traveling from Medford to Bend on Hwy 62 in Oregon, we found Beckie's Cafe. It is famous for delicious pies and for serving home style cooking in a casual, family atmosphere. Great menu, moderate pricing. We had breakfast, but it all looked good. From:Doug Martin
Jakes Truck Stop (Bend) While traveling to the Bend area, we always stop here for a more than hearty meal. the Chicken Fried Steak will knock your socksoff. Very ample servings, good food, moderate price. From: Doug Martin
Mr. Bill's Village Smokehouse and Restaurant (Lincoln City) on the west side of Highway 101. We would like to share our raves about both the food in the restaurant and the fresh, canned and smoked seafood available in the Smokehouse adjoining. We stopped in midmorning and had a late breakfast. The food was excellent, well prepared and tastefully presented. The facility very well kept and staffed by friendly efficient people. Competive prices and the portion size invited double 'doggie bags' when we finished eating (what we could). Adequate parallel parking for our 30' rig with tow vehicle was directly across the street (northbound). South bound there is space in their lot and also on street parallel parking.
The Chowder House, (Newport) This restaurant is located in the Nye Beach Turn around. Streets are narrow and street parking is limited, however, there is a public parking lot at the beach, only ashort distance away. Use dinghies or tow cars. No room for RV's. Chowder is in a class of its own and the fish & chips are great. Tuesdays, when we were there, was all you can eat chowder, salad and fish & chips special. Open 7 days per week. We had dinner there and went back the next day for a lunch of chowder and a shrimp sandwich. BobH
Sea Hag Restaurant (Depoe Bay) Right on the Main Street. The seafood is delicious and the clam chowder is very, very good.
Sergio's Dos (Klamath Falls). 4650 So. sixth St. This is one of the very best Mexican restaurants we have ever eaten at. Not much rv parking but we always plan to stop overnight here just to have a great meal.
Utah:
The Red Iguana and Red Iguana 2. (Salt Lake City) This café's claim to fame is cuisine from the south of Mexico. Most of us associate Mexican cuisine with Tex-Mex or northern border cuisine, but the food with origins in Puebla or Oaxaca is entirely different. Their mole (pronounced Moh-Lay) sauces are incredible. The king of the sauces is mole poblano which is a thick, rich, chocolate-tinged sauce. The Red Iguana has 7-8 different mole sauces, and for first timers the helpful staff will prepare a no charge plate with samples of each of their sauces so you can taste and choose. Don’t be put off by the lines outside … they move fast and the wait is definitely worth it. The “Original” Red Iguana is at 736 West North Temple. Their parking lot is small, but within a block or two parking should be available for most rigs. From: Bill Juhl 8/2011
J C'S Country Diner (Tremonton) One exit south of the I84/I15 interchange up the road towards Garland there is a absolutely wonderful homey style cafe with good homade cooking and great friendly service. They have a large gravel parking lot for trucks and RV's too! I stop here every chance I get. From W. Cover
One Man Band (Nephi) , 50's Decor, Wonderful, large breakfasts anytime. Hamburgers, sandwiches and steaks. Order steak and eggs and get the largest ribeye steak I have ever seen for breakfast. Order with the phone on your table. Parking for several RV's curbside. Just east of the I - 15 Moroni exit. Fast and clean. From: Glenn E Oleson
Washington:
Sabai Thai: West 8th and B St., Port Angeles) Our favorite restaurant. It has the best Thai food in town, wonderful decor, an extensive wine list, and a few draft beers on tap. There is also a fascinating salt-water fish tank. It is located some distance from downtown. From: Doug Atterbury (3/2011)
Red Apple Diner (Bremerton) A local 50s style Diner. Breakfast you will need to stand inline for on Saturday or Sunday. The pies are about 3 to 4 “ thick. Typical breakfast: Omelet(your fixing) baby red potatoes, fresh squeezed Orange juice : from Bob Rifenbury 7/2010
The Big Y Cafe (Leavenworth): This cafe, at the junction of Routes 2 and 97, just east of Leavenworth is bright, cheerful, clean and homey. We have breakfast here every time we visit Leavenworth. Lots of open parking for trucks and RV's of any size. A real gem. From Will, 10/05 PS It's one of our favorites too.
The Bremerton Airport Cafe (Bremerton): on Rt. 3. Very popular, especially with private aircraft owners, who can fly in, park their aircraft on the tarmac and walk just yards to the restaurant. Fine meals, reasonable prices, and probably the best fish and chips around. From Will 10/05
Cafe Olga (Orcas Island). While I would not recommend taking a large rig to any of the San Juan Islands, if you should happen to be on Orcas, either in a small rig or with your toad, this is a must stop. The small cafe is located in the Olga artist co-op, and while you're waiting for your lunch or dinner, browsing is simply unavoidable. The food is terrific -- all homemade, from breads to soups, and all delicious. After eating, wander down to the small (very small) town of Olga and watch the ferries ply the inland waters. From: Tom & Stephanie
The Tokeland Hotel (Tokeland) has some of the fines OYSTERS in the whole world. Also the rest of the food is great. One of the best places to have a very nice lunch, while being at the coast of Washington. This is an old Hotel that is on the National registry. They are located on hwy #105, between Raymond and Westport. From: Hobo
EZ Rider Cafe (Burlington, about 20 miles east of Anacortes) I eat there each Sunday morning. Enjoy a good meal and look at all the Indian motorcycles (opposite side of interstate from Costco). Great breakfasts, always crowded with young and old, motorcyclists and non-motorcyclists. From: David S. Horn
The Ol' General Store (Roy) Highway 507 wanders down the south side of Ft. Lewis, generally paralleling I-5 and runs from about Spanaway southwest to Centralia and I-5. It passes through the village of Roy, WA, home of the famous Roy Rodeo. Locals know this historical landmark as a source of great food and excellent service for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu has some typically northwest items (like really good cod fish and chips) but also has some menu items from "cowboy country" including an excellent chicken fried steak. Very friendly, casual-country, kind of place. RV parking is plentiful just across the street and we were told it wouldn't be a problem if the RV was parked there for a few hours, or even overnight if the Rodeo is not in town. From: J.D.
The Blue Mountain Cafe (Anatone) This special place is located about 18 miles south of Clarkston on Highway 129, on the road to Enterprise and Joseph,Or. Lots of space to park an RV, if you take one -- the road is winding, but you will find lots of RVers along the way. I had the Little Butte burger and passed on the homemade fries, but they are made from wedge cut red potatoes and sound wonderful. Tom had the Big Butte burger, like mine it had plenty of fried onions, and a delicious sauce. When you order, just make sure you tell the proprietors, Jim & Laurie Mullins, if you don't want a certain ingredient. We'll be sure to stop on our next trip into the Blue Mts.
Pizza Bank Restaurant (Kirkland) If you like pizza/pasta, this is the place to go.To get there take I-405 north to 160st exit,stay on 160th heading east,turn right on 124th Ave N.E. and go south to 14401-124th ave N.E..Safeway Store is located Across the street a good place to park the RV.Everything is good and priced right.Open for lunch,Dinner and take outs.Ray the owner and all his staff are great,we go there all the time.You will probably leave with a doggie bag. From: N. Disher Note: Kirkland can be difficult to drive through. Perhaps first explore in the toad)
The Chinese Buffet (Cheney) 3-4 miles south of I-90, just west of Spokane. We had no problem parking our motorhome. I'm not keen about Chinese restaurants, but this is different. The food is refreshed continuously on the buffet in small quantities. It is tasty. Service is cordial. The food is superior to the normal fare at such places. A Spokane newspaper has applauded it. From: RVfromNC
The Cobbler Kitchen (Marysville) Located in the Safeway Mall area, about 1.5 miles north of town on old "99". The best soup sandwich & pie deal anywhere in the U.S. Easy RV. parking around the mall area. Also, "The Village Restaurant" next to I-5 exit 199. Very good reasonable meals and the home of the mile high pies. RV parking close by.
The Iron Skillet (Sedro Woolley) Just off of Highway 20 and a bit north of Burlington, this place advertises itself as follows: "great food, lousy service". But it really has really great food and super fast service.
Sea Js Cafe (Port Townsend) is just a tiny cafe located at 2501 Washington St., next to the commercial fishing docks. It has been voted as "#1 for Fish & Chips" in Port Townsend. It's really excellent, and reasonably priced. From: Len & Geri Montanino
Snug Harbor Cafe (between Sequim and Port Townsend at Discovery Bay on Hwy 101). It used to be an old tavern and now has some of the finest fresh seafood and steak specials around. Their special coating on their fries is a delight in itself but save room for the burger because you'll need it. It's a small operation and the service depends on how many may be working but the food is well worth waiting for and it's very reasonable. Plenty of room for RV parking.
Chimicum Cafe (Chimicum). Enroute to Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula. It opens early and closes late. Lots of good food at reasonable prices. Be sure to get those hot biscuits and homemade pie.
59er Diner (Leavenworth) Crossing the Cascade Mts. on Highway 2, stop between mile markers 84 & 85 at this "back to the 50's" spot. Posters of Elvis & Marilyn as well as Ricky Nelson and other stars of that vintage. Hula hoops on the walls and a vintage juke box with table connections (.25) . All this and a delicious breakfast, too. RV parking rfight in front.
Chef Paul's Beaver Valley Cafe (Plain) This real find is just 13 miles from Leavenworth on highway 209. Even as we ordered breakfast, there was a basket of cranberry muffins and baking powder biscuits on the table in front of us. We had an absolutely delicious breakfast, seasoned "just right" with grits, potatoes and eggs (I added venison sausage). Barbeque ribs are their specialty, and I'm looking forward to some when we return.
Wyoming:
The Cowboy Cafe (Dubois). Our favorite eating spot in wind river country. Every day a lady pulls in the alley and delivers home baked pies. The people are friendly, and there are wonderful gift/jewellry shops next door and across the street. Try it, you'll like it. From: Marilyn Davis
The Sundance Cafe (Sundance), The food was outstanding (best open faced roastbeef sandwich), service was first class. We were have some engine trouble and they called a mechanic for us. I guarantee I will stop again. It is just a small place, plenty of parking both sides of the road. I hope anyone traveling thru will give it a try. From: Joe/Linda Smith
Great Plains: (KS, ND, NE, OK, SD,TX )
North Dakota:
Theodore's, The Rough Riders Hotel, (Medora) A very enjoyable dinner with a good variety of menu choices -- ($19 to $37 for the entrees). I had a very tender and appropriately done prime rib, and my wife had a walleye in lemon cream sauce with risotto cakes. We split a tasty Creme Brulee for dessert, and both started with an excellent Lobster Bisque. The clerk at the convenience store in town said everything shuts down after Labor Day when the local population reverts to "the usual 50 people," so don't know if the hotel and dining room will be available beyond the tourist season. From: Bert Schniepp 8/2010
Nebraska:
Ole's Big Game Steakhouse and Lounge (Paxton) As we motorhomed through the Midwest this past summer, we were directed to an unusual spot to get the best hamburgers in Nebraska. It was worth the stop. The place is off I-80 in western Nebraska. Over 200 mounted game trophies and numerous photographs of Ole and his friends on their many hunting trips and worldwide safaris spanning over 35 years decorate the facility. The food is great and the service fast and friendly. Take exit 145 off I-80 and travel approximately 1/2 mi
Oklahoma:
The Roundup (Weleetka) on US 75 South, is the best home style cookin'. The BBQ is well prepared by Gail and her husband. The chicken fried steak is so big it lops over the plate, and is well complimented by cream gravy and mashed taters. M-mmm. From: Mark E. Pike
The Roundup (US 75 South, Weleetka) the best home style cookin can, and will be found here. The BBQ is well prepared by Gail and her husband. The chicken fried steak is so big it lops over the plate, and is well complimented by cream gravy and mashed taters. M-mmm. From: Mark E. Pike.
"Original Fried Pies" (the west side of Interstate 35 at exit 51 just south of Davis) This is not a cafe as such, but boy did they have delicious fried pies. It is in a Sinclair Station. They have some meat pies, but have many different fruit pies - apricot, peach, apple, pineapple, cherry, lemon, as well as chocolate and coconut. They also have peach and apple sugar free pies. Less than $2 for any of them. There is also a small campground just next door - doesn't look like much, but was far enough from the freeway to be fairly quiet, and was less than $20 for full hookups. From: Beverly Booher. This isn't exactly a cafe, but the pies sound like a local favorite -- and well worth the tasting.
JL's Barbecue (Highway 69 just a couple of miles south of Pryor) has the best and the most barbecue around. Be sure you are hungry! Plan on taking some home. Hope you enjoy it.
The Hickory House, (Cleveland) If you like home cooked Oklahoma and Texas style food (chicken fried steak, beans and cornbread, fried chicken, catfish on Fridays, etc) you will love this place. It will be crowded with locals on Friday nights and Sunday noon, especially (which is a good endorsement). Also, Thursday night is homemade pie night.North. Be sure to take your camera!! RV parking adjacent to the steakhouse. Enjoy!!!
Carl and ? (Poteau), .'The Ultimate Omelet', which has everything in it but the kitchen sink, came out, literally, on a 'platter', as big as the platter (at least a dozen eggs, ++) and I couldn't believe my husband ate it all. It cost about $6.00, and if you can finish it all, you are presented with a certificate, off the inkjet in the back, recognizing your feat. By far the best food at the best prices we've found anywhere and very friendly, good service. What fun!
South Dakota:
Cheyenne Crossing, (on the east end of Spearfish Canyon Road,about 8 miles south of Deadwood or 20 miles east of Spearfish.) Spearfish Canyon has been called the most beautiful drive in the US. The cafe has the best Indian Tacos ever and great breakfast specials. The parking is limited but worth the trouble. From: Bob Stubbs
The Alpine Inn (Hill City) Hill City is near Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse.They serve two items, large and small steaks. The large is $9.99 and I've never been able to finish it. They also have a great dessert tray. There is parking on the street and quite a bit of RV parking down by the 1880 steam train. From: Bob Stubbs
Texas:
Texas Great Country Café & Pie Pantry (Whitney) This newly opened small cafe serves southern home style food that is awesome. Their signature dish is a very large chicken fried steak served with your choice of vegetables, but we haven’t found anything that is not absolutely delicious. There is also an in house bakery where cakes, pies & cookies are made. The “Aunt Becky’s Apple Pie” is to die for. It is apple pie with caramel & pecans on top. Served warm with ice cream is a heavenly experience! I encourage anyone in this area of Texas to try out this place & get ready for a Texas dining experience. From: Mac & Becky 12/09
"The Drug Store" (Fort Davis) in an historic building has a soda fountain that will bring back memories of the 1950s. In the heart of the charming downtown area, across from the Limpia Hotel, you'll find absolutely outstanding offerings for breakfast and lunch, all complemened by the friendlest service anywhere in the Great State of Texas. And that's a very high standard. Nearby parking offers no challenges. And Fort Davis will likely surprise you with its many historic offerings. The "Texas size" breakfast burrito is a challenge to master at one sitting -- at a price you'll find most appealing as well.
Chubby's Old Fashion Burger Grill (Gainesville, ) This the guy that used to own J.B's Old Fashion Hamburgers in Kerrville. We used to stop in every time, we were in the area. We love his burgers,but he sold out and we stopped going there. Now he is back in business and his new place is as great, if not greater, then before. His place still has the best burgers and biggest onion rings in Texas, and the same friendly service. It's located north of Gainesville, west side of IH 35, not far from that big outlet mall, exit 501. So for all you RVers that used to eat at his place -- he's back! From bdpiep
Smokestack Restaurant (Thurber) Historic town dating from the 1800s. Very good ment and daily specials all home cooked. Nothing fancy, just good food. Plenty of parking for RVs. From: Jim
Brendas BBQ and More (904 E 3rd St Big Spring) Some of the best BBQ I have ever eaten. Recommended to us by locals. Don't let the run down look of the establishment in the old part of town throw you off. All you can eat for a reasonable price. From: Johnna Evans
Buffalo Grille (3116 Bissonette St., Houston) for breakfast or lunch. (It's closed for dinner.) Generally regarded as having some of the best traditional and Tex-Mex breakfasts in Houston, Buffalo Grille is located a few blocks off 59, just inside the 610 West Loop. From 59, take the Buffalo Speedway exit south to Bissonet. Fortunately for RVers, the Grille is in a shopping plaza that's blessed with a large parking area. Enter the parking lot by turning left from Buffalo Speedway, just before Bissonet. If the main lot is full, there's more space beside Buffalo Grille, off Bissonet. RVers will like the fast service, polite staff, casual atmosphere and Texas decor, complete with a fuzzy Buffalo trophy. Diners order at the counter; their name is announced when the food is ready. Although many people swear by the Tex-Mex breakfasts, I'm partial to the plate-sized pancakes, available in whole wheat batter and with a number of healthy add-ins. Seating includes an eclectic collection of wooden tables indoors, plus some outdoor tables in a protected area that sports a working fireplace in season. Phone 713-661-3663. From: E.A. Stein
BH Steakhouse (Dalhart) We've been there 4 times and are always seated in the same booth. Great soup and salad bar every day and special whole buffet with something different to offer each day. Lots of local people come there every day for lunch. Great food and very friendly. From: Rhonda McClintock
Cora's (Castroville) - Hwy 90 w of San Antonio. 3 miles north of Castroville on 471. Building is not much, but food is excellent, especially the nachos, chicken fried steak and enchilladas. Not open first part of week.
Dzuart Meat Market (Hondo) - Hwy 90 w of San Antonio. Just look for the "DZ", you can't miss it - south side of main street about mid-way through town. Excellent home made sausage, also fresh meat. Pete's Barbecue and Bait directly across the street has it cooked for instant eating.
J.B's Old Fashion Hamburgers (Kerrville) This place has the best burgers and biggest onion rings in Texas, and on top of all that very friendly service. It's located south, across the river, pass the mall, over the hill on the west side of Sidney Baker St.. Give it a try I think you will like it! Thanks Texas RVer
Josephine Street Cafe (San Antonio). Josephine Street and Hwy 281 (N. between downtown and the airport - going South there is a Josephine Street exit) or W. just under freeway at Josephine and Broadway (S. of Brackenridge Park). Old neighborhood grocery store - has tree growing up in the middle of the building. Everything here is excellent - steaks, etc. We've been eating there for over ten years. Always a must when visiting San Antonio.
Buckhorn Saloon - (San Antonio) West end of "downtown" area. Great food, big servings - order smaller servings where offered or take someone to split regular serving - very popular Friday night all-you-can-eat fish or shrimp or both. Very good food.
La Nortena Tortilla Factory (Pecos) , 212 E 3rd Street (downtown). Excellent tamales, tortillas, etc. for take out.
The Lakehouse - 1655 (Kerrville). It's at the west end of town past Wal-Mart, on south side of road right on the Guadalupe River. Excellent food, great views of the river.
The Monument Cafe (Georgetown) - South east exit off I-35, East of the freeway, on old hwy going north into Gerogetown. Very friendly, great home cooked food.
Florida's Kitchen , (Livingston) Home of some of the best catfish dinners and probably the BEST BarBQ ribs you ever 'lapped a lip to'. Florida's is located a couple of miles west of town but directions are easily followed. Open Wednesday thru Saturday. No credit cards. Ask in town or at Escapee's. From: John & Mary Spangler
The Big Fisherman (Rockport). State highway 188 between Rockport and Aransas Pass. Great seafood at very reasonable prices. The all you can eat flounder is $8.95 and the red snapper with shrimp is only $11.95. The place is huge and you may have to wait in line for a table but the food is well worth the wait.
Old Spanish Trail Cafe (Bandera). Its Western motif includes a counter of saddles along one wall. There was one absolutely enchanted young man trying out this kind of breakfast seating. There is a display of spurs along another wall, and the overhead lights hang from wagon wheels. There are two rooms, one of which is the John Wayne room. All sorts of pictures of the Duke taken from his many movies decorate these walls. Their lunch buffet was going to be set out in a chuckwagon. I had one breakfast taco (wheat tortilla, scrambled eggs with one added ingredient) for $1.00. It was delicious and just the right size. There is a full menu for those who are hungrier. Big rig parking would be challenging, but you can park at the grocery, and walk across the street.
The Kings Inn (20 miles from Kingsville on Hwy 77 ) On the road to Brownsville TX, a very much travelled road for Winter Texans. The inn is on FM 628, a left turn from Hwy 77 coming from the North. The lightly breaded shrimp are absolutely tops, served with their secret tartar sauce, the likes of which we had never tasted. The oysters are very good too. Lunch prices are around $10 and each lunch is served with fresh tomatoes and fries.
Big Thicket Smokehouse & Craft Corral (Kountze) Just want to let everyone know about a Bar-B-Que place in Southeast Texas. This "smokehouse" had some of the best country smoked meat and Bar-B-Que that I have ever tasted. The atmosphere of the restaurant is unique and the outside looks to be made of logs. It has lots of parking space for the RV's. If you are down in that part of Texas, you must try this place. You will love it!
Cafe Cenizo at The Gage Hotel (Marathon) This one's in the last town en route to Big Bend National Park, in SW Texas. We try to time our arrival for breakfast at this historic hotel. Even if you don't eat here, it's worth a stop just to see the cowboy decor -- chaps hung on pegs, saddles thrown over bannisters, the heads of elk and deer in the courtyard, and the head of a white cow over the fireplace. The food, again with the flavors of the Southwest, is excellent. Park your big rig right across the street.
The Hitchin' Post Steakhouse (1305 Sheffield Rd. Ozona). You won't believe this is a restaurant when you drive up, for it looks like a tin shed, which is what it once was. But they have decorated it and the food is outstanding. It's right off I-10. The town is the county seat of Crockett county and the town square has a monument to Davy Crockett.
The Channel Inn (Highway 87,Sabine Pass) is great for sea food. Inquire before you go. This is in the very South East corner of Texas, South of Port Arthur. Years ago the (2) restaurants were owned by the folks that fished the gulf each day and prepared it each evening. Rustic settings but I thought I had died and gone to heaven when I started in on their all you can eat crabs, oysters, shrimp and fish. Where's the phone! I want a carry out!
The Bavarian Grill, (Plano) Parker Road just west of highway 75. Might be difficult to find a parking place for an RV but it is located in a shopping center.Not "fancy" dress. Anything casual to dressy ok. Mid range for meals. Open Tue-Sat. Reservations suggested (Fri-Sat nites 1-1 1/2 hour wait without res.). Live music (The accordionist Alan Walling is excellent and a very talented entertainer.) in the non-smoking area, and performers in the Bier Garten, (smoking area), provide lots of good music and laughter. The German food is authentic (and we lived in Germany for 2 years), well prepared, and this is just a wonderful place to spend the evening. We enjoy the variety of German beers that are available. The Rouladen, Jaeger Schnitzel, and Sausage plates are our favorites. And the owner/host Jergen tries to make all his guests welcome and satisfied.
Willie B's Barbecue (Alamo) When we winter here, we like to come in for a gigantic baked potato topped with your choice of meat, sauce, cheese - oops, I'm getting hungry for one now! Not much at all on decor, but spent all the money on the food!
Middle America: ( IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, MO, OH, WI).
Illinois:
Al Capone's Hideaway & Restaurant (Saint Charles). A dinner steakhouse, in the middle of nowhere, and well worth the trip. You do need reservations. The last of 200 speakeasies around Chicago, and the only one that is still open as a restaurant. Call 1-800-SCARFACE for directions. From: Linda Rusco
Indiana
Shapiro's Delicatessen: (I-465 north of Indianapolis) 86th St.N just east of Towne Line Road. It is the epitome of a New York Deli transferred to the Mid-West. Their motto is "Cook good, serve generously, price modestly and people will come". Delicious salad dishes, pickled dishes and soups are a prelude to mountainous chicken, meat and fish entrees. But my favorite is the beef brisket sandwich, a 2"-3" slab of thinly sliced superbly cooked hot beef brisket between freshly baked slabs of light rye with your choice of mustards and a slice of dill pickle. A half of one is enough for lunch for us and I suspect most older folks. Scrumptious pies, cakes, puddings and fruits are ready to tempt you for dessert. If you arrive close to noon you can expect a long line but they are quite efficient and the line moves quickly. Seating is no problem. The parking around Shapiro's can handle only cars or small trucks but it is adjacent to a Mall with reasonable parking for smaller RV's and on the west side of Towne Line Road is a huge Mall with acres of parking. From: Derek Spencer
Michigan
Syl's Cafe (Ontonagon) is one of those spots all of us think of and rarely experience. They open before 6:00 A.M and are best at breakfast and lunch. "Yooper" (Upper Peninsula Michigan) food is what they serve, in a typically friendly manner, and with generous portions. When you order an omlette, it will be made with three eggs, unless you specify otherwise. For those of us who like to pack a snack, Syl's does its' own baking, and the goodies are well displayed at the front of the restaurant. Carry out or eat in. Try to translate the "Finnlander" saying on the wall. From: Jim Bradner
Alex's Restaurant (Sanford). About 7 or 8 miles northwest of Midland, get off at
the Sanford exit, turn left to the flashing light, turn right and follow the road about 1/2 mile down on left side. They're undergoing some outside renovation and there is enough room to pull in with even the big motorhomes. My wife & I both had a walleye dinner with three good-sized planks of fish, a mound of fries and cole-slaw for $4.99 !!! Very tasty. They had other lunch specials for $4.99 or less, all looking and smelling very good. There was a good crowd in the diner for 1:30 in the afternoon, but not cramped in. We agreed if we came back to the area, we'd definitely go back there. DEELICIOUS !!!!!
Ohio:
Mayflowers Restaurant (Urbana)There are billions of Chinese in this world and if you want to see what they are going to eat in heaven you have but to stop in Urbana, Ohio at the Mayflowers Restaurant. The place is on the East side of the main drag (route 68) and is unimposing both outside and in. But the food…the food! It is run by Dale Tai and his wife Carol who are hardworking, very friendly and justifiably proud of their culinary skills.
As a sixty year old detester of Chinese food, I entered the place as a gesture of husbandly good will (my wife loves Chinese food, and I love my wife). I reluctantly ordered something from the back page of their menu, the gourmet section I guess, and expecting the usual twigs, leaves, roots
and clumpy rice, I waited like a condemned man for my food to arrive. Carol eased a platter (platter=bigger than a plate…usually used to serve food to a family of four) piled high with some interesting stuff next to a heap of fried rice. Here and there green things peered out from beneath the silky sauce, snow peas, broccoli…you know…stuff. I picked up my only utensil, a fork, and tentatively took in a mouthful.
My tongue smiled and my teeth began to applaud. I was and still am, astonished. I was actually eating Chinese food and liking it. No. Loving it. Each mouthful was ambrosia, and all too soon the platter was clean and my shirt bulged over the warm puddle of wonderful stuff now inside me.
We went back the next night…my choice, not Sue’s (my wife of 35 years). I tried shrimp with shitake mushrooms and it was even better than the previous repast. Since then we have returned many times, driving as much as 50 miles there and 50 miles back, depending on where our RV was planted at the time.DO NOT DIE before you get a chance to stop in the Mayflowers, and when you go be sure to order a second meal to go so you can heat it up and eat it later. Oh yes, be sure to say hello to Carol from Don and Sue.
Meldrum's (Massillon) is one of our favorites in Ohio. On St Rt 241 just on the north side of town. Good home style cooking featuring breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The coffee's always fresh, and we recommend the "German Fries" and "Texas Toast" for breakfast. Located near the road in a large strip center with plenty of parking for big rigs. From: Jeb Bucher
Der Dutchman (Amish kitchen, Bellville) is just off of I-71 exit 165.Every time we are near this exit the RV just heads towards Der Dutchman. Great food, and great service. We have eaten breakfast & dinner here. I recommend the fried chicken or the orange roughy. They bake pies, cake, breads and cookies daily. If you have to wait for a table go upstairs to see the knick knacks.
The Hartville Kitchen (Hartville) is one of the finest eating places in the entire country in my estimation. It is located on State route 619, east of I-77. Hartville is south of Akron. The present restaurant is only about 3 years old and is Amish, therefore is not open on Sunday. There is an extensive gift shop, a pie shop, a bake shop and a balcony that displays quilts for sale. The parking lot is big enough to handle many RV's and buses and is very easy to get into and out of, no matter how large your RV is. Even though this restaurant is only 3 years old, it is a new facility for the original that started about 20 years ago. MMMM----Good
Hamburger Cafe (Delaware) North of Columbus on Hwy 23, was so good we went out of our way on our return trip to eat there again. Met a couple the second time who had waited seven years to get back to it...they have travelled far and near and know all the best spots. Old place on the main street, counter seating only, where you can overhear most of the local gossip while enjoying their home cooked food. One or two lunch specials, as well as the usual hamburgers and lunch fare, and the breakfast was just outstanding. Home made pecan rolls, biscuits and gravy, and all those homey comfort foods. It is a small town with parking lots or parking on side streets. Its worth walking a couple of blocks to step back into small town cafe like America used to have.
Minnesota:
The Flapjack Family Restaurant (McIntosh) Here in a very neat small town we had a delicious breakfast amid some of the friendliest folks we've found anywhere. There are no"strangers" here -- just family and friends. A sign on the restaurant wall reads "If you don't know where you're going, you'll end up someplace else"
Missouri:
Dianthas (South 65 hy, Sedalia) This place is fantastic. Everybody is dressed in old time fashion. They serve up country cookin in large quantities and have a chicken fried steak that is sooooo big they will divide it for a couple cost under $10.00 amazing. If you leave this place hungry and with out a doggie bag with enough for lunch the next day you must have a huge appetite! Plenty of parking in back for the big RV's. From sheila Kear
Lambert's Cafe (The Home of the Throwed Rolls) (Hwy 65, about 10 miles South of I44 between Springfield and Branson), Since eating out is one favorite form of recreation for RVers like ourselves, let me add one of our local establishments to your forum. Lambert's Cafe (The Home of the Throwed Rolls) is a unique and filling experience for anyone. Their motto comes from the tradition of young staffers wheeling trays of marvelous yeast hot rolls into the midst of the large rooms of diners, and responding to any upraised arm by tossing a piping hot roll into the hand of that person. The food is excellent country fare, with accompanying extras of fried okra, fried potatoes and onions, sorgum molasses, and other foods brought to the tables by roving servers. One should be prepared to leave stuffed, after enjoying the rustic ambiance of the building.
Stewarts (on the strip of Bagnell Dam (Bus. 54), Lake of the Ozarks) Tough parking an RV but one of the best places that I have ever eaten, both for quality and value. Their take out sticky buns come in a plastic container by themselves with frosting ladled over it. When I get one for my wife, my blood sugar jumps just looking at it. The entrees are very reasonable. Good home cooked food.
Wisconsin:
In East Troy (about 30 miles southwest of Milwaukee) there is the best little breakfast place right on the square in the middle of town. We have enjoyed it for years, but you will find quite a few farmers gathering there in the early hours of the morning. Bread has been homemade and extra thick. The atmosphere is plain down home small town restaurant, but just the way we like it. Try it out if you're nearby. From: DNord
Back East:( CT, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT )
Maine:
Bob's Clam Hut (Kittery, on Route 1). This is a great place for lunch or dinner. We travel back to southern Maine as often as we can, and Bob's is always a "must-stop". Nothing in our travels compares with their haddock sandwiches, and the clam and scallop baskets are right up there, too. We've watched it grow over the years, but the food stays consistent. Lots of shopping outlets on both sides of the 4 lane road. Limited parking space at Bob's Clam Hut, but there is a large parking lot right next door at Kittery Trading Post that might accommodate smaller RV's. We just drive our vehicle from the campground, which is our recommendation. From: the Wallaces, GWall92415@aol.com. (11/08)
Moody's Diner (Waldoboro). On Route 1 between Wiscasset & Rockland. North of Bath. Wonderful home made pies, great fish sandwiches & great food. A must stop going up the coast for breakfast, lunch or just dessert and coffee. From: L Max Sallee
Farmington Diner (Farmington) This place has old style decor booths, counter seating, juke box can be played from booth. large portions, home cooking and seafood Rreasonable prices,Maine favorites for breakfast.
Thompson's Restaurant (Bingham) Outdoor decor with mounted wildlife and fish gracing the walls,old style booths and counter. Great food reasonable prices with homemade soups and baked pies, breads, turkey dinner is traditional every Sunday, Excellent place to dine. Ask the locals about free camping in the area.
Just-A-Diner (Sanford) at the junction of U S Route 202 (East-West) and 109 (North-South). This is an old fashioned family diner with great breakfasts and super family style lunches. The best cole slaw and the best hamburgers you'll find anywhere ! This diner is operated by fellow RVers, Bob and Gloria Westgate. Parking is available across the street in the Downtown Shopping Mall. They open at 6 am and close at 2 pm. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
Helen's (Machias) Right on Route 1 They have outstanding food, service and great prices. They are world famous for their home made pies, but no matter what time of day or meal you order it will be excellent! They have parking that can easily accommodate an RV even with a tow dingy in place. If you are ever in downeast Maine this place is a must!
Grammies Restaurant (Haynesville Woods) (Linneus, on Rte 2) The narrow ribbon of a road (made famous in a country western song) lived up to our expectations, as we meandered south through miles of potato fields before becoming completely immersed in the "woods". And it's also quite a distance between towns. We found one of the very few rustic cafes along this route for breakfast. For $1.79, the morning special was two eggs cooked to order, home fried fresh Maine potatoes, "grilled" fresh home made toast, and coffee. We'd never even heard of "grilled" toast, but it was excellent. If this rings a bell with a reader, hopefully you'll send us the name of this wonderful "out east" find.
J Levas found the name and adds: Try the club sandwich Sliced chicken is in chunks. You will need a mouth stretcher to get it in your mouth. The french fries are locally harvested. bring a brown bag, you will need it.
Massachusetts:
Woodmans of Essex, (Route 133 near Ipswich and Gloucester on the North Shore). Claims to have served the first fried clam. The sweetest Essex clams, awesome scallops, whole lobster and fried lobster, clam chowder, etc. Very rustic, not fancy. A tradition since 1914 From: Linda Rusco
New Hampshire:
Johnson's Restaurant & Dairy Bar. Rt. 4, Northwood, (east ofConcord) Family-run. Good homestyle cooking morning, noon, & night. Great buffet breakfast on Sunday mornings. Large parking lot with 2 entrances to highway & room for large RV. Also sell NH jams, honey, & souvenirs as well as doll-lamps and cookies & pies to go.
New Jersey:
Ummm's Ice Cream Parlor (Burlington) and it is good! Lovely historical town, beautiful river walk. Found a wonderful ice cream parlor @ 236 High & Union Sts. Homemade ice cream and great coffees in a lovely Victorian setting.
New York:
Be Happy Café (Union Springs) On route 90 in the finger lakes region at the northeastern end of Cayuga Lake, 20 minutes off interstate exit 41. The food and service are excellent. It is a family run business and the owners are on the premises and value their customers. Open until 1:00 PM. Sundays all you can eat pancake special with many pancake varieties. A large Municipal parking lot is available on the main street. We prefer to take the street by Trinity United Church leading to a large free parking lot on the lake at Frontac Park. Although a short walk back up to main street, the Frontac parking lot has a beautiful view of the lake. The Lake Side Indian Reservation gas station up the street also adds to the value of our visit. From: Mark Flynn. 8/09
KC Corner Restaurant (Rt 20). 1 mile from Cooperstown Shadowbrook Campground ( very good place to stay if you have kids). Also near Glimmerglass State Park. The food is home cooked and very good and affordable. They offer a Sunday breakfast and lunch buffet besides their regular menu. We camp near by and visit twice a year. You are about 1 hour from the Baseball Hall of Fame and Fly Creek Cider Mill ( another place for kids). From: Patrice Gregory 10/05
Samantha Carter (Marcy) In upstate New York, 2 miles off the New York state thruway exit 31 on old river road across the road from the big Agway oil tanks. The diner is an old stainless steel diner with a dining room built on the back. Nice decor, the atmosphere is pleasant, the wait staff is very friendly, the food is great, and the prices are very reasonable. The parking lot is big to accommodate lots of truckers. They serve breakfast and lunch Mon. -Thursdays Friday till 8 PM and serve a large fish fry Sat. Sun hours are 8 till 1 for breakfast. I know all this because I work near there and I eat there at least 4 times a week. From: George Polley
King of the Frosties (Spectator) Here we found not an ice cream parlor, but an attractive "homey" breakfast restaurant. Our waitress, Janice Peasley, was very knowledgeable about the town, the county (Hamilton), and the different routes through the Adirondacks. Good food and great information for the RVer passing through.
Pennsylvania:
The Dutch Kitchen (Frackville) - Great home cooking at reasonable prices. Many items are Pennsylvania Dutch recipes.The restaurant is located on the main street of Frackville and getting a big rig in and out of the parking lot can be a challenge.
Southeast: ( AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV)
Alabama:
Wolf Bay Lodge (Foley, near Gulf Shores) Excellent seafood, prepared the southern way. Hearty portions, come ready to "chow" down. Off the beaten path can accommodate any size RV. Reputation in the area so great that they do not advertise. Inquire in Foley as to directions, approx 5 to 7 miles from town. Have been in business for many years. My advice arrive early, open 5pm for dinner. From: Jasacarpenter
Arkansas:
Pozza's Pasta Restaurant (Springdale) sits in the Center Point Strip Mall(plenty of parking and commonly referred to as the Red Roof Mall by the locals) right off of 412 West. If you want homemade, handmade pasta, Italian dinners this is the place. I will tell (warn) you there is NOTHING fancy about this place. It is very clean but it is a "come as you are" restaurant. (Remember, you do have to wear shirts and shoes due to health regulations) It reminds me of the old time downtown cafes that I used to visit with my dad on Saturday mornings. I wouldn't hesitate to go in to the restaurant at all, even if I had been on the road all day. It is locally owned by a family that has been in the area for years and is very down home. No maitre de' or fancy napkins here! It is also very inexpensive and a lot of their handmade pasta is prepackaged to take with you. Once you have had their linguine, you will never buy cheap spaghetti noodles again! From: Karen McDowell
Florida:
Floyd's Diner (High Springs) Great food, nice reproduction of 50's. Not just another diner. From: Carol & Fritz Maiser
Country Kitchen (Tallahassee, 5810 North Monroe Street). They are open from early early morning until afternoon and serve breakfast all day and they have a lunch menu that is all home cooking. For breakfast they have a "Potato Delight" that is out of this world, it is home fries with sausage gravy on them and eggs on top. They are located in a shopping center and there is RV parking. From: PSDLAD
Angie's Diner (Homestead) Located on the right side when going south on Highway 1 (toward Key Largo) In the middle of the "jungle" of fast food restaurants that sprouted after hurricane Andrew, Angie's is a small clean place with great breakfast and lunch menu. There is a large gravel parking lot. We never had a bad experience at any time of year there. I think they open at 6Am! From: "Ben and Syl"
Emilys (Homosassa) --2 miles above where SR 98 & 19 meet- about 65 miles north of Tampa/St. Pete.)tis worth the time to visit for a clean place with well priced meals..... breakfast, lunch, or dinner. RV parking is along the shoulder of rt 19... the restaurant is at the intersection of Cardinal Ln. & Rt 19...... and there is a gas station just before it ( Circle K) with clearance for big RV. This is a favorite place of my wife & me as we live just about 3 miles away and eat here often! Wave as you drive by Sugarmill Woods..... thats us! From Ron Rosenwald
Lazy Days (Islamorda) US-1, Mile Marker 79.9, Oceanside, in the Florida Keys. was cited as one of six great waterfront restaurants in America by a national TV show. On the second floor of the building you dine on the
porch overlooking the ocean. The food is fine, and reasonably priced. We've paid under $10 each for lunch and as much as $20 for a salad with lobster. The service is excellent, the view is grand, what more do you want? Limited parking. From:RVfromNC
Buddy Freddies (Rt. 19 in Holiday) The food is great and served buffet, moderately priced. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Everything is good, from the biscuits to the cobbler.
Busters (Destin) Busters is in a shopping mall right across from the huge outlet mall in Sandestin. There is no better seafood place than "Buster's". You would never know it was such a good restaurant unless you had heard so from a Destin resident--not your typical tourist trap advertising. The best thing is their happy hour, which is daily until about 6:00 pm--oysters on the half shell for something like a buck If you are a seafood fan, don't miss this one.
The Harbor Docks (Destin): on Hwy 98 in Destin has excellent food with lunch specials every day. The seafood is always fresh.
The Branch Ranch (Plant City) A great, family run restaurant, easily accessible from I-4, and just an exit up from Lazy Dazes RV megacenter. Their specialties are Southern cooking, with great and modestly priced meals complemented by relishes, marmalades, and biscuits. It is located on the original Branch farm, which was homesteaded in the mid-19th century and sits amid orange groves, pasture land and vegetable fields. It can be reached from either Exit 10 or 11 from I-4. A great treat in an area filled with chain restaurants!
The Doughnut Hole (Santa Rosa Beach) This popular cafe has the most scrumptious breakfasts -- "served anytime" (6am to 10pm). Try the cheese grits, home fries and pit smoked ham. Some limited RV parking. The doughnuts, muffins, cakes and cookies are wonderful.
Georgia:
Edna's Restaurant (Chatsworth,) just south of town on US Highway 411 - southern style cooking - fried chicken, country fried steak and fresh pies (local favorite is peanut butter; I'm partial to the coconut) are out of this world - worth either the 20-mile detour off I-75 or taking an alternate route off I-75 to take US Highway 411 from Cartersville, GA to Knoxville, TN (pretty drive) From: Bill and Lynn Rodgers 9/05
The Calhoun Cafe, (Calhoun) Right off I-75, in front of the Best Western. The owner is friendly and her cooking is superb, Southern-style, with generous portions. Soups are all made from scratch, and everything was very fresh. Wonderful inexpensive food.
Mrs. Wilkies Dining Room (Savannah) It is located down town at 107 West Jones Street, in an old yellow house right in the commercial district. There is no sign, but there is always a line waiting to get in. They seat 10 people at a time at huge round tables, family style. You will be confronted with a wide variety of Southern home cooking that will knock your culinary socks off! We heard about it from several RVers down in Florida. From: LSousa
Louisiana
Cooter Brown's ( Robert) U.S. 190, 6 miles east of Hammond, La. and about 11/2 miles south of Yogi Bear Campground) Monster burgers and some of the best seafood that you will ever eat at great prices. Cooter Brown's is approximately 1/2 mile east of Highways US.190 and La. 40. Small parking lot but easy parking early afternoon. Hours are Wed-Sat. 11am-8pm. Tell them Virginia sent you. You will not be disappointed. Phone # 985 345 4297 From: Virginia Hawkins
Tom's Place, Oyster Bar, Seafood Steaks, Po-Boys (Empire) Thomas Morovich, Owner, Championship oyster opener. Great food at reasonable prices. From: Bob & Peggy Herlocker - "Not all who wander are lost!"
Boutte's, (south of Lafitte) a mile from the end of the road. From: Bob & Peggy Herlocker
Chef Roy's (Rayne), the frog capital of the world. Try the "catfish willie"( it is habit forming), chicken enchilada and the crabmeat white lake. These will hold you for awhile. From: Doc Soileau
Lea's Restaurant (Lecompte). is on US 71 and can be reached from I-49 via hwy LA 112, about 15 miles south of Alexandria.This is one of these old family owned restaurants and serves home style food and makes some of the best pies in the nation.
Middendorfs Seafood Restaurant (Manchac). on I-55 between Laplace and Hammond. The thin sliced fried catfish will melt in your mouth!
La Provence (hwy 190 between Mandeville & Lacombe, LA). French cooking, charming atmosphere. Prices moderate (about $25 for a four course meal at weekends). Food is great.
Sal & Judy's, (Lacombe). Casual atmosphere. Seafood and Italian. Very good.
Foti Oyster Bar (St. Martinvile) 108 South Main St (in Lafayette area) Great spot for light fare, oysters and of course crawfish. Housed in an old grocery store, Great eating and great prices. Happy hour 4-6pm at $1.00 Believe it !
Comeaux Cafe (Abbeville) "CC's" to the locals. A wonderful place for breakfast or lunch and you will meet the local folks. We had our first cups of Community Coffee (made with lo-o-ove) and a warm Cajun welcome from Jane Fontenot. Try their Friday fish buffet -- they especially tout their gumbo. Right across from the civil war court house.
Richards (Abbeville) Richards (prounounced re-CHARDS') is the local's choice for crayfish. They have a full menu, but when we went, only one person was eating something other than the heaping platters (3# or 5#) of these delicious crustaceans.
Dupuy's (Abbeville) Again, while there are highly advertised options that target the tourist trade, this is another strong "local choice". This restaurant does for oysters what Richards does for crayfish. Tom had oysters on the half shell, and their specialty -- a baked oyster dish. My crab dinner was fantastic. To the great food add the charm and expertise of the owners, Tonya and Jody Hebert (prounounced "A-bear"). You'll likely meet Tonya, who orchestrates the service and takes a personal interest in the dining experience of each patron; while her husband Jody is the chef who makes it all happen...
Mississippi
The Bellemont Shake Shop (Natchez, right on the MS river). It serves wonderful burgers and an assortment of other delicious items. So if you ever find yourself in MS on Highway 61 South, come by. From: JenC 6/2005
+++Sounds like a good place to visit -- though I often wonder about the connection between the cafe reviewer and the cafe itself.
North Carolina
Mayflower Seafood (Rural Hall off highway 52 and US 65) is a very good seafood restaurant. Near them in a shopping center is an Italian restaurant called Little Italy. Very Good, and Very nice people. Good service both places. Bon Appetite from D.Peay
Stameys (Greensboro). Its near the Coleseum. Just follow the signs. Its about 15 minutes off the interstate. If you like pork BBQ and hushpuppies with a peach cobbler and ice cream you will be glad you went. From: Dan Allred
Oceanic (Wrightsville Beach), on the coast a few miles east of Wilmington. Take US-74-76 to Wrightsville Beach. Cross the bridge, continue straight about a mile to the firsts light, turn right alongside the docks for the recreational boats until the road jogs left toward the ocean and turn left when you reach the ocean. The Oceanic is an oceanfront restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining. The food is considered the best seafood in the Wilmington area. The service is efficient. The view varies as the weather -- sometimes the surfers are surfing off shore which adds color. Off season there is adequate parking in the area, in season better have a car and not a motorhome. A favorite of locals. From: RVfromNC
South Carolina:
The Dock, (Moncks Corner) All you can eat seafood and spaces to park your RV while there or for the night. Close to Lake Moultry and prices are reasonable.
Tennessee:
Cotton Patch (Sugar Tree) off I-40 (Exit 108, turn south). Their parking lot has an area for big rigs. Great barbeque and seafood buffets on Friday and Saturday nights and a super Sunday dinner (11:00-2:00) buffet. Great prices, too. They have the absolutely best chocolate chess pie I've ever eaten. Their regular menu is good, but the buffets are outstanding. from Susie Osborn
Apple Cake Tea Room (Knoxville) Located 1/8 mile south of I-40/75 on Campbell Station Road in Farragut, a western suburb of Knoxville.This is one of the best "lunch" type restaurants . Having a small RV allows us to explore a bit more than we once could. We found the best chicken salad ever and a fruit boat that's just wonderful. A bit upscale but worth a look or two from locals wondering where you came from! From: John Andrews
Klondike Rib and Salmon BBQ (2nd Ave. and Steele St. (across from the Frantic Follies) Whitehorse, Yukon Terr.) Absolutely the best halibut & chips I've ever tasted...and I'm the Captain of a fishing boat and eat fish all the time. Very lightly battered and truly delicious. From: Jerry Barber
Walker's Continental Divide Lodge, Mile 721, Alaska Highway (Yukon Terr.) Advertising "Breakfast all day", this cafe draws lots of folks driving between Watson Lake ande Teslin. The proprietors are apt to sit with you and have a cup of coffee, and all the travelers share their Alaska Highway stories. The food is delicious; my omelette and Tom's ham & eggs were finished in record time. They make their own bread, and the cinnamon rolls come highly recommended. Easy parking, as there is a gas station right in front.
Mukluk Annie's, (Teslin, Yukon Terr.) -- is 9 miles north of Teslin at Mile 784.3 (Historical Mile 812) of the Alaska Highway on the shores of Teslin Lake. They have a great salmon bake (you can have salmon, barbecued ribs, steaks or pork chops and an all-you-can-eat salad bar). And, for breakfast, they have delicious blueberry pancakes (all you can eat...just start with one and go from there) with eggs, bacon & sausage. They also have free overnight camping, free water and a free dump station. If you stay overnight and have their salmon bake, you also get a free RV wash and a free houseboat ride on the lake.
Iron Creek Lodge (Alaska Highway, mile 596, Yukon Territory) Not too attractive on the outside, but very nice on the inside. Fresh biscuits, cookies and other goodies, baked daily. A very good breakfast, overlooking Iron Creek Lake, reputed to be full of trout! Vern and Dee Hinson are the friendliest of hosts. Lots of parking.
Dutchman Restaurant (Anahim Lake, BC) When you're "way out there" on the Chilcotin trail (BC Highway 20), the last thing you're expecting to find is an almost "downtown" type restaurant. The way the diners are dressed will remind you you're still hundreds of miles from the nearest stop light, but the fare here certainly doesn't suffer from its distance from supplies.
Crabby's (by the ferry dock, Prince Edward Island) Appropriately decorated with large pictures of lobsters, it offers excellent lobster sandwiches on local bakery bread, all served by the proprietor who isn't at all crabby. In fact he was delighted to talk about his Island, and made the wait for the next ferry an enjoyable experience. Hopefully this place has somehow survived "the bridge".
Braeside House (Pictou, Nova Scotia). No breakfast cafe here. This time we were on the B&B circuit for a few days off from RVing. But we'd be remiss in not mentioning this historic country inn with a marvelous restaurant. The entire building is full of antiques, from the carpets to the furniture. The dinner, Atlantic salmon stuffed with scallops and crab with Jarlsberg cheese, and Caesar salad, was scrumptious. This one is much more elaborate than our usual dining destinations, but worthy of mention here.
MEXICO
The Laughing Rooster (Melaque about 200 Km south of Puerto Vallharta, off Mexico Hwy 200) It's run by a Canadian couple from BC. Great Mexicana food and beautiful decor, outdoor garden in the back.
Yolandas Restaurant (La Manzanilla, off Mexico 200 Hwy) Mexican and Euro combination. Yolanda and Leon are great hosts and will sit and chat with you about their world travels on motorcycles
La Curva (Puerto Penasco, Mexico) This one is not located on the water, so there are fewer tourists. We'd tried a number of the local restaurants, and this has become our favorite for Mexican food when we're visiting Rocky Point. You'll find many Penascans here enjoying a special family outing.
Hotel Del Desierto (Puerto Penasco, MX) for local flavor try this spot. Good for breakfast, lunch or dinner. J.R.s BBQ (Puerto Penasco, MX) close to Las Glorias, fantastic ribs. Try Gamma, for real local flaver and good fish tacos, next to Las Glorias. None of these are over run with tourists, just us frequent Rocky Pointers. enjoy!
Other.....This is specifically for those who prefer more Safe & Natural foods,...ie: health food restaurants. As one on a strict cancer-recovery diet, I must avoid all regular restaurants & supermarkets,...seeking out designated health food facilities. I located a great little book called "Tofu Tollbooth" which is a great help in locating the alternative eateries.
Want to add to the list? Just send along your favorite "special place" for RVers to visit while they're rolling down the road where you have been...