California Food Guide for Beginners :: NoGarlicNoOnions: Restaurant, Food, and Travel Stories/Reviews

If you like to eat, California is the state that has much to offer. While this is the birthplace of cheeseburgers and Taco Bell, the fast-food capital of the world is so much more than that. The home to many different cuisines and traditions offers many eclectic tastes. However, if you don't know where and what to try out, this California food guide will give you the needed information. With all the delicious food available to you, make sure to follow the essential tips for healthy outdoor dining.

California food guide for beginners

Restaurants in California

There's always been something magical about California. Years ago, people came to fulfill their fantasies about discovering gold nuggets. In addition to opulence, the land of plenty now offers something else - a dream of fame and glamour. Even though this turns out to be only a dream for most people, there is still plenty to be discovered in this state.

There are wonderful food options in California. First of all, delicious produce is abundant throughout the whole year. A great number of immigrants have introduced cuisines from different parts of the world, available right here in one state. And of course, many restaurants can keep your taste buds busy every day of your life.

Even before you settle down successfully after your relocation to California, you'll notice the multitudes of restaurants on every corner, from sushi bars and kebab shops to Sichuan restaurant and French bistros. Every place makes their dishes a bit differently, even food like tacos. While not knowing what flavor you can find in a new restaurant can be exciting, it can also be challenging finding a place that suits you best. Here's a list of well-known restaurants that deserves your attention.

Benu

At 365 Gellert Boulevard, Daly City, you can offer yourself a dim sum spectacle. As soon as you arrive at Koi Palace, you'll notice people waiting to hear their order called. In the dining room, servers go around koi ponds serving hungry anticipating customers. There are several mouth-watering options, from balls and rolls to buns and rice noodles, so it can be hard choosing what to order. But, one thing is for sure - you should not skip the sugar egg puff.

Koi Palace

Pizzeria Mozza

This wing of the Mozza empire is located at 641 N. Highland Avenue in Los Angeles. While we've seen examples of California pizza decrease in quality from one franchise to another, that is not the case here.

Nancy Silverton has made an empire of a collection of restaurants, and the place for fantastic pizza is Pizzeria Mozza. This airy, yet crispy dough will be all that you need and more from one pizza. Each pizza is a great representation of California, shaped by the local conditions. Right here, you'll see why California is a great place to dine.

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Pie ‘n Burger

During the middle of the previous century, this state made the burger popular. The burger of California set the standard by which all other burgers are measured.

A beef patty on a white bun, with American cheese, onion, lettuce, and pickle with Thousand Island dressing. This is precisely the kind of burger you will find in Pie‘n Burger. At 913 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, you can discover crunchy and iconic burgers, as well as fantastic pie.

Food to try in California

California is home to many traditions and cultures. Eating in California is just like taking a trip across the world, with so many cuisines available here. Also, some of the best recipes were invented right here in the state.

In some cases, California took foreign influences and made it their favorite choice of food. Tacos on menus found across the state are both innovative and authentic. You can visit Nuestro Mexico in Bakersfield, famous for the "best taco in California." If you're looking for excellent sourdough bread in San Fransisco, check out the Boudin Bakery.

But, don't let these diners affect your choice of a new destination when moving. The truth is, you don't have to think too long before you tell your movers where to drive. With diners, restaurants, and bars across the state, you'll be able to try these delicious dishes almost anywhere you move.

Korean BBQ

This state has the largest Korean population in America, which is precisely why California is one of the best places for Korean food. Korean BBQ with banchan is a great meal. You can start with thinly sliced kkotssal or short rib, then continue to the wagyu beef. Besides BBQ, you should try seafood pancakes and glazed pork belly steam buns, and you'll fall in love with Korean food.

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Donuts

You'll find that donuts in California are quite unique. With the inventive design, picture-perfect donuts in California are indeed works of art. However, be careful where you get your donut, as not all places are the same. Check out Krispy Kreme, Dunkin Donuts, or Randy's Donuts to see what it's all about. If you like them covered with cereals and other sweets, California Donuts is a great choice.

If nothing else, remember this from our California food guide: it's not all about chasing the perfect dish. It's more about celebrating the integrity and fluidity of immigrant cooking and adaptations of world-famous dishes. In one place, you'll find a chef recreating an identical version of his grandmother's soup, while in another, the chef will westernize the dish, still making it unique. Both approaches are to be celebrated as reasons why food in this state is so good.

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