If you live in the Inland Empire, amazing restaurants are closer than you think. Encompassing Riverside and San Bernardino counties, the Inland Empire (also known as the IE) is home to world-class dining to suit all tastebuds. From five-star steaks to hearty diner classics, seafood to spaghetti, and everything in between, you’ll find it on the menu at a restaurant in the Inland Empire.
Although Los Angeles often steals the gourmet spotlight, there are hidden gems in the Inland Empire that offer a wide variety of delectable dishes. Some eateries are classic family destinations that have fed hungry customers for decades, while other IE spots offer new twists on old favorites. No matter your dietary preferences, you’ll find a meal you’ll love!
So bring your appetite and book a ride to deliciousness. Here’s our list of the top 10 best restaurants in the Inland Empire:
1. Canyons Restaurant in San Jacinto
Nestled at the north end of the San Jacinto Valley in Riverside, Canyons Restaurant offers an unparalleled fine dining experience. Their menu includes steak, seafood, and creative entrees offering an elevated take on classic comfort foods.
Diners can also enjoy side dishes like sweet bacon butter corn, sauteed broccolini, and the restaurant’s signature Canyons Potatoes. Seafood fans will love their starters like Cajun calamari and blackened shrimp pasta.
2. Spaggi’s in Upland
If you love Italian food, you’ll love Spaggi’s in Upland. This award-winning eatery serves pastas and other Italian cuisine with a modern twist, using premium, fresh ingredients to dazzle and delight.
As Executive Chef and Owner Henry Gonzalez famously says, “Just like people, food should be beautiful from the inside out.” At Spaggi’s, you can taste this ethos in every bite while enjoying a chic atmosphere that includes a main dining room, outdoor patio, and rooms for private parties.
3. 1909 in Temecula
If you’re looking for the ultimate Inland Empire pub experience, you’ll love 1909 in Old Town Temecula. This modern gastropub is renowned for fine wine, draft beers, handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, and an irresistible menu of burgers, steaks, and veggie favorites like yellow curry tofu.
On weekends, 1909 is the perfect spot for brunch. Invite your friends and family to indulge in the deliciousness while enjoying the streetside patio. 1909 also offers a special late night menu with blue-corn battered Korean corndogs, chipotle cheese fries, and Cali breakfast burritos.
4. Daddyji in Claremont
For Indian food in the Inland Empire, there’s no beating Daddyji in Claremont. Daddyji serves up a unique fusion of Indian and American flavors, featuring an innovative menu with Southeast Asian favorites like tandoori chicken, paneer tikka, butter chicken, spicy vindaloo curry, dosas and more.
But don’t forget beverages! From authentic chai and mango lassi to pineapple lemonade and fresh coconut water, Daddyji also offers delightful drinks to quench any thirst.
5. Painted Dough in Redlands
Got a sweet tooth? Although it’s not a place for main courses, we couldn’t curate a list of Inland Empire eateries without a shout-out to Redlands’ signature donut shop Painted Dough. Painted Dough offers delicious donuts to please everyone, young and old.
Voted Best Fancy Donuts & Mochi Donuts in the IE, Painted Dough also offers plant-based options and a full tea and coffee bar. Enjoy their crisp cold brew coffee with a Strawberry Funnel Cake donut, taro mochi donut, or vegan Biscoff donut.
6. Apple Annie’s in Oak Glen
In the fall, there’s no better Inland Empire getaway than a daytrip to Oak Glen for apple-picking. After an afternoon filling apple baskets, don’t forget to drop by Apple Annie’s restaurant for hearty meals and happy memories.
Apple Annie’s is a country-western themed diner the whole family will love. Enjoy family-style seven course meals or entrees like burgers and patty melts. With its delightful rustic decor, Apple Annie’s will make your day.
7. Belgian Waffle Works in Lake Arrowhead
Can’t decide where to eat in Lake Arrowhead? Don’t “waffle” on Belgian Waffle Works. Located dockside at this Inland Empire town’s namesake lake, Belgian Waffle Works boasts a menu of 18 different sweet and savory waffles.
Their menu also includes burgers, sandwiches, and salads. It’s the perfect spot to savor delicious food, clean mountain air, and sparkling lake views in the Inland Empire.
8. Hickory Ranch Steakhouse in Yucaipa
In Yucaipa, Hickory Ranch Steakhouse has served up great food since 1988 in a warm, friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for families, friends, and couples. Try their signature 40 day dry-aged steaks, charbroiled baby back ribs, seafood, sandwiches, and more.
Hickory Ranch Steakhouse also features an extensive menu of sides, salads, and desserts. Diners can savor their meal while sipping handcrafted cocktails, draft beers, wine, and other beverages.
9. Pizzaioli in Chino
Known for its premium ingredients and extensive wine list, Pizzailoi in Chino is a family-owned pizzeria and Italian restaurant that’s been offering delicious dishes since 1995. Choose from pizza, pasta, veggie entrees, seafood, and more. This cute, cozy restaurant also offers gluten-free options.
Patrons of Pizzaioli particularly love its quaint patio for outdoor seating. From date nights to casual lunches, it’s one of the best spots for Italian food in the Inland Empire.
10. Cask ‘n’ Cleaver in Rancho Cucamonga
For over 40 years, Cask ‘n’ Cleaver in Rancho Cucamonga has served up mouth-watering meals for lunch and dinner. This relaxed, rustic steakhouse pours California wines and cocktails while nourishing guests with fresh seafood, great burgers, and – of course – premium steaks.
If you enjoy being part of the daytime or early bird crowd, you’ll love their 11:30am to 7:00pm happy hour menu on weekdays. Cask ‘n’ Cleaver also has private banquet rooms for holiday gatherings, rehearsal dinners, club meetings, and more.
Travel to Your Next Feast in Style
Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a big birthday dinner, or just want to sample something new, the Inland Empire has a restaurant you’ll love. But don’t let the hassle of traffic and parking disrupt your dining experience.
Our family-owned operation can pick you up or drop you off anywhere in Southern California. We offer safe, reliable rides in comfort and style. When you travel with Xpress Shuttles, you’ll arrive for the reservations at your favorite Inland Empire restaurant on-time, every time. Call 866-805-4234 to book a ride today or make reservations online.