San Bernardino, a city steeped in history and radiating California charm, is undergoing a culinary renaissance. Beyond its Route Sixty-Six legacy, a vibrant and diverse food scene bubbles beneath the surface, waiting to be explored. Forget the generic chain restaurants; this city boasts a treasure trove of authentic flavors, innovative chefs, and hidden gems that will tantalize your taste buds. This guide is your passport to the best San Bernardino has to offer, a curated journey through local favorites and undiscovered delights catering to every palate and budget. We’ve considered local popularity, quality ingredients, unique offerings, value for money, and the overall dining experience to bring you this selection. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of San Bernardino!
Mexican Food Delights: A San Bernardino Staple
No exploration of San Bernardino’s culinary landscape is complete without acknowledging the profound influence of Mexican cuisine. It’s more than just food; it’s a cultural cornerstone, woven into the fabric of the city. From family-run taquerias serving time-honored recipes to innovative chefs pushing the boundaries of traditional flavors, San Bernardino offers a Mexican food experience that is both authentic and exciting. Here are a few must-try spots:
Tacos El Gordo
This lively taqueria is a local institution, renowned for its generous portions and mouthwatering tacos. The atmosphere is buzzing, the service is friendly, and the aroma of sizzling carne asada fills the air. But it’s the tacos that truly steal the show. Each tortilla is lovingly handmade, providing the perfect vessel for their tender, flavorful meats. The carne asada is a must-try, marinated to perfection and grilled to juicy perfection. Don’t miss their al pastor, marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, shaved thin, and bursting with flavor. They also offer a wide array of traditional toppings, from cilantro and onions to spicy salsas, allowing you to customize your taco to your exact preference. Tacos El Gordo is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience – a taste of authentic Mexican culture at a price that won’t break the bank. What truly sets Tacos El Gordo apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and tradition. The recipes have been passed down through generations, and the ingredients are always fresh and locally sourced whenever possible.
La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop
This gem takes a different approach, offering a more contemporary twist on Mexican cuisine. While you’ll still find familiar favorites like tacos and burritos, La Santisima elevates these dishes with gourmet ingredients and creative flavor combinations. Think slow-braised short rib tacos with pickled onions and a chipotle aioli, or grilled shrimp burritos with mango salsa and avocado crema. They use high-quality cuts of meat, locally sourced produce, and homemade sauces to create a truly elevated dining experience. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or a special dinner. What distinguishes La Santisima is their dedication to innovation. They constantly experiment with new flavors and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what Mexican food can be. But despite their modern approach, they remain true to the core values of Mexican cuisine: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a passion for sharing good food with good people. This restaurant also sources a lot of their ingredients from local farms and businesses.
Carnitas Uruapan
For a truly authentic and budget-friendly experience, check out Carnitas Uruapan. This no-frills establishment specializes in, as the name suggests, carnitas. And they do them exceptionally well. Carnitas, slow-cooked pork that is incredibly tender and flavorful, is the star of the show here. The pork is cooked in large copper pots until it’s fall-apart tender and crispy on the edges. You can order it by the pound and enjoy it with warm tortillas, salsa, and your choice of toppings. The simplicity of the menu belies the incredible depth of flavor. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the art of slow cooking and the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Carnitas Uruapan is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best food is the simplest food. It’s a place where you can experience the true flavors of Mexico without breaking the bank. It is a family run business that began with a small food truck.
American Comfort Food & Classic Diners: A Taste of Nostalgia
While San Bernardino embraces its diverse culinary influences, it also celebrates the timeless appeal of American comfort food and classic diners. These establishments offer a taste of nostalgia, serving up familiar favorites with a hearty dose of hometown charm.
Mitla Cafe
A must-visit for any diner enthusiast is Mitla Cafe. This historical establishment has been serving up classic American and Mexican dishes since 1937, and is considered by many to be the inspiration for Taco Bell. The atmosphere is steeped in history, with vintage photographs adorning the walls and a friendly, welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The menu is a treasure trove of comfort food staples, from juicy burgers and crispy fries to fluffy pancakes and creamy milkshakes. But it’s their Mexican dishes that truly shine, a testament to their heritage and the influence of the city’s vibrant Mexican community. Mitla Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it’s a piece of San Bernardino history, a place where generations have gathered to enjoy good food and good company. The secret to Mitla Cafe’s enduring success lies in their commitment to quality and tradition. The recipes have been passed down through generations, and the ingredients are always fresh and locally sourced. The service is warm and friendly, making you feel like a part of the family.
The Sycamore Inn Prime Steakhouse
For a modern take on American cuisine, head to The Sycamore Inn Prime Steakhouse. This restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience, serving up prime cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and innovative American dishes. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The menu is carefully curated, showcasing the best seasonal ingredients and culinary techniques. The steaks are cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, and the seafood is impeccably fresh. The Sycamore Inn also boasts an extensive wine list, featuring both domestic and international selections. What sets The Sycamore Inn apart is its commitment to excellence. From the quality of the ingredients to the impeccable service, every detail is carefully considered to create a truly memorable dining experience. It’s a place where you can indulge in the finer things in life and savor the art of fine dining. This place has been serving the area since 1848.
Global Flavors: Expanding Your Culinary Horizons
San Bernardino’s food scene isn’t just about Mexican and American cuisine; it’s a melting pot of global flavors, reflecting the city’s diverse population. Embark on a culinary journey around the world without ever leaving San Bernardino.
Pho Saigon Pearl
This popular Vietnamese restaurant is known for its authentic pho, a flavorful noodle soup that is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine. The broth is simmered for hours, infused with aromatic spices and herbs, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. You can customize your pho with your choice of meats, vegetables, and toppings. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls, banh mi sandwiches, and rice plates. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. What makes Pho Saigon Pearl special is its commitment to authenticity. The recipes have been passed down through generations, and the ingredients are carefully selected to ensure the most authentic flavor. It’s a place where you can experience the true taste of Vietnam without traveling across the world. They also have a large menu with many different variations of pho.
I Love Shawarma
This restaurant offers a taste of the Middle East, serving up delicious shawarma, falafel, and other Middle Eastern specialties. The shawarma is marinated to perfection and cooked on a vertical rotisserie, creating a flavorful and juicy meat. The falafel is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the hummus is creamy and flavorful. The restaurant also offers a variety of salads and sides, such as tabbouleh and baba ghanoush. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. What sets I Love Shawarma apart is its commitment to quality and authenticity. The ingredients are fresh and flavorful, and the recipes are carefully crafted to capture the true taste of the Middle East. It’s a place where you can experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East without breaking the bank. They also offer catering services.
Sweet Treats & Desserts: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. San Bernardino offers a variety of dessert options, from classic ice cream shops to innovative bakeries, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Joe’s Italian Ice
For a classic ice cream experience, visit Joe’s Italian Ice. This iconic shop has been serving up refreshing Italian ice and frozen treats for decades. The Italian ice is made with real fruit and is incredibly refreshing on a hot day. They offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic lemon and strawberry to more exotic options like mango and watermelon. They also serve ice cream, milkshakes, and other frozen treats. The atmosphere is nostalgic and fun, making it a great spot for families and friends. What makes Joe’s Italian Ice special is its commitment to quality and tradition. The recipes have been passed down through generations, and the ingredients are always fresh and flavorful. The service is friendly and welcoming, making you feel like a part of the Joe’s Italian Ice family.
Some Crust Bakery
This bakery offers a variety of artisanal breads, pastries, and cakes, all made with high-quality ingredients and a lot of love. The pastries are beautifully crafted and incredibly delicious, from flaky croissants to rich chocolate eclairs. The cakes are perfect for special occasions, with a variety of flavors and designs to choose from. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a coffee and a pastry. What sets Some Crust Bakery apart is its commitment to quality and innovation. They constantly experiment with new flavors and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what a bakery can be. But despite their modern approach, they remain true to the core values of baking: fresh ingredients, attention to detail, and a passion for creating delicious treats. They make all of their ingredients in house.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Uncovering San Bernardino’s Best Kept Secrets
Beyond the well-known establishments, San Bernardino is home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites, waiting to be discovered. These are the places that often fly under the radar but offer a truly unique and memorable dining experience.
Cuca’s Mexican Food
This small, unassuming restaurant serves up some of the most authentic and flavorful Mexican food in the city. Their menu features a variety of traditional dishes, such as enchiladas, burritos, and tacos, all made with fresh ingredients and a lot of love. The portions are generous, the prices are affordable, and the service is friendly and welcoming. Cuca’s is the kind of place where you feel like you’re eating at a friend’s house, surrounded by warmth and hospitality. What makes Cuca’s special is its commitment to authenticity and its dedication to serving the community. It is a small family run business.
Hot Rod Route 66 Cafe
This diner has a Route 66 theme with a full wall display dedicated to the historic highway. They serve classic American food as well as some American-Mexican fusion dishes. They have great reviews and have been in business for a long time. The price is affordable and the portions are generous.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits in San Bernardino
San Bernardino’s culinary scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry, woven together with authentic flavors, innovative chefs, and a strong sense of community. From the mouthwatering tacos at Tacos El Gordo to the elegant steaks at The Sycamore Inn, from the fragrant pho at Pho Saigon Pearl to the sweet treats at Some Crust Bakery, there’s something for everyone to discover in this hidden gem of a city. So, ditch the chain restaurants and embark on a culinary adventure through San Bernardino. Explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide, discover your own hidden gems, and share your experiences with others. San Bernardino’s food scene is constantly evolving, and we encourage you to be a part of the journey. Leave a comment below and tell us about your favorite San Bernardino eats! The future of food in San Bernardino is bright, and we can’t wait to see what delicious creations the city has in store for us.
