A Taste of Claremont: Casual Bites and Everyday Eats
Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Claremont, California, is widely recognized as a vibrant college town, home to the prestigious Claremont Colleges – a consortium of five undergraduate liberal arts colleges and two graduate institutions. However, beyond its academic prowess and tree-lined streets, Claremont boasts a surprisingly diverse and delightful food scene. From casual cafes perfect for a quick bite between classes to upscale restaurants offering sophisticated dining experiences, Claremont caters to a wide range of palates and budgets. This isn’t just about fueling up for late-night study sessions; it’s about savoring flavors, experiencing different cultures, and discovering hidden culinary gems right here in the heart of the Inland Empire. Forget the generic chains; Claremont’s food places offer a unique and authentic taste of California living. Whether you’re a student, a visiting parent, or simply a local looking for your next favorite eatery, this guide will lead you to the best food places claremont has to offer.
For those seeking a quick and satisfying meal without breaking the bank, Claremont offers a plethora of casual dining options. These food places Claremont are ideal for a lunchtime grab-and-go or a relaxed evening with friends.
The Back Abbey
This gastropub is a Claremont institution. Renowned for its impressive selection of craft beers from around the world, The Back Abbey also boasts a mouthwatering menu of gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and hearty appetizers. Their burgers are crafted with high-quality beef and inventive toppings, making them a local favorite. Don’t miss their famous Belgian fries, served with a variety of dipping sauces. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal or drinks with friends. Located in the heart of the Village, it’s a convenient stop after exploring the local shops. The price range is moderate, making it accessible for students and families alike. Consider ordering the Back Abbey Burger and a local IPA!
Some Crust Bakery
If you’re craving something sweet or simply need a caffeine fix, Some Crust Bakery is the place to be. This charming bakery offers a wide array of freshly baked pastries, cakes, cookies, and breads. Their coffee is excellent, and they also serve a selection of breakfast and lunch items. Some Crust is a popular spot for students looking for a place to study or catch up with friends. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is always friendly. Try their almond croissant or a slice of their signature cake. Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a quick and affordable treat. Many consider this one of the best food places claremont for baked goods.
Eureka!
This popular restaurant offers a modern take on classic American fare. Their menu features a variety of gourmet burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Eureka! is known for its extensive selection of craft beers and whiskeys. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great spot for a fun night out. Their burgers are particularly popular, with creative toppings and flavorful patties. Prices are slightly higher than some of the other casual options, but the quality of the food and the atmosphere make it worth it.
Exploring Global Flavors: Claremont’s Ethnic Cuisine Scene
Claremont’s diverse community is reflected in its eclectic range of ethnic restaurants. From authentic Mexican cuisine to flavorful Thai dishes, these food places claremont offer a taste of the world.
Viva Madrid
Step into Viva Madrid and be transported to Spain. This vibrant restaurant offers a wide array of authentic tapas, paella, and other Spanish specialties. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with live music on select nights. Their tapas are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample a variety of different flavors. The paella is a must-try, and their sangria is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Prices are moderate to high, but the quality of the food and the atmosphere make it a special occasion destination.
I Like Thai
For those craving authentic Thai flavors, I Like Thai is a must-visit. This family-owned restaurant offers a wide variety of classic Thai dishes, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Their pad thai is a local favorite, and their curries are rich and flavorful. Prices are very reasonable, making it a great option for a quick and affordable meal. It’s often considered among the top food places Claremont when thinking of Thai food.
Uno Tre Otto
Craving Italian? Uno Tre Otto provides a sophisticated experience. This restaurant delivers delicious pasta and entrees, alongside a wide array of Italian wines. Its romantic and intimate ambiance make it a great option for a date night or special occasion.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: Claremont’s Dessert Destinations
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet treat. Claremont boasts a variety of dessert destinations, from classic ice cream parlors to innovative dessert bars.
Bert and Rocky’s Cream Co.
Step back in time at Bert and Rocky’s Cream Co., an old-fashioned ice cream parlor that has been serving up delicious scoops for generations. They offer a wide variety of classic ice cream flavors, as well as homemade waffle cones and sundaes. The atmosphere is nostalgic and charming, making it a perfect spot for a family outing. Their ice cream is made with high-quality ingredients, and their portions are generous.
B Sweet Dessert Bar
For a more modern and adventurous dessert experience, head to B Sweet Dessert Bar. This innovative dessert bar offers a wide variety of unique and delicious creations, from ube bread pudding to halo-halo. Their desserts are visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The atmosphere is trendy and upbeat, making it a great spot for a night out with friends. Be prepared for a potentially long wait, as this place is very popular.
Caffeine Fix and Cozy Ambience: Claremont’s Coffee Scene
Claremont’s coffee scene is thriving, with a variety of cafes offering everything from classic coffee drinks to specialty roasts. These coffee shops are not just about caffeine; they are also community gathering places, perfect for studying, working, or catching up with friends.
Iron & Kin Coffee Co.
This stylish coffee shop is known for its specialty coffee roasts and its minimalist design. They offer a variety of brewing methods, from pour-over to espresso, and their baristas are knowledgeable and passionate about coffee. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, making it a great spot for a quiet afternoon or a productive work session. They also offer a selection of pastries and light bites.
Student Budget Bites: Delicious Deals Near the 5Cs
For students at the Claremont Colleges, finding affordable and delicious food options is essential. Fortunately, Claremont offers a variety of restaurants that cater to student budgets.
While some places may offer formal student discounts, many others are simply priced affordably enough to be accessible to students. Look for lunch specials, happy hour deals, and casual eateries that offer good value for the money.
Outdoor Dining Delights: Enjoying the Claremont Sunshine
California is known for its beautiful weather, and Claremont is no exception. Many restaurants in Claremont offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal while soaking up the sunshine. From sidewalk cafes to patios with garden views, there are plenty of options for al fresco dining. This really contributes to the appeal of Claremont as having desirable food places.
The Packing House
While technically a collection of different restaurants and bars, The Packing House provides an amazing location with several outdoor dining options. You can find anything from BBQ to pizza, as well as several bars with happy hour specials.
Some Crust Bakery
The outdoor seating at this bakery creates an amazing location to enjoy brunch or coffee with friends.
Beyond the Usual: Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
While the restaurants mentioned above are popular and well-known, Claremont also has a few hidden gems that are worth discovering. Ask locals for their recommendations and explore beyond the main streets to find these culinary treasures. You might be surprised by what you find. One great option to consider is asking students from the local colleges, as they are likely to know of hidden gems that cater to their budgets. The appeal of finding lesser known food places Claremont allows you to explore is undeniable.
A Final Bite: Savoring the Claremont Experience
Claremont’s food scene is a reflection of its vibrant and diverse community. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you find yourself in Claremont, be sure to explore the local food places Claremont has to offer and discover your own culinary gems. Whether you’re a student, a local, or a visitor, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. So, grab your appetite and head to Claremont for a culinary adventure! You will not regret experiencing the best food places claremont has available.
