Stay at El Garces Harvey House: This former railroad hotel also served as a café, and you can get a sense of the historic dining scene that helped shape Route 66. A great spot to enjoy a hearty meal and soak in the vintage ambiance.
El Patio Café: A great casual stop for breakfast or lunch. Enjoy some traditional Mexican fare while surrounded by the desert's stark beauty.

Goffs Schoolhouse Café: A small and charming stop where you might get lucky with a homemade pie or a traditional desert meal. The vibe here is cozy, and the service is always warm.
Desert Picnic: Pack your own goodies (or grab snacks from a local convenience store) and enjoy a laid-back picnic in the stunning Mojave Desert. It’s the perfect spot for some quiet reflection with a good sandwich.

Roy’s Motel & Café: Don’t miss out on their diner-style meals and vintage coffee. It’s all about simple comfort food here—great for a quick stop as you take in the historic atmosphere.
Amboy Crater – Packaged Snacks & Drinks: While not a formal stop for meals, it’s an ideal place to pick up some trail mix or fresh fruit at local convenience stores for a quick snack before hiking.

In-N-Out Burger: Located along Route 66, this iconic California burger joint is a must-try. While it’s not exclusive to Route 66, it’s a rite of passage for any foodie traveling the Golden State. Fast, fresh, and delicious.
Casa Corona: A great spot for authentic Mexican food, like burritos, enchiladas, and tacos. It's a local favorite and budget-friendly, with big portions to keep you going.
Route 66 Mother Road Museum: While you're here, check out the museum's vintage café for classic American diner food in an atmosphere steeped in history.

Apple Valley's Waffle Shop: Start your day with a homemade waffle, fresh eggs, and sausage in a classic roadside diner setting.
The Lemon Grass Grill: A slightly off-the-beaten-path spot for a break from traditional Route 66 food—here you'll find Thai food with a twist, served in a modern setting. Perfect for a fresh take on your food journey.

Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch (Snack Break): While not a food destination in itself, this quirky roadside stop is a great spot for a break with snacks and beverages. Grab a soda or a sandwich from a nearby convenience store and enjoy the bizarre art installations while refueling for the road ahead.
Nearby Mexican Food Stands: Small taco stands and roadside vendors offer delicious tacos, burritos, and tamales, with options for budget-friendly, flavorful bites.

The Original McDonald’s Museum: While the museum is mostly focused on history, you can enjoy a nostalgic meal at the nearby McDonald’s. It's fun to have a bite here to experience a taste of Americana while being surrounded by Route 66 history.
The Wigwam Motel: Stay here and enjoy their diner-style food while experiencing one of the last surviving pieces of Route 66 motels.

Philippe The Original: Home of the original French dip sandwich, Philippe’s is a historic Los Angeles institution and an essential stop for Route 66 foodies. The sandwiches are piled high with delicious meats and drenched in savory au jus.
The Original Pantry Café: A throwback to the 1920s, this diner is always open and serves classic American diner fare, from omelets to sandwiches, making it a great place to fuel up after a long drive.
Grand Central Market: A food hall with everything from tacos to ramen. If you’re looking to explore the diverse food scene in LA, this is the place to go for a multi-cuisine experience in one stop.
Little Tokyo: If you love sushi, ramen, or Japanese street food, a visit to Little Tokyo in downtown LA will delight your taste buds. Try some soba, takoyaki, or matcha desserts as a treat for your Route 66 food journey.

Santa Monica Pier: If you’ve made it this far, celebrate with a meal at The Lobster—a seafood restaurant offering gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and some of the best lobster dishes around.
True Food Kitchen: For a fresh, health-conscious dining option near the coast, True Food Kitchen is known for its flavorful, healthy options like seasonal bowls and wood-fired pizzas.

Must-try Snacks Along Route 66:
- Pie!: You’ll find excellent homemade pies at various diners along the way, including cherry, apple, and pecan pies.
- Route 66 Donuts: Some old-school donut shops still serve up fresh, glazed treats in nostalgic shops, perfect for an on-the-go snack.
- Milkshakes: From vanilla and chocolate to more inventive flavors like peanut butter and banana, a milkshake is a must-have at many Route 66 diners.
- Tacos and Burritos: As you pass through various California towns, don’t miss out on stopping at taco trucks or roadside burrito stands for some of the freshest Mexican fare.

Local Farmers Markets: Many towns along Route 66, like Barstow and Victorville, host weekly farmers' markets where you can grab local produce and street food.
Diner Culture: The Route 66 classic diners offer great meals at a low cost—don’t be afraid to go for the hearty breakfast plates or daily specials.
Taste of History: Many of these spots have been serving up food for generations, so try and enjoy the historic aspects of dining along the route. It’s about experiencing the essence of old-school Americana food.

Wandering Souls