Who Has The Bells?
Check out these awesome businesses and local attractions that embody the history and culture of the Mother Road. You can still experience the past when route 66 was at its height at locations still in operation when the route was in commission dating as far back as 1926 and before.
Even “Disney” represented our humble valleys in their attractions and movies. Why not take a smooth drive down Route 66 and experience it for yourself.
For the locals, let’s not let ourselves forget the hidden historical treasury found right here, in sunny Southern California Route 66.
Mitla Cafe
Enjoy authentic Sonoran Mexican food with traditional dishes as how they made it on the route in 1937. In the early days it was a stopping point for western wayward travelers that came down via Cajon pass on the route. It has been reported that Glen Bell the creator of Famed Taco Bell got his idea for tacos form Mitla Cafe while he had his burger stand next door. This is perhaps the best Sonoran style Mexican food in all of Southern California. Come check out Milta, on Route 66.
Wig Wam Motel
Have you seen the movie “Cars” by Disney? In that movie their is the motel that looks like cones, maybe it was inspired by these guys. Everyone as a kid has to stay in one of these funky places, at least once. Don’t worry, you are surrounded by things to do right there on Route 66! Don’t Wait, Book Now!
Peppi's
Do NOT leave until you get a hot sandwich from Peppi’s, you don’t want to have to turn around. They are amazing owners and I have never tried something I didn’t like. Side note, I always notice how fresh the food is and how nice the kitchen is kept. In particular, the Italian steak pepper and onion sandwich and pastrami sandwich. They have a lot of items on the menu and plenty to choose from. Get your grub on!
Pinnacle Peak
When you drive up to Pinnacle Peak you get a sense of the pan handle and the wagon train. Have a cut of steak like the pioneers would have made it in open flame with chuck wagon fixings. This steak house is where the western cow boys and cowgirls came to get a steak. But you must be fair warned, don’t wear a tie! The people are the coolest, the food is great, the portions are huge, prices are fair and the service is outstanding. Want to see that the west is still alive? come check them out and see.
Thomas Vineyards
Thomas Vineyards is touted as being the oldest winery in California established in 1839 before California was a state. Thomas Vineyards sits on the Thomas Winery Plaza and is currently a restaurant and business complex. On site you can still experience the ambiance of yesteryear an enjoy establishments like Coffee Klatch, The Wine Tailor, Maya Bar & Grill and an all you can eat soup and salad bar. There are other restaurants on the site and they have a Sunday Farmers market during the day. There is a lot of history with this site and is part of a larger community of wineries and supporting sites nearby. Check it out.
Red Hill Coffee Shop
Do you remember the good ol’ days? Well, they’re still here at RedHill, come on down to Redhill and let them poor you a cup. Sit behind the counter like the way they used to do it and watch the cook make your food. Great for young ones to experience the old days when they had small coffee shops along the highway. They have malts, pancakes, burgers and just about anything else you want. What are you waiting for, I know you’re hungry.
Wolfes market Claremont
Wolfes Market has been a fixture in Claremont since 1917 as this was the main local market for many years and still operates as the best place to stop for fresh sandwich, baked goods and fresh salads. Wolfes Market is also the site for The Meat Cellar, A high end chop house. The deli is fresh and healthy and has the same high end quality with affordable prices as it did back to when the store was the main stop for groceries for the local community. Check them out and order something for me too.
La Paloma
Joe and Hortensia opened La Paloma in 1966 and it quickly became the go to spot for margaritas, according to local families who lived there for many years. Enjoy traditional Sonoran Mexican food with a comfortable restaurant and bar setting. It’s a family style setting with great service and great endless chips and salsa. When you walk in it is like walking back in time, come on in and have a good time.
Barney’s Beanery
Ready for a journey filled with good vibes and great food? Step into the heart of Cali Route 66 and visit Barney's Beanery, the iconic eatery that's been a SoCal staple since the 1920’s. From Janis Joplin's last meal to Jim Morrison's regular haunt, everyone has a Barney's Beanery story. Now it's your turn to create yours! Dive into a rich history that spans over a century, savor mouth-watering dishes that have stood the test of time, and enjoy a lively ambiance with vintage decor, pool tables, and a jukebox filled with tunes that'll make you groove. Watch this quick tour to see why Barney's Beanery is the ultimate stop on your Route 66 adventure! Visit the main website for more details and directions. Make Barney's Beanery a memorable part of your Route 66 journey!
