Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial with a food-focused road trip from Chicago to Santa Monica. This guide features 30 classic Route 66 restaurants, including Lou Mitchell’s, Cozy Dog Drive In, Ted Drewes, Pops, The Big Texan, 66 Diner, Delgadillo’s Snow Cap, Mitla Cafe and The Albright, with addresses, prices, must-order dishes and official Instagram accounts.
Route 66 Road Trip Food Guide｜30 Classic Restaurants from Chicago to Santa Monica
Route 66 is more than a highway. It is a cultural journey through American small towns, desert landscapes, neon motels, historic gas stations and traditional roadside diners.
Established in 1926, the historic route stretches for approximately 2,400 miles. It begins in Chicago, Illinois, and continues through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California before reaching Los Angeles and Santa Monica.
The year 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66, with exhibitions, car gatherings, road events and local celebrations taking place throughout the eight states.
Route 66 is no longer a single continuous highway carrying the same road number from beginning to end. A modern road trip combines Historic Route 66 segments, local streets, state highways and portions of the Interstate system.
For this reason, travelers should prepare a dedicated Route 66 map and download offline navigation instead of relying only on a standard Google Maps route.
This guide follows the traditional east-to-west direction from Chicago to Santa Monica and features 30 classic restaurants, dessert shops and historic stores. Each listing includes an address, estimated price, recommended dishes and an official Instagram, Threads or other verified social account when available.
Route 66 Road Trip Overview
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Historic route length | Approximately 2,400 miles |
| Starting point | Chicago, Illinois |
| Ending point | Santa Monica or Los Angeles, California |
| States | Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California |
| Recommended full trip | Approximately 14–21 days |
| Recommended shorter trip | Arizona and California in approximately 5–7 days |
| Best seasons | May–June and September–October |
| Major 2026 feature | Route 66 Centennial |
| Food budget | Approximately US$5–100 per person |
| Driving essentials | Offline maps, early fuel stops and checking seasonal restaurant hours |
Route 66 Restaurant Price Guide
The following estimates reflect typical per-person spending before tax, gratuity and alcoholic drinks.
| Price Level | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| $ | Approximately US$5–15 |
| $$ | Approximately US$15–30 |
| $$$ | Approximately US$30–60 |
| $$$$ | Approximately US$60 or more |
Illinois Route 66 Restaurants
1. Lou Mitchell’s
Lou Mitchell’s is located near Chicago Union Station and is often the first breakfast stop for travelers beginning a Route 66 road trip.
The restaurant is known for traditional American breakfasts, fresh pancakes, omelets, doughnut holes and fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Portions are generous and service moves quickly, making it convenient for travelers who want a full breakfast before collecting a rental car and visiting the Route 66 Begin sign.
The Apple and Cheese Omelet is one of the restaurant’s most recognizable combinations. Travelers with a sweet tooth can order pancakes, while the complimentary doughnut-hole tradition adds to the classic experience.
Address:
565 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Apple and Cheese Omelet
・Pancakes
・Donut Holes
・Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice
Best for:
・Breakfast before beginning Route 66
・Chicago Union Station itineraries
・Traditional American breakfast
・First-time Route 66 travelers
Official Instagram:
@loumitchells565
2. Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket
Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket is one of the best-known fried-chicken restaurants along Illinois Route 66.
Located southwest of Chicago in Willowbrook, the restaurant specializes in hand-breaded fried chicken with a crisp exterior and juicy meat.
The Famous Fried Chicken Basket generally includes fried chicken, fries and side dishes. Chicken tenders, fried shrimp and other American comfort-food selections are also available.
This restaurant works well as the first road-trip lunch after leaving Chicago and is especially suitable for families or groups sharing several dishes.
Address:
645 Joliet Rd, Willowbrook, IL 60527
Estimated price:
Approximately US$20–35 per person
Recommended items:
・Famous Fried Chicken Basket
・Chicken Tender Basket
・Jumbo Shrimp Basket
・Chicken Buffet
Best for:
・Route 66 fried chicken
・Family meals
・Group dining
・Lunch outside Chicago
Official Instagram:
@dellrheaschickenbasket
3. Cozy Dog Drive In
Cozy Dog Drive In is located in Springfield and is one of the most recognizable corn-dog restaurants along Route 66.
Its signature Cozy Dog features a sausage coated in cornmeal batter, deep-fried and served on a wooden stick.
The menu also includes chili cheese dogs, barbecue sandwiches, hamburgers, fries and root beer.
The dining room contains Route 66 photographs, vintage signs and highway memorabilia, making it a restaurant and small roadside museum in one stop.
Prices remain relatively affordable, and the restaurant is easy to include in a Springfield itinerary.
Address:
2935 S 6th St, Springfield, IL 62703
Estimated price:
Approximately US$8–18 per person
Recommended items:
・Cozy Dog
・Corn Dog
・Chili Cheese Dog
・BBQ Sandwich
・Root Beer
Best for:
・Classic Route 66 snacks
・Quick lunch
・Family road trips
・Highway memorabilia
Official Instagram or Threads:
No Instagram or Threads account verified through the official website was found at the time of writing.
Official website:
Cozy Dog Drive In
4. Ariston Cafe
Ariston Cafe is located in Litchfield and is one of the longest continuously operating restaurants associated with Route 66.
The menu combines American, Greek and Italian food, including fried chicken, prime rib, Greek salad, pasta and homemade pie.
This wide selection makes it a practical stop for families or groups whose members prefer different cuisines.
The restaurant maintains the atmosphere of a traditional American highway dining room rather than a modern chain restaurant.
It works well as a lunch or dinner stop when driving from Springfield toward St. Louis.
Address:
413 Old Rte 66 N, Litchfield, IL 62056
Estimated price:
Approximately US$20–45 per person
Recommended items:
・Fried Chicken
・Prime Rib
・Greek Salad
・Italian Pasta
・Homemade Pie
Best for:
・Historic restaurant dining
・Families
・American, Greek and Italian food
・Litchfield stops
Official Instagram or Threads:
No Instagram or Threads account verified through the official website was found at the time of writing.
Official website:
Ariston Cafe
Missouri Route 66 Restaurants
5. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a St. Louis institution, and Route 66 travelers usually visit the Chippewa Street location.
The signature Concrete is an exceptionally thick frozen custard that can often be turned upside down without spilling.
Popular combinations such as Terramizzou, Dutchman and Cardinal Sin may include chocolate, caramel, nuts, fruit or other toppings.
Summer evenings can bring long lines, but service is generally efficient.
Some locations and operating periods may be seasonal, so travelers should confirm current hours before visiting.
Address:
6726 Chippewa St, St. Louis, MO 63109
Estimated price:
Approximately US$5–15 per person
Recommended items:
・Concrete
・Terramizzou
・Dutchman
・Cardinal Sin
・Root Beer Float
Best for:
・Route 66 desserts
・Evening activities in St. Louis
・Frozen custard
・Families and couples
Official Instagram:
@teddrewes_frozencustard
6. Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que
Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que is located in Cuba, often called the Route 66 Mural City.
The restaurant specializes in Missouri-style smoked barbecue, using wood to slowly cook pulled pork, beef brisket and ribs.
The meats are served with traditional side dishes such as baked beans, coleslaw and fries.
First-time visitors can order a sampler platter to compare several meats in one meal.
The rustic exterior and wooden interior fit naturally into a Route 66 mural and small-town itinerary.
Address:
913 E Washington St, Cuba, MO 65453
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–35 per person
Recommended items:
・Pulled Pork
・Beef Brisket
・Ribs
・Sampler Platter
・BBQ Nachos
Best for:
・American barbecue
・Cuba Route 66 murals
・Large appetites
・Family meals
Official Instagram:
@missourihickbbq
7. Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store
Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store is one of the most humorous roadside stops along Missouri Route 66.
The attraction combines a fudge shop, souvenir store, photo destination and a large collection of pun-based gifts.
Popular sweets include Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel Fudge, Peanut Butter Fudge, saltwater taffy and ice-cream desserts.
Even visitors who are not interested in buying candy can stop for photographs, restrooms and Route 66 souvenirs.
It functions more like a full roadside attraction than a standard dessert shop.
Address:
14400 State Hwy Z, St Robert, MO 65584
Estimated price:
Approximately US$5–25 per person
Recommended items:
・Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel Fudge
・Peanut Butter Fudge
・Saltwater Taffy
・Banana Split
・Route 66 Souvenirs
Best for:
・Roadside breaks
・Route 66 souvenirs
・Family photographs
・Desserts
Official Instagram:
@uranusfudgefactory
Kansas Route 66 Restaurants
8. Nelson’s Old Riverton Store
Nelson’s Old Riverton Store is located in Riverton and has operated since 1925, one year before Route 66 was officially established.
The store preserves the atmosphere of a traditional general store and sells deli sandwiches, drinks, snacks, local crafts and Route 66 souvenirs.
The classic order is a chopped ham sandwich enjoyed inside the historic store.
Kansas has only a short section of Route 66, so this stop is usually combined with Galena, Rainbow Bridge and Baxter Springs.
Address:
7109 KS-66, Riverton, KS 66770
Estimated price:
Approximately US$8–18 per person
Recommended items:
・Chopped Ham Sandwich
・Deli Sandwich
・Route 66 Souvenirs
・Local Crafts
Best for:
・Historic general stores
・Kansas Route 66
・Quick lunch
・Souvenir shopping
Official Instagram or Threads:
No verified official Instagram or Threads account was found.
Instagram location page:
Nelson’s Old Riverton Store
9. Cars on the Route
Cars on the Route is located in Galena inside a restored historic gas station.
The old tow truck parked outside is a popular Route 66 photo subject and is frequently associated with the visual culture surrounding the animated film Cars.
In addition to photographs and souvenir shopping, the property may serve cheeseburgers, Philly cheesesteaks, chicken sandwiches and tater tots.
Operating hours can change by season, especially during winter, so checking the official Facebook page is recommended.
Address:
119 N Main St, Galena, KS 66739
Estimated price:
Approximately US$8–20 per person
Recommended items:
・Cheeseburger
・Philly Cheesesteak
・Chicken Sandwich
・Tater Tots
・Route 66 Souvenirs
Best for:
・Cars-inspired photographs
・Historic gas station scenery
・Route 66 souvenirs
・Quick lunch
Official Instagram or Threads:
No clearly verified official Instagram or Threads account was found.
Official Facebook:
Cars on the Route
Oklahoma Route 66 Restaurants
10. Clanton’s Cafe
Clanton’s Cafe is a historic family restaurant in Vinita along Oklahoma Route 66.
The restaurant is especially famous for chicken-fried steak.
Other regional dishes include calf fries, breakfast plates, homemade pie and fried green beans.
The menu represents traditional Oklahoma comfort food with generous portions and straightforward flavors.
Travelers looking for a genuine local diner rather than a national chain should consider stopping here for lunch.
Address:
319 E Illinois Ave, Vinita, OK 74301
Estimated price:
Approximately US$12–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Chicken Fried Steak
・Calf Fries
・Homemade Pie
・Breakfast Plate
・Fried Green Beans
Best for:
・Oklahoma comfort food
・Chicken-fried steak
・Historic roadside dining
・Vinita stops
Official Instagram or Threads:
No official Instagram or Threads account was found.
Official Facebook:
Clanton’s Cafe
11. Rock Cafe
Rock Cafe is located in Stroud inside a historic building constructed with local stone.
The menu combines American roadside food with German dishes.
Visitors may find buffalo burgers, alligator burgers, chicken-fried steak, Jägerschnitzel and Spätzle.
Owner Dawn Welch is widely associated with the inspiration behind the character Sally in the animated film Cars, making the restaurant especially popular with film fans.
The cafe survived a major fire and was restored while preserving its original stone exterior.
Address:
114 W Main St, Stroud, OK 74079
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–35 per person
Recommended items:
・Buffalo Burger
・Alligator Burger
・Chicken Fried Steak
・Jägerschnitzel
・Spätzle
Best for:
・Cars fans
・German food
・Historic architecture
・Lunch in Stroud
Official Instagram or Threads:
No verified official Instagram or Threads account was found.
Official Facebook:
Rock Cafe Route 66
12. Tally’s Good Food Cafe
Tally’s Good Food Cafe is located along Historic Route 66 in Tulsa and features a colorful 1950s diner theme.
The restaurant serves breakfast through dinner with generous portions.
Popular selections include chicken-fried steak, chicken-fried steak sandwiches, hamburgers, omelets, cinnamon rolls and milkshakes.
The Smart Bomb is a particularly large breakfast combination suited to big appetites and dramatic food photographs.
Weekend peak periods may involve a wait.
Address:
1102 S Yale Ave, Tulsa, OK 74112
Estimated price:
Approximately US$12–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Chicken Fried Steak
・Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich
・Smart Bomb
・Cinnamon Roll
・Milkshake
Best for:
・Retro diners
・All-day breakfast
・Large portions
・Tulsa Route 66
Official Instagram:
@tallyscafe
13. Pops 66 Soda Ranch
Pops 66 Soda Ranch is located in Arcadia and is marked by a 66-foot-tall soda-bottle sculpture outside the building.
Inside, shelves and refrigerated walls display hundreds of bottled sodas and root beers from different regions.
The menu includes a mac-and-cheeseburger, cheeseburgers, chicken-fried steak and milkshakes.
Pops also operates as a fuel stop, making it useful for lunch, photographs, restrooms and refueling near Oklahoma City.
Address:
660 W Highway 66, Arcadia, OK 73007
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Mac and Cheeseburger
・Cheeseburger
・Chicken Fried Steak
・Specialty Soda
・Root Beer Float
Best for:
・Soda collections
・Route 66 photographs
・Family road trips
・Fuel and rest stops
Official Instagram:
@pops.66
14. Sid’s Diner
Sid’s Diner is located in El Reno and is one of the classic places to try an Oklahoma fried onion burger.
The burger is prepared by pressing thinly sliced onions directly into the beef on the griddle, allowing the caramelized onion flavor to become part of the patty.
Travelers with large appetites can order the Belly Buster.
Breakfast burritos, omelets and milkshakes are also available.
The compact dining room provides a clear view of the cooks preparing burgers on the griddle.
Address:
300 S Choctaw Ave, El Reno, OK 73036
Estimated price:
Approximately US$10–25 per person
Recommended items:
・Fried Onion Burger
・Belly Buster
・Breakfast Burrito
・Omelet
・Milkshake
Best for:
・Oklahoma onion burgers
・Quick lunches
・Griddle-cooked hamburgers
・El Reno stops
Official Instagram:
@sidsdiner.elreno
15. Lucille’s Roadhouse
Lucille’s Roadhouse is located in Weatherford and is decorated with Route 66 roadside-diner and vintage gas-station elements.
The menu covers all-day breakfast, hamburgers, steak, barbecue and chicken-fried steak.
The Mother Road Breakfast, Steak and Egg Sandwich and Open Road are substantial choices for road travelers.
The restaurant can be combined with Weatherford’s Route 66 Museum and other local highway attractions.
Address:
1301 N Airport Rd, Weatherford, OK 73096
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–35 per person
Recommended items:
・Mother Road Breakfast
・Steak and Egg Sandwich
・Open Road
・Chicken Fried Steak
・BBQ Plate
Best for:
・Route 66-themed dining
・All-day breakfast
・Families
・Weatherford itineraries
Official Instagram:
@lucilles_roadhouse
Texas Route 66 Restaurants
16. The Big Texan Steak Ranch
The Big Texan Steak Ranch is one of Amarillo’s most famous roadside restaurants.
Its bright yellow building and giant cowboy sign make it easy to recognize from the highway.
The restaurant is best known for the 72-ounce Steak Challenge.
Participants must finish the 72-ounce steak and required side dishes within the specified time. Successful challengers receive the meal free, while unsuccessful participants pay the listed challenge price.
Visitors who do not want to attempt the challenge can order ribeye, prime rib, Rocky Mountain oysters and house-brewed beer.
The large complex includes a restaurant, gift shop and roadside attractions.
Address:
7701 I-40 E Access Rd, Amarillo, TX 79118
Estimated price:
Approximately US$30–90 per person
Recommended items:
・72 oz Steak Challenge
・Ribeye
・Prime Rib
・Rocky Mountain Oysters
・Handcrafted Beer
Best for:
・Steak
・Eating challenges
・Amarillo landmarks
・Route 66 souvenirs
Official Instagram:
@thebigtexan
17. Midpoint Cafe and Gift Shop
Midpoint Cafe is located in Adrian near the historic halfway point between Chicago and Los Angeles.
The Route 66 Midpoint sign outside is one of the road trip’s most popular photo stops.
The cafe is known for Ugly Crust Pie, coconut cream pie, hamburgers, malts and breakfast sandwiches.
It also sells a wide selection of midpoint-themed Route 66 souvenirs.
Midpoint Cafe may operate seasonally and can close during winter, so travelers should confirm current hours through the official Facebook page.
Address:
305 Historic Route 66, Adrian, TX 79001
Estimated price:
Approximately US$10–25 per person
Recommended items:
・Ugly Crust Pie
・Coconut Cream Pie
・Burger
・Malt
・Breakfast Sandwich
Best for:
・The Route 66 midpoint
・Classic pie
・Highway photographs
・Souvenir shopping
Official Instagram or Threads:
No official Instagram or Threads account was found.
Official Facebook:
Midpoint Cafe and Gift Shop
18. GoldenLight Cafe & Cantina
GoldenLight Cafe & Cantina is located on Historic Route 66 in Amarillo and has the atmosphere of an old roadside hamburger bar.
The menu focuses on cheeseburgers, patty melts, chili cheeseburgers, onion rings and cold beer.
Compared with large tourist attractions, GoldenLight feels more like a neighborhood restaurant used by local residents.
Live music or special events may be scheduled on certain evenings.
Address:
2906 SW 6th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79106
Estimated price:
Approximately US$12–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Cheeseburger
・Patty Melt
・Chili Cheeseburger
・Onion Rings
・Cold Beer
Best for:
・Old-style hamburger bars
・Beer
・Live music
・Relaxed Amarillo dinners
Official Instagram:
@glcamarillo
New Mexico Route 66 Restaurants
19. Del’s Restaurant
Del’s Restaurant is located on Historic Route 66 in Tucumcari and is a classic New Mexico family restaurant.
The menu combines New Mexican, Mexican and American dishes.
Mexican Chicken Fried Steak incorporates local chile and sauce into a traditional American comfort-food plate.
Other options include enchiladas, tacos, brisket-stuffed jalapeños and meatloaf.
This is a useful stop for travelers beginning to explore New Mexico’s red and green chile traditions after leaving Texas.
Address:
1202 E Historic Route 66 Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Mexican Chicken Fried Steak
・Enchiladas
・Tacos
・Brisket Stuffed Jalapeños
・Meatloaf
Best for:
・New Mexican food
・Tucumcari overnight stays
・Family dinners
・A first green-chile experience
Official Instagram or Threads:
No verified official Instagram or Threads account was found.
Official Facebook:
Del’s Restaurant
20. 66 Diner
66 Diner is located on Central Avenue, Albuquerque’s Historic Route 66 corridor.
The colorful restaurant recreates a 1950s diner with neon lights, black-and-white flooring, vintage-car details and old-record decorations.
Its most recognizable dishes include the green chile cheeseburger, classic cheeseburger and hand-spun milkshakes.
For dessert, visitors can order a root beer float or homemade pie.
The highly photogenic setting makes it one of Albuquerque’s easiest Route 66 restaurants to include in a travel itinerary.
Address:
1405 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Green Chile Cheeseburger
・Classic Cheeseburger
・Hand-Spun Milkshake
・Root Beer Float
・Homemade Pie
Best for:
・Retro diners
・Albuquerque Route 66
・Green chile cheeseburgers
・Photography
Official Instagram:
@abq66diner
21. Frontier Restaurant
Frontier Restaurant is located across from the University of New Mexico and is one of Albuquerque’s best-known affordable restaurants.
Popular dishes include the Frontier Burrito, breakfast burritos, green chile cheeseburgers and the oversized Frontier Sweet Roll.
House-made tortillas are also a major part of the experience and pair well with chile and egg dishes.
The restaurant’s extended hours make it useful for travelers arriving early, leaving late or needing a quick meal.
Address:
2400 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Estimated price:
Approximately US$10–25 per person
Recommended items:
・Frontier Burrito
・Breakfast Burrito
・Green Chile Cheeseburger
・Frontier Sweet Roll
・Homemade Tortillas
Best for:
・Affordable New Mexican food
・Breakfast burritos
・Students and families
・Late meals
Official Instagram:
@frontierrestaurantabq
22. Silver Screen Cafe at El Rancho Hotel
El Rancho Hotel is located on Historic Route 66 in Gallup and is known for its history of hosting Hollywood actors and Western-film crews.
The hotel’s dining spaces continue the Western and film-industry theme.
Menu items may include huevos rancheros, enchiladas, the John Wayne Burger, green chile and steak.
Travelers looking for a more historic Route 66 overnight experience can stay at El Rancho and combine dinner with breakfast at the hotel.
Address:
1000 E Highway 66, Gallup, NM 87301
Estimated price:
Approximately US$18–40 per person
Recommended items:
・Huevos Rancheros
・Enchiladas
・John Wayne Burger
・Green Chile
・Steak
Best for:
・Historic motor hotels
・Western film culture
・Gallup overnight stays
・Breakfast and dinner
Official Instagram:
@elranchohotel
Arizona Route 66 Restaurants
23. Delgadillo’s Snow Cap
Delgadillo’s Snow Cap is located in Seligman and is one of the most recognizable roadside hamburger stands on Arizona Route 66.
The restaurant is famous for humorous service, jokes and walls covered with memorabilia.
Guests ordering a cheeseburger may hear playful questions about whether they want cheese, while menu names such as Dead Chicken reflect the restaurant’s distinctive sense of humor.
The menu also includes hot dogs, milkshakes and ice cream.
Vintage vehicles and colorful decorations outside make the property an excellent photography stop.
Address:
22235 Historic Rte 66, Seligman, AZ 86337
Estimated price:
Approximately US$8–20 per person
Recommended items:
・Cheeseburger with Cheese
・Dead Chicken
・Milkshake
・Hot Dog
・Ice Cream
Best for:
・Seligman Route 66
・Humorous service
・Hamburgers and milkshakes
・Family photographs
Official Instagram:
@delgadillosnowcap
24. Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner
Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner is located in Kingman and has a turquoise-and-pink exterior with neon details.
It is one of Arizona’s most photogenic retro diners.
The menu includes cheeseburgers, chicken-fried steak, pancakes, root beer floats and milkshakes.
The dining room also contains Route 66 photographs, vintage signs and automotive decorations.
The restaurant can be combined with the Arizona Route 66 Museum, Powerhouse Visitor Center and downtown Kingman.
Address:
105 E Andy Devine Ave, Kingman, AZ 86401
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–30 per person
Recommended items:
・Cheeseburger
・Chicken Fried Steak
・Pancakes
・Root Beer Float
・Milkshake
Best for:
・Retro neon
・Kingman itineraries
・All-day breakfast
・Route 66 photographs
Official Instagram:
@mr.dzrt66diner
25. Pine Country Restaurant
Pine Country Restaurant is located in Williams and is a popular family restaurant for travelers visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim.
The restaurant is especially known for homemade pie, with a display case containing cream, fruit and seasonal varieties.
Main dishes may include fried chicken dinners, huevos rancheros and New York strip steak.
Williams preserves many Route 66 neon signs and historic buildings, making it a convenient overnight stop before visiting the Grand Canyon.
Address:
107 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ 86046
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–35 per person
Recommended items:
・Homemade Pie
・Fried Chicken Dinner
・Cinnamon Roll
・Huevos Rancheros
・New York Strip Steak
Best for:
・Williams overnight stays
・Grand Canyon itineraries
・Homemade pie
・Family meals
Official Instagram:
@pinecountryrestaurant
26. The Turquoise Room
The Turquoise Room is located inside La Posada Hotel in Winslow and offers a more refined Southwestern dining experience.
The menu highlights ingredients and traditions from Arizona and New Mexico.
Selections may include Navajo Churro lamb, posole, Southwestern breakfast dishes, Hopi piki bread and seasonal desserts.
Unlike the many hamburger diners along Route 66, this restaurant offers a more complete cultural and fine-dining experience.
It is particularly suitable for travelers staying at La Posada or planning a special dinner.
Address:
303 E 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047
Estimated price:
Approximately US$25–60 per person
Recommended items:
・Navajo Churro Lamb
・Posole
・Southwestern Breakfast
・Hopi Piki Bread
・Seasonal Dessert
Best for:
・Refined Southwestern food
・La Posada hotel stays
・Winslow itineraries
・Dinner for couples
Official Instagram:
@theturquoiseroomaz
California Route 66 Restaurants
27. Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Cafe
Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Cafe is located in Victorville and represents the traditional Mojave Desert roadside diner.
The small dining room preserves an old counter, open kitchen and classic highway-cafe atmosphere.
The Brian Burger is a signature item.
Breakfast choices may include the Trucker’s Special, biscuits and gravy, chicken-fried steak and cinnamon rolls.
The cafe works well as a stop when traveling from Barstow toward San Bernardino or Los Angeles.
Address:
17143 N D St, Victorville, CA 92394
Estimated price:
Approximately US$10–25 per person
Recommended items:
・Brian Burger
・Trucker’s Special
・Biscuits and Gravy
・Chicken Fried Steak
・Cinnamon Roll
Best for:
・Mojave Desert roadside dining
・Traditional diners
・Breakfast and lunch
・Victorville stops
Official Instagram:
@hollandburger
28. Mitla Cafe
Mitla Cafe is located in San Bernardino and has operated since 1937.
It is one of the most important historic Mexican family restaurants along California Route 66.
Signature dishes include tacos dorados, chile relleno, enchiladas, menudo and handmade tortillas.
The restaurant is also associated with a widely discussed chapter in the development of American Mexican fast-food culture.
After many meals of hamburgers and steak, Mitla Cafe offers a welcome change through tortillas, chile dishes and family-style Mexican cooking.
Address:
602 N Mount Vernon Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92411
Estimated price:
Approximately US$15–35 per person
Recommended items:
・Tacos Dorados
・Chile Relleno
・Enchiladas
・Menudo
・Handmade Tortillas
Best for:
・Historic Mexican restaurants
・San Bernardino
・Handmade tortillas
・Family meals
Official Instagram:
@mitla_cafe
29. The Sycamore Inn Prime Steakhouse
The Sycamore Inn is located on Foothill Boulevard in Rancho Cucamonga, part of Historic Route 66.
This historic restaurant specializes in prime steak, prime rib, chops and seafood.
Luigi’s Minestrone Soup is another recognizable menu item.
Compared with the casual diners found throughout the road trip, The Sycamore Inn is more suitable for a formal dinner, anniversary or celebration as the journey approaches Greater Los Angeles.
Address:
8318 Foothill Blvd, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Estimated price:
Approximately US$50–100 per person
Recommended items:
・Prime Rib
・Prime Steak
・Luigi’s Minestrone Soup
・Chops
・Seafood
Best for:
・Formal steak dinners
・Historic restaurants
・Anniversaries
・Rancho Cucamonga Route 66
Official Instagram:
@sycamoreinn1848
30. The Albright
The Albright is located on Santa Monica Pier and is an appropriate choice for the final meal of a Route 66 journey.
After taking photographs at the End of the Trail sign, travelers can order New England clam chowder, fish and chips, grilled lobster, seafood platters or raw oysters.
The casual seafood restaurant captures the atmosphere of the pier, ocean breeze and amusement park.
After driving from Chicago to the Pacific Ocean, finishing the trip with seafood instead of another hamburger or steak creates a memorable ending.
Address:
Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Estimated price:
Approximately US$25–70 per person
Recommended items:
・New England Clam Chowder
・Fish and Chips
・Grilled Lobster
・Seafood Platter
・Raw Oysters
Best for:
・The Route 66 endpoint
・Santa Monica Pier
・Seafood
・Sunset dinners
Official Instagram:
@thealbright
Recommended 14-Day Route 66 Food Itinerary
Day 1: Chicago
・Breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s
・Route 66 Begin Sign
・Chicago sightseeing
Day 2: Chicago to Springfield
・Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket
・Cozy Dog Drive In
・Overnight in Springfield
Day 3: Springfield to St. Louis
・Ariston Cafe
・Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
・Gateway Arch
Day 4: St. Louis to Cuba or St. Robert
・Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que
・Uranus Fudge Factory
・Route 66 murals and historic motels
Day 5: Kansas to Tulsa
・Nelson’s Old Riverton Store
・Cars on the Route
・Clanton’s Cafe or Tally’s Good Food Cafe
Day 6: Tulsa to Oklahoma City
・Rock Cafe
・Pops 66 Soda Ranch
・Overnight in Oklahoma City
Day 7: Oklahoma City to Amarillo
・Sid’s Diner
・Lucille’s Roadhouse
・The Big Texan Steak Ranch
Day 8: Amarillo to Tucumcari
・Midpoint Cafe
・GoldenLight Cafe
・Del’s Restaurant
Day 9: Tucumcari to Albuquerque
・66 Diner
・Frontier Restaurant
・Albuquerque neon motels
Day 10: Albuquerque to Gallup
・El Rancho Hotel
・Gallup Historic Route 66
・New Mexican regional food
Day 11: Gallup to Winslow or Williams
・The Turquoise Room
・Pine Country Restaurant
・Standin’ on the Corner
Day 12: Williams to Kingman
・Delgadillo’s Snow Cap
・Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner
・Overnight in Kingman
Day 13: Kingman to Victorville
・Oatman
・Mojave Desert
・Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Cafe
Day 14: Victorville to Santa Monica
・Mitla Cafe
・The Sycamore Inn
・Santa Monica End of the Trail
・Seafood dinner at The Albright
Route 66 Food and Driving Tips
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Many historic restaurants do not open every day. Monday and Tuesday closures are common.
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Midpoint Cafe and certain small-town businesses may operate seasonally.
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Small restaurants may stop accepting customers before the posted closing time.
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Check the restaurant’s official social account each morning.
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Do not create an overly tight driving schedule around a single restaurant.
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Restaurants and gas stations can be far apart in desert areas.
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Begin looking for fuel when the tank reaches approximately half full.
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Carry drinking water, snacks and portable chargers.
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Some historic sections have limited mobile service, so download offline maps.
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Arizona, New Mexico and California desert areas can become extremely hot during summer.
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Menu prices generally exclude tax and gratuity.
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Hotels and restaurants may fill earlier during 2026 Centennial events.
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Sections of National Trails Highway and older Mojave Desert roads may close because of bridge or road conditions.
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Do not enter private property, abandoned buildings or areas marked No Trespassing.
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After reaching Santa Monica Pier, remember to photograph the End of the Trail sign.
Conclusion: The Real Character of Route 66 Lives in Its Diners and Small Towns
Route 66 is about more than beginning and ending signs.
Breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s, corn dogs at Cozy Dog, frozen custard at Ted Drewes, Oklahoma fried onion burgers, Texas steak, New Mexico green chile, Arizona diners and seafood at Santa Monica Pier are all part of the Mother Road experience.
A complete first trip should ideally last at least 14 days.
Instead of concentrating only on driving more miles each day, leave time to enter historic restaurants, speak with the people who operate them, photograph neon signs and support the family businesses that continue to preserve Route 66.
Travelers selecting only one representative restaurant in each state can consider:
Illinois: Cozy Dog Drive In
Missouri: Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
Kansas: Nelson’s Old Riverton Store
Oklahoma: Rock Cafe or Sid’s Diner
Texas: Midpoint Cafe or The Big Texan
New Mexico: 66 Diner
Arizona: Delgadillo’s Snow Cap
California: Mitla Cafe or The Albright
This selection creates a classic food journey from Chicago to the Pacific Ocean.
FAQ
How long is Route 66?
The historic route is approximately 2,400 miles long and travels from Chicago through eight states before reaching Los Angeles and Santa Monica.
How many days are needed for the full Route 66 road trip?
Approximately 14–21 days is recommended.
A 7–10-day itinerary requires fewer small-town stops and more driving on Interstate highways.
What is the best season for Route 66?
May through June and September through October are generally the most comfortable periods.
Southwestern deserts can become extremely hot during summer, while winter snow is possible in Illinois, Missouri, northern New Mexico and higher elevations in Arizona.
What foods should travelers try on Route 66?
Representative dishes include corn dogs, frozen custard, chicken-fried steak, fried onion burgers, Texas steak, green chile cheeseburgers, homemade pie, milkshakes and Mexican food.
Which Route 66 restaurants are best for photographs?
Pops 66 Soda Ranch, 66 Diner, Delgadillo’s Snow Cap, Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner and The Big Texan are among the most visually recognizable choices.
Are vegetarian dishes available on Route 66?
Yes, although choices may be limited in small towns.
Travelers can often find salads, vegetable burritos, grilled cheese, vegetable sandwiches and selected meat-free New Mexican dishes.
Always confirm ingredients before ordering.
Do Route 66 restaurants require reservations?
Most diners and small shops do not accept reservations.
Reservations are recommended for more formal restaurants such as The Turquoise Room and The Sycamore Inn.
Can travelers use credit cards along Route 66?
Most restaurants accept credit cards.
However, small shops, seasonal stands and remote locations may experience payment-terminal or internet problems, so carrying a small amount of cash is recommended.
Why is 2026 a special year for Route 66?
Route 66 was established in 1926, making 2026 its 100th anniversary.
The eight states are hosting road rallies, exhibitions, local festivals and commemorative events.
Where does Route 66 end?
Historic Route 66 had different endpoints in Los Angeles during different periods.
Modern travelers most commonly finish at the End of the Trail sign on Santa Monica Pier.
Disclaimer:
This article was compiled using information from the National Park Service, Route 66 Centennial resources, state tourism organizations, official restaurant websites, official social media accounts and publicly available menus.
Historic Route 66 alignments, road closures, restaurant hours, seasonal operating dates, menus, prices and social-media accounts may change.
Check current road-management information and each business’s official channels before traveling.
Estimated restaurant budgets generally exclude state tax, local tax, gratuity and alcoholic drinks.
Image source: Official brand websites and official social media accounts.
