Photo: Moment RF
When hunger strikes and your wallet lets out a sigh, it’s time to discover California's holy grail of budget-friendly bites.
Every state has that one magical spot where the food is cheap, the portions are generous, and the flavor punches way above its weight class. Whether it’s a no-frills diner inside a gas station or a taco truck with a cult following, these eateries don’t just serve meals, they serve salvation by the forkful. And while fine dining may get all the glossy magazine spreads, we’re here to celebrate the unsung heroes of affordable eating.
This isn’t about truffle oil or pretty garnishes; it’s about real food for real Californians, at prices that leave enough change for dessert.
According to a list compiled by LoveFood, the best place to go for a "blue-plate special" in California is Du-par's Restaurant and Bakery in Los Angeles.
Here's what LoveFood had to say about the establishment that serves the best cheap meal in the entire state:
"'True classics done right' is what's promised at this long-running spot that began life at LA's well-loved Original Farmers' Market back in 1938. You'll need to visit between 6am and noon, Monday through Friday, to take advantage of the restaurant's excellent blue-plate specials. Sink your teeth into tempting options such as pancakes, French toast, and hot cake sandwiches, or opt for a complete breakfast with bacon or turkey links, eggs, and hash browns."
Check out LoveFood for a continued list of places that serve the best blue-plate specials across the country.