Frequently Asked Questions
The fish taco is California's most internationally recognized dish — Baja-style with beer-battered fish, cabbage slaw, and crema. But the Mission-style burrito, In-N-Out Double-Double, and San Francisco sourdough bread bowl are equally beloved. Each region has its own signature — San Diego owns tacos, SF owns sourdough and cioppino, and LA owns everything from Korean BBQ to avocado toast.
Not at all. While California did pioneer the farm-to-table and wellness food movements, the state's food culture is incredibly diverse. You'll find massive California burritos stuffed with french fries, Double-Doubles at In-N-Out, all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ, and rich cioppino alongside your acai bowls and organic salads. California food is about quality ingredients, global influences, and no rules.
Fish taco: $3-5 each. In-N-Out meal: $8-12. Mission burrito: $12-16. Dim sum: $15-30/person. Korean BBQ AYCE: $25-40/person. Farm-to-table dinner in wine country: $40-75/person. A daily food budget of $30-50 per person covers three solid meals if you eat at taco shops, food trucks, and casual spots.
Absolutely. California's best food is often its most affordable — fish tacos at beachside stands ($3-5 each), In-N-Out ($8 for a full meal), Mission burritos ($12-16), and taco trucks everywhere. Farmers markets across the state sell incredible produce at fair prices. The food truck scene in LA and SF rivals sit-down restaurants at a fraction of the cost.
California is one of the most accommodating places in the world for dietary restrictions. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergen-aware options are widely available — especially in LA and SF. Many restaurants list allergens on menus. Plant-based restaurants are everywhere. California essentially invented the modern health-food movement, so you'll find options no matter your dietary needs.
It's Ice Cream from Salt & Straw (multiple locations) or bi-rite creamery in SF for artisan flavors. Sourdough bread pudding is a San Francisco classic. The churros at Disneyland are genuinely excellent. For something uniquely Californian, grab a date shake at Hadley's in the desert near Palm Springs — dates grown locally in the Coachella Valley blended into a creamy shake.