3 Best Restaurants in Julian, North County and Around

The apple pies that made Julian famous come from the Smothers family bakery in a one-story house on Main Street. In pleasant weather you can sit on the front patio and watch the world go by while savoring a slice of hot pie—from Dutch apple to apple mountain berry crumb—topped with homemade cinnamon ice cream. The Smothers family has been making pies in Julian since 1986; by 1989 the family had bought its own orchard, and by 1992 it had built a larger bakery in Santa Ysabel.  Arrive by 9 am to avoid the lines that wrap around the building.

Sample finger sandwiches, scones topped with whipped cream, and lavish sweets, which are served during afternoon tea inside the Clarence King House, built by Will Bosnell in 1898. Regular sandwiches, soups, salads, and a children's tea are also available. Seatings are at 11:30 am, 1 pm, and 2:30 pm. The attached shop sells soaps, cards, stationary, books, linens, and all things tea.

It's worth the wait for breakfast or lunch at this cozy café, where everything is fresh and made to order. The breakfast standout is eggs Benedict, both classic and vegetarian. For lunch you can choose among several classic salads and homemade soups.