3 Best Restaurants in The Inland Empire, California

1909

$$
Superb cocktails and craft-beer samplers, a something-for-everyone menu, and the always swingin' streetside patio have made this gastropub one of Old Town's jolliest hangouts. Starters like blue corn Kobe beef hot dogs, smoked chicken wings, and crab and shrimp empanadas pair well with the drinks; standout mains include the 1909 burger (love the bacon-onion jam) and braised lamb shank. Brunch—all the usual suspects, plus peanut butter French Toast, grilled tofu and kimchi, ahi tartare, and other nouveau fare—is a mob scene on most weekends.

Packing House Restaurant & Wine Shop

$$

At this shop, bar, and restaurant inside a former orange-packing house, you can purchase wines from around the world and enjoy them on-site. Throughout the day, pair your selection with seasonal small plates and specialty cheeses and, for dinner, entrées like poke tostadas with sushi-grade ahi tuna and an organic beef burger with smoked bacon, aged cheddar, and spicy tomato aioli.

540 W. 1st St., Claremont, California, 91711, USA
909-445–9463
Known For
  • admirable by-the-glass wine selection
  • reasonable corkage fee
  • fine stop for wine and nibbles but also for dinner
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon.; no dinner Tues., Five wine tastings from $20

The Lobby Riverside

$$

Innovative food and drink menus make this clubby restaurant on the historic Main Street promenade very much shaken, and not stirred. Grab a front-row seat on the patio or head inside for a table overlooking the neon bar to enjoy cocktails such as the But First, Let Me Take a Selfie (arrives with a Polaroid of you) or the Bonnie and Clyde (arrives with a flaming counterfeit $100 bill) and entrées like the short-rib melt or the honey jalapeño–glazed salmon on peanut slaw. Vegans will be pleasantly surprised with a variety of options. It’s one of the few places in Riverside open daily for dinner, with a “last call” way past midnight.

3730 Main St., Riverside, California, 92501, USA
951-742–5020
Known For
  • cocktails that are works of art
  • vegan and vegetarian options
  • late-night dining
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: No lunch weekdays

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