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Top 25 places to eat in the Inland Empire + Coachella Valley



Damasco Mediterranean Cuisine

Yelp’s Top 25 Places to eat is a list unlike any other “best of” out there. Sure, you’ll see your obvious local favorites on the list, but it’s also chock full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path joints like Gabino’s Creperie tucked away in the corner of Palm Canyon. From fine dining to shawarma food trucks — find them all in Yelp’s Top 25 Places to eat in the Inland Empire + Coachella Valley.

Did your favorite restaurant make it into the top 25? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram. Remember, we only know how good a spot is if you take the time to review it. So share your thoughts on Yelp, and maybe your favorites will be on next year’s list! 

Topping this year’s best places to eat list is Tropicali, a neo nostalgia brand created by pro surfer/actress, Sanoe Lake, and creative director Michael Sterling Eaton.

Pro tip: You’re going to want to make a note of these spots, so we made it easy for you. For great businesses at your fingertips, get the Top 25  to-go. Follow this collection on Yelp.

  1. Tropicali (Big Bear Lake)
Vegan Malibu Bowl, Tropicali

Cuisine:  Hawaiian, Poke, Sushi Bar

What they’re known for: All natural, California island style coffee grinds, tropical poke bowls, and smoothies 

Yelpers say: “Tropicali was such a delight. From the vibe inside the place, to the staff working there to the actual food itself. The staff was super happy and lively, which got everyone super hyped about being there. They made custom bowls based on what people liked and knew how to make everyone feel special.” – Sunita S

2. Chef Tanya’s Kitchen (Palm Springs & Palm Desert)

CTK Tempeh Burger

Cuisine:  Vegan

What they’re known for: Fresh, vegan deli sandwiches and salads made to order using organic and local farms. Also pre-packaged ready to go items in refrigerated and frozen cases. All plant proteins house made. Famous for their El cubano and chupacabra chicken sandwiches and Coachella forever salad.

Yelpers say: “This place is absolutely amazing!  We ordered the daily special (bbq sandwich) and the Coachella forever salad.  While we waited a few minutes for our order to be ready we walked through the store which has a ton of wonderful items, sage, kitchen supplies ready made food, coffee, etc the friendly staff offered us a sample of the homemade Aqua Fresca.” – Anisa M

3. Sea of Sweet (Rancho Cucamonga)

Paris Crepe: nutella with fresh strawberries & banana

Cuisine:  Creperies, Breakfast & Brunch, Salad

What they’re known for: Fresh fruit cocktails, savory and sweet crepes, and wonderful specialty desserts

Yelpers say: “Love this place!! My mom and always drive 30 minutes here when we need a taste of home. The Knafeh is amazing and worth a try. The owner and staff are extremely nice and welcoming!” – Sharon A

4. Gabino’s Creperie (Palm Springs)

BBQ Chicken Crepe, Chicken Caesar Crepe, Chicken Pesto Crepe, Chicken Ranch Crepe

Cuisine:  Creperies, Bakeries, Coffee & Tea

What they’re known for: Craft savory crepes & salads

Yelpers say: “Savory crepes?! Say no more! Got a half chicken Caesar one, and a full chicken pesto – go for the full size, you’ll be wanting more. Chicken Caesar was simply, chef’s kiss  amazing flavor. The crunch of the outside is phenomenal as well.” – Molly P

5. Super Subs (Banning)

Super Sub 2 meat 12″

Cuisine:  Gourmet deli sandwiches, salads & hotdogs

What they’re known for: Turkey club sandwich and pastrami sandwich

Yelpers say: “The 5 star rating is legit. The couple that was there today were so polite, so sweet, you would think you’ve known them for years. We ordered the Asian sub, Turkey club, Pastrami, and potato salad. All were delicious. The bread is so good, soft on the inside and flaky on the outside.” – Amanda C

6. Twee Coffee (Riverside)

7. Delicioso Eats (Rancho Cucamonga)

8. Sam’s Pita And Kabab (Riverside)

9. On The Mark Fine Foods and Provisions (Palm Springs)

10. The Lunch Spot (Palm Desert)

11. Damasco Mediterranean Cuisine (Yucaipa)

12. Mi Cultura Peruvian Colombian Cuisine (Palm Desert)

13. Mama T Parenti’s Delicatessen (Ontario)

14. Pampa-Rara (Apple Valley)

15. Calle Ocho Cuban Coffee (Rancho Cucamonga)

16. Califuze Catering (Chino Hills)

17. El Paseo Grill (Palm Desert)

18. The Old German Deli (Big Bear Lake)

19. Oceana (Palm Desert)

20. House of Fortune Vegan Cuisine (Chino)

21. Thippawan Thai Restaurant (Rancho Cucamonga)

22. Clarkies Diner (Yucaipa)

23. Peruvian Fuego (Palm Springs)

24. Poppy Cafe (Chino)

25. Shabu Shabu Zen and Sake Bar (Rancho Mirage)

Methodology: This is an all-time list of the Top Places to Eat in the Inland Empire area according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the restaurant category on Yelp, then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews. This list looked at businesses in and around the Inland Empire area. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of June 28, 2022. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of June 28, 2022.

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