Visalia, California is a foodie’s ultimate paradise. With a true farm-to-table mentality, it is no wonder USA Today and Rand McNally named the charming town one of “America’s Best Small Towns for Food.”
Every taste palate is unique. With a mix of menus and wide variety of seasonal specialties, Visalia's restaurants make it the perfect destination for a foodie tour. Become your own food critic and discover what the best restaurants in Visalia have to offer with the freshest ingredients from the most productive farming area in America.
Book your culinary trip to Visalia today, and add these foodie destinations to your itinerary:
Dinnerware created by Antonio Evaristo Cuellar pictured by Jack & Charlie’s (Instagram @jackandcharlies)
Mama K’s Diner
733 N. Ben Maddox Way, Visalia, CA 93291
Mama K’s Diner has been a scrumptious staple in Visalia. This quaint, family-owned establishment serves breakfast classics like hashbrown casserole, French toast and pancakes topped with the diner's legendary house-made jams, to slices of homemade meatloaf and juicy burgers, and every dish in between.
Component Coffee Lab
513 E. Center Ave., Visalia, CA 93292
From roast to pour, everything served at Component Coffee Lab is the epitome of craft. Each coffee is roasted using rigorous methods to create its unique profile. Sip and savor your morning delight in a local shop that sources, roasts and brews each cup of coffee for optimum flavor and artistry.
Farm Fresh Bowls
5427 W. Cypress Way, Visalia, CA 93277
If you’re looking for a nutritious food experience, Farm Fresh Bowls sources local produce to craft breakfast, lunch and snack options, supporting local farmers and showcasing the region’s agriculture capital. Known as the “healthy drive thru,” Farm Fresh Bowls uses only natural ingredients and each meal is nutritionally balanced between food groups and portions. So, if a snack isn’t your style, stop in for breakfast and try the “Egg Scramble” bowl, or treat yourself to a “Peanut Power Acai” bowl for lunch – who said vacation had to come with extra calories?
Quesadilla Gorilla
302 W. Main St., Visalia, CA 93291
If you’re craving something more, you can find a spin on the traditional quesadilla right in Visalia. Quesadilla Gorilla was opened by a Visalian couple who wanted to open a “killer quesadilla shop” that was simple, friendly and fresh. The kitchen prides itself on unique combinations that will “feed the gorilla inside you” and is always innovating a new Dilla of the Day. If you prefer to build your own quesadilla, there are dozens of proteins, cheese and homemade salsas to choose.
Pita Kabob Gastropub
227 N. Court, Visalia, CA 93291
With dishes like the Falafel Pita Wrap and the W.T.F. Burger, this modern gastropub is putting a vibrant spin on traditional Mediterranean recipes in downtown Visalia. Pita Kabob evolved from a grocery deli into Mediterranean cuisine as they sliced meats to Greek favorites. Today, you’ll find Visalians raving over their kabob combinations, shawarma plates, gyros and falafels. Be intrigued with super-secret, off-menu items Executive Chef Randy Moreno creates. Try unique, seasonal dishes like the “Monte Gyro” made with French toast and gyro meat and topped with beer-infused syrup (they are a gastropub, after all) and powdered sugar. There’s also the “Caulifornia Vegan Wrap” and “Califalafel.”
The Vintage Press
216 N. Willis St., Visalia, CA 93291
One of Central California's most elegant dining experiences is at The Vintage Press. Travelers can indulge in upscale, classic cuisine with a creative twist and farm-to-table sensibility. Since 1966, the Vartanian family has served Visalia and its visitors with an elegant dining experience, bringing exquisite entrées to the table. Wine Spectator writes the restaurant has “one of the best wine lists in the world.”
Bistro di Bufala
208 W. Main St., Visalia, CA 93291
The locally-owned Bistro di Bufala restaurant is a must-stop on a Visalia foodie tour. The intimate ambiance is the perfect accent to its fresh, organic dishes ranging from their signature Bufala Buffalo Burger to upscale and traditional Italian entrées. Enjoy select beer and wines on tap to complete the experience.
Dinnerware created by Antonio Evaristo Cuellar pictured by Tacos Lucha (Instagram @tacoslucha)
A Modern Fusion of Food and Art
Visalia is known for its art and creative scene, and it’s no surprise this mash-up exists in this city of makers and restaurateurs.
Curious for more farm fresh fare in Visalia? Check out the Farm Fresh Itinerary with ideas on festivals, farmers markets and seasonal bounty while visiting Visalia. Additional, irresistible dining options are mapped out on the Downtown Restaurant Guide (found on the dining page).
Experience the culinary adventure in Visalia through influencer Niccolo Go and our series of videos.
Discover Visalia's food journey a truly unique experience.
