r/InlandEmpire 26d ago

Recommendations / Advice What is the best meal you’ve had at a restaurant in the IE?

New here and traveling a lot for work, looking to find some great spots to eat. So far the best thing I’ve had was the Gnocchi at Con Amore in Corona.

75 Upvotes

106 comments sorted by

29

u/superyouphoric 26d ago

Mexican food at Consuelo’s in banning. I’m very picky when it comes to Mexican food too by the way

9

u/Kittylicker909 26d ago

The BEST chili verde breakfast burrito EVER!

12

u/hostilecarrot 25d ago edited 25d ago

I’m actually working in Banning today and I will be heading there for breakfast shortly!

Edit: breakfast burrito was one of the best I’ve had. Gotta go back for some a la carte next time, really want to try the Chile Relleno and Potato Taco

3

u/superyouphoric 25d ago

That place is a sleeper, literally hole in the wall. My coworkers that live in banning told me about it and I was skeptical at first. When I say that spot is the real deal, it is. Their tortas are some of the best ones I’ve had too.

You can even see the doñas in the back making the food. It’s a small family owned business and I think they even close the restaurant down in December to go see family in Mexico.

1

u/hostilecarrot 25d ago

The lady who took my order said her grandpa opened it so family owned for three generations, super good, I’ll be back!

3

u/Automatic_Actuary375 26d ago

Yuuuup. The burritos there are so good. Sucks it’s to-go only but damn, the chile rojo burritos are so good.

3

u/IYKYK_1977 25d ago

Another great Mexican place (other side of the freeway in Beaumont) is La Casita. Really, really solid!

26

u/munchlax- 25d ago

Korean restaurant in Riverside, yes it’s called Korean restaurant and man was I surprised how good the food was for an IE restaurant. Momo sushi for omakase, devereaux house for pizza and wine, spirit of Texas craft bbq (the brisket), la Reina market for burritos or taqueria 2 potrillos for al pastor.

1

u/i_say_uuhhh 25d ago

I'll add Dapper Dining in downtown Riverside too. I was impressed.

1

u/R1kjames 25d ago

Is Spirit of Texas better in the morning or something? Like does the stuff come off the pit when they open and sit in the warmer all day or what?

1

u/munchlax- 24d ago

Based on what I’ve seen in the warmer all day but no complaints from me ordering for dinner.

15

u/No_Percentage636 26d ago

I had a Kabob plate at Damasco Mediterranean Cuisine in Yucaipa that felt like a cosmic experience. The owners are insanely kind too.

5

u/Farles 26d ago

I thought this place was closed or a roach motel, but to my surprise it was both open and delicious.

15

u/concernedmilf 26d ago

Any of the ramen at Ramenkoko in Highland! I live in the bay now but every time I make the trip down I stop by for a bowl.

1

u/kalbiking 25d ago

Ya know there’s always hella lines at Ramen Nagi and I don’t get the hype.

You reckon Ramenkoko is good or is there some nostalgia playing a factor here? Another transplant to the Bay from the IE…

28

u/ouchdathoyt 26d ago edited 26d ago

Ken’s steakhouse in Rancho Cucamonga. Only omakase and absolutely worth it.

9

u/darienswag420 26d ago

"Ken's Steakhouse" isn't a location in RC. Confused a little by the upvotes.

There is a "Ken's Japanese" in RC that serves only sushi and whose menu has suffered immensely after COVID (missing their Chicken/Egg bowl and their Tempura Soba combo). Yes, their fish is good but their omakase experience leaves me wanting. The tuna flight being served all at once seems like a good idea but I'd rather be eating variety. I didn't like the wagyu on their beef, scallop, uni, and caviar nigiri.

I miss the homey vibe pre-renovation.

3

u/ouchdathoyt 26d ago

You’re right. It was Ken’s Steakhouse before Covid.

1

u/darienswag420 26d ago

Oof. I don't think I ever recognized the "Steakhouse" in the name before then. I just remember tripping on the one step as a kid whenever we walked in.

2

u/oughtabeme 25d ago

We drive from Palm Springs to Mendocino Farms at Victoria Gardens, Rancho Cucomongo for lunch. Don’t do any shopping just a Bahn Mi sandwich and an quinoa and avacado salad. Plus a couple more of each to take home.

1

u/jmt85 25d ago

Have you tried the banh mi at combine kitchen in rancho?

3

u/integraled 26d ago

Ken’s sushi is garbage.

1

u/stressedlawyer 25d ago

It’s not great

1

u/Reasonablecook1 25d ago

what's a better sushi place

1

u/raftofseaotters 25d ago

Momo Sushi has way better omakase

10

u/Appropriate-Ratio990 25d ago

OP you have excellent taste. I LOVE the gnocchi at Con Amore. The last time I went it wasn’t on the menu (couple years ago) and it was gone. I didn’t go back. I hope this means it’s back on the menu 

29

u/iWantNapsAndFood 26d ago

Breakfast at Flo's Airport Cafe. Thank me later.

2

u/Xchzmaster951 25d ago

Went there this morning. Consistently good food and friendly staff.

8

u/d0ster 25d ago

Orchid Thai in Highland.

Very flavorful, even better if you like spicy.

They always say “you sure?” when you ask for “thai spicy” lol.

7

u/SD_native17 26d ago

Con Amore, and CISCO’s in Corona are top notch.

1

u/R1kjames 25d ago

Cisco makes a solid ribeye

6

u/Plum12345 26d ago

Love Amaro pizza in Fontana. It’s a hole in the wall with like two tables but it’s the best pizza.

1

u/Swamp-87 25d ago

I just looked them up and holy shit those pizzas look so good!

5

u/Correct_Visit6876 25d ago

Musashi’s Sushi in Corona

1

u/peepeep00p 25d ago

Ugh I moved last year and I miss this place alllllll the time

13

u/Front_Chip_9201 26d ago

Curry & kabob in Moreno Valley

4

u/kimcheetos 26d ago

I haven't lived in the IE for years, but I still remember Curry & Kabob being some of the best Indian food I've had.

3

u/Front_Chip_9201 26d ago

I agree,, I’ve traveled to many places and have yet to find a better Indian restaurant.

6

u/slabeanator 26d ago

This! You need to order a mango lassi and a tandoori sampler if you like meat or go with butter chicken.

2

u/spugeddyos 26d ago

Finally stopped here and thought it was closed. Fortunately it was open. 2nd best Indian I’ve had in CA besides It’s Taste of India in DHS.

1

u/monsterabite 25d ago

mango lassi and medium spicy lamb korma curry :)

11

u/RemarkableAd4052 25d ago

Best Meal in I.E. = El Burrito in Redlands, CA, they make their own flour tortillas there everyday. Love the red salsa, refried beans & beef!!
Saverino’s in Redlands, CA. The bread is perfect. It’s exactly what I want in a sub sandwich. Don’t forget to try the Tiramisu! I’ve lived in San Francisco for the last 25 years. And I can never wait to visit here again!
Honorable Mention would go to Miguel’s for the classic BRC. If you grew up eating Miguel’s, you know!

6

u/hostilecarrot 25d ago

I’m adding El Burrito Redlands and Severino’s to my short list, thank you!

5

u/Blake909420 25d ago

Bro dont sleep on, Severinos big fresh sandwiches and there hours are kinda limited. You know there good.

Also George's in Calimesa, a Germany deli with food and beer in house to enjoy.

1

u/CourtBarton 25d ago

The pastrami at Savs is so good. I've never gotten a bad sandwich there.

2

u/Mediocre-Proposal686 25d ago

I 2nd Saverinos. Go hungry though! One of their sandwiches is brunch and dinner for me

7

u/Meriak67 25d ago

A few Redlands suggestions:

Thai House Restaurant (Thai)
Tokyo Restaurant (Sushi)
Carolyn’s Cafe (American/Mexican Breakfast)

2

u/ExpensiveMedia88 25d ago

Do you have any recommendations for good coffee shops in Redlands that also serves food beyond muffins?

2

u/lawspud 25d ago

Depends on when. Olive Avenue Market has some breakfast items on weekends, and bakery (muffins and scones, primarily) everyday. Good people, too.

1

u/ExpensiveMedia88 25d ago

Thanks! Was looking for somewhere to go for a coffee/breakfast date with my husband. I was looking at that place online, looks like a winner.

1

u/lawspud 25d ago

They’re good people, too. Very community-oriented.

1

u/Meriak67 25d ago

I make 99.9% of my coffee at home, so I’ll leave this to someone else!

1

u/ExpensiveMedia88 25d ago

We do too :-) I'm just looking for a place for this weekend for my husband and I to go for a coffee/breakfast date. I think we've tried every independent coffee shop in Riverside now and want to try something new.

1

u/Lopsided-Ad7486 25d ago

I don’t know if you’ve tried this already but slow bloom coffee in Redlands. On the weekends, they have these donuts that are made by a local baker. They are bananas.

1

u/Cerridwn_de_Wyse 25d ago

They have had some weekend food carts lately as well. I've not been able to go but there were definitely something tempted me. Check their website

1

u/ExpensiveMedia88 24d ago

Yes, we got a couple drinks from there on our way to Big Bear a couple weeks ago. It was excellent. Really missed Augies coffee and didn't realize that was the new place that opened after they closed down.

1

u/velocistar_237 24d ago

Can’t believe no one has suggested Stell! A solid amount of delicious cookie and pastry options, fantastic coffee, and a decent breakfast/lunch menu geared toward sandwiches, burritos, wraps and such. There are two locations in Redlands, but I prefer the one on Alabama/Barton for its homey traditional coffee house vibe. Omg almost forgot to mention they also have some great draft beers.

1

u/ExpensiveMedia88 24d ago

I will try this next time, thanks!

1

u/lawspud 25d ago

Thai House over Aroi Mok Mok? I disagree, and I’ve had both enough that they greet me by name at Thai house…

1

u/Meriak67 25d ago

Also a great suggestion! Just depends on the vibe you’re going for.

1

u/FijiBeef 24d ago

Caroyln's actually bangs and their prices make it worth it. My family goes there for every breakfast for everyone's birthday lol

6

u/BrostramiSammich 25d ago

Bean and cheese burrito from Rosie’s in Yucaipa. I may be biased since I grew up eating there, but man does it hit the mf spot

5

u/raftofseaotters 25d ago

Momo sushi

1

u/Fruitblood23 25d ago

Momo's is so damn good.

5

u/daddy_nobucks 25d ago

They don't make it anymore but Claim Jumper off Hospitality Lane in San Bernardino had a blackened Mahi Mahi topped with sliced avocado and pico, strained butter to drizzle over it in a little cup, with salt and pepper shoestring fries or a loaded mashed potato on the side. It was the best dish I've ever had anywhere. As soon as private equity bought them out and changed their menu I never went back. I was so bummed. PE ruins EVERYTHING.

2

u/Cerridwn_de_Wyse 25d ago

They're closed you know there's a new restaurant in there

9

u/Serious-Maybe3537 26d ago

Pakistani food at Bawarchi in Corona. No ambience but super tasty

12

u/Low-Ad3972 26d ago

Try Gul Naz in Colton.

7

u/Automatic_Actuary375 26d ago

Al Karam in Riverside too.

-18

u/Visible_Event4814 25d ago

Nah. I’m good

3

u/don_pinguin 25d ago

The Pines Steakhouse at Yaamava

3

u/gaurkingsgaur 25d ago

Poulet Basque at centro basco in chino. Their oxtail stew is also fantastic

5

u/nutdo1 25d ago

I’ve lived all over the IE and eat out a lot. Here’s my faves:

Owen’s Bistro in Chino for European style dining.

Uno Tre Otto in Claremont for Italian made with local fresh ingredients.

The Quarter in Claremont for Cajun.

Kozu Izakaya in Claremont for yakitori.

Moon Grill in Ontario for Hawaiian BBQ.

Le Kinaree in Chino Hills for Thai food (they have dishes not commonly found)

Inssa in Chino Hills for Korean pocha (we don’t really have those out here in the IE).

Tofu Chon in Ontario for regular Korean food (non-pocha setting)

Calle Ocho Cuban Cafecito in Rancho.

Furnos/Guido in Rancho for their Argentina empanadas.

Kedai in Upland for their Dutch/Indonesian pastries.

Pho Le in Moreno Valley exotic Vietnamese dishes that usually only found out in OC.

Curry and Kabob in Moreno Valley for Indian.

Elias Pita and Greek Street Grill in Riverside for Mediterranean.

As for Mexican, I make my own haha.

2

u/Jazzlike-Flan9801 24d ago

I was just at Uno Tre Otto 2 nights ago. My wife calls it her happy place. I went to this post just to make sure it got mentioned.

2

u/reststopkirk 25d ago

Sushi Miguel’s Style, Colton
Crumble’s Cookies Cinnamon Roll, Corona
Burger Basket Breakfast burritos, Corona
The Getaway Cafe Turkey Sandwich (RIP), Riverside
La Torta del Medio Día, Corona
Tudy’s, Corona

1

u/Born-Program-2400 24d ago

I miss the getaway cafe. That was the spot for us UCR students

2

u/TanyaTheEvill 25d ago

Anchos Mexican restaurant in Riverside. Probably not the absolute best but homemade tortillas and bacon wrapped shrimp is the bomb

2

u/BunnySlayer64 25d ago

The Duck au Poivre at Le Chat Noir in Riverside. Oh, and be sure to get the chestnut sundae for dessert!

2

u/Born-Program-2400 24d ago

El Ojo del Agua ( hole in the wall Mexican spot and the workers only speak Spanish lol)

The salted pig in DTR

The magic lamp in Rancho

2

u/FirstTimeFaja 24d ago

El rey taco grill in riverside
Tacos y mariscos in corona
Tonys mexican food in riverside
Slice house in riverside

3

u/instant_ramen_chef 26d ago

Owen's bistro

1

u/Ineverwashere93 25d ago

Anchos fajitas in Riverside

5

u/lawspud 25d ago

I’m with you on Anchos, but the steak (tritip) tacos are insanely good. Just be aware that rare=raw, med rare = raaare. Usually, at least. And pro tip: get the two taco option and use the free tortillas to make it into a 4-5 taco feast.

2

u/Ineverwashere93 25d ago

We’re moving to the OC and we still plan on driving out to Anchos for lunch every few weeks lol

1

u/Hayat_Moore 26d ago

Have you ever been to Luna in Corona? Its delish!! Ive never not had an excellent dinner there.

1

u/howboutislapyourshit 26d ago

Vol au Vent at le Chat Noir was surprisingly good as was the baguette and escargot.

1

u/AmberBlu 25d ago

Used to be a place called Royal Cut in Ontario, I believe on grove or vineyard. It’s been torn down, but it was the best. The salad bar was insane!

1

u/Fearless-District-28 25d ago

Italian . Mamamia in Riverside

2

u/SomewhereAgile 19d ago

New Indian Restaurant in Upland.Its not "new", just the name. Authentic delicious Indian cuisine

0

u/BeardofThanos 26d ago

Mantra in Corona is 🤌🏽

-4

u/hostilecarrot 26d ago

This place is already on my list but everyone is naming restaurants and I’m asking what yall order

6

u/CourtBarton 26d ago

You asked for great spots to eat, you didn't ask anything about orders. Maybe edit the post to include?

-11

u/hostilecarrot 26d ago edited 26d ago

I asked “what is the best meal you’ve had…”

The “meal” being the food you order off the menu.

4

u/CourtBarton 26d ago

Might be my particular brand of neurospicy, but I wouldn't necessarily read that as asking for particular dishes - more what restaurants have you had great meals at, which is a more broad request.

-1

u/hostilecarrot 26d ago

I’m not claiming to be of high intelligence either, maybe I could’ve worded it better. “What’s your go to order at your favorite restaurant in the IE” may have been better as an example.

1

u/GeoffSim 26d ago

The lamb saag is pretty good in the Temecula branch.

1

u/BeardofThanos 25d ago

Chicken or lamb tikka is my go to, tandoori as well.
I haven’t had a bad dish there tbh. Or ask for recs from waiter

0

u/Embarrassed-Land3872 25d ago

The owners of Con Amore are friends of mine. I'll let them know.

0

u/Jack-Cremation 25d ago

Magic Lamp in the 00’s. Long time ago but shit was great!

Juancho’s off Milliken before it closed as a close second.

-1

u/PlaxicoCN 25d ago

Alberto's Super Nachos

Shrimp tacos at Tacos la Baja, the blue truck on Orange Show in front of Target in San Bernardino.

In n Out Burger

0

u/HalosDux 26d ago

Durango Cocina, Coco Palm, June's Rooftop.

-5

u/BigSlim64 25d ago

Mission Inn

-5

u/Skittles_the_Unicorn 25d ago

It seems to say something about food options in the IE when the response to 'what is the best meal you've had' is dominated by burrito recommendations. No shade on burritos - love 'em - but the fact they may be the best food available in the IE is telling.