Pacific Coast Path
There is a certain romanticism to America's West Coast, the far-flung shoreline that represents a more relaxed, easier way of life to those on the other side of the country. The best way to take in all the beauty of California, Oregon, and Washington is to drive right through it. The West Coast is also a major agricultural center, and as a result, the food out there is some of the freshest in the world. So here's where to stop for some of the best meals of your life on the ultimate West Coast road trip.
What to ask for
Fish Tacos
Your journey begins near the Mexican border in San Diego, a city steeped in history and military heritage. It's also steeped in surf breaks and deep‑fried fish tacos. To get the best of both, head a little north of the city to La Jolla. That's where you'll find fresh fish markets where they serve up fish tacos — places where many locals will tell you are tops in SD.
What to ask for
Galbijim
Picking one food to eat in sprawling Los Angeles is almost as hard as picking a freeway to travel on. But one thing the city does uniquely better than any other is Korean food. To find the best stuff, head to Koreatown, between the 10 and the 101, just west of Downtown. You really can't go wrong with any dish in this neighborhood, but the galbijjim – a spicy, garlicky braised short rib dish made with carrots and potatoes – is the move. It's the kind of dish you look for when you travel – something you've never had before but tell people about for years after.
What to ask for
Mission Burritos
Take the slow, meandering Pacific Coast Highway on your drive from LA to SF. It's a little bit longer of a trip, but the scenery through Big Sur and the Monterey Peninsula is arguably the best of any road in America. The 101 drops you right in the heart of San Francisco, birthplace of the Mission Burrito. The rice, beans, and meat‑filled creation got its name from SF's Mission District, which is still teeming with taquerias. Lines may be long, but they move quickly and are always worth the wait.
What to ask for
Tasting Menus
California's capital city sits in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley and has access to some of the best produce on the planet. So, chefs in Sacramento frequently base their menus around what they find at the weekly farmers' market.
What to ask for
Doughnuts
A quick 11 hours up I‑5 from Sacramento puts you in quirky, cool Portland, a city whose idiosyncrasies are world famous. Its most famous food exports are the doughnuts, both the classic and over‑the‑top varieties.
What to ask for
Drive-In Hamburgers
Your trip ends in the Emerald City, a place known for world‑class seafood and endless Asian cuisine. But you know what most locals will tell you is their favorite food to eat? Hamburgers. Seattle's drive‑ins have been going strong for decades, and generations of Seattleites have grown up on their burgers, fresh‑cut fries, and shakes. It's a truly Seattle experience and a fitting end to your West Coast road trip.
