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Guide to Whittier

American and Mexican food

Deciding between American food and Mexican food is a struggle when both sound equally satisfying.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Crooked Gaff Kitchen image 1
Crooked Gaff Kitchen image 2
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Restaurant combines backyard BBQ theme with old diner layout, featuring a long bar and picnic tables. Atmosphere feels casual and cozy but can get loud and packed with energetic groups. Candle lighting adds a warm touch amid the bustling environment.

Shrimp po boy returns with perfectly grilled shrimp and generous portions. Clam chowder stands out with homemade croutons. Fried chicken sandwich and surf and turf with steak cooked to medium add solid variety.

Seafood shines with fresh tuna crudo paired with macha salsa and rice, rivaling high-end sushi spots. Tacos like the ahi poke guacamole and beefy shrimp options bring bold flavors and freshness.

People are saying

"The seafood here is amazing, perfect for date spots."

"The American Food here, especially the clam chowder, is delicious."

"The Mexican food here is fresh and delicious, especially the tuna crudo."

Good to know

1

On Mondays, they offer burgers and sandwiches for 15 dollars.

2

Happy hour runs from Monday to Wednesday with enticing deals.

3

Reservations are recommended to secure a table.

02
Steve's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small spot with classy but relaxing atmosphere and live music creates a welcoming, local vibe. Lighting is bright, making battery-powered candles barely visible. The place offers tray pass service during cocktail hour and busses after dinner, blending casual BBQ with upscale touches.

Brisket stands out with its perfect seasoning and tender, juicy smoke. BBQ mac and cheese and pork belly sliders add rich, flavorful sides to the meal.

Breakfast burritos stand out with rich flavors and a spicy kick. Pork belly tacos and shrimp tacos offer bold, savory tastes with a hint of heat from jalapeรฑos. Salsas and sauces add fresh, zesty notes to the dishes.

People are saying

"This BBQ is the real deal, maybe the best in Southern California."

"The pork belly tacos and brisket mac and cheese were amazing."

"I thought the American Food here was the absolute best BBQ I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

Prices are above average for BBQ, with some items increasing by 20% recently.

3

Happy hour is all day on Wednesday and Thursday with discounted drinks.

03
Phlight image 1
Tapas bar

Small tapas bar with rustic wooden tables and warm lighting creates a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Music ranges from soft and chill to loud, sometimes reaching nightclub levels. Tables sit close together, making it lively and packed, especially during busy times.

Mac and cheese dishes stand out with balanced richness and flavorful Spanish chorizo. Other American options include a Phlight burger, fried octopus, and spare ribs.

Variety of tacos stands out, with pork belly tacos as a highlight. Appetizers like corn and dates complement the menu well.

People are saying

"The food here is unreal, with incredible flavors."

"You have to try the bacon-wrapped dates; they're unforgettable."

"I considered the American Food here astonishing; you must try it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends as bar seats fill up quickly.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak hours without a reservation.

3

Street parking is available for two hours, with a public parking structure nearby.

04
Jack's Whittier Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Old school diner with Googie architecture and retro 1950s vibe fills with locals, creating a noisy, lively atmosphere. Spacious booths and counter seating support a packed, friendly environment where classic American comfort food draws steady crowds.

Fried chicken stands out with its crunchy texture and reliable flavor. Classic diner dishes like pancakes, hash browns, and Eggs Benedict are well executed and seasoned without greasiness.

Menudo stands out with a good balance of tripe and hominy and a solid broth flavor that makes it memorable. Chicken enchiladas and the chorizo burrito also deliver strong, authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the American food here, especially the chicken fried steak."

"It's a classic LA diner with a great old-school vibe."

"I thought the menudo was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays feature a special dessert included with meals.

2

Expect a wait on weekends; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Parking can be tight, so plan accordingly.

05
Jennyโ€™s Country Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with classic diner decor and cozy, family atmosphere. Space feels intimate and bustling, filled with friendly energy. Large tables in a compact setting create a snug dining experience.

Biscuits and gravy stand out as a solid choice with a filling portion of two biscuits. A meal deal includes biscuits and gravy, eggs, sausage links, and potatoes for $12.99.

Green chilaquiles topped with Chile Verde stand out as a signature dish. The azteca burrito and chilaquiles with asada or salsa verde pork also feature prominently, often served with beans and eggs.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast here to be delicious and amazing."

"You have to try the chilaquiles with asada; they're better than my mom's."

"I came specifically for the American Food, the biscuits and gravy did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect a wait during busy hours, especially on Sundays.

3

Breakfast and lunch are the only meals served; dinner is not available.

06
Hamburger Express image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small diner with a large dining room and booths for four offers a nostalgic atmosphere favored by industrial workers. Menu includes burgers, sandwiches, Mexican food, and breakfast specials with reasonable prices and generous portions. Food quality varies, but bacon cheeseburgers and chili cheese fries stand out as popular choices.

Juicy cheeseburgers come with fresh crunchy vegetables and a toasted bun. Large portions include bacon cheeseburgers, club sandwiches, chili cheese fries, and patty melts, all made fresh to order.

Menu includes Mexican food items alongside burgers and sandwiches. The pastrami quesadilla stands out as a notable dish.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing and so good."

"I thought the breakfast burritos were very good."

"I loved the delicious cheeseburgers and hot, salty fries."

Good to know

1

Hamburger Express offers a full menu including burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast items.

2

Prices for burger combos and large drinks are under $15.

3

Free refills are only available for customers dining in.

07
Frisco's Carhop Drive-Thru image 1
American restaurant

Roller skating servers deliver food in a spacious setting with car-shaped booths and a 1950s diner vibe. The atmosphere feels classic American retro and family friendly, blending indoor and outdoor seating. Unique touches like a soda fountain add to the nostalgic experience.

Juicy burgers like the Chipotle cheeseburger and Bacon Cheeseburger come with generous portions. Sides include chili cheese fries and deep fried zucchini. The chicken Cobb salad features grilled chicken, bacon, egg, and chipotle ranch dressing. Desserts include a pumpkin pie shake.

Breakfast burritos come in large sizes with generous amounts of pastrami and bacon. Salsa and pico on the side add fresh flavor. Prices stay reasonable for the quality and portion.

People are saying

"The nostalgic 50's vibe with car seats and neon signs is a fun throwback."

"This place has an awesome classic American retro vibe."

"The pastrami breakfast burrito at this Mexican food spot was excellent and huge."

Good to know

1

Frisco's has a drive-thru service available.

2

Reservations can be made by phone, but seating is first come, first served.

3

Frisco's Carhop Drive-Thru is wheelchair accessible.

08
Mimo's Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with fun, colorful 80s decor and extensive outdoor seating creates a laid-back, cozy atmosphere. The vibe stays mellow and casual, often filled with music and the aroma of baked goods. It attracts families and locals looking for a tranquil spot with hearty, reasonably priced meals.

Chili cheese fries stand out with a unique recipe and a perfect balance of cheese and chili. The menu also features a club sandwich with potato salad, steak and eggs for breakfast, and cheeseburgers with fries.

Breakfast options include chilaquiles with a satisfying crunch and huevos rancheros. Burritos often feature guacamole, cream cheese, and tomato, but may lack expected fillings like chicken and beef.

People are saying

"The food here is always great and delicious."

"Their chili cheese fries are insane, with the perfect amount of cheese and chili."

"The Mexican food here had the crunch I wanted."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day, which is a great feature.

2

The menu offers a wide variety of food items to choose from.

3

Prices are reasonable for the hearty portions served.

09
Douglas Drive-In Restaurant image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small, cozy hamburger restaurant with an old school vibe and immaculate cleanliness. Atmosphere feels homey despite some loud noise from employees and a horror movie playing on TV. Known for excellent burgers and chili cheese fries topped with pastrami or carne asada.

Chili cheese fries stand out, often topped with pastrami or carne asada. The menu features cheeseburgers with bacon and a variety of combos, plus solid options like fried chicken, club sandwiches, and chicken quesadillas.

Carne asada burritos stand out with strong flavor. Menudo and a mix of American and Mexican breakfast options also appear on the menu.

People are saying

"The Drive Thru food here is excellent."

"You have to try the chili cheese fries, they're the best."

"I love the chili cheese fries, it's the best American food."

Good to know

1

They charge a 3% service charge above the sales tax.

2

You can call in orders for pickup.

3

The drive-through wait can be long due to made-to-order food.

10
Parlor Bar image 1

Big bar with live music and multiple TVs showing various sports creates a lively yet chill atmosphere. Pool tables and a hidden speakeasy offer extra entertainment options. Crowd shifts from game watching to socializing, making it a versatile spot.

Brisket macho nachos and loaded fries stand out alongside burgers and cocktails. French fries and watermelon beer add variety to the American food options.

Chips and salsa come with a fire flavor. Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos for $9 and half off Tequila drinks.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and welcoming."

"The American food, like the nachos and fries, was delicious."

"You have to try the Taco Tuesday deal with half-off tequila."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night at Parlor Bar.

2

Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos for $9 and half off tequila drinks.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

11
Norm's Famous Charbroiled Burgers image 1

Small, old school diner with a cozy, nostalgic vibe and a classic C-shaped layout. Atmosphere stays peaceful with low TV volume, inviting guests to relax while waiting. Known for charbroiled burgers and pastrami sandwiches, it draws steady crowds despite long lines and limited parking.

Hamburgers have a perfect charbroiled flavor with crisp lettuce and toasted buns. The bacon avocado cheeseburger and chili cheese fries stand out, paired often with an Orange Bang or excellent coffee.

Breakfast burritos stand out with rich fillings like eggs, sausage, and salsa. Carne asada fries come with thick fries, cheese, meat, and a secret sauce mayo. Chilaquiles rojos stay crispy without getting soggy.

People are saying

"These burgers are huge, hot, and simply delicious."

"This American food, especially the burgers, is huge and delicious."

"I loved their breakfast burritos; they were perfect."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru line can exceed 30 minutes during peak hours.

2

Parking is often congested, especially during lunchtime.

3

Prices are generally considered good for the portion sizes.

12
Rick's Drive In & Out image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Cozy local burger spot with a throwback diner feel and spacious dining areas. Atmosphere stays peaceful and family-oriented, often busy with a diverse crowd. Known for best burgers and fries with a nostalgic taste.

Juicy, thick hamburgers stand out with a simple, delicious flavor. The chili cheese fries offer a rich, satisfying taste. Fried chicken dinners come perfectly cooked and flavorful.

Tacos stand out with ground beef versions that impress. Burritos come in many forms, including a chili rellano and a large sausage breakfast option. Albondigas soup pairs well with corn tortillas.

People are saying

"The hamburgers here are juicy and taste amazing."

"The American Food here, especially the burgers, is juicy and thick."

"I planned a trip just for Rick's tacos; they were a masterpiece."

Good to know

1

Rick's stops serving breakfast at 1:00 p.m.

2

The parking lot can get quite full during busy times.

3

Indoor seating can be crowded during peak hours.

13
Michael's Super Burgers image 1
Fast food restaurant

Diner-style fast food restaurant with recently updated interior and walls showcasing local history. Atmosphere stays clean and welcoming with a drive-thru option. Menu features notable burgers and chili cheese fries alongside other well-prepared items.

Chili cheese fries stand out with generous toppings and consistent flavor. Burgers come loaded, like the bacon avocado cheeseburger, offering a tasty, hearty meal.

Menudo stands out with its authentic flavor and comes at an affordable price. Wet burritos filled with carne asada offer a hearty option, often too large for one person to finish.

People are saying

"These burgers are so delicious and juicy."

"I found the menudo delicious and authentic."

"I thought the chili cheese fries were the best American food I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

The establishment is wheelchair accessible.

2

They accept EBT hot meal plan.

3

The dining area is well kept and clean.

14
Scotty's Family Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy space with only tables and counter seating creates a home-like atmosphere. Friendly, casual vibe feels like a hometown gathering spot that gets busy quickly. Known for exceptional breakfast, especially biscuits and gravy that stand out in the region.

Biscuits and gravy stand out with rich flavor and creamy texture. The chicken fried steak comes with eggs, hash browns, brisket, and gravy, making it a hearty meal. The peanut butter and jelly French toast adds a sweet twist to classic American breakfast.

Pozole on weekends stands out along with chorizo with eggs and chilaquiles that come out flavorful. Carne asada tends to be dry and lacks marinade.

People are saying

"The diner food here is delicious comfort food that feels like home."

"The American Food here, especially the biscuits and gravy, is the best."

"I found the chilaquiles delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-45 minute wait time on weekends.

2

The restaurant closes at 2pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Cash is preferred for payment; credit cards may not be accepted.

15
EggBred image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Food hall setting offers indoor and outdoor seating with live music and huge screen TVs. Atmosphere feels fast and upbeat with a clean and welcoming vibe. Walls and counters display artistic paintings and pictures, adding character to the space.

Breakfast sandwiches come super stacked and filling with options like ribeye steak and egg on a toasted Japanese milk bun. Loaded fries and burritos feature hearty ingredients like sharp cheddar, caramelized onions, and smoked paprika spread.

Burritos come in large portions and pack a lot of flavor, especially the chorizo and Tri-tip varieties. Breakfast options include hearty burritos and sandwiches with fillings like ribeye steak and eggs.

People are saying

"The breakfast burrito has the fluffiest eggs I've ever had."

"The American food here is perfectly seasoned with generous portions."

"You have to try the chorizo burrito; it's packed!"

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 20-25 minutes for meals during busy hours.

2

Prices for sandwiches range from $19 to $37 for two, excluding drinks.

3

Queso is no longer served, despite being listed on the menu.

16
Golden Ox image 1
Family restaurant

Family restaurant with a comfortable casual atmosphere and a spotless dining room. Menu features notably good steak sandwiches and fluffy pancakes, though some items vary in quality. Space shows signs of wear and could benefit from a remodel.

Chicken breast hamburger stands out as a favorite with a strong, satisfying flavor. Cheeseburgers and pastrami sandwiches offer quick, tasty options for a fast meal.

Breakfast burritos come in a combo with a drink for under $9.00. They taste greasy with a noticeable hint of canola oil and work better for lunch than breakfast.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with divine flavors and generous portions."

"The cheeseburgers from the Drive Thru were good and delicious."

"I found the breakfast burritos tasty."

Good to know

1

Restrooms are for customers only; ask for the key when needed.

2

The dining room is always clean and well-maintained.

3

Some menu items are reasonably priced, while others are expensive.

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